Thursday, December 28: Discover Kolkata's Heritage
In the morning, start your trip by visiting the iconic Victoria Memorial, an architectural masterpiece and museum showcasing Kolkata's colonial history. Afterward, head to the Indian Museum, one of the oldest and largest museums in India, housing an extensive collection of art and artifacts. In the afternoon, take a peaceful boat ride along the Hooghly River to explore the serene Belur Math, a significant spiritual center. In the evening, embrace the lively atmosphere and sample delicious street food at Park Street, a popular dining and entertainment hub.
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
Belur Math: Estimated Cost - INR 10 per person (boat ride), Estimated Time Spent - 3 hours
Park Street: Cost varies based on dining choices, Estimated Time Spent - Evening
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot near Victoria Memorial is Flurys, known for its wide range of baked goods and continental breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Kewpie's Kitchen, a charming restaurant serving traditional Bengali cuisine in a homely atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
For dinner, Zam Zam Restaurant on Park Street offers a variety of Indian and Mughlai dishes with great flavors and a cozy ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about 1000 INR per person.
Friday, December 29: Explore Cultural Delights
Start the day by visiting the iconic Dakshineswar Kali Temple, known for its religious significance and stunning architecture. Afterward, head to the Marble Palace, a magnificent mansion showcasing a vast collection of art and artifacts. In the afternoon, take a delightful tram ride through the city, experiencing the charm of Kolkata's streets. As the evening approaches, visit Jorasanko Thakur Bari, the ancestral home of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, to admire its rich heritage.
Dakshineswar Kali Temple: Free entry, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
Tram Ride: Estimated Cost - INR 6 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
Jorasanko Thakur Bari: Estimated Cost - INR 10 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
Cafe Ekante: Enjoy a delicious and hearty breakfast at Cafe Ekante, known for their extensive menu offering a wide variety of breakfast options including sandwiches, pastries, and hot beverages. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Kewpie's Kitchen: Indulge in a traditional Bengali thali lunch at Kewpie's Kitchen, a charming restaurant serving authentic Bengali cuisine. Their thali consists of a variety of flavorful vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Oh! Calcutta: Experience the flavors of Kolkata with dinner at Oh! Calcutta. This restaurant specializes in Bengali cuisine, offering an array of delectable seafood, meat, and vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Saturday, December 30: Family Fun and Eco-Tourism
Spend the morning at the Science City, an interactive science center offering educational exhibits and fun-filled activities for all ages. In the afternoon, visit the lush greenery of Eco Park, a sprawling urban park featuring a butterfly garden, musical fountains, and boat rides. Enjoy a picnic amidst nature or indulge in adventurous activities like ziplining and cycling. Wrap up the day by taking a relaxing sunset cruise on the Hooghly River, enjoying the scenic beauty of the surroundings.
Science City: Estimated Cost - INR 60 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 3 hours
Eco Park: Estimated Cost - INR 30 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 4 hours
Sunset Cruise: Estimated Cost - INR 200 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 1.5 hours
Restaurants
Start your day at Flurys, a famous bakery and cafe known for its delicious breakfast options such as croissants, muffins, and omelettes. Average cost for a breakfast meal is about 300 INR per person.
For lunch, head to 6 Ballygunge Place, a traditional Bengali restaurant offering authentic flavors and a wide variety of dishes. Average cost for a lunch meal is about 800 INR per person.
In the evening, enjoy dinner at Peter Cat, a legendary restaurant known for its iconic Chelo Kebabs and other Continental dishes. Average cost for a dinner meal is about 1000 INR per person.
Sunday, December 31: Historic Landmarks and Festive Vibes
Begin the day by visiting the magnificent Howrah Bridge, an iconic Kolkata landmark. Take a walk along the bustling streets of North Kolkata and explore the vibrant flower market, known as Malik Ghat. In the afternoon, witness the grandeur of South Park Street Cemetery, an atmospheric colonial-era burial ground. As the evening sets in, immerse yourself in the festive celebrations of New Year's Eve at Park Street, where the city comes alive with music, food, and entertainment.
Howrah Bridge: Free entry, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
Malik Ghat Flower Market: Free entry, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
South Park Street Cemetery: Free entry, Estimated Time Spent - 1.5 hours
Park Street New Year's Eve Celebration: Cost varies based on dining choices, Estimated Time Spent - Evening
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Flurys, a renowned tea room and bakery in Kolkata. Indulge in their famous fluffy pancakes and aromatic Darjeeling tea. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Peter Cat, a legendary restaurant known for its iconic dish, Chelo Kebab. Enjoy succulent kebabs served with buttery rice and a secret sauce. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at Oh! Calcutta, a specialty restaurant showcasing the rich culinary heritage of Kolkata. Savour authentic Bengali dishes like Hilsa fish curry and Kolkata-style biryani. Average cost for a meal is about 1200 INR per person.
Monday, January 1: Serenity and Creativity
Start the year by seeking tranquility at the serene Belvedere House and Gardens, offering a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle. In the afternoon, explore the Indian Museum of Modern Art, showcasing contemporary artworks by Indian artists. Visit Kumartuli, the traditional clay art hub, to witness artisans sculpting idols. Conclude the day by taking a leisurely boat ride on the Ganges River, capturing scenic views of the city's riverside ghats.
Belvedere House and Gardens: Free entry, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
Indian Museum of Modern Art: Estimated Cost - INR 50 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
Kumartuli: Free entry, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
Boat Ride on the Ganges: Estimated Cost - INR 300 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 1.5 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique family-friendly experience, consider visiting Nalban Boating Complex, an artificial lake offering boating and water sport activities. The Nehru Children's Museum is another great attraction, featuring interactive exhibits and educational programs for children. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along Princep Ghat in the evening and savor the street food delicacies available nearby. Additionally, explore the city's thriving street art scene, with vibrant murals adorning the walls of several neighborhoods like Sovabazar and Exide Crossing.