A Week in Kolkata: Family-Friendly Itinerary

Thursday, October 19: Exploring Park Street

Start your trip by visiting the iconic Indian Museum in the morning. This family-friendly museum houses a vast collection of artifacts, including ancient sculptures and fossils. In the afternoon, head to Park Street, known for its restaurants and cafes. Enjoy a delicious lunch at the famous Flurys and indulge in some shopping at Oxford Bookstore. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along Park Street and admire the beautifully lit up buildings.

• Indian Museum: INR 100 per person, 2-3 hours
• Flurys: INR 500 for a family of four, 1-2 hours
• Oxford Bookstore: No entry fee, 1-2 hours

Friday, October 20: Exploring Science City

Spend the morning at Science City, a popular attraction for families. Explore the interactive exhibits, watch a show at the Space Theatre, and enjoy a fun-filled day learning about science. In the afternoon, visit Nicco Park, an amusement park located near Science City. Enjoy thrilling rides and entertainment for the whole family. In the evening, head to Acropolis Mall for shopping and dinner.

• Science City: INR 100 per person, 3-4 hours
• Nicco Park: INR 400 per person (entry + rides), 3-4 hours
• Acropolis Mall: Depends on shopping and dining choices, 2-3 hours

Saturday, October 21: Cultural Immersion in Dakshineswar

In the morning, visit Dakshineswar Kali Temple, a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. Experience the spiritual ambiance and witness the rituals. Afterward, take a boat ride on the Hooghly River and enjoy the scenic views. In the afternoon, explore Belur Math, a religious complex founded by Swami Vivekananda. Attend the evening Aarti (prayer) ceremony for a truly immersive experience.

• Dakshineswar Kali Temple: No entry fee, 2-3 hours
• Boat Ride: INR 100 per person, 1-2 hours
• Belur Math: No entry fee, 2-3 hours

Sunday, October 22: Discovering Victoria Memorial

Start your day with a visit to the magnificent Victoria Memorial, an architectural marvel surrounded by beautiful gardens. Explore the museum inside, showcasing the history of Kolkata. In the afternoon, take a horse-drawn carriage ride in Maidan, a vast urban park. Enjoy the open green spaces and admire the historical monuments. In the evening, head to Princep Ghat, a riverside promenade, for a relaxing walk along the Hooghly River.

• Victoria Memorial: INR 30 per person, 2-3 hours
• Horse-drawn Carriage Ride: INR 500 for a family, 1-2 hours
• Princep Ghat: No entry fee, 1-2 hours

Monday, October 23: Sightseeing in Howrah

Start your day by visiting the iconic Howrah Bridge, an engineering marvel and one of Kolkata's landmarks. Take a ferry ride across the Hooghly River to enjoy panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, explore the Indian Botanical Garden, known for its collection of rare plants and the famous Great Banyan Tree. In the evening, visit Howrah Railway Station, one of the busiest railway stations in India, and experience the vibrant atmosphere.

• Howrah Bridge: No entry fee, 1-2 hours
• Ferry Ride: INR 10 per person, 1-2 hours
• Indian Botanical Garden: INR 20 per person, 2-3 hours
• Howrah Railway Station: No entry fee, 1-2 hours

Tuesday, October 24: Exploring Sundarbans

Embark on a day trip to the Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest mangrove forest in the world. Take a boat tour through the dense mangroves, spot wildlife like Royal Bengal Tigers and crocodiles, and learn about the unique ecosystem. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature. In the evening, return to Kolkata and relax at your hotel.

• Sundarbans Day Tour: INR 2,500 per person (approx.), 10-12 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Flurys, a popular bakery and patisserie in Kolkata. Indulge in their delicious pastries, sandwiches, and coffee. The average cost for a breakfast meal at Flurys is about Rs. 300 per person.
• For lunch, try Oh! Calcutta, a renowned restaurant known for its authentic Bengali cuisine. Feast on mouthwatering dishes like Hilsa fish curry and Kolkata-style biryani. The average cost for a lunch meal at Oh! Calcutta is about Rs. 700 per person.
• For dinner, visit 6 Ballygunge Place, a must-visit restaurant for traditional Bengali food. Enjoy flavorsome dishes like Shorshe Ilish (Hilsa fish cooked in mustard sauce) and Chingri Malai Curry (prawns in coconut milk). The average cost for a dinner meal at 6 Ballygunge Place is about Rs. 800 per person.

Wednesday, October 25: Shopping and Farewell

Spend your last day in Kolkata exploring the local markets. Visit New Market, a bustling shopping destination offering a wide range of products. Bargain for souvenirs, clothes, and handicrafts. In the afternoon, head to South City Mall for some last-minute shopping and enjoy a farewell dinner at one of the mall's restaurants. Bid farewell to Kolkata with cherished memories.

• New Market: Depends on shopping choices, 2-3 hours
• South City Mall: Depends on shopping and dining choices, 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, visit Kumartuli, a neighborhood known for its traditional clay idol workshops. Witness the skilled artisans creating idols for various festivals. Another hidden gem is the Marble Palace, a stunning mansion showcasing an eclectic collection of art and artifacts. Don't miss out on trying street food in College Street, known as the "Boi Para" (Book Lane) of Kolkata, famous for its bookstores and delicious snacks.

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