Exploring West Bengal: A Family-Friendly 4-Day Itinerary

Saturday, September 23: Kolkata

Start your trip in the bustling city of Kolkata. In the morning, visit the iconic Victoria Memorial, a stunning white marble structure surrounded by beautiful gardens. Explore the Indian Museum, the oldest and largest museum in India, housing an extensive collection of art and artifacts. In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat ride along the Hooghly River and enjoy the scenic views. As the evening sets in, head to Park Street, known for its vibrant nightlife, and indulge in some delicious Bengali cuisine.

• Victoria Memorial: Estimated cost - INR 30 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Indian Museum: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Hooghly River boat ride: Estimated cost - INR 200 per person, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Park Street: Cost varies depending on the restaurant, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Sunday, September 24: Darjeeling

Embark on a scenic journey to Darjeeling, a charming hill station known for its tea gardens. In the morning, visit the Tiger Hill viewpoint to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Kanchenjunga mountain range. Explore the Happy Valley Tea Estate and learn about the tea-making process. In the afternoon, take a ride on the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the "Toy Train." End the day with a visit to the Peace Pagoda, offering panoramic views of Darjeeling.

• Tiger Hill: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Happy Valley Tea Estate: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Peace Pagoda: Free entry, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Monday, September 25: Sundarbans

Explore the natural wonders of the Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest mangrove forest in the world. In the morning, embark on a thrilling boat safari to spot the Royal Bengal Tigers and other wildlife. Visit the Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary and the Crocodile Park to learn about the region's diverse fauna. Enjoy a delicious lunch on the boat. In the afternoon, take a village tour to experience the local way of life and engage in traditional activities.

• Sundarbans boat safari: Estimated cost - INR 2,000 per person, Estimated time spent - 6 hours
• Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Crocodile Park: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Village tour: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Tuesday, September 26: Shantiniketan

Immerse yourself in the cultural hub of Shantiniketan, founded by Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. In the morning, visit the Visva-Bharati University, known for its unique blend of traditional and modern education. Explore the Tagore Ashram and marvel at the collection of paintings, manuscripts, and personal belongings of Rabindranath Tagore. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk through the beautiful gardens of Ballavpur Wildlife Sanctuary. Don't miss the vibrant local handicrafts at the Amar Kutir complex.

• Visva-Bharati University: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Tagore Ashram: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Ballavpur Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Amar Kutir: Cost varies depending on the purchase, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring West Bengal, don't miss a visit to the charming town of Kalimpong. Known for its stunning views of the Himalayas, Kalimpong offers tranquility amidst nature. Visit the Deolo Hill viewpoint for panoramic vistas, explore the flower nurseries, and indulge in some local delicacies at the bustling market. Another hidden gem is the quaint village of Bishnupur, known for its terracotta temples and unique handicrafts. Explore the exquisite architecture, witness the terracotta art form, and shop for beautiful artifacts as souvenirs.

For hotel and flight bookings, check prices on Kayak.