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Places To Visit In Kolkata

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Victoria Memorial

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Howrah Bridge

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1. Victoria Memorial

4 km from city center 1 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

The Victoria Memorial is a large marble building, which is considered to be the pride of Kolkata. Built between 1906 and 1921, it is dedicated to the memory of Queen Victoria. Now, it is a museum and a popular tourist spot under the Ministry of Culture.

2. Fort William Kolkata

3 km from city center 2 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Fort William is a fort built in Kolkata on the eastern banks of the River Hooghly, the major distributary of Ganges. The magnificent structure is spread over 70.9 acres and is embellished with hundreds of arched windows that overlook lush green gardens. Meticulous stonework adorns the surface of the building.

3. Belur Math

7 km from city center 3 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Belur Mutt is the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission, founded by Swami Vivekananda. Situated on the west bank of Hooghly River, the temple is prominent for its architecture that embraces Hindu, Christian and Islamic styles and stands as an icon of unity of all religions.

4. Howrah Bridge

2 km from city center 4 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Located over the Hooghly river in West Bengal, Howrah Bridge or the Rabindra Setu is the main connection between Howrah and Kolkata. It is a cantilever bridge and is regarded as one of the busiest ones among them.

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5. Birla Planetarium

3 km from city center 5 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

The Birla Planetarium in Kolkata, is the largest planetarium in Asia and the second largest planetarium in the world. It is a single-storeyed circular structure designed in the typical Indian style whose architecture is designed on the Buddhist Stupa at Sanchi. 

6. Indian Museum

2 km from city center 6 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

The Indian Museum is one of the oldest museums of the world boasting some of the most exquisite collections of ornaments, fossils, skeletons, antiques, armors, mummies and stunning Mughal paintings.

7. Marble Palace Mansion

2 km from city center 7 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

The Marble palace near the Chorbagan in North Kolkata built in 1835 by Rajendra Mallick is famed for its art collection of masterpieces by Reuben and paintings by various renowned international artists such as Reynolds, Van Gogh and Rembrandt.

8. Mother House

3 km from city center 8 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

This is the place where the Tomb of Mother Teresa is present. It is maintained by her missionaries and followers who have continued to promote her legacy.

9. Science City Kolkata

5 km from city center 9 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

One of its kind in India, the Science city was inaugurated on 1st July 1997. It is a major attraction for the residents of Kolkata as well as for the people visiting Kolkata. It is one of the finest and the largest science museums in the world and provides a fun way of learning science.

10. St. Paul's Cathedral Kolkata

4 km from city center 10 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Said to be the first cathedral built in the overseas territory of the British Empire, St. Paul's Cathedral is a Anglican cathedral located in Kolkata. Also said to be the seat of the Diocese of Calcutta, it is a very fine example of Indo-Gothic style of architecture.

127 km from city center 11 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Tucked between Mandarmani and Shankarpur, Tajpur is a small town set on the Bay of Bengal's tranquil shore, just 170 kms from Kolkata. Considered to be a serene secret of West Bengal, the virgin beach is hidden away from view and is still untouched by commercialization and tourism. The highlight of the pristine beach are the hundreds of red crabs that are found on the shores, which also give a perfect crimson colour to the beach.

12. Birla Mandir Kolkata

4 km from city center 12 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

The glowing structure that adorns the streets of Kolkata is the popular Hindu Temple, Birla Temple. Dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha, the temple is perfect specimen of craftsmanship.

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13. Eden Gardens

3 km from city center 13 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Popular as the largest cricket stadium in the India and the second largest in the world, the Eden Gardens can seat 66,000 spectators. It is set amidst an adjoining garden where Eden- related to the one-time Governor of Aukland and her sister would stroll during the evenings. 

14. Jorasanko Thakur Bari

1 km from city center 14 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Currently located on the Rabindra Bharati University campus in Jorasank, Jorasanko Thakur Bari is the house in which the first non-European Nobel laureate and poet, Rabindranath Tagore was born.

15. Birla Industrial & Technological Museum

4 km from city center 15 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Being the first scientific and industrial museum in India, Birla Industrial and Technological Museum (BITM) is one of the prime attractions of Kolkata. It is famous for its galleries and 3D shows.

16. Rabindra Sarovar

7 km from city center 16 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

The erstwhile Dhakuri lake is an artificial tank spread over 75 acres and is home to various migratory birds from Siberia and Russia. The lake is surrounded by gardens, children's park an auditorium, making it a popular recreational spot perfect for idyllic picnics making it one of the unique places to visit in Kolkata.

17. Kalighat Temple

6 km from city center 17 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Kalighat Temple, one of the 51 Shakti Sthals of India, is one of the most visited Kali temples in India. The spot is where the toes of Sati's right foot fell during Shiva's Rudra Taandav naach.

18. Shobhabajar Rajbari

3 km from city center 18 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

The Shobhabazar Rajbari is one of the grandest Bengali style houses ever built. It was build by the Royal family of Shobhabazar in Kolkata, and the grandeur is only palpable to the eye.

19. Botanical Gardens in Kolkata

45 km from city center 19 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

The Botanical Gardens of Calcutta were founded by Robert Kyd in 1787. Protected by the Botanical Survey of India, it stretches over 109 hectares. A Banyan tree in the garden, of more than 330 m circumference, known as The Great Banyan, is the largest tree in the world. The Botanic Gardens of Kolkata were later renamed Acharya Jagadish Chandra Indian Botanic Garden.

20. Nakhoda Mosque

1 km from city center 20 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Placed in the Chitpur area in the Burrabazar business district, Nakhoda mosque is one of the busiest Mosques of Kolkata and dates back almost a century. The prayer hall has a seating capacity of 10000, and the domes and minarets have been constructed in keeping with the Fatehpur Sikri style of architecture.

21. Alipore Zoo

5 km from city center 21 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

The Alipore Zoo, also known as the Calcutta Zoo or the Zoological Garden of Alipore, is the oldest zoological park to have been established in India and is a major tourist attraction in Kolkata. It attracts tourists from all across the nation who visit the zoo to explore the wildlife that happily thrives here and to enjoy themselves.

22. Sabarna Sangrahashala

12 km from city center 22 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Designed, developed and maintained by Sabarrna Roy Choudhary Paribar Parishad to preserve and display the heritage of one of the well known families of Bengal- The Sabarna Roy Choudhary family.

23. Eco Tourism Park, Kolkata

11 km from city center 23 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Eco Tourism Park is an expansive urban park designed to promote eco tourism in the city. It is the biggest urban park in India and occupies over 475 acres of land. The beauty of the location increases ten folds because of a water body that surrounds the park and forms an island in the middle.

24. Calcutta Jain Temple

4 km from city center 24 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Pareshnath Jain Temple is a temple complex dedicated to four Jain Teerthankaras. The complex is a beautiful arrangement of these shrines and draws tourists from all over the world. The architecture of the temples consists of intricately carved marbles and glass work. It is indeed one of the few temples that have a charismatic vibe.

25. Nicco Park, Kolkata

6 km from city center 25 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Nicco Park is an amusement park frequently visited for entertainment and recreational purposes. It is also called the "Disney Land of West Bengal: and attracts visitors in large numbers throughout the year. The park functions efficiently on solar energy that causes no pollution.

26. Prinsep Ghat

4 km from city center 26 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Prinsep Ghat, located on the banks of River Hooghly, is a majestic structure famous for its Greek/ Gothic inlays. IWith the magnificent Howrah Bridge in the background, watching the sunrise or sunset and taking a long walk in the cool air on the banks of the river are some of the preferred recreational activities here.

27. Aquatica

10 km from city center 27 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Aquatica is a water theme park and resort in Kolkata having many exciting themed rides, slides, entertainment and recreational activities for all their guests. The water park occupies over 75000 square feet of area and provides for a pleasant respite from the scorching summer heat. They provide lockers for the visitors to keep their belongings securely.

28. Park Street

1 km from city center 28 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Park Street is a major access route in Kolkata, also officially known as Mother Teresa Sarani. The street begins at Chowringhee Road or JL Nehru road and stretches till Park Circus crossing. It is said that Park Street never sleeps and is always bustling with activities. It is one of the major hangouts in the city as it has a number of pubs and restaurants.

29. Chowringhee

3 km from city center 29 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Chowringhee, also officially known as Jawaharlal Nehru Road, is a happening hub and frequently visited by locals for recreational activities and shopping. It is one of the few localities in the city with top end boutiques, hotels, malls, shops and restaurants.

30. ISKCON Kolkata

3 km from city center 30 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

ISKCON Radha Krishna Temple is a highly spiritual place for the devotees focusing on spreading the teachings of Lord Krishna. It is not restricted to any one particular religion as such and welcomes enthusiasts or people interested in learning about these teachings with open arms. The temple is a serene complex that houses beautifully ornamented idols of Goddess Radha and Lord Krishna.

31. South Park Street Cemetery

3 km from city center 31 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

South Park Street Cemetery is an 18th-century non-church cemetery, one of the earliest in the world. It is one of the largest burial grounds and a heritage site in Kolkata and maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India. Most of the tombs in the South Park Street Cemetery are aesthetically beautiful and very attractive.

32. Sonajhuri Forest

143 km from city center 32 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Away from the mell pell of the city lies a hidden gem in the state of West Bengal. Considered to be one of the most clean forests in India, Sonajhuri Forest is a great retreat to be close to nature. The Sonajhuri Forest is replete with lush green trees that has blooming flowers. This place is picturesque with quite a number of mesmerizing places to see and explore.

33. St John's Church

2 km from city center 33 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

St John's Church is one of the oldest churches in Kolkata that was built during the reign of the British Kingdom when the city was the capital of British India. It is a splendidly well-maintained structure that draws history and architecture buffs for its uniqueness and ancient features.

34. Barrackpore

22 km from city center 34 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Barrackpore was the first place where Britishers set up their cantonment and later spread their rules in India. This place is of great historical significance as it was also the first place where the spark to attain I from Britishers was lit. Not to stop at that, this place is also home to some of the most mesmerizing and green parks which are perfect to spend some time lazing around? and relaxing.

35. Jhargram

141 km from city center 35 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Jhargram is small city located in the state of West Bengal with a rich historical and cultural background. Surrounded by dense forests this place is mystical. A perfect place to spend few days in the lap of nature surrounded by friendly tribal population, you are bound to be mesmerized not only by its picturesque beauty but by the gregarious people who inhabit this place.

36. Baabur Haat

8 km from city center 36 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Dominated by natural fishing lakes or bheris, responsible for producing some of the tastiest fish in West Bengal, Babur Haat is a nature paradise. Fishing is one of the more popular activities here. You can also go on a short picnic trip to the nearby local village grounds.

37. Kamarpukur

81 km from city center 37 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

A cluster of small villages, Kamarpukur is nestled between Vishnupur and Tarakeshwar. Birthplace of a pious and sagacious saint, Sri Ramkrishna Paramhansa, this village is perfect getaway from the pell-mell of the cities. In this village you will be able to enjoy the pleasures of simple rural life.

48 km from city center 38 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Situated on the bank of river Roopnarayan, Deulti provides for an ideal picnic spot. If you are a bird lover, keep an eye (read ear) for the chirps of different birds, while you take a walk on the clay paths of the villages. 

39. Hooghly Riverfront

60 km from city center 39 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

The very picturesque Hooghly Riverfront is situated along two banks of River Hooghly in West Bengal- Kolkata in the East and Howrah on the West. The mighty river offers mesmerising sunrise and sunset views. After the beautification of the East promenade in 2011, the spot has become a major tourist attraction.

3 km from city center 40 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Also known as the Brigade Parade Ground, Maidan is the largest urban park in Kolkata. The humongous stretch of land includes the famous Eden Gardens, several football stadiums and the Race Course Kolkata.

41. Central Park

5 km from city center 41 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Also known as Banabitan, Central Park is the second largest urban park after Maidan, situated in Bidhannagar, Kolkata. Built around an expansive lake, the park also has a rose garden. Another attraction is its beautiful butterfly garden.

42. Millenium Park

2 km from city center 42 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Spread over an area of 2.5 kms on the banks of River Hooghly in Kolkata, Millenium Park is a privately owned park situated on the Strand Road. The park has beautiful landscaped gardens and numerous slides and swings for kids.

43. Deshapriya Park

6 km from city center 43 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Deshapriya Park is situated in the Kalighat area of South Kolkata and is used for playing outdoor games like cricket, football etc., both by amateur and professional players. In addition to that, Durga Puja is celebrated on a large scale where several pandals are set up in the premises for the celebrations.

44. Safari Park

7 km from city center 44 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Situated near Gariahat Golpark, Safari Park is one of the relatively smaller parks in Kolkata. The park also has a lake on the outskirts that is ideal for early morning walks and evening strolls. A smaller area on the side is also used as a cricket coaching for young kids. The park is buzzing with activity at all times of the day.

45. Mohor Kunja

4 km from city center 45 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Also known as Citizen's Park, Mohor Kunja is an urban park in Kolkata situated in the premises of Maidan. The highlight of the park are the several musical fountain concerts held in it. It also has well-paved walkways for evening and morning walks and an amphitheater to hold cultural events.

