Kolkata – Heritage & tiger tales

Upon arrival at Kolkata International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel.

Formerly known as Calcutta, Kolkata is one of India's most fascinating cities, renowned for its rich colonial heritage, intellectual legacy, artistic traditions, and vibrant cultural life. Once the capital of British India, the city seamlessly blends grand colonial architecture with bustling markets, historic neighborhoods, and modern urban developments.

The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax and recover from your journey or explore the city's vibrant atmosphere independently.

Overnight stay in Kolkata.

After breakfast, embark on a full-day guided tour of Kolkata's most iconic landmarks.

Begin your exploration at Dalhousie Square (B.B.D. Bagh), the historic administrative heart of British India, surrounded by magnificent colonial buildings including the Writers' Building, General Post Office, and other heritage structures.

Continue to the vibrant Mullick Ghat Flower Market, one of Asia's largest flower markets, where thousands of colorful blooms arrive daily from across the region. Enjoy a short walk near the legendary Howrah Bridge (Rabindra Setu), one of the world's busiest cantilever bridges and an enduring symbol of Kolkata.

Later, visit the magnificent Victoria Memorial, an architectural masterpiece built in white Makrana marble and dedicated to Queen Victoria. The monument houses an impressive collection of paintings, artifacts, and historical exhibits reflecting India's colonial past.

Also visit Mother Teresa's House (Mother House), the headquarters of the Missionaries of Charity, where visitors can pay homage to the Nobel Peace Prize laureate.

Conclude the day with a visit to a traditional Potters' Village (Kumartuli), where skilled artisans create exquisite clay idols and sculptures, preserving centuries-old artistic traditions.

Overnight stay in Kolkata.

After an early breakfast, depart by road for Gadkhali, the gateway to the Sundarbans, passing through picturesque villages, local bazaars, and lush countryside landscapes.

Upon arrival, board a motor launch and cruise through the intricate waterways of the Sundarbans towards your eco-resort located amidst the mangrove wilderness.

After lunch and some time to relax, enjoy a guided village walk to experience the unique lifestyle of the local communities who coexist with this remarkable ecosystem. Learn about their traditions, livelihoods, and fascinating stories of life on the edge of the world's largest mangrove forest.

Dinner and overnight at the resort.

Overnight stay in Sundarbans.

Today is dedicated to exploring the extraordinary biodiversity of the Sundarbans Tiger Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's most unique ecosystems.

Embark on an exciting full-day boat safari through winding rivers, narrow creeks, and dense mangrove forests. Keep watch for the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger, spotted deer, estuarine crocodiles, monitor lizards, wild boar, and a remarkable variety of birdlife.

Several watchtowers and observation points provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.

Lunch, refreshments, and tea will be served onboard during the excursion.

Return to the resort by evening.

Dinner and overnight at the resort.

Overnight stay in Sundarbans.

After breakfast, transfer back to Gadkhali and continue by road to Murshidabad, the former capital of Bengal during the Nawab era.

Once among the wealthiest cities in India, Murshidabad remains a treasure trove of palaces, mosques, gardens, and historical monuments. The city is also renowned for its silk weaving traditions, handicrafts, and cultural heritage.

Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure.

Overnight stay in Murshidabad.

After breakfast, enjoy a comprehensive exploration of Murshidabad's historical landmarks.

Visit the magnificent Hazarduari Palace, an imposing nineteenth-century palace famous for its thousand doors, grand halls, royal collections, and priceless artifacts.

Continue to the impressive Nizamat Imambara, one of the largest Imambaras in India, renowned for its elegant architecture and religious significance.

Explore the historic Katra Mosque, built by Nawab Murshid Quli Khan, and admire the famous Jahankosha Cannon, a remarkable relic from Bengal's military past.

Proceed to Motijheel, often referred to as the cradle of British power in Bengal, and visit the atmospheric Futi Masjid, known for its distinctive unfinished architecture.

Later, visit the elegant Cossimbazar Rajbari (Palace of the Roy Family), a splendid estate that reflects the grandeur of Bengal's wealthy merchant families during the colonial era.

Return to your hotel in the evening.

Overnight stay in Murshidabad.

After breakfast, drive to Shantiniketan, the cultural and educational center established by Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore.

Meaning "Abode of Peace," Shantiniketan is renowned for its serene atmosphere, artistic traditions, and the prestigious Visva-Bharati University, founded by Tagore as a unique center of learning that promotes harmony between humanity, nature, and culture.

Upon arrival, check in at your hotel.

Later, enjoy a tour of Shantiniketan, visiting the university campus, Tagore's residences, museums, and cultural landmarks associated with the poet's life and legacy.

Overnight stay in Shantiniketan.

After breakfast, depart for Mayapur, one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in the Vaishnavite tradition and the global headquarters of ISKCON.

Located on the banks of the sacred Ganges, Mayapur is revered as the birthplace of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, the great saint and social reformer who inspired the Bhakti movement.

Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and spend the remainder of the day soaking in the peaceful spiritual atmosphere of this sacred town.

Overnight stay in Mayapur.

This morning visit the magnificent ISKCON Chandrodaya Mandir, one of the most important Krishna temples in the world.

Admire the beautiful temple complex and its revered deities including Radha Madhava, Pancha Tattva, and Lord Narasimhadeva. Experience the devotional atmosphere, sacred chants, and spiritual traditions that attract devotees from across the globe.

After the visit, drive back to Kolkata.

Upon arrival, check in at your hotel.

Overnight stay in Kolkata.

After breakfast, enjoy free time until your scheduled transfer to Kolkata International Airport for your onward flight.

Your memorable journey through the heritage, wildlife, culture, and spirituality of Bengal comes to an end.

End of Services.