Start your trip by visiting the iconic Victoria Memorial in the morning. This grand marble structure is a testament to the city's rich history and houses a museum showcasing artifacts and art pieces. In the afternoon, head to Science City, a popular interactive science center offering educational exhibits and activities. Wrap up the day with a relaxing evening boat ride on the serene Prinsep Ghat, overlooking the Hooghly River.
Victoria Memorial: Admission - INR 30 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Science City: Admission - INR 60 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 3-4 hours
Prinsep Ghat: Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Head to Flurys, a legendary bakery and tearoom known for its delicious breakfast options like croissants, pancakes, and omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For lunch, try Oh! Calcutta, a popular restaurant specializing in Bengali cuisine. Indulge in their delectable fish curries and traditional Kolkata biryani. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Celebrate the evening at 6 Ballygunge Place, a traditional Bengali restaurant known for its authentic flavors and warm ambience. Enjoy their signature dishes like chingri malai curry and kosha mangsho. Average cost for a meal is about 1000 INR per person.
Saturday, December 2: Cultural Immersion at Indian Museum
Start your day by visiting the Indian Museum, the oldest and largest multipurpose museum in India. Explore its vast collection of artifacts, including ancient sculptures and cultural relics. In the afternoon, stroll through the vibrant streets of College Street, known as the "Boi Para" or the "Book Market" of Kolkata, and browse through numerous bookstores. End the day by witnessing a mesmerizing evening performance at the Academy of Fine Arts.
Indian Museum: Admission - INR 20 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
College Street: Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Academy of Fine Arts: Ticket prices vary, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Aheli is a popular breakfast spot located near the Indian Museum. They offer a variety of traditional Bengali breakfast dishes such as luchi and alur dom. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
Kewpie's Kitchen is a must-visit for lunch, known for serving traditional Bengali cuisine. This charming eatery offers a thali-style meal with a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
For a delightful dinner experience, head to 6 Ballygunge Place, a renowned restaurant that specializes in authentic Bengali cuisine. Enjoy delicious dishes like bhetki paturi and chingri malai curry. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Sunday, December 3: Fun at Nicco Park
Begin your day by visiting Nicco Park, an amusement park offering a variety of thrilling rides, water slides, and recreational activities suitable for all ages. Enjoy a fun-filled afternoon exploring the park's attractions and indulge in delicious snacks from the food stalls. In the evening, head to Eco Park, a beautiful urban park with serene lakes, landscaped gardens, and a butterfly garden.
Nicco Park: Admission - INR 300 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 5-6 hours
Eco Park: Entry - INR 50 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
The Coffee House - Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Coffee House, a charming cafe known for its delicious sandwiches, pastries, and refreshing coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Machaan - For lunch, head to Machaan and relish their delectable Bengali thalis which include a variety of traditional dishes like fish curry, rice, lentils, and desserts. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Peter Cat - End your day with a delightful dinner at Peter Cat, a legendary restaurant known for its mouthwatering sizzlers and continental cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Monday, December 4: Discovering the Kolkata Zoo
Start your day with a visit to the Alipore Zoological Gardens, commonly known as the Kolkata Zoo. Explore the zoo's diverse collection of animals, including endangered species and exotic birds. In the afternoon, head to South City Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in Kolkata, for some retail therapy and delicious dining options. End the day by taking a leisurely stroll along the beautiful Prinsep Memorial Garden.
Kolkata Zoo: Admission - INR 50 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 3-4 hours
South City Mall: Free entry, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Prinsep Memorial Garden: Free entry, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Flurys, a popular bakery and confectionery known for its delicious pastries and cakes. Average cost for a breakfast meal is about 300 INR per person.
For lunch, try Mocambo, a legendary restaurant specializing in continental cuisine. Their must-try dish is the Chelo Kebab. Average cost for a lunch meal is about 800 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Arsalan, a renowned restaurant famous for its delectable biryanis and kebabs. Average cost for a dinner meal is about 500 INR per person.
Tuesday, December 5: Historical Exploration of Howrah Bridge
Begin your day by visiting the iconic Howrah Bridge, a famous landmark of Kolkata. Take a leisurely walk across the bridge while enjoying breathtaking views of the Hooghly River. In the afternoon, explore the Indian Botanical Gardens, home to a vast collection of exotic plants and the famous Great Banyan Tree. End the day by enjoying a calming boat ride on the river.
Howrah Bridge: Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Indian Botanical Gardens: Admission - INR 10 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Boat Ride: Prices vary, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Wednesday, December 6: Serenity at Dakshineswar Kali Temple
Start your day with a visit to the Dakshineswar Kali Temple, a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. Explore the beautiful temple complex and immerse yourself in spiritual serenity. In the afternoon, head to the Marble Palace, a stunning mansion known for its exquisite marble architecture and impressive art collection. End the day with a peaceful evening stroll along the picturesque Princep Ghat.
Dakshineswar Kali Temple: Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Marble Palace: Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Princep Ghat: Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Thursday, December 7: Exploring Sunderbans National Park
Embark on a day trip to Sunderbans National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest mangrove forests in the world. Explore the park's diverse ecosystem, spot wildlife such as Bengal tigers and estuarine crocodiles, and take a memorable boat safari through the winding rivers and creeks. End your trip with a relaxing evening by the riverside, cherishing the natural beauty of Sunderbans.
Sunderbans National Park: Tour prices vary, Estimated Time Spent - Full day
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique family experience, visit the Science City planetarium for fascinating celestial shows. Explore the Indian Museum's Egyptian mummy collection and the Dinosaur Park in Alipore Zoo, where kids can learn about prehistoric creatures. Don't miss out on tasting delicious street food at New Market, such as puchkas and kathi rolls.