A 2-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Shantiniketan

Saturday, September 16: Exploring Shantiniketan

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the cultural heritage of Shantiniketan, a small town located in West Bengal. In the morning, visit the Visva-Bharati University, founded by Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. Explore the beautiful campus, visit the various departments, and appreciate the art and architecture that are integral to this institution.

In the afternoon, head to the Amar Kutir complex, a cooperative society specializing in handicrafts. Engage in hands-on activities like pottery making and weaving, and shop for exquisite handcrafted items as souvenirs.

As the evening sets in, make your way to Khoai Mela, a unique fair held every Saturday evening. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, indulge in local street food, and witness traditional music and dance performances.

• Visva-Bharati University: Entrance fee - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Amar Kutir: Activity fees vary, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Khoai Mela: Free entry, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• Breakfast: Enjoy a traditional Bengali breakfast at Santhal Family Restaurant. Dive into their mouthwatering Luchi and Cholar Dal combo along with a cup of hot tea. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
• Lunch: Head over to Kala Kunj Restaurant and savor their delectable Bengali thalis. Experience the authentic flavors of dishes like Shorshe Ilish and Aloo Posto. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
• Dinner: Indulge in a fine dining experience at Sonajhuri Restaurant. Feast on their delicious multi-cuisine menu, including dishes like Mughlai Chicken and Kolkata Biryani. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.

Sunday, September 17: Nature and Art

On your second day, embrace the natural beauty and artistry of Shantiniketan. Start your morning with a visit to the Ballavpur Wildlife Sanctuary, located on the outskirts of the town. Take a leisurely walk amidst lush greenery, spot various species of birds, and enjoy the serene surroundings.

In the afternoon, explore the Kala Bhavana, an art college within the Visva-Bharati University. Marvel at the diverse collection of artworks, sculptures, and murals created by students and renowned artists. Attend a painting or pottery workshop to experience the artistic process firsthand.

In the evening, head to the Uttarayan Complex, where you can witness captivating open-air performances of Tagore's plays and dance dramas. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Shantiniketan through these artistic expressions.

• Ballavpur Wildlife Sanctuary: Entrance fee - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Kala Bhavana: Entrance fee - INR 50 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Uttarayan Complex: Entry fees for performances may vary, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• A perfect spot for a delicious breakfast is Kala Bhavana Canteen, known for its freshly made sandwiches and hot coffee. The average cost for a meal here is about 150 rupees per person.
• For a satisfying lunch, head to Prantik Restaurant and enjoy their mouthwatering Bengali thali, which includes a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about 300 rupees per person.
• In the evening, treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Utsav Restaurant, offering a wide range of Indian and Chinese dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about 500 rupees per person.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience in Shantiniketan, consider visiting Sonajhuri Haat, a vibrant market showcasing the local arts and crafts of the region. Here, you can interact with artisans, purchase authentic handcrafted items, and witness cultural performances. Another hidden gem is the nearby Kankalitala Temple, known for its spiritual significance and serene atmosphere. It is a great place to seek blessings and enjoy the tranquility away from the bustling town. These hidden gems provide insights into the local culture and traditions while offering a memorable experience for the whole family.