Kolkata Kumortuli Walk: Exploring the Potters' Colony Behind the Iconic Bengali Festivals
5.0
16 Ratings
Kolkata
Discover the hidden world of Kolkata's potters' colony, where the iconic idols for Bengali festivals are created. Perfect for both photographers and non-photographers, no fancy cameras needed!
Duration: 3 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Kumartuli - We will be spending most of our time in the artisans’ neighborhood and the river ghat and seeing the artisans create the world famous idols.
What's Included
  • Tea and coffee included
  • Complimentary bottled water
  • Variety of snacks provided
  • All fees and taxes covered
Additional Information

This excursion is equally enjoyable for those who are and are not photographers. It particularly resonates with photographers, but you don’t need a high-end camera to enjoy it.

If Bengali festivities such as Durga Puja and Kali Puja have left you in awe of their strikingly beautiful deities and sparked your interest in the making process, this tour will be a treat for you. We will escort you to the traditional potters’ area in the northern part of the city. This district not only caters to the city’s need for divine figures but also exports a significant number of its creations. It’s been acknowledged as one of Calcutta’s seven marvels – a spectacle you wouldn’t want to miss when in the city. It’s accessible most of the year, with some exceptions. Consult us for further details!

IMPORTANT: As a standard, we need at least 2 participants to conduct the tour, unless it’s been pre-arranged. If you’re a solo traveler, please get in touch with us.

P.S.: Should the designated start times not be convenient for you, feel free to message us. We might be able to arrange it as per your availability.

  • Not suitable for infants.
Location
Kumartuli Ghat
Durga Charan Banerjee Street
Between the Chandni Chowk and Central Metro Station, opposite Yogayog Bhawan. P.S. Drop us a message if the mentioned start times do not work for you. Maybe we can schedule according to your convenience.
Cancellation Policy

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

Customer Ratings
5.0
(16 Ratings)
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610anjab
Apr 11, 2024
Tour to do for an in-depth experience of Kumortoli - Awesome tour, this is the tour to do when you want an in-depth experience into Kumortoli. Manjit has been doing this tour for such a long time, that he has personal connections with a lot of the artists, which makes it extra special.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Kongmarius
Dec 28, 2023
A divine experience in Kolkata - It was a real pleasure to be with Manjit through the unique Kumortuli. Anyone who visits Kolata should make time to experience this unique area, where artists create the most beautiful clay figures in small cubicles in narrow alleyways. The experience would not have been the same without Manjit. He knows "everyone" and ensures that you are well received everywhere. He is very knowledgeable and has countless stories to tell. Moving through the area at dusk made the visit extra effective. Through his local knowledge, we were given the opportunity to get very close to the local community. This was an experience we would not have been without.
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304kelliw
Nov 13, 2023
Seeing the real Calcutta - During my recent trip to Calcutta for Durga Puja I was lucky enough to experience all the tours on offer under the glorious guidance of Manjit. Manjit's love of his city, it's people and various enclaves poured from him during these yours. He guides with enthusiasm and care, going out of his way to ensure your experience is a good one; willing to assist and support in any way he can. His tours are not only informative but allow you to really see the communities you visit, not always feeling like the obvious tourist. I would recommend that you don't miss an opportunity to take a tour or 2 or more with Manjit. You won't regret it.
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Msrawmojo
Nov 9, 2023
Experience the heart and soul of Calcutta - My first trip to Calcutta was an unforgettable experience, even having traveled extensively throughout my life. In the hustle and bustle of the city, it's easy to overlook its soulful essence. Manjit, a lifelong local resident, guided us through the hidden gems, weaving a beautiful tapestry of the city's stories and communities. With his deep-rooted knowledge and personal touch, he effortlessly led us to places where people of diverse religions came together in celebration. He showcased the city's iconic architecture, tracing its evolution, and walked us through streets where locals warmly greeted him, introducing us to their customs, food, and significant, off-the-beaten-path places. Manjit is not just a tour guide; he is a curator of cultural experiences. His infectious joy and laughter made the journey unforgettable. I highly recommend exploring this enchanting city through Manjit's eyes, ears, heart and soul. I did all of these tours and loved each and every one, but visiting the flower market and Kurmatoli just prior to Durgā Puja was a stunning experience. Manjit pointed out great photo opportunities along the way so I have beautiful visual memories of my time here. Thank you Manjit 🙏
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Lesleyse2934nd
Nov 7, 2023
Heart warming experience 💜 - WOW 🤩- Manjit was the ultimate tour guide! His passion, enthusiasm, knowledge and sense of fun made our tour of Kolkata a once in a lifetime experience! Through mastery storytelling, sharing his personal experiences, detailed and fun expert knowledge and his deep connection with the city of joy, we felt included and welcomed from the first 30 minutes. His guidance enabled us to feel an emotional connection to his community - regardless of their social or religious standing 🙏 Highly recommend booking with Manjit to ensure you maximise your time in this magical city ❤️ 💜
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Rita_1293
Nov 27, 2022
Recommended! - Highly recommended! The tour distinguishes itself for being genuine and insightful, not a ‘main street’ activity - well researched!
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799kerrim
Nov 21, 2021
Seeing such art being created real-time was an honour - Having done several tours already with Calcutta Photo Tours, I asked Manjit to suggest another, and this was one that he recommended. I would have never been to a place like this without Manjits help, and am eternally grateful that he made that recommendation. Not only were the photo opportunities fabulous, but I learnt so much about how the whole process involved with the idols, and the work that goes into them, that I gained a new level of understanding of these icons and now, whenever I see one, I have a much greater appreciation of them. Manjit timed this tour to be done at just the right time, and provided a great commentary on what we were seeing and answered all my (ignorant!) questions. Highly recommended to get a different view of Kolkata and to see how creating such colour and vibrance happens. (I did this tour pre-COVID but the system won't let me enter the date)
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Louellalongbottom
Nov 20, 2021
Visiting another world others rarely get to see. - I loved this tour!! Again, I am not a photographer but the places that Manjit takes you to allows even the worst amateur photographer to snap a great photo. Visually spectacular and just so interesting to learn about how the status are made. Will go in this tour again when I return to Calcutta.
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Radhika409
Nov 17, 2021
The statues I fell in love with - We didn’t book for this one but the organizer -Majeet was so good that we went for it. Amazing place! The best time to visit is either before Durga Puja or before Diwali. It’s beautiful how every other shop is filled with so many hand made statues, some small and some huge. It was a beautiful experience. Loved it ! :)
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Tongi
Nov 15, 2021
Artistry and industry on show - This tour focuses traditional crafts and industries in Kolkata - and there are such interesting links to religious festivals and how the community designs and manages large scale celebratory events. It reminds you that people used to do things with their HANDS - and many still do. Something to think about in this age of disposable plastics. The artistry and industry in display are compelling. Another great way to gain insights into the culture of this complex country and this compelling city - my favourite in India. Recommended. I did this tour preCOVID but the system won't let me enter the date.
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up to 15 guests
1 Adult
June 2024
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