The day begins with a visit to the impressive Howrah Bridge, a cantilevered structure spanning the Hooghly River, connecting Kolkata with the industrial town of Howrah. This bustling bridge sees 80,000 vehicles and over 1 million pedestrians crossing each day, along with countless cattle and bicycles. Beneath the eastern end of the Howrah Bridge lies Mullik Ghat, a vibrant and photogenic flower market. Over 125 years old, it is the largest flower market in East India, with around 3,000 flower growers from surrounding areas selling their goods daily. The scene is a feast for the senses: vibrant garlands of marigolds in yellow and orange are carried by women on their heads or arms, men unload trucks, and baskets of flowers are carried with grace up the steps leading to the bridge. Below, life flows along the river as men, women, and children wash, pray, work, and eat amidst the hustle and bustle. It's a captivating experience, but be mindful of where you step as the market teems with activity! Next, we head to Kumartolly, Kolkata's famous potter's colony, where skilled artisans create clay idols of Hindu gods and goddesses for religious ceremonies and festivals. Traditionally, families would invite the potter to stay with them for weeks before a festival, where he would sculpt the idol in their presence. Every morning, the family would gather to watch the transformation of a mass of clay and straw into a divine figure. The most intriguing part of the process was the painting of the goddess's third eye - done in a meditative state with one swift stroke of the brush. Next, we explore the Marble Palace, an exquisite mansion built in 1835 by Raja Rajendra Mullick Bahadur, one of Bengal's wealthiest landlords. The palace's grand architecture and stunning artistry will leave you in awe. After the palace tour, we visit an art collector's home to delve deeper into Kolkata's rich cultural heritage. Our host, has turned her 1901 apartment into a living museum of art and antiques. With high ceilings and spacious rooms, her home is adorned with colorful masks from around the world, and the living room opens onto a large veranda overlooking Shahid Minar and Eden Gardens. For the past two decades, this space has hosted exclusive home dining experiences, offering a personal and immersive way to discover Kolkata's food and culture. This unique dining concept offers a more intimate alternative to restaurants and allows visitors to explore a different side of Kolkata beyond its common associations. After this enriching cultural experience, we'll enjoy lunch with our host and then return to your hotel for some rest. In the evening, take a stroll down Park Street, Kolkata's lively hub of entertainment and dining, lined with historic restaurants. After exploring the area, you will have dinner at Mocambo, a heritage restaurant renowned for its Continental cuisine.
Kolkata's Iconic Sights, Art and Pottery Tour
Meal
Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
Your Accommodation
Taj Bengal, Kolkata
Taj Bengal is a luxurious 5-star hotel in Kolkata, offering elegant rooms and suites with sophisticated decor and modern amenities, perfect for both leisure and business travelers. Nestled in the heart of the city near cultural landmarks like Victoria Memorial and Alipore Zoo, the hotel boasts a tranquil ambiance, lush gardens, world-class dining, and a state-of-the-art spa for a truly indulgent stay.
