A Magnificent Week in Kolkata

Saturday, December 23, 2023:

Arrive in Kolkata and check into your hotel to freshen up after your journey. In the morning, head to the stunning Victoria Memorial, an iconic landmark reminiscent of the British Raj era. Marvel at the beautiful architecture and explore its galleries that showcase Kolkata's history. For lunch, savor delicious Bengali cuisine at Oh! Calcutta, known for its authentic flavors. Spend the afternoon exploring Maidan, the city's largest urban park, where you can enjoy a relaxing walk or indulge in a game of cricket. In the evening, experience the charm of Park Street with its vibrant nightlife and visit Mocambo, a popular restaurant known for its continental cuisine and retro ambiance.

• Victoria Memorial: Estimated Cost - INR 30, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Oh! Calcutta: Estimated Cost - INR 800, Estimated Time Spent - 1.5 hours
• Maidan: Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Park Street: Free, Estimated Time Spent - Evening
• Mocambo: Estimated Cost - INR 1,500, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours

Sunday, December 24, 2023:

Start your day with a visit to the colorful flower market at Mullick Ghat. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and witness the bustling trade of fresh flowers. Afterward, visit the historic Indian Museum, one of the oldest museums in Asia, which houses an impressive collection of art, archaeology, and ethnography exhibits. Enjoy a traditional Bengali lunch at Bhojohori Manna, known for its regional delicacies. In the afternoon, take a serene boat ride on the Hooghly River and admire the iconic Howrah Bridge. In the evening, venture to Kumartuli, a neighborhood famous for its clay idol workshops, and witness artisans creating beautiful idols for festivals.

• Mullick Ghat Flower Market: Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Indian Museum: Estimated Cost - INR 50, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Bhojohori Manna: Estimated Cost - INR 600, Estimated Time Spent - 1.5 hours
• Hooghly River Boat Ride: Estimated Cost - INR 200, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Kumartuli: Free, Estimated Time Spent - Evening

Monday, December 25, 2023:

Embark on a heritage tour of Kolkata in the morning. Start at the Marble Palace, an exquisite mansion showcasing a blend of European and Indian architectural styles. Visit the Indian Coffee House, a historic institution, for a quick snack and to soak in its literary ambiance. Next, explore College Street, renowned for its numerous bookstores, including the iconic Presidency University Boi-Chitra. Enjoy a sumptuous lunch of Kathi Rolls at Kusum Rolls, a local favorite. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Howrah Station, one of the busiest railway stations in India, and admire its architectural grandeur. End the day with a sunset visit to Princep Ghat, a beautiful riverside promenade.

• Marble Palace: Estimated Cost - INR 50, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Indian Coffee House: Estimated Cost - INR 200, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• College Street: Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Kusum Rolls: Estimated Cost - INR 200, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Howrah Station: Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Princep Ghat: Free, Estimated Time Spent - Evening

Tuesday, December 26, 2023:

Indulge in the spiritual side of Kolkata by visiting the famous Dakshineswar Kali Temple in the morning. Witness the devotees' fervor and explore the temple complex. Afterward, take a pleasant boat ride across the Hooghly River to Belur Math, the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission. Immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere and visit the stunning temples. Enjoy a traditional Bengali lunch at Parama Hamsa, a vegetarian restaurant known for its delectable fare. In the afternoon, explore the quaint neighborhood of Kumartuli Park, known for its artistic installations and tranquil surroundings. End the day at Eco Park, a vast urban park with beautiful landscapes and recreational activities.

• Dakshineswar Kali Temple: Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Boat Ride to Belur Math: Estimated Cost - INR 100, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Belur Math: Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Parama Hamsa: Estimated Cost - INR 500, Estimated Time Spent - 1.5 hours
• Kumartuli Park: Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Eco Park: Estimated Cost - INR 30, Estimated Time Spent - Evening

Wednesday, December 27, 2023:

Spend your last day in Kolkata by exploring the cultural gems of the city. Start with a visit to the Indian Botanical Garden in the morning, known for its vast collection of plants and the iconic Great Banyan Tree. Enjoy an early lunch at 6 Ballygunge Place, a restaurant specializing in traditional Bengali cuisine. In the afternoon, explore the Kalighat area and visit Kalighat Kali Temple, one of the holiest Hindu shrines in Kolkata. Indulge in some souvenir shopping at New Market, a bustling marketplace known for its diverse offerings. End your day with a sunset stroll along the iconic Howrah Bridge, admiring the breathtaking views of the city skyline.

• Indian Botanical Garden: Estimated Cost - INR 20, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• 6 Ballygunge Place: Estimated Cost - INR 800, Estimated Time Spent - 1.5 hours
• Kalighat Kali Temple: Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• New Market: Estimated Cost - Varies, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Howrah Bridge: Free, Estimated Time Spent - Evening

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Make sure to visit Kumartuli during your stay in Kolkata. This neighborhood is best known for its charming lanes filled with skilled artisans creating beautiful clay idols for various festivals. Witnessing the craftsmanship and creativity behind these idols is a unique and delightful experience. Additionally, don't miss out on exploring the vibrant street food scene in Kolkata. Head to Shyambazar for mouthwatering Pani Puri, visit Tiretti Bazaar for delectable Chinese breakfast dishes, and explore Gariahat Market for a taste of Kolkata's famous Kathi Rolls. These hidden gems offer a glimpse into the local culture and culinary delights of the city.