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A Week of Volunteering in Kolkata

Friday, October 20: Arrival in Kolkata

Welcome to Kolkata! After arriving at the airport, check into your hotel and freshen up. In the morning, head to Mother Teresa's Missionaries of Charity to volunteer and lend a helping hand to those in need. In the afternoon, explore the bustling New Market, known for its vibrant atmosphere and a wide variety of products. In the evening, take a peaceful stroll along the banks of the Hooghly River and witness the beautiful sunset.

  • Mother Teresa's Missionaries of Charity: Free, 3-4 hours
  • New Market: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Banks of the Hooghly River: Free, 1-2 hours
Saturday, October 21: Cultural Exploration

In the morning, visit the iconic Victoria Memorial, a stunning marble structure that showcases Kolkata's rich history. Spend the afternoon at the Indian Museum, one of the oldest and largest museums in India, where you can delve into the country's art, history, and culture. In the evening, experience the vibrant energy of Park Street, a popular hub for great food, live music, and entertainment.

  • Victoria Memorial: INR 30, 2-3 hours
  • Indian Museum: INR 20, 2-3 hours
  • Park Street: Cost depends on activities, 3-4 hours
Sunday, October 22: Helping the Underprivileged

Spend your Sunday morning volunteering at the Hope Foundation, an organization dedicated to providing education and healthcare to underprivileged children. In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Marble Palace, an exquisite mansion filled with artistic treasures. In the evening, soak in the peaceful atmosphere of the Dakshineswar Kali Temple, one of Kolkata's most important religious sites.

  • Hope Foundation: Free, 3-4 hours
  • Marble Palace: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Dakshineswar Kali Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
Monday, October 23: Eco-Friendly Initiatives

Start your day by volunteering with the Kolkata Clean Air Initiative, an organization working towards improving the city's air quality. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Indian Botanical Gardens, home to a vast collection of plants and the famous Great Banyan Tree. As the evening approaches, visit the tranquil Rabindra Sarobar Lake, a perfect spot for relaxation and reflection.

  • Kolkata Clean Air Initiative: Free, 3-4 hours
  • Indian Botanical Gardens: INR 10, 2-3 hours
  • Rabindra Sarobar Lake: Free, 1-2 hours
Tuesday, October 24: Educational Outreach

Contribute your time and skills at the Calcutta Rescue, an organization providing healthcare and education to the marginalized. In the afternoon, visit the Science City, an interactive science center that offers fascinating exhibits and activities. In the evening, enjoy a boat ride on the peaceful Prinsep Ghat, a riverside promenade adorned with beautiful colonial architecture.

  • Calcutta Rescue: Free, 3-4 hours
  • Science City: INR 50, 2-3 hours
  • Prinsep Ghat: Free, 1-2 hours
Wednesday, October 25: Historical Immersion

Start your day by volunteering at the Indian Museum of Social Welfare and Business Management, where you can contribute to educational programs for underprivileged students. In the afternoon, explore the historic Howrah Bridge, an iconic landmark of Kolkata. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk through the vibrant College Street, famous for its bookstores and intellectual atmosphere.

  • Indian Museum of Social Welfare and Business Management: Free, 3-4 hours
  • Howrah Bridge: Free, 1-2 hours
  • College Street: Cost depends on activities, 2-3 hours
Thursday, October 26: Farewell Kolkata

Spend your last day in Kolkata by volunteering at Missionaries of Charity Home for the Dying and Destitute, where you can provide comfort and support to those in their final days. In the afternoon, visit the Eden Gardens, a historic cricket stadium and a favorite spot for sports enthusiasts. As the evening approaches, indulge in some retail therapy at the lively Gariahat Market.

  • Missionaries of Charity Home for the Dying and Destitute: Free, 3-4 hours
  • Eden Gardens: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Gariahat Market: Cost depends on shopping, 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When in Kolkata, be sure to explore Kumartuli, a neighborhood renowned for its traditional clay idol-makers. Witness the artisans at work as they create stunning idols for festivals. Another offbeat attraction is the South Park Street Cemetery, a serene resting place for British colonizers. It offers a glimpse into the city's colonial past. Lastly, don't miss the chance to savor the delicious street food of Kolkata, especially the mouthwatering puchkas (pani puri) and kathi rolls.

For hotel and flight prices, check here.

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