Aug 14, 2025
Amazing tour - Manjit makes a great tour. He shows you places you would never find on your own and shares his knowledge about the history of the city and the different religions in Kolkata. You shouldn't miss this tour :-)
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Aug 10, 2025
Calcutta Kaleidoscope Tour - It's a rare treat to be able to see the old with a fresh pair of eyes. Despite being from Kolkata, there's so much about its history and culture that's alien to me.
Manjit's photowalk tour was so refreshing precisely because it made the familiar and banal interesting again.
The kaleidoscope tour is a brilliant, well curated walk that resolutely lives up to its name. Manjit is funny, warm, brilliant and so knowledgeable about the city, its people and rhythms.
There's so much you'll learn about the city as you walk and eat your way through this tour. It will delight you and move you and leave your more curious than when you started.
Can't recommend it enough!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Aug 7, 2025
In the heart of Kolkata! - Although it was our first time in India, it was already our second adventure with Manjit and, once again, exceeded all expectations. After the “Tour of Mesmerizing Markets of Kolkata” we were curious to explore new aspects of the city, and relying on him again proved to be the best choice. In my previous review I had already pointed out his extraordinary ability to listen, observe and transform small details into indelible memories, but I repeat it gladly, because it is really what makes the difference.
Born and raised in Calcutta, Manjit knows every alley and every story. His human sensibility, combined with an innate talent for storytelling, transforms even a simple glimpse of the street into an immersive experience. He knows how to put anyone at ease even in the most chaotic moments: with him every corner finds its own rhythm and immediately becomes familiar.
In this second tour we discovered another face of Kolkata: not only a frenetic market, but a real intellectual, cultural and creative hub, where you can breathe the wealth of a city that is the result of the coexistence and coexistence of different cultures, traditions and histories, which here meet, contaminate and give life to a unique ferment.
Manjit’s kindness and authenticity remain the leitmotif of each stage: whether he is greeting an old friend or a new acquaintance, he always creates an atmosphere of sincere and respectful exchange. Each meeting seemed like an invitation not only to share his daily life and that of the people, but to enter the beating heart of the city itself.
Thanks to him we explored hidden corners that we would never have discovered on our own and had the rare opportunity to connect with locals in an authentic and respectful way. We returned home with an even deeper appreciation for the soul of Calcutta. This short but intense tour was (like the first) one of the most beautiful and memorable experiences of our trip to India.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jul 23, 2025
- A Must-Do Experience in Calcutta – Even for Independent Travelers.
As someone who typically prefers solo travel and rarely joins guided tours, I wasn’t expecting much when I booked a photography tour in Calcutta. But I can honestly say: booking a tour with Manjit was one of the best decisions of my trip to India.
If you're hesitant about tours—or unsure if a Kolkata photography tour is for you—don’t think twice. Just book it. Whether you're a seasoned photographer, a hobbyist, or simply love capturing moments with your phone, Manjit’s tours offer an unforgettable, immersive experience through the vibrant streets of Kolkata.
How I Ended Up on the Tour:
A local friend recommended Manjit’s photography walk, and as someone who never travels without a camera, I figured I’d give it a shot. We met early in the morning to beat the heat and were greeted by one of the kindest, most knowledgeable people I've encountered while traveling.
From the first few steps, it became clear this wasn’t just a photography walk—it was a deep dive into the culture, history, and daily life of Calcutta, seen through its architecture, food, markets, and most importantly: its people.
The Tour That Changed My Trip
What stood out most wasn’t just the incredible visuals or local insights—it was Manjit’s gift for storytelling. He doesn’t just guide you from point A to B; he brings each street, building, and face to life with stories that connect past and present. After the tour ended, I was so inspired that I immediately booked another for the next morning—this time, a sunrise tour of Calcutta’s flower market, which turned out to be just as unforgettable.
Why You Should Book
Through Manjit, I gained access to parts of the city I never would’ve found on my own and had the rare opportunity to connect with locals in a meaningful, respectful way. I walked away with not only stunning, unique photographs of Calcutta, but also with a richer appreciation for the soul of the city.
