Hi, this is Kumari Sanchita, a Mass communication student from Varanasi. Kolkata was on my radar for quite some time now – a place full of joy, fish curries, tram rides, and all that old charm. Right after my exam, I grabbed my bag, boarded a train from Varanasi to Kolkata, and reached there without much planning. I thought I would take the Kolkata metro for most of my transportation, as everyone suggested that it is very cheap, easy, and covers everything.

I planned my days in such a manner that I don’t need to retrace my steps. That was like taking a private road trip across Kolkata. Here are the top 10 things I did in my tour, in the exact same sequence to replicate my footsteps.

My Kolkata Metro Adventure: Day-wise Flow

I stayed near Sealdah metro station and started early every morning. The Kolkata Metro Route made everything so smooth.

1. Dakshineswar Kali Temple

My first destination started with the north entry point. Travelled by the blue line in the direction of Dum Dum to Dakshineswar. It’s a wonderful place during the early hours in the morning with the presence of the river Ganges. The environment is calm and full of positive energy.

• Nearest Metro: Dakshineswar Station (Blue Line)
• Fare from central areas (like Esplanade): Around ₹15-20

From here, I took the metro south.

2. Belur Math

Dakshineswar just a short auto drive away. Headquarters of Ramakrishna Mission looks so serene and green. Architecture is beautiful. Museum within the building that depicts the journey of Swami Vivekananda’s life fascinated me very much. Ideal beginning for my Kolkata visit.

• Nearest Metro: Dakshineswar (Blue Line), then short local transport.
• Kolkata Metro tip: You can easily combine both temples in one morning.

3. Marble Palace

Now, we’re back in the Kolkata Metro headed south again. The building here is reminiscent of a secret palace of Europe inside Kolkata. From chandeliers to paintings and even a huge courtyard. Not very crowded either, which I thought was good.

• Nearest Metro: Girish Park or Mahatma Gandhi Road (Blue Line)
• Fare: Usually ₹10 from northern stations.

4. Jorasanko Thakurbari (Tagore House)

Exactly there, right? This place is the birthplace of Rabindranath Tagore himself. The ancient house, containing family photographs and things that once belonged to him, got me all excited. As a literature student, I felt very close to the literary background of this place.

• Nearest Metro: Girish Park (Blue Line)
• Fare: ₹5-10 for short hops.

5. Indian Museum

Kolkata Metro Route – next destination. This is the oldest museum in all of India; it’s filled with old sculptures, fossils, and various other things. I spent many hours at their archaeology department. It’s an absolutely gorgeous building.

• Nearest Metro: Park Street or Esplanade (Blue Line)
• Fare from MG Road: Around ₹10.

6. Victoria Memorial

This is definitely one of my all-time favorites. This was where I arrived in the evening. That white marble structure appears like something out of a dream, particularly in its lighting effects. The surrounding gardens are ideal for an evening stroll.

• Nearest Metro: Rabindra Sadan (Blue Line)
• Fare from Esplanade: ₹5-10.

7. St. Paul’s Cathedral

Right next to Victoria Memorial. It’s a very serene place, with beautiful stained glass windows. I stepped inside, and it was so peaceful after so much walking.

• Nearest Metro: Rabindra Sadan (Blue Line)
• Fare: ₹5-10, same as above, very short distance.

8. Howrah Bridge

I travelled by metro to Howrah Maidan (Green Line junction). The view of the bridge at sunset is simply amazing. I crossed the bridge slowly while absorbing the vibe of the city. The view of the Hooghly River and the boats is amazing.

• Nearest Metro: Howrah Maidan (Green Line)
• Fare from Rabindra Sadan area: ₹15-20.

9. Prinsep Ghat

Just a little distance away by vehicle or even walking. How romantic and serene this place near the river is! It’s perfect for picnic outings. Enjoy street foods like phuchkas while admiring the river views. Extremely recommended at dusk.

• Nearest Metro: Esplanade or Chandni Chowk (Blue Line), then a short ride.

10. Eco Park (New Town)

On to my last destination, which was more modern. A vast expanse with lakes and gardens. I rented a bicycle and went for a ride. It was a pleasant change from the Old Kolkata ambience.

• Nearest Metro: Sector V or Karunamoyee (Green/Orange Line connection)
• Fare from central Kolkata: ₹20-25.

This route suited me well. I took Kolkata Metro’s blue line most of the time and green line if required. The total metro expense for the whole trip came up to around ₹150-200.

What I Learned About Kolkata Metro Travel?

Trains are very convenient. The metro is one of the most efficient modes of transport. It is frequent, clean, and cheap. Tickets cost ₹5 on short journeys and ₹25-30 on long ones. I have travelled using tokens as well as a smart card, both of which are equally convenient. You can use the Metro app for updates.

Tips from My Personal Experience

• Start early to avoid crowds.
• Carry water and wear comfortable shoes.
• Try local food near metro stations – the rolls and phuchka are amazing.
• Women coaches are there, feels safer.