7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Kolkata

Saturday, August 5: Explore Indian Museum

Start your trip by visiting the Indian Museum, the oldest and largest museum in India. In the morning, immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of India displayed through various artifacts and exhibits. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll in the lush greenery of Maidan, a vast urban park nearby. As the evening sets in, head to Park Street, known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious street food.

• Indian Museum: Estimated cost INR 50, Time spent 2-3 hours
• Maidan: Free, Time spent 1-2 hours
• Park Street: Cost varies, Time spent 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Flurys, a famous bakery and cafe in Kolkata. Indulge in their freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
• For lunch, head to 6 Ballygunge Place, an iconic restaurant known for its traditional Bengali cuisine. Enjoy mouthwatering dishes like fish curry and prawn malai. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
• In the evening, make your way to Peter Cat, a legendary restaurant on Park Street. Try their famous Chelo Kebab, a dish that combines grilled meat and aromatic rice. Average cost for a meal is about ₹1000 per person.

Sunday, August 6: Discover Victoria Memorial

Start your day by visiting the iconic Victoria Memorial, a magnificent marble structure built during the British colonial period. In the morning, explore the museum inside the memorial, showcasing paintings, sculptures, and historical artifacts. In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat ride on the nearby Hooghly River. As the evening approaches, indulge in a traditional Bengali dinner at a local restaurant.

• Victoria Memorial: Estimated cost INR 30, Time spent 2-3 hours
• Hooghly River Boat Ride: Estimated cost INR 100, Time spent 1-2 hours
• Local Bengali Restaurant: Cost varies, Time spent 1-2 hours

Monday, August 7: Visit Science City

Start your day by visiting Science City, an interactive science center and amusement park suitable for all ages. In the morning, engage in numerous scientific exhibits and activities. In the afternoon, enjoy thrilling rides and 3D shows at the amusement park. As the evening arrives, head to Park Circus Maidan, a popular hangout spot for locals.

• Science City: Estimated cost INR 100, Time spent 4-5 hours
• Science City Amusement Park: Estimated cost INR 200, Time spent 3-4 hours
• Park Circus Maidan: Free, Time spent 1-2 hours

Tuesday, August 8: Explore Dakshineswar Kali Temple

Start your day by visiting the famous Dakshineswar Kali Temple, dedicated to Goddess Kali. In the morning, experience the devotional atmosphere and seek blessings. In the afternoon, take a ferry ride across the Hooghly River to Belur Math, the headquarters of Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission. As the evening sets in, enjoy a serene walk along the riverbank.

• Dakshineswar Kali Temple: Free, Time spent 2-3 hours
• Ferry Ride to Belur Math: Estimated cost INR 10, Time spent 1-2 hours
• Riverbank Walk: Free, Time spent 1-2 hours

Wednesday, August 9: Visit Alipore Zoo

Start your day by exploring Alipore Zoo, one of the oldest zoological gardens in India. In the morning, admire a wide range of animal species. In the afternoon, visit the nearby National Library, housing a vast collection of books and manuscripts. As the evening approaches, enjoy a picnic in the lush greenery of Botanical Gardens.

• Alipore Zoo: Estimated cost INR 30, Time spent 3-4 hours
• National Library: Free, Time spent 2-3 hours
• Botanical Gardens: Estimated cost INR 20, Time spent 2-3 hours

Thursday, August 10: Discover Marble Palace

Start your day by visiting the exquisite Marble Palace, a mansion showcasing an extensive collection of art, sculptures, and antique furniture. In the morning, marvel at the opulent interiors and the surrounding gardens. In the afternoon, explore Jorasanko Thakur Bari, the ancestral home of Rabindranath Tagore, a Nobel laureate. As the evening sets in, take a relaxing horse-carriage ride around Maidan.

• Marble Palace: Free (prior permission required), Time spent 2-3 hours
• Jorasanko Thakur Bari: Estimated cost INR 10, Time spent 1-2 hours
• Horse-Carriage Ride: Estimated cost INR 150, Time spent 1-2 hours

Friday, August 11: Explore Nicco Park

Start your day by visiting Nicco Park, an amusement park offering a variety of thrilling rides and entertainment options for all ages. In the morning, enjoy the adrenaline rush of roller coasters and water slides. In the afternoon, have a picnic in Salt Lake Central Park, a serene green space nearby. As the evening approaches, visit the Eco Park for a refreshing boat ride.

• Nicco Park: Estimated cost INR 300, Time spent 4-5 hours
• Salt Lake Central Park: Free, Time spent 2-3 hours
• Eco Park Boat Ride: Estimated cost INR 50, Time spent 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, visit Kumartuli, the potters' quarter, where you can witness the creation of beautiful clay idols. Another hidden gem is the Indian Coffee House on College Street, a historic coffeehouse known for its intellectual discussions and delicious coffee. Families can also enjoy a trip to Nicco Super Bowl, a bowling alley with exciting games and activities.

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