This 5-day heritage circuit covers Kolkata’s colonial grandeur, Shantiniketan’s cultural serenity, and Bishnupur’s terracotta artistry.
The Heritage Circuit: Kolkata, Shantiniketan & Bishnupur 4 nights 5 days plan.
This plan focuses on the cultural heart of Bengal, featuring colonial history, Rabindranath Tagore's legacy, and ancient terracotta architecture.
Morning: Visit the iconic Victoria Memorial, St. Paul's Cathedral, and Birla Mandir.
Afternoon: Explore BBD Bagh (Dalhousie Square) for colonial architecture, Raj Bhavan, and the General Post Office.
Evening: Walk through College Street (Book Market) and visit Coffee House. Enjoy authentic Bengali cuisine.
Morning: Visit Kalighat Temple and Belur Math (across the Ganges).
Afternoon: Explore North Kolkata, including the Howrah Bridge and Prinsep Ghat.
Evening: Visit Kumartuli (potter's colony) and take a tram ride.
Morning: Travel from Kolkata to Shantiniketan by train or car (approx. 3-4 hours).
Afternoon: Visit the Visva-Bharati University campus, including Rabindra Bhavana, Uttarayan Complex, and Chatimtala.
Evening: Experience the local culture at Amar Kutir, a cooperative for local crafts.
Morning: Visit the Kala Bhavana (fine arts school) and Nandan Museum.
Afternoon: Explore the Kankalitala Temple, one of the Shakti Peethas.
Evening: Experience the vibrant Sonajhuri Haat (market) and local Baul music under the Khoai forest trees.
Morning: Drive to Bishnupur (approx. 2-3 hours) from Shantiniketan.
Afternoon: Explore the exquisite 17th-century terracotta temples: Rasmancha, Jor Bangla, and Madanmohan Temple.
Evening: Shop for local Bishnupur silk (Baluchari Sarees) and terracotta handicrafts. Return to Kolkata in the evening.
- Accommodation: Usually 4 nights in 3-star or heritage hotels on a twin-sharing basis.
- Transport: Private AC vehicle for all transfers, sightseeing, and inter-city travel (including fuel and driver charges).
- Meals: Most standard plans follow the MAP plan (Breakfast and Dinner).
- Logistics: All road-related expenses like toll taxes, parking fees, and state permits.
- Sightseeing: Pre-planned visits to major landmarks as listed in the itinerary.
- Travel to Kolkata: Airfare or train tickets from your home city.
- Entrance & Camera Fees: Tickets for museums (Indian Museum, Victoria Memorial) and heritage sites.
- Guide Services: Professional local guides are usually an add-on cost (approx. ₹2,200/day).
- Personal Expenses: Laundry, phone calls, tips, and mineral water.
- Additional Local Transport: Totos (e-rickshaws) used within Shantiniketan or Bishnupur's narrow lanes.
- Festival Surcharges: Higher rates during major events like Poush Mela or Basanta Utsav.
November to March is ideal for pleasant weather.
Book hotels in advance, particularly in Shantiniketan, as it is a popular weekend getaway.
Kolkata to Shantiniketan: ~2-3 hours by train or 4 hours by car.
Kolkata to Bishnupur: ~3.5-4 hours by road or train.
Shantiniketan to Bishnupur: ~2.5-3 hours by car.
