Calcutta Contrast Tour

A special feature of Soham's walking tours that sets him apart is his hospitality. Just like his other trips, he has put in a lot of thought into designing this tour, and it shows. As we walked through the world of books and then through the maze-like narrow lanes of barabazar, we stopped at least five times to taste different snacks and drinks so that the experience could be absorbed through all five senses. Even though I am originally from this city, most of what I saw on this tour was new to me. The overall experience was a feast for all my senses, enhanced by Soham's lively commentary, stories, history, and anecdotes. I am so glad that I got to see a side of the city that I was not at all familiar with. A perfect culmination of the trip was the rooftop restaurant from where you could see the city as the sun set. A truly memorable and wonderful experience.

We had some great conversations with our guide and tried some fantastic food. I would highly recommend this tour.

I had an absolutely outstanding experience with Soham . Soham is not just a guide, he is an exceptional storyteller and an intellectual bridge to Bengal. He explained in a deep, clear and fascinating way the unique cultural, philosophical and intellectual identity of Bengal, and how profoundly it differs from the rest of India. We visited an incredible range of places: emblematic landmarks, hidden corners, and very local, almost private spaces that you would never access on your own. Everything was rich, meaningful and beautifully contextualized. The tour was generous in time, knowledge and spirit, and Soham’s passion for his city and its history is truly contagious. If you are interested in understanding Calcutta beyond clichés, its ideas, its contradictions, its soul , this is an absolute must. One of the best guided experiences I’ve had anywhere. Un guia impressionant, generós i imprescindible per entendre de veritat Calcuta i l’ànima de Bengala.

It’s been a colourful, fascinating and exploratory trip, and thanks to our tour guide Soham we learned a lot about Calcutta and the different cultures in this city. I loved the huge area crowded with bookstores, Asias biggest fruit market and the iconic coffee shop best, it was all worth the trip. We were even provided with food and drinks, Soham really is a perfect guide.

We felt privileged to be able to discover parts of Calcutta that most people don’t find, and Soham regaled us with wonderful stories alongside his fascinating tour. An absolute must!

Wonderful tour guide and Kolkata expert Soham took us on a walk for the senses through gorgeous, unknown and magical corners of Kolkata. There were wonderful foods, beautiful sights and (let's say) interesting smells along the way, plus a shared experience with new friends. We loved and highly recommend it! Thank you! Made us fall in love with Kolkata ever more.

I cannot say enough positive things about my stay at the Calcutta Capsule and Soham as a tour guide. Of all the guides I have had in India, Soham has had the most depth and expertise. I was curious about religion and art in Calcutta and I learned about more than that. I think I came to understand the Bengali culture and approach to life in a way I could not have done otherwise. Being hosted at Soham's family property was also amazing.

What an amazing tour with Soham. Unlike many tours I’ve been on this showed so many insights in to the city. The culture, the day to day life of locals and numerous businesses. Although you visit some relatively busy areas it never felt too busy and the people we met were always smiling and happy to show us what they were doing. Without spoiling the tour for others I would also add that there were a number of interesting surprises and insights that Soham showed along the way that were worth seeing and hearing about. It was a great way to spend the afternoon

The was my 3rd tour with Soham and it was as special as all the others 😊. This time Soham used the city to show us the two sides of the Bengali people (and arguably all humans) and their choice between aquiring knowledge & wisdom OR wealth 🤔. It was another fascinating tour that gave us all a chance to ponder that question whilst Soham weaved in the history and real life stories that gave everything context whilst exploring two differing parts of the city. By enabling me to scratch below the surface of the city and get to know its people and their ways more intimately, Soham has transformed my experience of Calcutta in an enlightening way 😇. Thank you 😊

Fabulous walking tour with Soham! It felt like walking and talking with a friend. Soham is so passionate about his hometown and it was a joy to see a part of this city through his eyes. I loved the vibrancy of the fruit market and the philosophical discussions at our coffee house stop. Also worth mentioning that I was a solo traveller by the end and Soham took care to facilitate a safe journey back to my hotel. I would highly recommend the ‘Contrast’ tour and I’m so looking forward to the ‘Magic hour’ tour with Soham next week!