Itinerary

West Bengal is a treasure trove of culture, history, and natural beauty. With your family of four, I’ve crafted a delightful 5-day itinerary that balances exploration, relaxation, and fun, all while keeping your budget in mind. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Kolkata to Santiniketan

Morning:

• Travel: Start your journey early from Kolkata to Santiniketan (approx. 165 km, 3-4 hours by car or train).
• Check-in: Book two rooms at a budget-friendly hotel or guesthouse in Santiniketan (around ₹1,500-₹2,000 per room).

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Enjoy a local Bengali meal at a nearby restaurant (around ₹200-₹300 per person).
• Explore Visva-Bharati University: Visit the university founded by Rabindranath Tagore. Don’t miss the beautiful art galleries and the serene surroundings.

Evening:

• Tagore’s Ashram: Take a stroll around the ashram and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.
• Dinner: Try some local cuisine at a nearby eatery (around ₹200-₹300 per person).

## Day 2: Santiniketan to Murshidabad

Morning:

• Travel: After breakfast, head to Murshidabad (approx. 200 km, 4-5 hours).
• Check-in: Find a budget hotel in Murshidabad (around ₹1,500-₹2,000 per room).

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant (around ₹200-₹300 per person).
• Visit Hazarduari Palace: Explore this magnificent palace with its stunning architecture and rich history.

Evening:

• Nizamat Imambara: Visit this beautiful mosque and learn about its historical significance.
• Dinner: Savor some Mughlai cuisine at a local restaurant (around ₹200-₹300 per person).

## Day 3: Murshidabad to Sunderbans

Morning:

• Travel: Depart for the Sunderbans (approx. 150 km, 4-5 hours).
• Check-in: Book two rooms at a budget-friendly eco-resort or homestay (around ₹2,000-₹2,500 per room).

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Enjoy a meal at the resort (around ₹200-₹300 per person).
• Sundarbans National Park: Take a guided boat tour to explore the mangroves and spot wildlife, including the famous Royal Bengal Tiger (entry fees and boat charges may vary).

Evening:

• Relax at the Resort: Enjoy the natural surroundings and unwind.
• Dinner: Have a cozy dinner at the resort (around ₹200-₹300 per person).

## Day 4: Sunderbans to Digha

Morning:

• Travel: After breakfast, head to Digha (approx. 150 km, 4-5 hours).
• Check-in: Find a budget hotel or guesthouse in Digha (around ₹1,500-₹2,000 per room).

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Enjoy some seafood at a local restaurant (around ₹200-₹300 per person).
• Beach Time: Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach, building sandcastles, or taking a dip in the sea.

Evening:

• Sunset at the Beach: Don’t miss the beautiful sunset views.
• Dinner: Try some local delicacies at a beachside shack (around ₹200-₹300 per person).

## Day 5: Digha to Kolkata

Morning:

• Beach Walk: Start your day with a morning walk on the beach.
• Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel (included in your stay).

Afternoon:

• Travel Back: After checking out, head back to Kolkata (approx. 180 km, 4-5 hours).
• Lunch: Stop for lunch on the way (around ₹200-₹300 per person).

Evening:

• Explore Kolkata: If time permits, visit a local market or a cultural site like Victoria Memorial or Howrah Bridge.
• Dinner: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant in Kolkata (around ₹300-₹400 per person).

Budget Breakdown:

• Accommodation: ₹1,500-₹2,500 per room x 5 nights = ₹15,000-₹25,000 (for 2 rooms)
• Food: ₹200-₹300 per person x 3 meals x 5 days = ₹12,000-₹18,000
• Travel: Approx. ₹10,000 for fuel/tolls or train tickets.
• Activities: Approx. ₹5,000 for entry fees and boat rides.

Total Estimated Cost:

• Per Head: ₹10,000-₹12,000 (slightly above budget, but you can adjust by choosing more economical dining options or accommodations).

This itinerary offers a mix of culture, history, and relaxation, perfect for a family getaway. Enjoy your trip to West Bengal! If you have any more questions or need adjustments, feel free to ask! 🌏✨