• Writers’ Building - 8 AM - The shared walk begins at the Writers’ Building.

The first stop is the Writer’s Building, which started modestly. Constructed in 1777, it was initially intended for the lower bureaucracy of the East India Company. Today, this Greco-Roman architectural marvel serves as the headquarters of the West Bengal state government. The guide will share stories of significant events in India’s freedom struggle that took place with the Writers’ Building as a backdrop. As it is an active office, the building will be viewed from the outside.

• Job Charnock’s Mausoleum - The walk continues to the Mausoleum of Job Charnock, the founder of modern Kolkata. In 1690, Charnock purchased the villages of Sutanuti, Gobindapur, and Kalikata from Bengal subedar Azim Usman, eventually leading to Kolkata becoming the capital of the East India Company. However, a recent High Court ruling has challenged his status as the founder of Kolkata, citing evidence of the city’s earlier existence.
• St. John’s Church - The next stop is St. John’s Church, constructed in 1787 by architect James Agg. This impressive stone and brick structure became Calcutta’s principal Cathedral in 1815. A notable feature of the Church is the “Last Supper” painting on its walls.
• Raj Bhavan - The Governor’s House is an extraordinary building constructed for Marquess of Wellesley, who arrived in Kolkata as the Governor General of the East India Company in 1798 and found his rented accommodation inadequate. Built in 1803 by renowned English architect Charles Wyatt, the Governor’s House showcases a Neoclassical style with distinct Baroque influences. After the Crown assumed control from the East India Company, it became the residence of the Viceroy of India. Today, it serves as the office and residence of the Governor of West Bengal, and thus, it will be viewed from the outside.
• Victoria Memorial - The walk proceeds to the iconic Victoria Memorial, built by George Curzon, 1st Marquess Curzon of Kedleston and Viceroy of India. Dedicated to Queen Victoria, this marble architectural masterpiece offers a glimpse into the Victorian era amidst the vibrant life of modern Kolkata.

12:30 PM - The walk concludes at Victoria Memorial.

• Light refreshments
• All taxes, fees and handling charges
• Snacks

• Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option not selected)

Kolkata was a jewel in the crown of the East India Company and then the British Empire. In this shared group walk, we will trace back our steps to the colonial era and visit some prominent landmarks that defined this great city’s history. We will start our walk from Writers Building and visit the mausoleum of Charnock the founder of British Kolkata, St John’s Church, the majestic Governor’s House, Eliot’s Park and end this walking tour at the iconic Victoria Memorial.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.