Annual Leave Explorers

Whilst most people head to the west side of India, those more adventurous have a lot to gain from heading East.

From exploring the vibrant city of Kolkata to indulging in its culinary delights, and then venturing to the scenic hills of Darjeeling for hiking—it’s a perfect blend of culture, food, and nature. The below is suggested for a 10 day itinerary, but i did a week in Kolkata and definitely recommend.

Day 1-3: Kolkata

Day 1: Arrival in Kolkata

• Arrive in Kolkata and settle into your accommodation. Spend the evening exploring the bustling streets and sampling street food delicacies like kathi rolls, puchkas (pani puri), and mishti (Bengali sweets).

Day 2: Sightseeing in Kolkata

• Visit iconic landmarks such as Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, and the Indian Museum. Explore the historic neighborhood of Kumartuli, known for its traditional clay idol makers. In the evening, savor a traditional Bengali dinner at a local restaurant.
• Spend an early morning sunrise in the wetland areas of Kolkata, we did a biking tour we found on Airbnb experiences, it was beautiful and right in the centre of the city

Day 3: Cultural Immersion

• Dive deeper into Kolkata’s culture with a visit to Mother House, the headquarters of Missionaries of Charity founded by Mother Teresa. Explore the vibrant markets of New Market and College Street, known for books and academic materials. Experience an evening of Bengali music and dance at a cultural performance.
• I went to Kolkata races for the day, and would recommend for a different cultural experience.

Day 4-5: Sundarbans Boat Trip

Day 4: Travel to Sundarbans

• Depart Kolkata for the Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest mangrove forest in the world. Embark on a boat trip through the mangrove creeks, keeping an eye out for wildlife such as Bengal tigers, crocodiles, and exotic bird species.

Day 5: Sundarbans Exploration

• Spend the day exploring the Sundarbans, visiting watchtowers for wildlife sightings and learning about the unique ecosystem. Enjoy fresh seafood meals prepared by your boat crew. Experience the tranquility of the mangrove forests and tidal rivers.

Day 6-7: Darjeeling

Day 6: Train Journey to Darjeeling

• Take the famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train) from Kolkata to Darjeeling. Enjoy the scenic journey through tea gardens and picturesque hill stations.

Day 7, 8 & 9: Hiking in Darjeeling

• Explore Darjeeling’s stunning landscapes with a day of hiking. Visit Tiger Hill for a spectacular sunrise view over the Himalayas. Hike to nearby viewpoints like Batasia Loop and Peace Pagoda. Visit a tea estate to learn about tea cultivation and enjoy a cup of Darjeeling tea.

Day 10: Return to Kolkata

• Take the train back to Kolkata and prepare for your departure.

Tips for Your Trip:

• Food in Kolkata: Don’t miss trying traditional Bengali dishes like fish curry, rice, and sweets such as rasgulla and sandesh.
• Travel to Darjeeling: Consider booking the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway in advance for a memorable train journey.
• Sundarbans Boat Trip: Pack light, comfortable clothing suitable for warm and humid weather. Bring mosquito repellent and binoculars for wildlife spotting.
• Hiking in Darjeeling: Wear sturdy shoes and dress in layers for changing weather conditions in the mountains.

This itinerary offers a wonderful blend of city exploration, nature discovery, and cultural experiences in Kolkata, Sundarbans, and Darjeeling. Enjoy your adventure in West Bengal!