Start your adventure in Kolkata by immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of New Market. In the morning, wander through this bustling marketplace, known for its variety of goods and local delicacies. In the afternoon, visit the Indian Museum, the oldest and largest museum in India, to explore its vast collection of artifacts. As the evening sets in, head to Park Street, a hub of restaurants and nightlife, to enjoy a delicious meal and experience the lively atmosphere.
New Market: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Indian Museum: Cost - INR 20 (approx. $0.27), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Park Street: Cost - Varies, Time Spent - Evening
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Kolkata is Flurys, known for its delicious pastries and cakes. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹300 per person.
For lunch, head to Oh! Calcutta, a renowned restaurant specializing in Bengali cuisine. Indulge in traditional dishes like fish curry and biryani, with an average cost of about ₹800 per person.
In the evening, enjoy a dinner at 6 Ballygunge Place, a restaurant known for its authentic Bengali flavors. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹1000 per person.
Sunday, August 6: Eco Park and Science City
Embrace nature and adventure at Eco Park in the morning. Explore the park's lush greenery, visit the butterfly garden, and enjoy activities such as boating and cycling. In the afternoon, head to Science City, an interactive science center, to engage in exciting exhibits and demonstrations. End your day at Nicco Park, an amusement park adjacent to Science City, where you can enjoy thrilling rides.
Start your day with a delicious Indian breakfast at Flurys. This iconic cafe offers a wide range of baked goods, pastries, and traditional Indian breakfast items. Average cost for a breakfast meal is about 300 INR per person.
For a tasty lunch, head to Oh! Calcutta. Indulge in authentic Bengali cuisine, including delectable seafood dishes and traditional specialties. Average cost for a lunch meal is about 800 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, visit 6 Ballygunge Place. This restaurant serves classic Bengali dishes in a charming heritage house setting. Average cost for a dinner meal is about 1000 INR per person.
Monday, August 7: Sunderbans National Park
Embark on an adventurous day trip to Sunderbans National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Take a boat safari through the mangrove forests to spot rare Bengal tigers and various bird species. Marvel at the unique ecosystem and enjoy the thrill of being in the heart of nature.
Sunderbans National Park: Cost - Varies (depending on tour package), Time Spent - Full Day
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Flurys, a popular bakery and tearoom known for its delectable pastries and sandwiches. Enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee and indulge in their famous English breakfast. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
Head to Oh! Calcutta for a delicious lunch featuring authentic Bengali cuisine. Try their mouthwatering fish curry served with fragrant rice and a variety of traditional side dishes. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, visit 6 Ballygunge Place, a renowned restaurant serving traditional Bengali delicacies in a charming ambiance. Don't miss their signature dishes like Bhetki Paturi (marinated fish steamed in banana leaf) and Kosha Mangsho (slow-cooked mutton curry). Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 1000 per person.
Tuesday, August 8: Dakshineswar Kali Temple and Belur Math
In the morning, visit Dakshineswar Kali Temple, a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. Experience the spiritual ambiance and witness the rituals performed by devotees. Afterward, head to Belur Math, a serene riverside monastery founded by Swami Vivekananda. Explore the beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings.
Dakshineswar Kali Temple: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Belur Math: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot near Dakshineswar Kali Temple is Oh! Calcutta which offers a variety of traditional Bengali breakfast dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
For lunch, try Kolkata Biryani House, located near Belur Math, where you can enjoy aromatic biryani dishes prepared with Kolkata's unique blend of spices. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
If you're looking for a place to have dinner, Jyoti Vihar is a great option near Dakshineswar Kali Temple. They serve delicious vegetarian thalis at an average cost of 200 INR per person.
Wednesday, August 9: Howrah Bridge and Marble Palace
Start your day by marveling at the iconic Howrah Bridge, a symbol of Kolkata. Enjoy the panoramic views of the Hooghly River and the cityscape. In the afternoon, visit Marble Palace, a stunning mansion adorned with exquisite marble sculptures, paintings, and antiques. Immerse yourself in the grandeur and rich history of this hidden gem.
Howrah Bridge: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
For breakfast, head to Flurys, a legendary cafe known for its delicious pastries and classic English breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For lunch, try 6 Ballygunge Place, a popular restaurant serving traditional Bengali cuisine. Indulge in dishes like shorshe ilish and doi maach. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Oh! Calcutta, a renowned restaurant offering a wide range of Bengali delicacies and seafood dishes. Enjoy the authentic flavors of Kolkata cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 1200 INR per person.
Thursday, August 10: Victoria Memorial and Maidan
Explore the grandeur of Victoria Memorial in the morning, a magnificent monument dedicated to Queen Victoria. Admire the stunning architecture and explore the museum inside. Take a leisurely stroll through the nearby Maidan, a vast urban park, and enjoy the serene atmosphere amidst the bustling city.
Victoria Memorial: Cost - INR 30 (approx. $0.40), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Maidan: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Anand Restaurant: Offering a wide range of breakfast options including delicious dosas and idlis, this popular spot is known for its authentic South Indian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Peter Cat: Indulge in a sumptuous lunch at this iconic restaurant known for its legendary Chelo Kebabs. The extensive menu also includes a variety of continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Oh! Calcutta: Experience the flavors of Bengal at this elegant dinner spot that specializes in traditional Bengali cuisine. From fresh seafood to flavorful curries, this restaurant offers a truly authentic culinary experience. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Friday, August 11: Kumartuli and College Street
In the morning, visit Kumartuli, a neighborhood known for its traditional potters' workshops where idols for various festivals are made. Witness the skilled artisans at work and learn about the intricate process of idol-making. In the afternoon, explore College Street, the intellectual hub of Kolkata, lined with numerous bookstores and educational institutions. Get lost in the world of books and soak in the intellectual vibe of this iconic street.
Kumartuli: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
College Street: Cost - Varies (depending on book purchases), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Coffee House - A historic cafe located in College Street, offering a range of breakfast options including sandwiches, pastries, and hot beverages. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Mitra Cafe - A popular vegetarian restaurant in College Street, serving traditional Bengali dishes like shorshe ilish and aloo posto. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
6 Ballygunge Place - A renowned restaurant specializing in traditional Bengali cuisine, offering a wide variety of dishes like macher jhol and chingri malai curry. Average cost for a meal is about 700 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For adventure seekers, consider exploring the beautiful Sundarbans Mangrove Forests, which offer thrilling wildlife encounters and breathtaking natural beauty. Another off the beaten path destination is the Chintamoni Kar Bird Sanctuary, a haven for birdwatchers with its diverse avian species. Don't miss the chance to try street food in Kolkata, especially at Tiretti Bazaar, where you can savor authentic Chinese breakfast delicacies. Lastly, for an adrenaline rush, try paragliding at the outskirts of Kolkata for a truly unforgettable experience.