In fact, the experience was so powerful it completely changed how I traveled through India. From that point on, I started booking local guides in every city—because nothing else compared to what I experienced on Manjit’s tours.
Final Thoughts
If you're considering a cultural or photography tour in Calcutta, stop scrolling and book with Manjit. You’ll walk away with memories that stay with you for years, an authentic connection to the city, and incredible photos that tell a story. This isn’t just a tour—it’s a highlight of your trip waiting to happen.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jul 23, 2025
The gateway to India in a tour - ES was incredibly good!
As a passionate and experienced photographer, I wanted to start my journey through India accompanied and what better way to do that than to share my passion with someone? So: Manjit found, Manjit met and had the best entry into a trip you can imagine! Places in Kolkata that you can’t easily find alone, not at the right time and not meet the right people.
Whether experienced or inexperienced photographer, whether help is needed or just accompanying you to the right place, you are in the right place! And Manjit is just a mega likable guy! (And whoever is into black humor now will have the time of his life and a new friend!)
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jul 21, 2025
If you only do one thing in Kolkata, do this tour with Manjit! A must do tour! - This was one of the best tours we have ever taken!!! Manjit was a great guide, he told us a lot of the Kolkata history and so many interesting facts about the city. He was willing to answer to all our questions and we has great time with him. He took us to the places we would never go alone. We have also tried some delicious food on our walking tour. We felt safe and comfortable with him as we are two women, a mother and a daughter, traveling together. Manjit really did everything to make the tour interesting and on a high professional level. A must do tour in Kolkata♥️
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jul 15, 2025
Perfect - Very unique tour to discover a place, which is easily overseen. Manjit has a lot of historical knowledge. You feel he has been around this area for a long time!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jun 21, 2025
Around the World in One Neighborhood - Without us even realizing it, four hours flew by — and we could’ve easily kept asking more questions. Around every corner, a new world unfolds, and Manjit draws you right into it. In such a compact area, you encounter a rich tapestry of cultures: from Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Zoroastrianism, and many more.
Manjit offers deep insights into history and current developments, peppered with touching and quirky anecdotes that surprise and inspire. The tour feels incredibly personal — Manjit is well-known in the neighborhood, exchanging greetings as we walk along. And as if that weren’t enough, you’re treated to delicious local snacks, fresh from the oven or counter.
Manjit himself is warm-hearted, cheerful, and full of good humor.
All in all, a 100% recommendation. This tour truly enriched our stay in Kolkata and connects you to the city.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jun 19, 2025
Exceptional and immersive experience - If you’re looking to experience Kolkata beyond the guidebooks, Manjit Singh Hoonjan’s walking tours are a revelation. As the founder of Calcutta Photo Tours, Manjit blends his deep-rooted love for the city with the eye of an internationally published photographer and the warmth of a third-generation Kolkatan.
His tours—whether through the Anglo-Indian lanes of Bow Barracks, the vibrant markets, or the Churches - are more than a sightseeing. They’re immersive stories. Manjit’s rapport with locals means you’re not just observing, you’re welcomed into the rhythm of daily life. Expect spontaneous chai breaks, street food tastings, and candid photo ops with cheerful uncles and bustling vendors.
What sets him apart is his ability to make you feel like a traveller in your backyard. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or just curious about Kolkata’s layered history, Manjit’s tours are insightful, humorous, and deeply human.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
May 12, 2025
YOU HAVE TO DO THIS TOUR!!! - Memorable experience and a unique way of sensing Kolkata. Manjit, our guide, demonstrates a vast knowledge of the subjects he speaks about and shows a very pleasant attitude as a tour guide. Incredibly, the tour takes you to only one neighborhood, but you are immersed in so much happening, local shops, streets, snacks, and delicacies - sold by different people from different cultures, that it is truly a kaleidoscope! The tour is incredibly well curated, Manjit has been doing it for years and knows most of the people/merchants along the streets covered - for me, that was the most pleasant and safest walk to use my photo equipment and enjoy with no worries. Another practical point worth mentioning is that I am very sensitive to street food, and I did not have any problems after trying several snacks, tea, and sweets offered on the tour.
Review provided by Tripadvisor