Kolkata rewards curiosity. India's cultural capital moves to its own rhythm, from the colonial grandeur of the Maidan to the clatter of the trams and the bustle of its markets. Bhutan Airlines flies daily to Kolkata (CCU), so it is an easy few days on their own or a gateway onward.
Start here
The Victoria Memorial and the Howrah Bridge are the classic first stops. Add the Indian Museum, a walk around Dalhousie Square, and a slow afternoon in a College Street coffee house. Ride an iconic yellow Ambassador taxi at least once.
Pace your days
Mornings are best for sightseeing before the heat; late afternoons for the river and the sweet shops. Leave plenty of time for tea and street food, which is a highlight in its own right, covered in our what to eat in Kolkata guide.
Kolkata is a city of conversations. Sit down for a cup of cha, and someone will happily tell you where to go next.
Practical notes
You will need an India e-Visa; Kolkata airport is an approved entry point. October brings Durga Puja, the city at its most spectacular. When your dates are set, Book & Hold your fare free for 48 hours.
