7-Day Varanasi Kolkata Darjeeling Itinerary

1. Day 1: Varanasi
   10 minutes (1.3 miles) from Downtown Varanasi

   Start your day with a boat ride along the sacred River Ganges and witness the morning rituals. In the afternoon, visit the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple. In the evening, attend the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat.

2. Day 2: Kolkata
   12 hours (456 miles) from Varanasi

   In the morning, explore the historic landmarks of Kolkata, including the magnificent Victoria Memorial and Howrah Bridge. Afternoon is perfect for a visit to the Indian Museum. In the evening, enjoy a cultural performance at Rabindra Sadan.

3. Day 3: Kolkata
   30 minutes (9.4 miles) from Kolkata city center

   Discover the vibrant culture of Kolkata by exploring the bustling markets of New Market and College Street. Visit the Dakshineswar Kali Temple and enjoy a peaceful stroll along the serene banks of the Hooghly River.

4. Day 4: Darjeeling
   10 hours (400 miles) from Kolkata

   Wake up early and take a scenic toy train ride to Darjeeling. Marvel at the breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountain range, including the iconic Kanchenjunga peak. Visit the picturesque Tiger Hill and explore the tea gardens of Happy Valley.

5. Day 5: Darjeeling
   Within Darjeeling

   Embark on an adventurous trek to the Singalila National Park and witness the diverse flora and fauna. Enjoy a visit to the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and learn about mountaineering history. Don't miss the opportunity to savor a cup of Darjeeling tea.

6. Day 6: Darjeeling
   Within Darjeeling

   Explore the charming town of Darjeeling by visiting the Peace Pagoda and the Ghoom Monastery. Take a leisurely stroll along the Mall Road and indulge in some shopping for local handicrafts and souvenirs. End your day with a visit to the Batasia Loop.

7. Day 7: Kolkata
   10 hours (400 miles) from Darjeeling

   Return to Kolkata and spend your final day exploring the vibrant markets of Shyambazar and Gariahat. Visit the iconic Marble Palace and enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the serene Rabindra Sarobar Lake. End your trip with a delicious Bengali dinner.

Recommendations

Consider visiting the Belur Math in Kolkata, a serene monastery and headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission. For a day trip from Kolkata, explore the Sunderbans National Park, known for its mangrove forests and Bengal tigers. To maximize your fun, interact with the locals, try street food, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Boat ride along River Ganges in Varanasi (2 hours, INR 200)
• Kashi Vishwanath Temple entrance fee in Varanasi (1 hour, INR 50)
• Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat in Varanasi (1 hour, free)
• Victoria Memorial entrance fee in Kolkata (2 hours, INR 30)
• Indian Museum entrance fee in Kolkata (2 hours, INR 20)
• Dakshineswar Kali Temple entrance fee in Kolkata (1 hour, free)
• Toy train ride to Darjeeling (7 hours, INR 800)
• Tiger Hill entrance fee in Darjeeling (2 hours, INR 40)
• Himalayan Mountaineering Institute entrance fee in Darjeeling (1 hour, INR 50)
• Peace Pagoda visit in Darjeeling (1 hour, free)
• Marble Palace entrance fee in Kolkata (1 hour, INR 100)
• Boat ride on Rabindra Sarobar Lake in Kolkata (1 hour, INR 100)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 1,440

For hotel and flight bookings, check out https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo