Welcome to Kolkata, the cultural capital of India! Start your trip by exploring the iconic Victoria Memorial in the morning. This magnificent marble structure is a tribute to Queen Victoria and offers a glimpse into the city's colonial past. In the afternoon, visit the bustling New Market, one of Kolkata's oldest and busiest shopping destinations. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely boat ride along the Hooghly River, enjoying the serene views of the Howrah Bridge.
Victoria Memorial: Entrance fee - INR 30, Time spent - 2 hours
New Market: Shopping budget - INR 500, Time spent - 2 hours
Hooghly River Boat Ride: Ticket price - INR 200, Time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
Breakfast: Flurys
A famous bakery and confectionery in Kolkata, Flurys offers a delightful range of breakfast options such as croissants, muffins, and sandwiches. The average cost for a breakfast meal is about ₹300 per person.
Lunch: Oh! Calcutta
Oh! Calcutta is a renowned restaurant known for its authentic Bengali cuisine. Enjoy traditional dishes like fish curry, shorshe ilish, and bhetki paturi. The average cost for a lunch meal is about ₹800 per person.
Dinner: Peter Cat
Famous for its sizzlers, Peter Cat is a classic Kolkata restaurant that has been serving delicious food for decades. Indulge in their signature dish, the famous Chelo Kebab. The average cost for a dinner meal is about ₹900 per person.
Monday, October 2: Explore Kolkata's Cultural Heritage
Immerse yourself in Kolkata's rich cultural heritage by starting your day at the Dakshineswar Kali Temple. This magnificent temple complex is dedicated to Goddess Kali and attracts devotees from all over the country. In the afternoon, visit the Indian Museum, the oldest museum in India, housing an extensive collection of art and artifacts. In the evening, take a walk through College Street, known as the "Boi Para" (Book Town) of Kolkata, and explore the numerous bookstores and street food stalls.
Dakshineswar Kali Temple: Free entry, Time spent - 2 hours
Indian Museum: Entrance fee - INR 20, Time spent - 2 hours
College Street: Shopping budget - INR 300, Time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
Indulge in a traditional Bengali breakfast at Flurys, a popular bakery and confectionery in Kolkata. Try their delicious croissants and pastries. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to 6 Ballygunge Place, a renowned restaurant known for its authentic Bengali cuisine. Enjoy dishes like Shorshe Ilish and Chingri Malai Curry. Average cost for a meal is about 700 INR per person.
Experience the vibrant flavors of Kolkata at Arsalan, a famous restaurant serving Mughlai and Awadhi cuisine. Don't miss their succulent biryanis and kebabs. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Tuesday, October 3: Day Trip to Sundarbans National Park
Embark on a thrilling day trip to Sundarbans National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Royal Bengal Tigers. Explore the mangrove forests and spot unique wildlife during a boat safari. Learn about the park's conservation efforts at the Sundarbans Interpretation Centre. End the day with a mesmerizing sunset view over the river. Please note that advance booking is required for the day trip.
Sundarbans National Park Day Trip: Cost - INR 2,000 (approx.), Time spent - 10 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Bikers Cafe. This trendy eatery offers a variety of options including pancakes, omelettes, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
For lunch, head to Arsalan. Known for its mouthwatering biryani and kebabs, this restaurant serves up authentic Kolkata cuisine. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
Indulge in a fine dining experience at Oh! Calcutta for dinner. Specializing in Bengali cuisine, this restaurant offers a range of traditional dishes like fish curry and puchka. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.
Wednesday, October 4: Fly to Srinagar, Kashmir
Take a morning flight from Kolkata to Srinagar, the gateway to the enchanting region of Kashmir. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the beauty of Dal Lake. Take a shikara boat ride and visit the floating gardens and markets. In the afternoon, explore the picturesque Mughal Gardens, including Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh. End the day with a visit to Hazratbal Shrine, a revered Muslim shrine situated on the banks of Dal Lake.
Dal Lake Shikara Ride: Cost - INR 500, Time spent - 2 hours
For breakfast, check out Cafe Coffee Day located near Dal Lake. They offer a variety of hot and cold beverages and a selection of breakfast items. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Enjoy a tasty lunch at Mughal Darbar Restaurant, situated in the heart of Srinagar. They serve delicious authentic Kashmiri cuisine, including flavorful biryanis and kebabs. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For dinner, head to Shamyana Restaurant which offers a cozy ambiance and delectable Indian and Chinese dishes. Don't miss their mouthwatering tandoori preparations. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Thursday, October 5: Explore Gulmarg and Khilanmarg
Embark on a day trip to Gulmarg, a popular hill station known for its stunning landscapes and adventure activities. Start your day with a Gondola ride, the highest cable car in the world, to reach the picturesque meadows of Khilanmarg. Enjoy panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks and indulge in activities like horse riding and skiing. Take a leisurely stroll through the town in the evening, exploring local handicraft shops.
Local Shopping: Shopping budget - INR 500, Time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Gulmarg is Café de Park. Enjoy a variety of fresh pastries and hot beverages to start your day. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹300 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Nedous Dining Room. This charming restaurant offers a range of Kashmiri and Indian delicacies. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹500 per person.
Indulge in a delicious dinner at The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa. This upscale restaurant offers a fusion of Indian, Continental, and Kashmiri cuisine, with breathtaking views of the mountains. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹1000 per person.
Friday, October 6: Visit Pahalgam and Betaab Valley
Embark on another scenic day trip, this time to Pahalgam and Betaab Valley. Explore the tranquil beauty of Pahalgam, known as the "Valley of Shepherds," and enjoy a leisurely walk along the Lidder River. Visit Betaab Valley, named after the Bollywood movie "Betaab," which was shot here. Marvel at the breathtaking landscapes and relax amidst nature. In the evening, savor traditional Kashmiri cuisine at a local restaurant.
Dinner at Local Restaurant: Cost - INR 800, Time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Srinagar Bakers, a popular bakery known for its freshly baked pastries and bread. Enjoy a hearty meal for about Rs. 100 per person.
For lunch, head to Ahdoos Restaurant, a famous eatery serving authentic Kashmiri cuisine. Indulge in their signature Rogan Josh and enjoy a satisfying lunch for around Rs. 500 per person.
In the evening, dine at Shamyana Restaurant, known for its cozy ambiance and delectable Mughlai dishes. Treat yourself to a flavorsome dinner for approximately Rs. 800 per person.
Saturday, October 7: Explore Srinagar's Old City
Dedicate your last day in Kashmir to exploring Srinagar's Old City. Start with a visit to the historic Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India. Wander through the narrow lanes of the bustling bazaars, known for their traditional Kashmiri handicrafts and spices. Enjoy a serene shikara ride on Nigeen Lake, away from the tourist crowds. End your trip with a visit to the beautiful Shankaracharya Temple, perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the city.
Jama Masjid: Free entry, Time spent - 1 hour
Shopping in Old City: Shopping budget - INR 500, Time spent - 3 hours
Nigeen Lake Shikara Ride: Cost - INR 400, Time spent - 2 hours
Mama's Breakfast Bar: Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Mama's Breakfast Bar, located in the heart of Srinagar's Old City. Enjoy their delicious Kashmiri chai and traditional Kashmiri breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Cafe Kashmiri Delights: For a satisfying lunch, head to Cafe Kashmiri Delights. This cozy restaurant offers a variety of authentic Kashmiri dishes, including Rogan Josh and Yakhni Pulao. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Shahi Darbar: Indulge in a royal dinner experience at Shahi Darbar. Known for its Mughlai cuisine and exquisite ambiance, this restaurant offers delectable kebabs, biryanis, and rich curries. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off the beaten path attractions, visit the Marble Palace, an exquisite mansion adorned with marble sculptures, paintings, and a private zoo. Explore Kumartuli, the traditional potters' quarter, where intricate clay idols are crafted. Don't miss the street food stalls in Park Street, offering a variety of delectable snacks. Lastly, experience the vibrant nightlife at Kolkata's iconic Park Street, lined with restaurants, bars, and live music venues.
For local favorites, venture to College Street Coffee House, a historic institution where intellectuals and artists have gathered for decades. Visit the Indian Coffee House, known for its nostalgic ambiance and delicious coffee. Explore the vibrant Gariahat Market, offering a wide range of clothing, accessories, and handicrafts. Lastly, indulge in the famous Kolkata street food, including puchka (pani puri), kathi rolls, and telebhaja (fried snacks).