46. Elliot Park

3 km from city center 46 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Inaugurated in 2004, Elliot Park is one of the relatively newer parks to have been developed in the city. The park has a joggers' stretch of 1.5 km besides the lush green vegetation, swings for children and water fountains.

47. Gitanjali Sports Complex

7 km from city center 47 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Located at Kasba in Kolkata, Gitanjali Sports Complex is the newly established stadium in the city. Running for a length of 57.5 metres, the stadium has a massive seating space for 4000 people. Besides, it has a separate area for indoor games and a gymnasium.

48. Kishore Bharati Krirangan

9 km from city center 48 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Kishore Bharati Kirangan is a multi purpose stadium situated in the south Kolkata neighbourhood of Santoshpur. With a seating capacity of 12000 people, the stadium is mostly used for football and sometimes other sports as well.

49. Salt Lake Stadium

5 km from city center 49 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Known as Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan, Salt Lake Stadium is an international multi-purpose stadium in Bidhannagar, Kolkata. The stadium takes pride in being the largest stadium of the country, it can accommodate upto 1,20,000 people.

50. Rabindra Sarobar Stadium

7 km from city center 50 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Rabindra Sarobar Stadium is situated in the centre of the city of Kolkata in Rabindra Sarovar. Believed to be the oldest stadiums of the city, the stadium has a seating capacity of 20,000 people and host some of the important football matches.

51. Mohunbagan Stadium

0 km from city center 51 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Mohunbagan Stadium is the oldest and the first stadium in the country. It is also the place of inception of the very famous Mohunbagan Club. The stadium is considered the best in Kolkata as its emerald green grass cover is imported from Brazil.

52. Netaji Indoor Stadium

2 km from city center 52 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Officially named as Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Indoor Stadium, Netaji Indoor Stadium is a multi-purpose indoors stadium in Babughat, Kolkata, opposite the Eden Gardens. The fully air-conditioned stadium is used to host various domestic and international events.

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• 1.1 Inner Kolkata
• 1.2 Suburban Kolkata
• 2.2 History
• 2.3 Economy
• 2.4 Culture
• 2.5 Orientation
• 2.7 Climate
• 2.8 Visitor information
• 3.1 By plane
• 3.2.1 Howrah railway station
• 3.2.2 Kolkata railway station
• 3.2.3 Sealdah railway station
• 3.2.4 Santragachi Junction railway station
• 3.2.5 Shalimar railway station
• 3.5 By boat
• 4.1 By taxi
• 4.2 By metro
• 4.3 By tram
• 4.4 By train
• 4.6 By rickshaw
• 4.7 By ferry
• 4.8 By rental car
• 4.9 By foot
• 14.1 Police
• 14.2 Emergency numbers
• 15 Stay healthy
• 16.1 Landlines
• 16.2 Phone booths
• 16.3 Mobile phones
• 16.4 Cybercafes
• 17.1 Consulates
• 17.2 Hospitals
• 17.3 Newspapers
• 18.1 West Bengal
• 18.2 Elsewhere

Kolkata ( Bengali : কলকাতা Kalkātā , Hindi : कोलकाता Kolkātā ), formerly Calcutta , is the capital and largest city of West Bengal and the cultural capital of India . Kolkata is an "in your face" city that shocks and charms the unsuspecting visitor. Long known as the cultural capital of India and home to the Bengali Renaissance, the "City of Joy" (the sobriquet became more famous after the publication of a novel of the same name) continues to spawn generations of poets, writers, film directors and Nobel Prize winners. If your trip only allows for a visit to one or two of India's metropolitan cities, then definitely consider placing Kolkata on your itinerary. Kolkata is arguably one of the most socially, culturally and politically progressive cities in India. Love it or hate it, you definitely won't forget the "City of Joy".

Districts [ edit ]

This article covers the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) area with adjacent suburbs. Distant suburbs, including Howrah , Barrackpore and Barasat , are covered separately.

Inner Kolkata [ edit ]

Suburban Kolkata [ edit ]

Understand [ edit ].

Kolkata ( KOHL-kah-tah ) is the main business, commercial and financial hub of eastern India. Spread along the eastern banks of the Hooghly River, Kolkata was once the administrative centre of the British Raj , governing a vast region that stretched from Pakistan to Burma (Myanmar) and the "second city of the British Empire after London ".

Name [ edit ]

The name is derived from Kalikata, the name of one of the three villages in the area before the arrival of the British. There has been much debate regarding the origin of the name. Some say the name derives from kālīkṣetra , meaning the "land of [the goddess] Kali". Another theory is that the place used to specialise in quicklime ( kalicun ) and coir rope ( kātā ).

The name was officially changed from Calcutta to Kolkata in 2001 by the then-left Government of West Bengal. However, the name "Calcutta" still survives in the names of certain institutions.

History [ edit ]

Kolkata's history is intimately related to the British East India Company, which arrived in 1690, and to British India, of which Calcutta became the capital in 1772. Job Charnock was widely known as the founder of Calcutta. There were 3 villages named Sutanuti, Gobindapur and Kalikata. Later the village Kalikata became the city of Kolkata. But some Indian historians have disputed this claim, arguing that Kolkata developed naturally over a period, centred on the ancient Kali temple at Kalighat and the port at Kidderpore.

Whatever its origins, Calcutta flowered as the capital of British India during the 19th century, the heyday of the Raj . The University of Calcutta, the first modern Indian university, was founded here in 1857. Calcutta became the centre of Indian arts and literature and the national movement for independence got its start here. However, with the transfer of the capital to Delhi in 1911 and the pains of the partition of Bengal in 1947, a violent repressive and feudal state machinery was operational for nearly the first two decades after independence. Calcutta became plagued by power outages, labour unrest, disappearing industry and violence from the ideologically-motivated Maoist movement (the Naxalbari movement) in the 1970s. In 1985, the then-Prime Minister of India Rajiv Gandhi referred to the city as a "dying city" because of the social and political traumas.

In 1977, a "Left Front" coalition of the Communist and Marxist parties came to power and ruled West Bengal for 34 years. This is reflected in street names and memorials in the city with names like Lenin Sarani and Ho Chi Minh Sarani. During this period, the various egalitarian approaches implemented at improving the living standards of the downtrodden have helped the city in bridging the wealth gap and decreasing impoverishment.

Economy [ edit ]

Once India's leading city, Kolkata experienced a steady economic decline in the decades following India's independence due to a steep population increase and a rise in militant trade unionism. From the 1960s to the late 1990s, several factories were closed and businesses relocated.

Despite this, the city's fortunes have looked up since the early 1990s, coinciding with the liberalisation of the Indian economy. Since 2000, information technology (IT) services revitalised the city's stagnant economy. With the formation of New Town and the extension of Bidhannagar's Sector-V, Kolkata is rapidly turning into a pro-IT city. It also has experienced growth in the manufacturing sector, with industrial estates at Bantala, Kasba, Taratala etc.

Kolkata is fast developing into a modern infotech city with various private sector companies setting up shops here. Its economy has been amongst the fastest-growing in India. The landscape of the city is also fast changing with flyovers, gardens and several new commercial establishments. The new metro city is characterised by popular spots such as multiplexes, theatres, clubs, pubs, coffee shops, and museums.

The old Central Business District (CBD) is where the seat of the Government of West Bengal is located, along with many other government offices. Several banks have their corporate or regional headquarters around the BBD Bagh area (named after the revolutionaries Benoy Basu, Badal Gupta and Dinesh Gupta who forced entry into the Writers' Building, the epicentre of the British Raj government in Bengal). Many of Kolkata's older business groups have their main offices here. The area is a mix of multi-storeyed office blocks and colonial buildings.

The newer CBD is around the south of Park Street, Camac Street and Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Road. Several high-rise office blocks including some of Kolkata's tallest commercial buildings are in this area. An even newer CBD is lying between Bidhannagar and Kolkata Airport, which is part of an effort to relieve congestion in the core city. Many government offices have shifted to high-rise office buildings lining Bidhannagar's Central Park.

Culture [ edit ]

Kolkata is known for its literary, artistic and revolutionary heritage and it was the birthplace of modern Indian literary and artistic thought. The city has a tradition of political graffiti depicting everything from outrageous slander to witty banter and limericks, caricatures and propaganda.

Kolkata has been called the "City of Palaces", because of the numerous palatial mansions built all over the city. During British rule, the city witnessed a spate of frenzied construction activity of buildings largely influenced by the conscious intermingling of Gothic, Baroque, Roman, Oriental and Islamic schools of design. The layout of much of the architectural variety in Kolkata owes its origins to European styles and tastes imported by the British and, to a much lesser extent, the Portuguese and French. However, many of these structures are in various stages of decay, as of 2022. Some of the major buildings of this period are well maintained and several buildings have been declared as heritage structures.

Kolkata is also famous for the film industry around Tollygunge, known as "Tollywood" (a blend of Tollygunge and Hollywood). From the beginning of the silent era in 1919 to the talking era in the 1930s and the golden days of the 1950s to the 1970s has been a chequered history. It has seen renowned filmmakers like Satyajit Ray, Ritwik Ghatak, Mrinal Sen and Tapan Sinha.

Orientation [ edit ]

Kolkata can be roughly divided into two sections along Park Street. North of Park Street is the more congested part of the city. South of Park Street is the slightly better-planned section of the city. South Kolkata is better planned with wider roads and a better-equipped police force for keeping law and order. The better planning in South Kolkata is because it was built much later. The North is the real, old Kolkata and most of the oldest families and buildings are there.

Over the past several years the city has expanded to the south and the east, with the Greater Kolkata region spanning over 1,880 km 2 (730 sq mi), from Kalyani to Jaynagar Majilpur . The region also includes the planned townships of Bidhannagar and New Town .

Kolkata consists of neighbourhoods (Bengali: পাড়া, para ) that possess a strong sense of community. They have their own community clubs and sometimes, playgrounds.

Between the river Hooghly and Chowringhee Road, the Maidan (open field) is said to be the lungs of Kolkata. The lush green meadow also houses Victoria Memorial, Eden Gardens, and several sporting clubs. Kolkatans love to stroll in the Maidan.

Heavy construction activity along the Eastern Metropolitan Bypass has been changing the face of the city. Luxury hotels, convention centres, speciality hospitals, condominium complexes, malls and multiplexes are coming up at a rapid pace. The city's expansion on the eastern side is spearheaded by the construction of a new satellite township called New Town adjacent to the well-planned Bidhannagar. It is one of the largest planned urban developments in India.

The residential buildings are mainly low-rise and comprise older colonial buildings and numerous new four-storied apartment blocks. 10- to 12-storey apartment blocks have come up in large numbers in South Kolkata. The city has relaxed its rules on high-rise construction and 20-storey buildings are becoming more common.

However, slums and dilapidated structures exist in many pockets of the city and house over 25% of the city's population (2001 census). Slum redevelopment schemes have helped improve living conditions to a small extent, but efforts to shift slum dwellers to newer developments have often met with resistance and failure because many of the slums are in prime areas of the city and the slum dwellers who are integrated into the social structure of the neighbourhood do not want to shift.

People [ edit ]

Kolkata is a multicultural and cosmopolitan city, with diversity from all over India as well including Europeans (including Germans, Armenians, and others) and other Asians (including Chinese, Sinhalese, and Tibetans). Kolkata is also notable for being home to India's largest Chinatown, which continues to be home to a handful ethnic Chinese residents whose families have lived in India for several generations.

Climate [ edit ]

Kolkata has three main seasons: summer, monsoon, and winter. Summer, from March–May, is hot and humid with temperatures touching 38-42°C. Monsoon starts in June and lasts till September or October. This is the time when heavy showers sometimes lead to waterlogging in a few areas. Winter is from November to February. This is the best season to visit the city, as the weather is very pleasant with temperatures ranging between 8 and 20°.

Visitor information [ edit ]

• 22.57045 88.35014 1 Tourism Centre , 3/2, BBD Bagh E ( near Great Eastern Hotel ), ☏ +91 33 22436440 , toll-free: 1800 2121 655 , [email protected] . The staff at the Tourism Centre is very helpful and the centre has a lot of information on West Bengal tourism. You can book a government lodge there before travelling to your favourite destination. ( updated Jul 2023 )

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

Although the airport is large and spacious, after immigration it lacks the facilities generally associated with busy international airports; there is no cafe, only one sit-down restaurant, very limited number of small shops, and no free Wi-Fi. Toilets are also sparse and far apart.

The airport has a well-established facility of prepaid taxis and air-conditioned buses connecting it to the city centre. Parking facilities at the airport terminal include two underground parking levels accommodating 3,000 cars, and outdoor car parking which can handle an additional 2,000 cars. DigiYatra facility is available at departure gates 2B and 3A, security hold area 1, 2 and 3 and boarding gates 18, 19, 20, 21, 22 and 23.

Transport options to central Kolkata:

• By bus: State-run air-conditioned buses are available to get into the city centre. Cheaper, and hassle-free, and since you can hail a taxi anywhere in the city centre to take you to your final destination, you do not need to worry. The buses are parked outside the arrival gate at the integrated terminal. Do not be dissuaded by the taxi touts, who would try and make you believe that the buses do not run anymore.
• By taxi: In case you are arriving at busy hours, it is better to get a prepaid taxi (₹150-250), which takes you directly to your destination. There is no practice of tipping taxi drivers anywhere in India. Moreover, app-based cab services (such as Ola and Uber) are also available from the airport.

