7 day itinerary for Kolkata

Itinerary

Sure, I'd be happy to help you plan your 7-day itinerary in Kolkata! Here's a suggested itinerary for you:

Day 1: Arrival and Local Exploration

• Arrive in Kolkata and check into your hotel
• Take a stroll around the city's iconic Victoria Memorial and explore the lush gardens surrounding it
• Visit the Indian Museum, one of the oldest and largest museums in India, to learn about the country's rich history and culture
• End the day with a visit to the lively Park Street, known for its restaurants, cafes, and nightlife

Day 2: Heritage Walk and Food Tour

• Start the day with a heritage walk through the city's colonial-era buildings and landmarks, including St. Paul's Cathedral, the Writer's Building, and the High Court
• Stop for a traditional Bengali breakfast at a local eatery
• Take a food tour of the city's famous street food stalls and try local delicacies like puchka, jhal muri, and kathi rolls
• End the day with a sunset boat ride on the Hooghly River, where you can see the iconic Howrah Bridge and the city skyline

Day 3: Temples and Markets

• Visit the Kalighat Temple, one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites in India
• Explore the colorful and bustling New Market, where you can shop for souvenirs, spices, and textiles
• Visit the Dakshineswar Kali Temple, a beautiful temple complex on the banks of the Hooghly River
• End the day with a visit to the Kumartuli Pottery Village, where you can see artisans making clay idols for festivals and ceremonies

Day 4: Art and Culture

• Visit the Tagore House, the ancestral home of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, which has been converted into a museum and cultural center
• Explore the Academy of Fine Arts, which showcases the works of local artists and hosts cultural events and performances
• Visit the Marble Palace, a stunning 19th-century mansion filled with art and antiques
• End the day with a visit to the Nandan cinema complex, which screens independent and art-house films

Day 5: Nature and Wildlife

• Visit the Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest mangrove forest in the world
• Take a boat ride through the mangroves and spot wildlife like Bengal tigers, saltwater crocodiles, and spotted deer
• Visit the Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary, which has a birdwatching tower and a crocodile park
• End the day with a seafood dinner at a local restaurant

Day 6: Science and Technology

• Visit the Birla Industrial and Technological Museum, which showcases the history and development of science and technology in India
• Explore the Science City, a science museum and amusement park with interactive exhibits and activities
• Visit the Nehru Children's Museum, which has exhibits on science, history, and culture designed for children
• End the day with a visit to the Eco Park, a sprawling urban park with gardens, lakes, and a butterfly sanctuary

Day 7: Departure

• Check out of your hotel and head to the airport or train station for your departure
• If you have time, visit the Mother House, the headquarters of the Missionaries of Charity founded by Mother Teresa, to pay your respects and learn about her life and work in Kolkata

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Kolkata and gives you a taste of the city's rich history, culture, and cuisine!