City of Joy Delights: Family-friendly Day Trip to Kolkata

Discover the vibrant treasures of Kolkata, where family fun and cultural wonders unite!

19 July 2023

Kolkata, the cultural capital of India, offers a plethora of attractions suitable for a family-friendly trip. Explore the breathtaking Victoria Memorial, a magnificent museum that showcases the city's rich history. Take a peaceful boat ride on the Hooghly River and indulge in delicious street food at Park Street, making your family trip an unforgettable experience.

Day trip plan

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Day

Welcome to the City of Joy

  • Begin your day with a hearty Bengali breakfast of kochuri and alur torkari at a local tea stall. Smell the aromatic spices!
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the iconic Howrah Bridge, marveling at the river of people and vibrant street markets on both sides.
  • Explore the Indian Museum, a treasure trove of artifacts and fossils. Beware of the resident ghost, a cheeky spirit who loves to play tricks on visitors!
  • Get lost in the labyrinthine lanes of Kumartuli, where skilled artisans mold clay into stunning idols for festivals. Offer your artistic expertise if you dare!
  • Treat your taste buds to an authentic Bengali lunch at a traditional eatery like Arsalan. Savor the flavors of macher jhol and shorshe ilish, and end with a sweet, syrupy rosogolla.
  • End your day with a sunset cruise along the Hooghly River. Marvel at the illuminated Howrah Bridge and dance to melodious Rabindra Sangeet as the city bids you farewell.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Kolkata, India by plane is to fly directly to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport which is located in the city. Many major airlines operate flights to Kolkata from different cities around the world.

Car

To get to Kolkata by car, you can take the National Highway 12 which runs from Chennai to Kolkata. The journey takes around 30 hours and it is recommended to stop at several rest points along the way.

Train

Kolkata is well-connected to other major cities in India by train. The best way to get to Kolkata by train is to take the Howrah Duronto Express which runs between Mumbai and Kolkata. The train journey takes around 26 hours.

Boat

Kolkata is connected to various ports along the Ganges and Hooghly rivers. A cruise from cities like Patna, Varanasi or Allahabad is a good way to explore the Ganges and reach Kolkata. However, boat transportation may not be the most practical and comfortable way to get to Kolkata.

Bus

Getting to Kolkata by bus is not recommended as it is a long and tiring journey. However, if you still prefer to travel by bus, the best way to get there is to take a bus from Esplanade Bus Station which connects Kolkata to other cities in West Bengal and neighboring states.

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