Confluência Cultural de Calcutá - Excursão ao Caleidoscópio Cultural

Know the history of Kolkata from before East India Co with professional tips on photographing the wonderful sites

We did this walking tour 9 years ago and liked it so much back then that we did it again and we’re really glad we did! Manjit is really knowledgeable, and fits in huge amounts of history, culture and informed observations of his own. His views on Kolkata culture stem from a deep affection for the city which is infectious. Like before, he knows dozens of people along the road and they clearly have respect for him. There is plenty of opportunity for trying stuff like nans, samosas, Indian sweets, tea, all provided as part of the deal. The amazing variety of communities and neighbourhoods visited make this tour really in-depth and it shows you a Kolkata you might never have seen otherwise.

This was an incredibly enjoyable and insightful tour. We spent the morning meandering through Bowbazar, a neighbourhood where Anglo-Indian, Buddhist, Zoroastrian, Muslim, and Chinese communities blend with Bengali culture. In this way, our guide, Ranjit, perfectly illustrated how Calcutta is a city built by migrants and foreigners — the area is kind of a 'world within a world' that mirrors the city’s broader history. Starting at 7AM allowed us to watch the neighbourhood wake up and come to life. Ranjit took excellent care of us; his commentary was lively and deeply observant, pointing out fine details like the delicate hands of a statue at the Dharmankur Buddhist temple. Because he is so well-known by the locals, we were able to interact with the community in a way that felt authentic and respectful.

Manjit Thanks so much for this morning. We loved it. So many interesting people and so good to see the warm and friendly relationship you have with so many of them. The photo ops were great, the food tastings excellent, your historical knowledge and delivery thereof very impressive…but I think we enjoyed your sense of humour the most.

I learned so much from Manjit and this type of curated tour. I liked that it wasn’t with a huge group as it allowed time for questions and just felt more personalized. It was a great way to learn about Kolkata’s rich diversity.

This was a fabulous tour, so different from a conventional tour. Manjit is a wonderful guide, funny, informative and proud of his iconic city. The insights into the different neighbourhoods and cultures are unique and will leave you with a truly memorable experience. Do this tour, spend the morning with Manjit - you won’t regret it!

LOVE MANJIT! Would come back to see him every time. We learned so much, he answered our questions honestly and with humor, made us feel safe the whole time, etc. Can’t ask for anything more and can’t recommend this any more strongly!!!

Manjit is the best! It ended up being a private tour for just my husband and myself, and we had such a great time. Manjit knows everyone in the various neighborhoods you visit so you feel safe the entire time. You also really get a taste of the local flavor, both figuratively and literally -- some delicious snacks and chai were picked up along the way. He's super knowledgeable about both the community and the various buildings / cultural areas you visit, so plenty to learn. He also answers all questions with ease, even ones that stumped our tour guide from the previous day! Would visit Manjit again in a heartbeat.

On coming to Calcutta several times over the past 15+ years we'd, on each visit, retrack well-known places we'd come to appreciate. It draws you. It has something special. You feel it under your skin, the (sometimes raw) versatility that's a part of what Calcutta is. And yet, you can't fathom it. We wanted to dive deeper. That's where Manjit comes in. He more than fills the gap. With his personality, wit, understanding and a big dose of human kindness, he takes you on a journey, from the historical beginnings of the city, through the diverse cultures and religions and the melting pot that the city is. The tour took us through many quiet back lanes and streets, showing us real life as it is in all of its colours. With loads of great photographic opportunities. This is an opportunity that we wouldn't have wanted to miss. Thank you for this Manjit.

Put this on your must do list in Kolkota. A privileged insight into the melting pot of people that make this city so unique!!