Exploring Kolkata and Guwahati

Tuesday, September 5: Kolkata Arrival and City Exploration

Start your trip in Kolkata, the cultural capital of India. In the morning, visit the iconic Victoria Memorial, a magnificent marble structure surrounded by lush gardens. Explore the Indian Museum, one of the oldest and largest museums in India, showcasing a vast collection of artifacts. Afternoon is the perfect time to experience the hustle and bustle of New Market, a vibrant shopping destination offering a variety of goods. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the scenic Howrah Bridge, spanning the Hooghly River.

• Victoria Memorial: Cost: ₹250, Time: 2 hours
• Indian Museum: Cost: ₹20, Time: 2 hours
• New Market: Cost: Varies, Time: 2-3 hours
• Howrah Bridge: Free, Time: 1 hour

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Flurys, a legendary bakery in Kolkata. Indulge in their freshly baked pastries and cakes. Average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
• For a filling lunch, head to 6 Ballygunge Place, a popular restaurant in Kolkata known for its authentic Bengali cuisine. Try their signature dishes like Shorshe Ilish and Chingri Malai Curry. Average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
• For a memorable dinner experience, visit Oh! Calcutta, a renowned restaurant offering a fine selection of traditional Bengali delicacies. Enjoy dishes like Kosha Mangsho and Bhetki Paturi. Average cost for a meal is about INR 800 per person.

Wednesday, September 6: Kolkata Cultural Delights

Embark on a cultural journey in Kolkata. Start your morning with a visit to the Dakshineswar Kali Temple, a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. Afterward, explore Kumartuli, the traditional potters' quarter known for its skilled artisans crafting beautiful clay idols. In the afternoon, indulge in delicious street food at Park Street, a popular food hub. As the evening approaches, head to Rabindra Sadan, a cultural center, to witness a captivating performance of classical music or dance.

• Dakshineswar Kali Temple: Free, Time: 2 hours
• Kumartuli: Free, Time: 1-2 hours
• Park Street: Cost: Varies, Time: 2-3 hours
• Rabindra Sadan: Cost: Varies, Time: 2-3 hours

Thursday, September 7: Guwahati Nature and Spirituality

Fly to Guwahati, the gateway to the northeast region of India. Start your day with a visit to the Kamakhya Temple, a renowned Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya. Enjoy the serene beauty of the Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden, home to various indigenous animals and flora. In the afternoon, take a scenic boat ride on the Brahmaputra River to Umananda Island, where you can explore the Umananda Temple. End your day by witnessing the mesmerizing sunset from the Nilachal Hill viewpoint.

• Kamakhya Temple: Free, Time: 2-3 hours
• Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden: Cost: ₹30, Time: 2-3 hours
• Boat ride to Umananda Island: Cost: ₹30, Time: 2 hours
• Nilachal Hill viewpoint: Free, Time: 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When in Kolkata, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Marble Palace, a stunning mansion with beautiful sculptures and artwork. Another hidden gem is the South Park Street Cemetery, an atmospheric colonial-era cemetery with ornate tombs and a serene ambiance. In Guwahati, explore the serene beauty of Deepor Beel, a freshwater lake and bird sanctuary, perfect for nature lovers. Also, don't forget to try the local Assamese cuisine, especially traditional dishes like Assam Laksa and Masor Tenga.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.