By train [ edit ]

Kolkata is served by five major railway stations across the urban agglomeration, which connects the city to almost all the major stations in India. Most local trains serving Greater Kolkata run from Howrah and Sealdah stations. The trains run as far as Lalgola (near Murshidabad ) at the north, Hasnabad at the east, Namkhana at the south, Midnapore at the southwest and Bardhaman at the west.

Howrah railway station [ edit ]

• By bus: There's a huge bus terminus between Howrah station and the Howrah Bridge. Air-conditioned buses are available between Howrah Station and Kolkata Airport.
• By car: The station platforms have carriageways for cars within the complex. Salkia Flyover at the end of the platforms allows the cars to exit the complex quickly. After exiting the complex, take the Howrah Bridge and cross the Hooghly River.
• By taxi: There's a big taxi stand outside Howrah station, where iconic yellow Ambassador taxis are parked in long queues.
• By ferry: There are ferries (₹5) opposite the station that can get you to the opposite side of the river, from where you can arrange onward transport with anything from taxis to public buses to rickshaws.
• By metro: Howrah is served by the East–West Metro   2   since 2024. The metro station is inside the old complex, at platform no. 15. The metro service terminates at Esplanade, and you have to take other modes of transport to reach other parts of the city.

Kolkata railway station [ edit ]

• K1: Hatishala–Kolkata Station , via Newtown, Karunamoyee, City Center I, Ultadanga Station, Shyambazar and RG Kar Hospital
• KB22: Kolkata Station–Jamirgachi , via RG Kar Hospital, Shyambazar, Ultadanga Station, City Center I, Central Park, Karunamoyee and Newtown

Sealdah railway station [ edit ]

• By bus: Although there's a bus stop named Sealdah, the stop is about 500 m (1,600 ft) north of Sealdah station. The nearest bus stop to the station is at Sealdah Court.
• By metro: Sealdah is served by the East–West Metro   2   since 2022. The metro station can be accessed within the railway station or outside the railway station. One can take a metro from Sealdah to reach their destination in East Kolkata .
• By taxi: Although there's a taxi stand near the station, never hire a taxi from there as they ask for exorbitant fares for taxis. There are pre-paid taxis to enter the city. The pre-paid taxi stand is just outside the station's main entrance. The counter is under a tin shed.

Santragachi Junction railway station [ edit ]

Shalimar railway station [ edit ], by bus [ edit ].

Kolkata is well served by buses from destinations both inside and outside India. There are buses from Bangladesh , North-Eastern India , Bihar , Jharkhand , Odisha , Sikkim and Bhutan .

Intercity bus termini in Kolkata include:

• 22.56507 88.33976 7 Babughat Bus Terminus , ~8 Strand Rd . ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 22.56325 88.35039 8 Esplanade Bus Terminus ( Dharmatala Bus Stand ). It has bus terminals for buses from Bangladesh, Bhutan, Sikkim, Odisha, Jharkhand, Bihar and other parts of the country. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 22.5558 88.35407 9 Shyamoli Paribahan Bus Depot , 10, Marquis St , ☏ +91 33 2252 0802 . Provides buses to Bangladesh and a select few destinations in West Bengal. Shyamoli Paribahan handles the border transfer from one bus to another so well, that it seems a better option to many than the direct service.  

By car [ edit ]

National highway numbers 12, 16 and 19, and the Grand Trunk Road radiate from the city providing links to most parts of the country.

By boat [ edit ]

Ganga Vilas , India's luxurious river cruise, has a stop at Kolkata. Besides, there are various ferry options from Howrah , Serampore and Uttarpara .

Get around [ edit ]

Kolkata has an extensive public transport network, from the modern rapid transit system to the old heritage tram system.

By taxi [ edit ]

Kolkata just wouldn't look the same without the plethora of yellow Ambassador taxis that ply on its roads. They're easily available, relatively cheap, and will use their meters, at least in theory.

However, Kolkata taxis sometimes refuse to go to some distant remote locations (like Behala, Bansdroni, Howrah) where they wouldn't get any passengers while returning. If they agree, they will demand high pay; be ready for such a situation. New taxis have been introduced, which are called "No Refusal Taxis", but sadly, these taxis are also no different.

Some of the new taxis are air-conditioned; usually, these will also have a "Same Fare" sign on them. There is a 25% extra charge if you want the air-conditioner to be turned on in such taxis. In Kolkata, it is a crime for taxis to refuse a request to go to certain destinations, and they can be fined, but if you threaten the driver with a complaint to the police, they will simply ask you to complain.

Cars by app-based services such as Uber and Ola are easily available (round-the-clock), reasonably priced, comfortable and have been embraced by citizens.

By metro [ edit ]

The oldest rail rapid transit system in India, the Kolkata Metro is the fastest, cleanest, most reliable, least crowded (though still rather crowded) and most efficient of all the transportation Kolkata has to offer. As of 2023, three lines are operational and the other two are in construction.

The four-seat sections at each end of a coach are reserved for senior citizens and the physically challenged. The two middle seat sections, between the general seat sections on each side, are reserved for women. Smoking is also strictly prohibited on the metro premises. Violating any of these incurs a penalty.

By tram [ edit ]

Kolkata has the only tram service in all of India and the oldest surviving electric tram network in Asia. Though decommissioned in some parts of the city, electric trams are still one of the means of travelling between a few places within the city. Operated by the West Bengal Transport Corporation [dead link] (WBTC) since 2016, they move slowly on the laid tracks in traffic-jammed streets, but they are environment-friendly (no emissions on the street, only at the source of energy generation). The network includes six tram routes, as of 2023.

Most daily commuters to Kolkata rely upon the electrified suburban rail network of the Eastern Railway (ER), commonly referred to as "local trains". The network is extensive and includes the Kolkata Circular Rail or chakra rail . Depending on the route, local trains can be extremely crowded. It is less expensive to travel around by train as compared to private cabs or taxis. Men must not enter the Ladies compartment, even as a family.

The city has an extensive bus network (possibly the most exhaustive in the whole of India) and this is the cheapest, though not always the most comfortable means of transport. The routes are written all over the colourful buses in Bengali and also in English. The conductors call out their destinations to everyone he's passing and all you have to do is wave at the bus anywhere and it will stop, at times causing a small queue of other cars behind it.

Esplanade is a major bus terminus in Kolkata. Karunamoyee in Bidhannagar is another major bus depot. Some buses operate from the Babughat area in Maidan as well.

Among the buses that ply the city streets, the deluxe buses run by JNNURM (Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission) and WBTC (West Bengal Transport Corporation) are probably the better option. Air-conditioned buses (Volvo) are also available to many destinations.

By rickshaw [ edit ]

There are four types of rickshaws in Kolkata: human-pulled rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, auto-rickshaws and electric rickshaws.

Rickshaws pulled by men are a common sight in Kolkata and they are mainly found in some old localities of Kolkata. These rickshaws usually operate over short distances and mainly run on narrow lanes and they are not allowed to ply over main roads. They take more fare than cycle-rickshaws.

Cycle rickshaws are the most convenient mean of transport in Kolkata. They are very cheap and can accommodate two adults. Unlike auto-rickshaws, they can go to any place in a particular region.

In Kolkata, there are shared auto-rickshaws, i.e. the auto-rickshaws don't ferry just a single person but four people at a time. Auto-rickshaws have a fixed route and a vehicle of that route travel on that particular route only. However, unlike taxis, they don't refuse passengers. The fare of an auto-rickshaw is much less than that of a taxi, with the minimum fare being ₹10. Be prepared to give the exact fare as they are very reluctant to give change.

Electric rickshaws, popularly known as totos or e-rickshaws, are battery-operated alternatives to auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws because of their low fuel cost and less human effort compared to cycle rickshaws. They generally operate in suburban Kolkata.

The fare of rickshaws is not set by meters, as fares are fixed by the respective rickshaw association. After 10 PM, rickshaw drivers may demand an exorbitant fee and the same goes for times during natural calamities such as heavy rainfall.

By ferry [ edit ]

The river offers a less crowded but slow traffic medium. There are several points (popularly called ghats and jetties) on the bank of the river from where you can board several regular routes of ferry services. Ferries can be fairly large launches to small improvised motorized boats. Even if you don't get any exotic manual boat as you get in Varanasi , the river transport of the city lets you go to several old spots near the bank in a hassle-free manner with an additional dash of the view of decadent river front of the city.

By rental car [ edit ]

Privately owned rental car places are available throughout the city. Rates depend on the make, model, size and comfort level of the car. Agreements are flexible, for example, cars can be rented even for a couple of hours at an hourly rate. Most rental cars are accompanied by a driver from the rental agency.

By foot [ edit ]

Except in Maidan and newly developed areas, much of Kolkata is not so pedestrian-friendly. In the more tourist-oriented areas, you'll be constantly accosted by beggars and touts. Crossing roads often involves wading across multiple lanes of heavy traffic. Try your best to move in a predictable straight line, so vehicles can weave around you. Better yet, latch onto a group of locals and cross in their shadow. If you really want to walk around, these places would be good:

• Walk along the Hooghly River. There is a good promenade near Eden Gardens.
• Walk along Chowringhee Road (officially Jawaharlal Nehru Road), which sets the pace as you unravel the rare beauty of this city. Across the road sweeps a huge, lush green, open parkland called the Maidan , centring around Fort William , the massive and impregnable British citadel built in 1773. A rambling green 'lung of Kolkata', the Maidan is a hub of diverse activities.

Talk [ edit ]

Being in West Bengal , the native language of the people of Kolkata is Bengali . However, most educated locals also speak English and some Hindi . Many shopkeepers and taxi drivers are able to communicate in broken English, and government offices will typically have English-speaking staff on duty. Although it is generally not a problem getting by with English, learning some Bengali will make your trip much smoother.

See [ edit ]

Kolkata is known for its numerous attractions — palaces, parks and museums — built during and after the 190 years of British rule in India . Built in 1814, the Indian Museum houses large collections that showcase Indian natural history and Indian art. The Marble Palace is a classic example of a European mansion that was built in the city. The iconic Victoria Memorial has a museum documenting the city's history. The National Library is the leading public library in India, while Science City is the largest science centre in the country.

Do [ edit ]

Take a tram ride in Kolkata. The city has the only active tram service in India and has become an icon of Kolkata. They move slow on the laid tracks in traffic-jammed streets.

Several modern cinemas are dotted around the city, including INOX with several locations, Fame at Metropolis Mall in Highland Park, and RDB Adlabs at RDB Boulevard, Near Infinity Building in Sector-V, Bidhannagar, all showing Indian and American blockbusters. Kolkata also has many established theatre houses, which host events by international theatre groups frequently. Such events draw people from around the globe as it offers a unique opportunity to share culture and ideas.

Unlike most of cricket-obsessed India, football (soccer) reigns supreme in Kolkata, with the local clubs Mohun Bagan Athletic Club and East Bengal Club [dead link] being the most successful in India. They contest the Kolkata Derby biannually, which is considered by many to be the oldest and most intense football rivalry in all of Asia.

Events [ edit ]

Durga Puja , a festival honouring the Hindu goddess Durga, takes place between September and October, depending on the traditional phases of the Moon. The biggest festival for Hindus in Bengal, Kolkata takes on an almost carnival-like ambience. Streets shut down for the construction of pandals (প্যান্ডেল, pênḍel ), large stands that depict events from the Ramayana and crowds flock to the biggest and best ones. Durga Puja in Kolkata has been listed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2021. A good time to visit, unless you have a fear of crowds.

The Indian Premier League ( IPL ) is the main club cricket league in India. It is one of the world's most widely attended sporting events, and if you are in Kolkata during the season (April–May), consider watching the home team (Kolkata Knight Riders) play at Eden Gardens. In addition to the IPL, India's national team also plays some of its international matches at Eden Gardens.

The Kolkata Book Fair takes place from the last week of January to the first week of February. It is the largest book fair in Asia and is a significant event in the city. Milan Mela at East Kolkata was used to be the venue of the Kolkata Book Fair till 2022, when the fair took place at Central Park. The similarly-named but smaller Kolkata District Book Fair takes place at Netaji Indoor Stadium in May.

The Kolkata International Film Festival ( KIFF ) takes place from 15 December to 22 December every year at 4PM. Although the opening and closing ceremonies takes place at the Netaji Indoor Stadium, Nandan is the main centre for the festival.

Learn [ edit ]

Kolkata is a key centre of learning in India. The most famous universities and colleges in Kolkata are the Medical College and Hospital , Jadavpur University , the University of Calcutta , the Presidency University and Indian Institute of Management Calcutta . Apart from undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral courses, there are several training and diploma-level institutes and polytechnics that cater to the growing demand for skill-based and vocational education.

Work [ edit ]

Volunteering is a real option here with several opportunities.

• Brother Xavier's New Hope . Home for orphans of Kolkata's red light district. A much smaller mission than Mother Teresa's which one man built from the ground up. Brother Xavier and the children always need volunteers and funds.
• Mother Teresa's Mission accepts volunteers to help in its multiple projects around the city. Enquire at the motherhouse.

Buy [ edit ]

Traditionally Kolkata had certain shopping areas or districts. The New Market area was considered the core of fashionable marketing. That was the marketplace for the British and later patronised by the more sophisticated Indians. There were large markets in Burrabazar, Hatibagan-Shyambazar, Gariahat and Bhowanipore. There were several specialised markets: electrical goods at Chandni Chowk, jewellery at Bowbazar, books at College Street, fish at Maniktala, flowers at Jagannath Ghat, the Maidan market for sports goods and so on.

The malls are a more recent addition. The South City Mall, one of the biggest in the city, is in its southern fringes . The Quest Mall is another large shopping mall at Park Circus, an old neighbourhood in South Kolkata . There are a large number of malls in East Kolkata and new malls are continually being built.

Eat [ edit ]

Kolkata has old traditions about eating out. Wilson's Hotel (which later became the Great Eastern Hotel) is credited to have been the first western-style hotel/restaurant in Kolkata, serving what was then forbidden food for Indians, particularly Hindus. One could be treated as an out-caste if caught eating there, but the idea caught on and others followed. Many of the restaurants that line the streets in the Esplanade area have been around for more than a hundred years.

The joy of food in Kolkata is in its Indian foods. Nizam's (23/24, Hogg St), close to New Market, is credited with the invention of the famous Kati Kebab roll and still serves up the best of the best. For Mughlai dishes, there are several places to eat in the Park Circus area and there are others all over the city.

In terms of sweet, Kolkata is best known for its rôsogolla , consisting of balls of chhena (a moist, softer cheese than paneer) cooked and permeated in a light rose-scented syrup. Although the origin of rôsogolla is disputed between Odisha and Bengal , the first canned rôsogollas were sold in this city in 1930, after which they took off in popularity across South Asia . A variant of the dish is rôsomalai where the chhena balls are immersed in sweet thickened milk instead of syrup, providing a creamier feel to the sweet.

Besides Bengali foods, Kolkata is also the home of Indian Chinese food. Chinese restaurants are everywhere so try the Indian variant of hot and sour soup and the famous Indian Chinese dish of chilli chicken. The best place to have Chinese is to visit Chinatown near Tangra, East Kolkata . It serves the best of the Chinese dishes and you will find plenty of large, small & medium restaurants. There are some restaurants serving Thai, Mediterranean or Italian food.

Kolkata also has many excellent vegetarian restaurants ranging from budget to expensive ones. There are two types: those serving North Indian and those serving South Indian food. For those looking for vegetarian street foods, one can find ubiquitous jhal muri (somewhat similar to bhel puri of Mumbai ) a concoction of puffed rice mixed with various spices, vegetables & other ingredients available at street vendors all over Kolkata.

Street vendors selling egg rolls/chicken rolls abound and their freshly prepared kati rolls are safe to eat. Mughlai Paratha (earlier it was a paratha stuffed with minced meat, but now the minced meat has been replaced by cheaper but tasty alternatives) is a Kolkata speciality. Fuchka , the Kolkata version of paani-puri, but very different from the ones found in Delhi, is available on the streets but be wary of the tamarind water. It never troubles the local people and outsiders can safely taste this delicacy as long as they don't take too much.

Earlier, the restaurants were standalone entities. A cluster of restaurants in a single mall is a comparatively new idea and has become popular.

Drink [ edit ]

There are plenty of places to buy alcohol around the city. Kolkata has many pubs and bars, which are frequented by youngsters as well as its older residents. Some pubs have live concerts or DJs. They include:

• Someplace Else (The Park)
• Roxy (The Park)
• Aqua (The Park)
• The Myx (Park Street)
• Olypub (Park Street), famous for the beer and the beef steak
• Mocha (AJC Bose Road)
• Underground (HHI, AJC Bose Road)
• Nocturne (Theatre Road)
• Shisha Bar Stock Exchange, The Factory Outlet (22 Camac Street)
• Chili's (Quest Mall, South City Mall, Acropolis Mall Kasba)
• Cafe Mezzuna (Forum Mall Elgin Road, South City Mall)
• Hoppipola (Acropolis Mall)
• Afraa Lounge (City Centre Salt Lake)
• Fairlawns (Sudder Street)
• Big Ben (The Kenilworth, Little Russel Street)

All pubs are supposed to shut shop by midnight or 1AM. So go early if you want to enjoy yourself in the club.

Sleep [ edit ]

Kolkata has long had a concentration of budget backpacker hotels in the Sudder Street area and many of these are colonial era gems, albeit decaying ones. Sudder Street is centrally located and is well connected by public transport. Both the major railway stations at Howrah and Sealdah have many hotels around them. Most of them might be only licensed to accommodate Indian citizens. Be sure to not walk with a local "friend" or guide, unless you want to have higher prices. There are some hotels in South Kolkata . The growth of the IT Sector and hospital facilities in East Kolkata has led to development of hotels in that district.

However, if money is of no object, you can stay at Great Eastern, ITC Sonar, Taj Bengal and JW Marriott Kolkata. British-era clubs such as Tollygunge Club, Calcutta Club (AJC Bose Rd), Saturday Club (Theatre Rd) and Bengal Club (Russel St) have lavish rooms for rent. However, they only accept bookings through members.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Kolkata is one of the safest metropolitan areas in India, and the people are friendly and helpful, unlike in most of India's other large cities. Violent crime in Kolkata is more or less like any other large Indian city. There has been some incidents of chain, bag and mobile snatching in railway stations and empty roads. Be on guard for anybody trying to help you by giving you unsolicited directions or travel advice. Do not blindly rely on the advice of taxi and auto drivers. Carry your cash and cards in a secure money belt, with only enough cash for a few hours at a time in your wallet or other accessible place. Beware during the rush hours in bus terminals and railway stations as many pickpockets will try to get your belongings.

Visitors outside the city are often magnets for beggars , frauds and touts. In South Kolkata , beggars often knock at the glass windows of cars. It does little good to get angry or to say "No" loudly. The best response is to look unconcerned and ignore the behaviour. The more attention you pay to a beggar or a tout, positive or negative, the longer they will follow you hoping for a donation.

Police [ edit ]

The Kolkata Police is a white-uniform police force serving the city. While most police officers are honest and helpful, you may find a lot of officers who may be corrupt and unhelpful. For emergencies, you can dial 100 for police assistance. For non-emergencies, or to report a crime, visit the nearest police station. See the district articles for police stations.

Emergency numbers [ edit ]

• Airport , ☏ +91 33 2569 1002 .  
• Fire , ☏ 101 .  
• Medical , ☏ 102 .  
• Police , ☏ 100 .  

Stay healthy [ edit ]

Air pollution is a major problem in Kolkata, with regular smog and haze. As of 2022, Kolkata is ranked as India's second most polluted city after Delhi , with pollution levels often in the "very unhealthy" or "hazardous" range. Anyone visiting the area should try to limit outdoor and exhausting activity. Have masks (single-use surgical masks are okay), tissues, and eyedrops ready when going out.

Connect [ edit ]

Landlines [ edit ].

The area code for Kolkata is "33" (prefix "+91", if you are calling from outside India). Phone numbers are eight digits long.

Phone booths [ edit ]

Public call booths can be found easily throughout the city from where local, national, and international calls can be made. Else local SIM card can be used for connectivity.

Mobile phones [ edit ]

Mobile phone coverage is excellent with all major mobile service providers offering their services in the city. It might be a good idea to buy a cell phone and use one of those prepaid plans to get yourself connected while you are in the city.

All mobile numbers are 10 digits long and begin with a "9", "8", "7" or "6". Do not dial the city prefix for mobile numbers. If you don't get through to a mobile number, try adding a "0" before you dial it.

Cybercafes [ edit ]

Internet cafes are available in plenty and charges ₹10-25/hour. You need to show your identity card to use internet in those cafes. As a precaution, change your password after you use it at a cybercafe or do private/incognito browsing.

Cope [ edit ]

Consulates [ edit ], hospitals [ edit ].

Kolkata has a number of medical colleges and hospitals, with the oldest being the Calcutta Medical College (now Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata ) in North Kolkata . See the district articles for medical colleges and hospitals.

Newspapers [ edit ]

Local newspapers can be handy and reliable sources for day to day updates about the city. The city has number of newspapers and other publication that list local happenings. There are different options for newspapers including daily, weekly and bi-weekly. Some of the popular newspapers are Bartaman (Bengali), Anandabazar Patrika (Bengali), The Statesman , The Times of India , Indian Express , Hindustan Times and Free Press Journal . For the business updates, check Economic Times .

Go next [ edit ]

West bengal [ edit ].

• Bishnupur — Famous for terracotta temples, clay sculptures and silk sarees.
• Darjeeling Hills — A mountainous region home to Darjeeling , Kalimpong and Mirik . When Darjeeling is your destination, you could travel the last 72 km (45 mi) by a combination of bus/train and the famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway .
• Digha — A beach town in the southern part of the state. Buses from Esplanade Bus Station.
• Santiniketan — Famous for the ashramik school and university founded by Bengali poet Rabindranath Tagore, the town is also known for its handmade leather crafts and kantha stitch sarees.
• Sundarbans National Park — Part of the largest littoral mangrove in the world, and home to the famous Bengal Tigers.

Elsewhere [ edit ]

• Bangladesh — Tickets for buses running to the border and Dhaka can be reserved at Shyamoli Yatri Paribahan. Beware that several travel agencies around this area also sell tickets for these buses, but at very inflated prices. At the border, it's best to change money on the Indian side.
• Bhutan — Tucked away in the corner of the bus station is a small Bhutanese Government kiosk selling tickets for buses running to the Bhutanese border town of Phuentsholing . Buses depart Tu Th Sa at 9PM, and the 18-hr journey costs ₹300.

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18 Best Places to Visit in Kolkata to Discover the City

Kolkata, though often associated with poverty, is commonly overlooked by tourists when visiting India. This friendly, intellectual and vibrant city is full of history and culture, with many faded remnants of the British Raj (British rule of India from 1757 to 1947). Kolkata is a city that requires immersion rather than quick sightseeing to really get a feel for, and appreciate, it. Start with these places to visit in Kolkata. One of the best ways to discover them is on a  Kolkata walking tour.

Park Street

Arijeet Bannerjee/Getty Images

Kolkata's famous Park Street (formally renamed as Mother Teresa Sarani) runs from Chowringhee Road to Park Circus and is renowned for its entertainment, restaurants, and prominent historical landmarks including old colonial mansions. This iconic street was home to India's first independent nightclub and has been the center of Kolkata's nightlife since the glory days of the swinging 60s when venues overflowed with jazz, cabaret, and floor shows. Head to Mocambo, Moulin Rouge and Trincas for a rush of nostalgia.

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One of the top places to go shopping in Kolkata , New Market is a historic bargain hunter's paradise, built by the British in 1874. This sprawling maze of more than 2,000 stalls, grouped together according to the type of goods sold, offers almost everything imaginable. The entrance is on Lindsay Street, just off Chowringhee Road. Opening hours are Monday to Friday, 10:30 a.m. until 8:30 p.m. Saturday, until 7 p.m. Closed on Sunday. Those who are after something special, shouldn't pass up the services of one of the many guides (known as coolies) that congregate around the market entrances. They live and breathe the market, and can effortlessly lead you to the best goods for the best price. Alternatively, it's possible to go on a walking tour of New Market such as this one offered by Kolkata Magic .

Mullick Ghat Flower Market

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The colorful chaos of Kolkata's flower market presents a fantastic photo opportunity. More than 130 years old, it's east India's largest wholesale flower market with thousands of flower sellers visiting it every day. The market is dominated by sacks overflowing with long garlands of marigolds, popularly used in Hindu devotional rituals. Find it along Strand Bank Road, starting from below Howrah Bridge on the Kolkata side. Take Calcutta Photo Tours' Hooghly's Flower Fest walking tour for a memorable immersive experience.

Prinsep Ghat

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Built beside the Hooghly River during the rule of the British Raj in 1843, Prinsep Ghat features one of the city's best known columned Colonial monuments dedicated to English scholar James Prinsep. The ghat was made to replace Chandpal Ghat as the principal point of embarkation for important visitors to the city. Now, it's a popular place to relax and go for a stroll by the river bank. It's possible to walk all the way from Prinsep Ghat to Babu Ghat, along a 2 kilometer (1.2 mile) stretch of landscaped riverfront. Prinsep Ghat is located next to Vidyasagar Setu, on Strand Road between Water Gate and Saint George's Gate of Fort William.

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Kolkata's massive urban park, known as the Maidan, is where locals go to spend their leisure time playing cricket and other sports, or relaxing with a picnic or snack from one of the food stalls. The Maidan extends south from the Esplanade, and is bordered by Chowringhee Road and the Hooghly River. All up, it covers about 1,000 acres. Fort William, Victoria Memorial, Eden Gardens cricket stadium, and Kolkata Race Course are some of the notable structures inside it. On the northeastern edge, the Glorious Dead Memorial is a monument honoring Indian soldiers who lost their lives in World War I.

Victoria Memorial

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Imposing white marble Victoria Memorial at the southern end of the Maidan was completed in 1921 and currently serves as a museum . Constructed in memory of Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom, it houses a fine art history collection and a gallery from the British Colonial period including many impressive paintings, sculptures, and books. The building's exterior is evocatively illuminated at night, and its surrounded by a vast garden that's an attraction in itself. The museum is open from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. Tuesday to Friday, and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday (closed Monday). Tickets cost 30 rupees for Indians and 100-500 rupees for foreigners.

Mother Teresa's Mother House

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Mother Teresa is highly regarded for founding the Missionaries of Charity and devoting her life to helping ill and outcast people in Kolkata. Visit the Mother House to see her tomb, the bedroom where she lived, and a small museum dedicated to showcasing her life. It displays items such as her handwritten letters, spiritual exhortations, and personal belongings including saris, sandals, and crucifix. The Mother House is a place of silence and contemplation. Many people choose to meditate there while visiting because of its serene, uplifting energy. Opening hours are 8 a.m. until noon and 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. daily except Thursday, August 22, Easter Monday, and December 26.

White Town (Colonial Kolkata)

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Many of Kolkata's notable British-era buildings are situated in the BBD Bagh central business district, formerly called Dalhousie Square after Lord Dalhousie who ruled India from 1848 to 1856. These include 19th century St. Andrew’s church, 18th century Writer's Building (previously the administrative office of the British East India Company), General Post Office, Greek-architecture inspired Metcalfe Hall (previously home to the Imperial Library), and the Town Hall. Calcutta Walks' Dalhousie Square Walk provides insight into the district's Colonial heritage.

Black Town (Bengali Kolkata)

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Get acquainted with the city's Bengali heritage by exploring what's known as "Black Town" in north Kolkata—the area inhabited by Bengalis during the time of British rule. Many were wealthy landowners and merchants. Sovabazar is a particular atmospheric neighborhood in this part of the city, with a captivating blend of old-world architecture. You can even stay in an immaculately restored 1920s Bengali townhouse. You'll agree that Calcutta Bungalow feels like a home away from home. Walk through the surrounding lanes and you're likely to spot some eye-catching street art. Calcutta Walks' Star Still Shines walking tour of Sovabazar is very informative.

Grey Town (Immigrant Kolkata)

Sandwiched between Black Town and White Town, Grey Town is where an eclectic mix of immigrants has settled—Buddhists, Parsis, Muslims, Chinese, Portuguese, Jews, and people from elsewhere in India. It's fascinating to discover the communities that co-exist together there. Attractions include Bow Barracks (apartment blocks that housed military officers during World War I), a Chinese church built in 1905, a Parsi fire temple, and Magen David Synagogue built in 1884. Calcutta Photo Tours' Culture Kaleidoscope walking tour is recommended for exploring the district in depth.

Indian Coffee House

One of the most historic restaurants in India , the Indian Coffee House on College Street harks back to the days of India's struggle for independence from British rule. It was a popular meeting place for intellectuals, freedom fighters, social activists, revolutionaries, and bohemians. These days college students often hang out there to converse and exchange ideas. Opening hours are 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily. College Street is also renowned for having the largest second-hand book market in the world. Go on this Bengal Renaissance Walk conducted by Kolkata Magic if you're interested in the street's history.

Hindustan Park

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This middle-class South Kolkata residential neighborhood has transformed into a trendy locality with its leafy streets now home to buzzing boutiques and cafes. Go there to shop for hip handicrafts, folk art, pottery, and exclusive textiles. Byloom and Sienna Store and Cafe are popular. It's situated near Gariahat Road, about 20 minutes south of the city center.

South Park Cemetery

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Visiting a cemetery isn't usually high on the itineraries of tourists. However, this one is worth seeing, especially if you're interested in India's colonial history! Established in 1767, this poignant grand old British cemetery was used up until 1830 and is now a protected heritage site. Overgrown and disheveled, its tombs are an elaborate mix of Gothic and Indo-Saracenic design and contain the bodies of many remarkable men and women from the Raj era. It's intriguing to spend some time wandering around and reading the stories of their lives on the headstones. One of the people buried there is English trader Job Charnock, who is regarded as the founder of Kolkata. The cemetery is located on Park Street, at the intersection of Rawdon Street. It's open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Entry is free. There's no cost for phone cameras but you'll need to pay 50 rupees for large digital cameras. Contact Immersive Trails for a guided walking tour of the cemetery.

Dakshineswar Kali Temple

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This old and very popular Hindu temple, dedicated to Bhavatarini ("savior of the universe", an aspect of Goddess Kali), was founded in 1855 by Rani Rashmoni. Widowed at a young age, she very successfully took over her wealthy husband's zamindar (land ownership) business. Apparently, the idea to establish the temple came to her in a dream before a pilgrimage to Varanasi. The temple was made famous by spiritual leader Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, who was appointed as its chief priest. It's situated alongside the Hooghly River on the northern outskirts of Kolkata, making it best accessed by ferry. Opening hours are October to March, daily from 6:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. until 8.30 p.m. April to September, daily from 6:00 a.m until 12.30 p.m and 3:30 p.m. until 9:00 p.m.

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Downriver from Dakshineswar Kali Temple, peaceful Belur Math is set on 40 acres of land and is the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission, founded by Swami Vivekananda (a chief disciple of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa). The main shrine, dedicated to Sri Ramakrishna, has unique and distinctive architecture that combines Hindu, Buddhist, Christian, and Islamic styles. It's worth experiencing the evening aarti  ceremony, which beings at sunset. Unfortunately, photography isn't allowed on the premises. Opening hours are October to March, daily from 6.30 a.m. until 11.30 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. From April to September, the temple opens at 6 a.m.

Kalighat Kali Temple

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Recommended only for those who are ready for surrounding poverty, surging crowds, filth and pandemonium (otherwise visit Dakshineswar Kali Temple as an alternative), the temple at Kalighat in south Kolkata is dedicated to the city's fearsome patron goddess Kali — the dark mother—and is integral to the city. Hidden in a maze of alleyways, the temple is known for its animal (particularly goat) sacrifices, which although outlawed are still performed regularly inside its enclosure to appease the blood-drinking goddess. Prepare to be approached by pushy temple priests who will try and extract as much money as possible from you. The temple can be easily reached from Kalighat Metro train station. It's open daily from 5:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m., and 5:00 p.m. until 10:30 p.m.

The settlement of Kumartuli, meaning "potter locality" ( Kumar = potter. Tuli = locality), is over 300 years old. It was formed by potters who came to the area in search of a better livelihood. Nowadays, around 150 families live there, earning a living by sculpting idols for various festivals. Most of the idol-making happens from June to January, with the biggest occasion being Durga Puja. There's usually a frenzy of activity around 20 days before the Durga Puja festival begins , in order to get all the work finished. Kumartuli can be entered from Banamali Sarkar Street in north Kolkata. The nearest Metro railway station is Shobhabazar-Sutanuti.

Old Chinatown (Tiretti Bazaar)

Kolkata is the only city in India to have a Chinatown (actually it has two, Old Chinatown in Tiretti Bazaar and newly established Tangra). Many migrants came from China in the late 18th century to work at the old Calcutta port. As the sun rises, the stoves are fired up and knives start chopping to produce the legendary Chinese breakfast that Old Chinatown is notorious for. Feast on fresh delicacies such as momos, dumplings, prawn crackers, pork sausages, and fish ball soup. Unfortunately, the authenticity has waned in recent years. You'll need to get there early as it's only on from 5.30 a.m. until around 8 a.m. Most of the action happens on Sunday mornings. Tiretti Bazaar is on the corner of Bentinck Street and India Exchange Place Road, in the central business district area next to Bow Bazaar. It's near Poddar Court.

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• Heritage & Culture

20 Wonderful Places To See In Kolkata

Kolkata was once the capital of the British Raj in India. Previously known as Calcutta, its long past has filled it with beautiful art, majestic architecture, and a vibrant culture of theatre and literature. A teeming city, full of unique sights, there are lots of places to see in Kolkata.

The city is therefore full of historic monuments, cultural institutions, and stunning public parks. Often called one of the cultural and intellectual hubs of the country, this “City of Joy” has something to offer everyone who visits. So, here are 20 wonderful places to see in Kolkata:

1. Victoria Memorial

Entrance Fee: ₹20 (Indian) and ₹200 (foreigners)

2. St Paul’s Cathedral

Entrance Fee: Free

3. Shaheed Minar and the Maidan

4. The Marble Palace

5. Indian Museum

Entrance Fee: ₹30 (Indian) and ₹500 (foreigners)

6. Howrah Bridge

7. Chowringhee

Chowringhee (officially known as Jawaharlal Nehru Road) is a popular area with both tourists and locals. The picturesque heritage buildings in the area are also filled with high-end boutiques, hotels, restaurants, pubs, malls, and numerous shops. It is also one of the best places to try the famous Kolkata street food, though it can get very crowded during peak hours.

8. Mother Teresa House

9. Prinsep Ghat

10. Tram Ride

11. Science City

Entrance Fee: ₹20 to ₹100 (depending on the activities)

12. Belur Math

13. Birla Planetarium

Entrance Fee: ₹40

14. Sundarbans

Entrance Fee: ₹20 (Indian) and ₹150 (foreigners)

Also Read: Be Amazed at the Seven Natural Wonders of the World

15. Armenian Church of the Holy Nazareth

This historic church was built all the way back in 1724 and is a legacy of Kolkata’s once flourishing Armenian community. It is also one of the oldest surviving churches in the city and was built to replace an even older church that dated back to 1688. Unfortunately, it was destroyed in a fire. Its opulently decorated interiors include a unique combination of black and white marble.

16. New Market

17. Fort William

18. Kalighat Kali Temple

19. Belvedere Estate and the National Library of India

20. College Street

Of course, there are lots of other amazing places to see in Kolkata. If we’ve missed any be sure to share them in the comments below.

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Unveiling the wonders of culture and tradition!

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10 Places to Visit in Kolkata + Things To Do

Kolkata, located in eastern India, is renowned as “the City of Joy” and is well-known for its stunning historical architecture and has spread along the banks of the Hooghly River in a straight line.

You can find colonial buildings, museums, art galleries, traditional cuisine, temples, live music, and theatre in Kolkata. It combines classic and contemporary elements. Kolkata is well-known for its theatre and movies. The city is home to Rabindranath Tagore, and every home may be heard playing Rabindra Sangeet. Kolkata is also known to be India’s most chaotic yet lively city. Take a day trip to Sundarbans and see the world-famous Bengal Tigers. Savour the local street food of Kolkata, and enjoy the world-famous Bengali sweets and deserts the Indo-Chinese historic restaurants are a must-visit.

The most convenient way to get to Kolkata is by air. There are connections between the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport and significant cities in India and Abroad.

To help with your trip planning, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted below. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference. But before you start ticking goals off your bucketlist, here are travel essentials & discounts you’ll need to check. Pre-book online for a hassle-free trip!

Kolkata travel essentials

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Kolkata Hotels Tours + discounts Flights

See also: Two Days in Kolkata: India Solo Travel 101 .

Popular tours & discounts booked by other travelers:

View all travel tips on: Kolkata .

1. Victoria Memorial

Location : Victoria Memorial Hall, 1, Queens Way, Maidan, Kolkata, West Bengal 700071, India . Save on Google Maps .

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2. St. Paul’s Cathedral

Location : Cathedral Rd, Maidan, Kolkata, West Bengal 700071, India . Save on Google Maps .

3. Nakhoda Mosque (Nakhoda Masjid)

Location : Rabindra Sarani, Chowringhee North, Bow Barracks, Kolkata, West Bengal 700073, India . Save on Google Maps .

4. Bara Bazar

Location : Barabazar Market, Kolkata, West Bengal, India . Save on Google Maps .

5. Writers’ Building

Location : Binoy Badal Dinesh Bag N, Lal Dighi, B.B.D. Bagh, Kolkata, West Bengal 700001, India . Save on Google Maps .

6. B.B.D. Bagh

Location : Kolkata, West Bengal, India . Save on Google Maps .

7. St. Andrew’s Church

Location : 15, Binoy Badal Dinesh Bag N, Murgighata, Barabazar Market, Kolkata, West Bengal 700001, India . Save on Google Maps .

8. Chowringee Road & The Maidan

Location : Sreepally, Bhowanipore, Kolkata, West Bengal, India . Save on Google Maps .

9. Howrah Bridge

Location : Howrah, West Bengal 700001, India . Save on Google Maps .

10. Hooghly River

Location : Kolkata, India . Save on Google Maps .

Where to go near Kolkata

Mahabodhi Temple & Bodhgaya

Location : Bihar, India . Save on Google Maps .

Bodhgaya Travel Essentials

Where to stay

See more : Mahabodhi Temple & Bodhgaya travel tips

Beyond Kolkata

Location : Uttar Pradesh, India . Save on Google Maps .

Varanasi Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts

See more : Varanasi travel tips

Taj Mahal & Agra

Agra Travel Essentials

Top discounts

Taj Mahal Fast Track Entry Ticket

3D2N Golden Triangle Tour from Delhi

Taj Mahal and Agra Fort Day Tour from Delhi

See more : Taj Mahal & Agra travel tips

Location : Delhi, India . Save on Google Maps .

New Delhi Travel Essentials

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Kolkata that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Kolkata

Kolkata tourist spots, things to do in Kolkata, where to go in Kolkata & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Where to Stay in Kolkata

Click below & search recommended Kolkata hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

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Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

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Places to Visit in Kolkata

• West Bengal
• Places To Visit

Tourist Places to Visit in Kolkata

Here are some of best places to visit in kolkata:, victoria memorial.

It is a beautiful White Marble structure which began making in 1906 and was completed by 1921. While it originally got built with the idea of dedicating a memorial to Queen Victoria of Britain, it has now turned into a museum that attracts numerous people due to its stunning architecture and display. The artistic monument is a mixture of British as well as Mughal form of architecture. Inside the huge fortress is a museum that has 25 galleries featuring sculptures, portraits, national leaders, arms, and armour. Moreover, it has unique, and original  works of William Shakespeare, Omar Khayyam, as well as Arabian Nights. Location: Victoria Memorial Hall, 1, Queens Way, Maidan, Kolkata. Price: -Rs. 30 for Indians, -Rs. 100 for citizens of the SAARC countries, -Rs. 500 for nationals of all other countries. Timing: -From 10 am to 6 pm (Tuesday- Friday)and, -From 10 am - 8 pm (Saturday, Sunday). Best time to visit: October and March.

Howrah Bridge

This one tops the list of places to see in Kolkata, probably because it gets so often portrayed in movies. It was constructed in 1943 replacing the Pontoon Bridge and is made of steel. Due to the immense popularity that the bridge has, tourists from far and wide travel to Kolkata just to visit the amazing bridge. One will be amazed to see the view from the bridge in the evening. The entire river Hoogli seems like an endless lake with the sun going down into the horizon. The suspended bridge ranks 6th amongst the longest bridges in the world. Location: Hooghly RIver, Kolkata. Best Time To Visit: In the Evening.

Botanical Garden

Previously known as the Calcutta Botanical Garden, the garden was established in 1786. It is spread over 270 acres of land. The present name of the garden is Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanical Garden. As the name suggests, the garden is full of plants, trees, and flowers related to the field of botany. At the moment, the garden is a home for over 12000 perennial plants that are still alive. One of the best attractions here is the giant Banyan Tree which forms the second largest canopy in the world. Also, the garden features over 1400 exotic species of plants, and trees. Location: Botanical Garden Road B Shalimar Area Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology, Botanical Garden, Area, Howrah, West Bengal 711103. Price: -INR 10/- for Indians and -INR 100/- for foreigners. Timing: 10 am to 5 pm, ( Mondays Closed). Best time to visit: October to February.

Top Experiences To Do in Botanical Garden

New Town Eco Park

When you’re looking for your leisure day out; the New Town Eco Park spread over 480 acres is one of the best places to visit in Kolkata. It is a recreational area with ample outdoor activities to enjoy with the family. Some such activities include: Ice Skating- enjoy skating on a layer of ice, in a city that never receives snow. The park features a huge ice-skate arena, and everyone can participate in the same. Kayaking: Yes, it is no surprise that the park also features water sports such as kayaking. Now you don’t have to take outstation trips for this water sport. And Zorbing- not everyone is a fan of the huge zorb ball; however, those who are, simply love it. You can enjoy this sport at the new town eco park. Apart from the above, cruising, taking a walk at the sangraha which is a beautiful art facility in the park, are some more things that one can enjoy. Location: Major Arterial Road(South-East), AA II, Newtown, Kolkata, West Bengal 700156. Timing: -2.30 pm - 8.30 pm (Tuesday- Saturday). -The timing for Sundays and the General holidays are 12 pm- 8.30 pm. Mondays (Closed). Best Time to Visit: Winter, And Springtime.

Best of Darjeeling

Mother Teressa House

The place was the home of India’s most iconic person, Mother Teresa. Because of the great figurine she was, her home now has inevitably become one of the most sought for places to visit in Kolkata. The building can be easily identified because of its grey color, as well as brown windows. The tomb of Mother Teresa lies on the ground floor of the beautiful building that is run by the ‘Missionaries of Charity House’. Some of the major things that the house features are the prayer cards of Mother Teresa, Mother Mary’s medallion, and many souvenirs as well. Location: 54A, Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Rd, Ripon Street, Kolkata, West Bengal 700016. Timing: -From 8 pm – 12 pm and -3 pm – 6 pm (except Thursdays). Best time to visit: Around Christmas Time.

Fort William

Fort William is named after King Williams and is one of the most popular places to visit in Kolkata. The site was built in 1696, where the builders used bricks and mortar to make this famous fort. Interestingly, the port has a total of 6 gates, namely; WaterGate, Saint Georges, Treasury Gate, Plassey, and Chowringhee. People who love British architecture will love this place. The gates are an architectural marvel, built by the British. Also, you can get to see the cannons kept on display. These cannons are quite old, and belong to the British. One can easily fall in love with the high roof, wide aisles, and solid structure of this magnificent fort. Location: Maidan, Fort William, Hastings, Kolkata, West Bengal 700021. Timing: 10 am to 5 pm everyday. Best time to visit: Weekdays.

Marble Palace

Marble Palace is an incredibly magnificent maisonette located in Kolkata, along the Babu street, India. As one can rightly guess, the palace is among the few remaining buildings of the nineteenth century.  Built in neoclassical style, the mansion continues to be the residence of the heirs of the King. To give you a scenic background of the mansion, it is surrounded by lush green lawns and beautiful fountains. Galleries run amidst the lawns of the mansion which display artistic statues, portraits, mirrors, chandeliers and paintings created by English, Dutch and Italian artists. It may interest you to know that the mansion also houses a private zoo. Location: Marble Palace located in Kolkata, West Bengal, in India. Timing:  10:00am to 4:00PM, everyday. Best Time To visit: Weekdays.

Dakshineswar Kali Temple

Dakshineswar temple located in West Bengal, India is a commonplace for festivals such as Yatra, Snana, Kalpataru Day, and Kali Puja. Additionally, the temple was started by Rani Rashmoni in the nineteenth century. The temple assumes Bengal architecture, a total of three floors. Little do people know that the total area of the temple complex measures about 54.4bighas and costs Rani Rashmoni around Rs 42, 500 only. The temple is loved by every Bengali and is considered to be an abode of Goddess Kali. The temple was a dream that Rani Rashmoni dreamt before undertaking a pilgrimage to Varanasi. Location: Dakshineswar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700076. Timing: -From 6:00 am to 12:30 (midday),and , -From 3:00 pm to 9:00 pm, every day. Best Time to Visit: 6:00AM to 8:00 PM.

Best of Sikkim

Alipore Zoological Gardens

Alipore Zoological Gardens located in Alipore Kolkata, West Bengal. The gardens occupy a total of over 46 acres and houses close to 1266 animals. This zoological garden is among the oldest zoological parks in India today. The garden serves as a habitat for different species of mammals, reptiles, birds as well as primates. Also known as Calcutta Zoo, It is one of the oldest zoological parks established in India. The Alipore Zoo attracts a flock of tourists from various locations, especially during winters. The Zoo is home to the expired Aldabra giant tortoise 'Adwaita', a tortoise which is almost extinct  (from the year 2006). Nature enthusiasts would love this place due to its abundant and plentiful wildlife. Location: Alipore, Kolkata, West Bengal, in India. Price: -INR.5 (aquarium), -INR.250 (photo) and -INR.30 (zoo). Timing: 9:00 am to 4:30 pm (Thursdays closed). Best time to visit: During morning hours.

Kalighat Kali Temple

It may interest you to know that Kalighat Kali Temple is now over two centuries old. Interestingly, the temple has a highly unique image that differs from most Kali images in Bengal. Kalighat Kali Temple is a popular tourist attraction of Kolkata and is considered as one of the 52 Shakti Peethas of India. Religious inquisitives may be delighted to know that the temple is said to be the site where the toes of the right foot of Sati fell. In the first phase of construction, only the face of the deity was constructed. Later on, the remaining parts of Kali that included the hands, tongue and jewellery were constructed using gold and silver. Location:  Anami Sangha, Kalighat, Kolkata, West Bengal 700026. Timing: -Nitya Puja opens from 5:30 am to 7:am, every day. -The Bhog Rag opens from 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm (Sandhya Arti 6:30 pm to 7 pm). Best Time to Visit:  5:30 am to 7:00 am.

Elliot Park

Elliot Park is a huge park that occupies a total area of nearly 90,000 square feet. It may interest you to know that Tata Steel constructed the park. The park consists of several walk-throughs, restaurants, museums as well as outlets. Also, the park is easily accessible as it is located at the center of the city. It would surprise you to know that the site where the Park is located used to be a dump for offal. In recent years, the dumpsite has been transformed into this beautiful park consisting of fountains and a vast expanse of trees and flowers. It also has sitting space and food stalls for visitors. Due to its easy accessibility, a lot of locals are drawn towards visiting this park in the evenings. Location:  Jawaharlal Nehru Rd, Maidan, Kolkata, West Bengal 700071. Time:  6:00 am to 10:00 pm, every day. Best Time to Visit: During Weekends.

Rabindra Sarobar

Rabindra Sarobar is a popular man-made lake, and was previously known as Dhakuria Lake. Today the lake occupies a total area of 300,000 square meters. The lake is surrounded by several trees of different varieties which makes the air around the lake very fresh. You’ll be happy to learn that the lake is close to the Dum Dum airport. It is one of the most attractive and peaceful places in the city making it a common place for people to take walks or meditate. Additionally, it is also a good canvas for people interested in naturalistic photography. Location:  Dhakuria, Rabindra Sarobar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700029. Best Time to Visit: -6:00 am to 4:00 pm, every day (Although visitors are free to visit the lake during night-time, daytime presents a better experience).

Best of Meghalaya

South Park Cemetery

South Park Cemetery is a privately-owned cemetery with a total of 1600 graves. Previously, the South Park cemetery was known as Park Street. The Cemetery has a mix of the Indo-Saracenic as well as the Golic style. You’ll be happy to know that the cemetery has three big restaurants that serve both modern as well as traditional foods. Opened in 1767, it contains a mix of tombs, cenotaphs and mausoleums protected by a brick wall. The cemetery contains a  number of the graves belonging to famous military and political figures like Sir William Jones, Sir Elijah Impey, Walter Landor Dickens (Son of Charles Dickens), and more. Green mosses and ferns cover most of the cemetery and give an eerie setting to the place. Location:  52, Park Street, Opp Assembly Of God Church, Kolkata, West Bengal 700017. Time: 11:00 am to 6:00 pm, every day. Best Time to Visit: During weekdays in the afternoon.

Birla Planetarium

Birla Planetarium is India’s biggest planetarium that features the largest projection of the night sky in the dome theatre. The structure has one floor and has a design that agrees with the Buddhist Stupa. It was constructed in 1963 and now serves as a museum. Inauguration of the planetarium was done by the then Prime Minister of India, Sri Jawaharlal Nehru. Birla Planetarium is among the largest planetariums in the continent of Asia. The Birla Planetarium is situated adjacent to St. Paul’s Cathedral and near Victoria Memorial is Kolkata’s landmark. The best fact about this site is that it is constantly upgraded to keep pace with modern technology. Recently in 2017, the planetarium was renovated to incorporate the latest advanced Carl Zeiss Hybrid Projection System. Location:  Paul's Cathedral, 96, Jawaharlal Nehru Road, Adjacent To St, Kolkata, West Bengal 700071. Pricing:  INR.80 per show at the Birla Planetarium. Time:  11:30 am, 4 pm and 6 pm, (the Telugu Sky) 12:15 pm, 3 pm, 5 pm, and 8:15 pm. Best Time to Visit: In morning hours.

Eden Gardens

The Eden Gardens is owned by the Cricket Association of Bengal and has a capacity of 66000. It is interesting to know that the gardens hosted the World cup in 1987 after it got renovated to expand its capacity from 40,000 to 94,000. It may shock you to learn that the stadium is now over 150 years old. You may already know that the Eden Gardens has the largest seating capacity in India and third-largest seating capacity in the world. It is often referred to as “cricket’s answer to the Coliseum. For cricket lovers, this place is a must visit. Location:  Maidan, B.B.D. Bagh, Kolkata, West Bengal 700021. Pricing: There is no entry fee to generally visit the stadium. (Tickets depend on the season and the matches held in the stadium). Time:  9:00 am to 6:00 pm, every day. Best Time to Visit: During the afternoon.

Nakhoda Masjid

The Nakhoda mosque has a total capacity of 10,000, and was built at a total cost of Rs. 1,500,000 to be built. Kuchhi Memon Jamat is the architect of this magnificent mosque. It may interest you to know that the mosque has a total height of 151 feet. Additionally, there are 25 smaller minarets ranging from 100 feet to 117 feet in height. The mosque has been named Nakhoda meaning Mariner after the founder of the mosque (Abdur Rahim Osman) who was shipping prince. On any day you would find muslims reverently cleaning the pool and praying in the hall creating a soothing and peaceful religious atmosphere within the mosque. Location: Rabindra Sarani, Chowringhee North, Bow Barracks, Kolkata, West Bengal 700073. Time:  6:00 am to 8:00 pm, every day. Best Time to Visit: Morning before many visitor’s troops in. You get a better view of this ancient yet magnificent and attractive mosque.

Best of Siliguri

Indian Museum

Indian Museum is among the oldest museums in the world. It was established in 1814, by the Asiatic Society of Bengal in Kolkata. The museum has plenty of ornaments, fossils, ornaments, armors as well as mummies. Also, the outstanding structure has a total of four galleries that are not just dedicated to natural history but also zoological information. If you’re in search of deep historical information, then this is among the best places to visit in Kolkata. The Gallery is often referred to as 'Jadughar' by the locals of Kolkata. For the interest of people who enjoy ancient artifacts, the Museum has a vast collection of contemporary paintings, sacred writings of Buddha, antique sculptures, ornaments, fossils, skeletons, mughal paintings etc. Location: 27, Jawaharlal Nehru Rd, Fire Brigade Head Quarter, New Market Area, Dharmatala, Taltala, Kolkata, West Bengal 700016. Price: INR.30 for Indian citizens and INR.500 per foreigner. Timing:  10:00 am to 5:00 pm every day. Best Time to Visit: In the afternoon.

Prinsep Ghats

Prinsep Ghat was constructed in 1841 and is now among the oldest recreational facilities located in Kolkata. The place also has recreational facilities such as boat rides. Millions of visitors come to the place for a memorable pre-wedding shoot due to the picturesque howrah bridge in the background. The hundreds of flowers and trees in Princep Ghat makes it a perfect destination for you and your lover. It is also an apt place for people who love to be around nature due to the lush greenery around the place. You can organise a picnic, or even camp at the Prinsep Ghats, to enjoy the night around the river Hoogly. Location: Strand Rd, Maidan, Fort William, Hastings, Kolkata, West Bengal 700021. Best Time to Visit: In the evening.

Belur Math is a popular temple with a notable design that exhibits different religions such as Christianity, Hindu, Buddhism, as well as Islam. The different exhibits symbolizes unity in terms of religion. Belur Math serves as the nerve-center of the Ramakrishna movement. The unique feature is that the place looks like a mosque, as well as a temple, and also a church, at the same time. You’ll also notice a statue that sits upon the lotus which is that of Sri Ramakrishna who was the initiator of the Ramakrishna movement. Belur Math is truly among the most preferred places to visit in Kolkata. Location: Belur, Howrah, West Bengal 711202. Timing:  8:30AM to 5:30 pm. Best Time to Visit: Afternoon.

Tipu Sultan Mosque

Tipu Sultan Mosque is among the oldest magnificent mosques of all times. Construction of this capacious mosque ended in 1842, and the place of worship has a staggering capacity of 1000.  Prince Ghulam Mohammed is the man behind the breathtaking design of the Tipu Sultan mosque. Unknown to many, Prince Ghulam was the youngest child of Mr. Tipu Sultan. Despite the fact that this mosque is more than 150 years old, it’s still a huge source of history and heritage. As per the structure of any other mosque, the Tipu Sultan Mosque also has 4 minarets on four corners. In the middle are 16 domes that are painted in green color. Due to the color of the mosque, as well as the intricate carvings, one can spot it from a good distance. Location: 185, Lenin Sarani Rd, Esplanade, Chandni Chawk, Bowbazar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700013. Price: The entry fee is required to gain access into the Tipu Sultan Mosque. Timing: 4:00PM to 6:00PM, evening. Best Time to Visit: 8:00 am to 11:00 am.

Best of Orissa

Science City

Science City is one of the most preferred science centers in the city. The science park is under the management of the National Council of Science Museums with its headquarter located in Kolkata itself. The place holds different types of exhibitions based on multiple science topics. Some of the science topics include Freshwater aquarium - It consists of different types of fishes for one to observe. and Power of ten that explains the micro and macro phenomenon of the universe. Also, Illusions - one of the most interesting activities that teaches the importance of visual perception in terms of placement and motion. In a huge garden area called Live butterfly, lies this butterfly enclave. People can observe the movement of butterflies from one place to another. Location: JBS Haldane Avenue, Basanti Hwy, Kolkata, West Bengal 700046. Price: -INR.60 per person, -Entry fee for students in group INR 30. Time: 9:00 am every day up to 8:00 pm. Best time to visit: During weekdays.

Birla Industrial & Technological Museum

Birla Industrial & Technological Museum is a government-owned museum, constructed in 1954. The museum is science-based and has over 100 staff working there. It falls under the ministry of culture. Some of the available galleries include television, motive power, life science, electricity, children’s gallery, metals, biotechnology, among plenty of others. No wonder tourists rate it as among the best tourist attractions in Kolkata. Location: Birla Industrial and Technological Museum located in West Bengal in India. Timing: -From 9:30AM to 6:00PM during the weekdays and -From 10:30 am to 8:00PM during weekends. Best Time to Visit: During weekends.

Millennium Park

Millennium Park is a popular privately-owned park based in Kolkata along Strand Road. This breathtaking park borders the famous Hooghly river. You’ll be overjoyed to learn that the park extends to up to 2.5 kilometers. Unknown to many, the Millennium Park gets named after the Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority. Additionally, the Millennium is just a small part of one of the larger Kolkata Riverside Beautification projects. Some of the activities for the visitors include boat riding, break dancing, toy trains, among other activities. The park is among the most highly rated tourist attractions in Kolkata. Location: Millennium Park situated in Kolkata, along the Strand road. Price:  INR.300-INR.400 (including boating). Timing:  10:00 am to 6:30 pm, every day. Best Time to Visit: Afternoon.

General Post Office

General Post Office is the main post office in West Bengal. The post office’s construction kicked off in 1864 and ended in 1868. It may interest you to know that Mr. Walter B. Grenville was the architect of the post office. The most conspicuous feature of this post office is the domed roof, which goes up to 220 feet. You won’t believe this; the staircase of the eastern part of the post offices comprises pure brass plates. Location: Netaji Subhas Rd, Fairley Place, B.B.D. Bagh, Kolkata, West Bengal 700001. Timing: 10:00AM to 6:00 pm, every day. Best Time to Visit: 3:00PM to 5:00pm.

Best of Sundarban

Writers building.

Writers’ Building is a famous building of West Bengal’s government. The building has a total length of 150 meters and stretches the entire part of the Lal Dighi pond. It may interest you to know that Thomas Lyon was the architecture of this magnificent structure. The building used to serve as the office for junior clerks for the British East India Company. Shockingly, the Writer’s building covers a total area of nearly 550,000 square feet. Location:  Binoy Badal Dinesh Bag N, Lal Dighi, B.B.D. Bagh, Kolkata, West Bengal 700001. Best Time to Visit:  Only during day time.

Shaheed Minar

Shaheed Minar is a tall monument that was constructed in 1828. Unknown to some, the monument was constructed in honor of the late Major General Sir David Orchterlony. Most people wonder how a monument still stands despite being over two centuries old. The secret lies in the design, as well as the materials used to construct it. The construction of the Shaheed Minar started in 1825 and ended in 1828. The monument is 48 meters tall. Location: Bus stop, Dharmtalla, Dufferin Rd, Kolkata, West Bengal 700069. Best Time to Visit: During the daytime.

Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Temple

Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Temple is commonly known as Kolkata's Japanese Buddhist Temple. This Buddhist temple is a home to the famous monk, Bhikshu Morita. He is known to be a part in stopping the 1992 communal riots by chanting ‘Nam Myo Ho Ren Ge Kyo’, as a cry for peace. While at the temple, you can start a conversation with this monk, and learn about life. Moreover, the temple is quite peaceful, and people looking for a peaceful, as well as calm environment can visit this temple at any time they want. Location: 60, Kabi Bharati, 1, Lake Terrace Rd, Hemanta Mukherjee Sarani, Lake Market, Kolkata, West Bengal 700029. Price: The entry fee is required to gain entry into the temple. Timing: -From 5:30 am to 12:30 pm and -From 3:30 pm to 7:30 pm, everyday. Best Time to Visit: 4:30 am 7:00 pm.

Best of Ranchi

Sabarna Sangrahashala

The Sabarna Sangrahashala was constructed in the memory of the oldest zamindars who resided in Kolkata, known as the Sabarna Roy Choudhury family. The museum was started in 2015 to raise awareness of the essence of proper preservation of sources of historical information. The museum is rich with different historical materials such as publications, journals as well as travelogues. The museum is especially useful for students as well as researchers who are passionate about historical information. Location:  Saptarshi Bhawan, Baro Bari, 67/3, Diamond Harbour Rd, Barisha, Kolkata, West Bengal 700008. Timing: 10:00 am to 7:00 pm, everyday. Best Time to Visit:  Weekend.

Wet O Wild is a common entertainment joint with incredible recreational facilities. Some of the fun activities include wave pooling, watching the Niagara falls, swirl riding, body sliding as well as lazy river ride. You’ll also notice a huge tube-like structure that leads to an artificial pool of water. The essence of the tube is to facilitate a particular activity known as tube sliding. Tube sliding suits both kids as well as adults. Location: Street Number 27, Salt Lake Bypass, Sector IV, Kolkata, West Bengal 700106. Pricing: INR. 750. Timing: 10:30 am to 5:30pm, everyday. Best Time to Visit: Weekend.

Nehru’S Children’S Museum

As the name suggests, the Nehru’s Children’s Museum is a special place that is fully dedicated to youngsters. The museum was established in 1972 and has numerous ancient arts and craft equipment for the kids. Additionally, the place provides kids an opportunity to have fun by participating in contests. Some of these contests include Nehru Talent Search contests, learn to live together, Toy train projects as well as the Sishu Bhaban Patrika. Location: 94/1, Chowringhee Rd, Maidan, Bhowanipore, Kolkata, West Bengal 700020. Price: -Above 16 years INR.20 and -Below 16 years INR.10. Timing:  11:00 am to 7:00 pm (except Monday and Tuesday). Best Time Visit: Weekends only.

Aquatica is a popular resort that sits upon a total area of 75000 square feet. The water park features several recreational facilities such as slides and themed rides. You’ll be happy to know that the water resort also features multiple luxurious rooms to accommodate both single travelers as well as large families. Most people visit the resort to celebrate essential events such as weddings, birthdays as well as engagements. The high-quality room services, parking services, and fast internet connection will leave you speechless! It’s one of the best places to see in Kolkata. Location: Kouchpukur,P.O Hatgachia,P.S. :K.L.C, Near Rajarhat Township, Kolkata, West Bengal 700156. Price: On Weekdays- -INR. 900 per adult and -INR.450 for children, On Weekends- -INR 1000 for adults and -INR 500 for kids. Timing: 10:00AM to 6:00PM. Best Time to Visit: Weekends.

People Also Ask About Kolkata

Which are the unique places to visit in kolkata, which are the best places to visit in kolkata at night, which are the best places to visit in kolkata for 2 days, what is kolkata famous for, how can i spend 3 days in kolkata, what is the famous food of kolkata.

Some of the most famous non-vegetarian foods here are Kosha Mangsho, Biryani, Macher Jhol, etc. Vegetarian foods include the puchkas, jhaal moori, luchi, alu dom, ghugni, aloo kabli, etc. The famous Bengali desserts include rasgulla, chamcham, sandesh, mishit doi, and chanar jilipi

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Howrah Bridge

🗓 Best Time To Visit: October to March

⏰ Open Hours: 24 hours open, but best viewed at night

🏞 Things To Do: Photography, Walk across the bridge, Boat ride under the bridge, Visit nearby markets

💰 Budget: N/A

🧳 Traveller Types: Family, Solo, Couples, Photographers

🔍 Known For: Iconic cantilever bridge, Stunning architecture, Panoramic views of the city, Night-time lighting

📍 Distances: 3 km from Howrah Railway Station, 17 km from Kolkata Airport, 2 km from Kolkata city center

📖 History: Opened in 1943, replacing a pontoon bridge at the same location

👥 Crowd: One of the busiest bridges in the world, with approximately 100,000 vehicles and over 150,000 pedestrians daily

🚶 Accessibility: Walkways for pedestrians, accessible for vehicles

📌 Tips: Avoid during peak hours due to heavy traffic, Carry a camera for capturing scenic views

Howrah Bridge is one of the most famous and impressive bridges in India. It spans the Hooghly River and connects the twin cities of Kolkata and Howrah. It is also known as Rabindra Setu, after the Nobel laureate poet Rabindranath Tagore.

The bridge is a marvel of engineering and architecture, and a symbol of Kolkata’s heritage and culture. In this article, we will explore the history, characteristics, and cultural references of the Howrah Bridge, and why you should visit it on your next trip to Kolkata.

History of Howrah Bridge

The need for a bridge across the Hooghly River was felt since the 19th century, as the existing ferry service was inadequate and unreliable. Several proposals were made for a bridge, but none of them materialized due to various reasons, such as cost, design, and political issues.

Finally, in 1935, the British government approved a plan for a cantilever bridge that would be built by the Braithwaite Burn and Jessop Construction Company. The construction of the bridge began in 1936 and was completed in 1943. The bridge was inaugurated on February 3, 1943, by the then Governor of Bengal, Sir John Arthur Herbert. The bridge was originally named the New Howrah Bridge, as it replaced an older pontoon bridge that was dismantled in 1946.

In 1965, the bridge was renamed as Rabindra Setu, after the Nobel laureate poet Rabindranath Tagore, who was a native of Kolkata. However, the bridge is still popularly known as the Howrah Bridge by the locals and tourists alike.

How to Reach Howrah Bridge

There are different ways to reach Howrah Bridge from various parts of Kolkata. You can take a bus, a taxi, a car, or a towncar.

The quickest way is to take a car, which will take about 18 minutes and cost around ₹140 - ₹210 . The cheapest way is to take the line 154 bus, which will take about 52 minutes and cost only ₹23 - ₹35.

You can also take the line 151 bus, which will take about 43 minutes and cost ₹46 - ₹65 . Alternatively, you can take a taxi or hire a towncar, which will also take about 18 minutes and cost ₹470 - ₹600 or ₹1,700 - ₹2,500 respectively.

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Howrah Bridge is either during the morning or at night time. If you visit the bridge at noon, you may find a lot of crowds and traffic. At night time, the bridge is lit up with colorful lights that enhance its beauty and visibility. You can also take a ferry ride across the Hooghly River and enjoy the view of the city and the bridge from the water.

The best season to visit Howrah Bridge is between October and February , when the weather is pleasant and there are many festivals and events in Kolkata. This is also the peak season for tourists, especially during Durga Puja, which is a major celebration in Kolkata. You can witness the cultural and religious aspects of Kolkata and its people during this time.

Also read: A tribute to 'The Rabindra Setu'

Characteristics of Howrah Bridge

The Howrah Bridge is one of the largest cantilever bridges in the world. A cantilever bridge is a type of bridge that has two arms projecting from each pier and supporting a central span. The bridge has a total length of 705 meters (2,313 feet) and a width of 30 meters (98 feet). The central span is 457 meters (1,500 feet) long and has a clearance of 26 meters (85 feet) above the water level. The bridge can carry a load of up to 60,000 tonnes.

The bridge is made of high-tensile steel and has no nuts or bolts. It was assembled by riveting more than 26,000 tonnes of steel. The bridge has a unique design that allows it to withstand strong winds and earthquakes. The bridge has two massive towers that are 82 meters (269 feet) high and have four octagonal pillars each. The bridge also has four abutments that anchor it to the river banks.

The bridge is one of the busiest bridges in the world, carrying more than 100,000 vehicles and 150,000 pedestrians every day. The bridge is toll-free for both vehicles and pedestrians. The bridge is illuminated at night with colorful lights that enhance its beauty and visibility.

Cultural References of Howrah Bridge

The Howrah Bridge is not only a landmark of Kolkata but also a source of inspiration and pride for many artists and writers. The bridge has been featured in various media, such as films, songs, paintings, and books. Some of the notable examples are:

- The bridge was the setting for the 1958 film Howrah Bridge, starring Ashok Kumar and Madhubala . The film was a thriller that involved a murder mystery and a stolen necklace.

- The bridge was also the backdrop for the 1971 film The Calcutta Mail , starring Uttam Kumar and Suchitra Sen. The film was a romantic drama that depicted the love story of a journalist and a dancer.

- The bridge was immortalized in the song Aami Kolkata-r Rasogolla , sung by Kishore Kumar for the 1986 film Balika Badhu. The song was a tribute to Kolkata’s culture and cuisine.

- The bridge was painted by several renowned artists, such as Jamini Roy, Bikash Bhattacharjee, Sakti Burman, and Paresh Maity . Their paintings captured the essence and spirit of the bridge and its surroundings.

- The bridge was mentioned in several books by famous authors, such as Amitav Ghosh, Jhumpa Lahiri, Vikram Seth , and Salman Rushdie . Their books portrayed the life and history of Kolkata and its people.

You may also like to check out: Bridging the Gap: Five of India's best man-made bridges

The Howrah Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks of Kolkata and India. It is a testament to the engineering and architectural excellence of the past and the present. It is also a reflection of the culture and heritage of Kolkata and its people. The bridge is a must-see attraction for anyone who visits Kolkata.

It offers a spectacular view of the city and the river, especially at sunrise and sunset. The bridge is also a great place to experience the hustle and bustle of Kolkata and its diverse and vibrant population. The bridge is more than just a bridge; it is a symbol of Kolkata’s identity and pride.

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• 18 Historical Places In Kolkata That’ll Walk You Through City’s Artistic & Architectural Grandeur In 2024!

23 Mar 2023

Renowned as the ‘City of Joy’, Kolkata has no dearth of the remnants from the time of British Raj that were all about the grandeur of the Victorian-style architecture. Known for its culture, people, food, music, and literature, the city is also rich in its historical heritage. And to witness the charm of its architectural grandeur, head to these historical places in Kolkata that also form an essential part of the city’s tourism.

Top 18 Historical Places In Kolkata

While there are a lot of places to see in the city of joy, its historical attractions are the ones that you must explore first during your trip. Offering a glimpse of the city’s rich history and culture, these historical places in Kolkata are definitely worth a visit!

1. Victoria Memorial

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Located in the heart of Kolkata, the Victoria Memorial was built in memory of Queen Victoria to celebrate her 25 years of rule over India. Known to be one of the famous historical places to visit in Kolkata , it is spread over 57 acres of land, housing 21 lush green gardens, 28,394 artefacts, and 3,900 artistic paintings. The intricate memorial not only bears testimony to the British rule in India but also stands out as an example of advanced and exceptional architecture.

Famous For: Exemplary architecture Location: Victoria Memorial Hall, 1, Queen’s Way, Kolkata Timings: 10 am to 5 pm Entry Fee: INR 20 for Indians, and INR 200 for foreigners

Must Read: 23 Reasons Why I Would Rather Be From Kolkata Than Anywhere Else In The World

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2. Fort William

The mighty edifice of Fort William is one of the famous historical sites in Kolkata. Built in the year 1696, the fort gets its name from King William III and is spread over 70.9 acres. Meticulous stonework adorns the surface of the building, and it took as long as ten years to complete it. Today, Fort William is the property of the Indian Army, and has a capacity of accommodating up to 10,000 army personnel.

Famous For: Its meticulous stonework Location: Fort William, Hastings, Kolkata Timings: 10 am to 5:30 pm Entry Fee: Free Entry

Suggested Read: 24 Picnic Spots Near Kolkata: Escape From The City Rush For A Day’s Retreat

3. Howrah Bridge

The iconic landmark of the City of Joy, Howrah Bridge measures about 1500 ft long and 71 ft wide. Set majestically over the Hooghly River, it is one of the renowned historical places in Kolkata . There are a total of 8 lanes of road, bicycles, and pedestrians also known as Rabindra Setu. The Bridge is a massive steel structure which is considered as one of the longest cantilever bridges of its type in the world. It is also regarded as one of the busiest ones among them as it carries a daily traffic of over 100,000 vehicles and countless pedestrians. What makes this bridge unique is the fact that it was built without a single nut or bolt and is held together by rivets.

Famous For: Being one of the longest cantilever bridges in the world Location: Jagganath Ghat, 1, Strand Road, Kolkata Timings: NA Entry Fee: Free entry

Suggested Read: 101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30

4. Belur Math

There are many places of historical importance in Kolkata and Belur Math is the most famous one. Serving as a pilgrimage site, and the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission, it was established by Swami Vivekananda and the temple spans over forty acres of land on the west bank of the Hooghly River. The temple is noted for its excellent architecture, which skillfully and artistically fuses Hindu, Christian, and Islamic motifs together as a symbol of unity of all religions.

Famous For: Stunning architecture Location: Belur, Howrah, West Bengal Timings: 6 am to 11:30 am, and 4 pm to 7 pm Entry Fee: Free Entry

Suggested Read: Don’t Call Yourself A Kolkatan If You Can’t Get These Right!

5. Marble Palace

Built in the 19th century, the Marble Palace in North Kolkata is one of the best renovated royal family palaces in India. This palatial mansion is one of the most visited historical places in Kolkata that bears testimony to fine artistic statues, sophisticated glassware, and striking paintings of illustrious artists from the time of the British Raj.

Famous For: Elegant Infrastructure Location: 46, Muktaram Babu Street, Jorasanko, Kolkata Timings: 10:30 am to 4 pm Entry Fee: Free Entry

Suggested Read: 60 Best Places To Visit In Kolkata That Reflect Its True Art

6. Tagore’s House

For lovers of history and Bengali literature, the Jorasanko Thakur Bari or the Tagore’s House is one of the favorite historical places in Kolkata . The home of Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore’s house is now converted into a museum and there are about 700 paintings exhibited in this ancestral home. The museum also houses three different galleries, manuscripts, books, and other antique items.

Famous For: Birthplace of Rabindranath Tagore Location: Girish Park, Chittaranjan Avenue, Kolkata Timings: 10 am to 5 pm Entry Fee: INR 10 per person, and INR 5 for students

Suggested Read: Visit These 11 Haunted Places In Kolkata And Discover Their Real Ghost Stories

7. Indian Museum

One of the prominent historical places near Kolkata is the Indian Museum which is considered as the ninth oldest museum of the world and largest in India. Popularly known as ‘Jadughar’, it unveils some of the finest collection of historical importance ranging from contemporary paintings, a sacred relic of Buddha to the Egyptian mummies. In addition to these, the Indian Museum also boasts of some of the most exquisite collections of ornaments, fossils, skeletons, antiques, armours, and stunning Mughal paintings.

Famous For: Exquisite collections of ornaments, antiques and things of historical importance Location: 27, Jawaharlal Nehru Rd, Colootola, New Market Area, Dharmatala, Taltala, Kolkata Timings: 10 am to 5 pm Entry Fee: INR 20 for Indians, and INR 500 for foreigners

Suggested Read: 29 Super Romantic Places In Kolkata For Couples Hit By Cupid’s Bow

8. Birla Planetarium

Kolkata’s Birla Planetarium is a circular shaped structure designed on the lines of Buddhist Stupa, and Sanchi styles that was established by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru in 1963. One of the most-visited historical places in India , this planetarium hosts a spectacular sky show which is screened every day. Interestingly, Birla Planetarium makes use of equipment which is quite old and is no longer used in the newer facilities.

Famous For: Largest planetarium in Asia Location: Cathedral Road, near Victoria Memorial, Kolkata Timings: 11 am to 7 pm Entry Fee: INR 40 per person

Suggested Read: Shopping In Kolkata: A Guide To Help You Spend Money On The Right Item!

9. Prinsep Ghat

Of all the historical places near Kolkata , the Prinsep Ghat is one of the well-known attractions. This magnificent memorial is inspired by Greek, and Gothic styles of architecture, and is built along the banks of the Hooghly River. Considered to be one of the finest places to visit in Kolkata at night, the setu is lit with dazzling lights throughout the place which also serves as a popular picnic spot for all.

Famous For: Greek and Gothic style architecture Location: Fort William, Hastings, Kolkata Timings: 8 am to 8 pm Entry Fee: Free Entry

Suggested Read: 6 Luxurious Villas In Kolkata Which One Must Visit And Enjoy A Relaxing Stay!

10. Shaheed Minar

Formerly known as the Ochterlony Monument, this 18th-century monument is one of the major points of interest in the city. It was erected in the bygone era to show gratitude to the martyrs who fought for the country’s independence. No doubt, this 48-meter high monument is a major landmark in the city and absolutely impossible for anyone to miss.

Famous For: Dedicated to the martyrs of Indian freedom movement Location: Dharmtalla bus stop, Dufferin Road, Kolkata Timings: 10 am to 5 pm Entry Fee: Free Entry

Suggested Read: 21 Surreal Hill Stations Near Kolkata For A Rejuvenating Weekend Getaway

11. Dakshineswar Kali Temple

Image Credits: Aenic for Pexels

Kolkata is a destination that has some of the most stupendous architectural marvels hidden in its lap. One of such marvels is Dakshineswar Kali Temple that is not only known for its structure but also the old-world charm that it exudes. Sitting on the eastern banks of River Hooghly, Dakshineswar is dedicated to Goddess Bhavatarani, who happens to be the reincarnation of Goddess Kali. It is often believed that Goddess would help the devotees walk the path of liberation and aid them in achieving redemption. One can observe the Nava-Ratna style adorning this historic masterpiece in Kolkata.

Famous For: Its marvelous architecture Location: Dakshineswar, Kolkata, West Bengal Timings: 6 am to 12:30 pm Entry Fee: Free entry

Suggested Read: 17 Enchanting Road Trips From Kolkata You’d Love To Take

12. Writers Building

Image Credits: Matt Stabile for Wikipedia

Every historic building in Kolkata, obviously, has an interesting historical fact attached to itself. And for Writers Building, that interesting fact is that it got its fame for being the first ever three storied building in Kolkata! The building got its name for being a residence of the junior writers that were a part of the East Indian Company. Construction of this building was started as early as 1690 and is popularly known as ‘Mahakarn’. This is the place where the important documents and records of the Government of West Bengal are archived. Undoubtedly, it is one of the most prominent amongst the many Kolkata historical places.

Famous For: Collection of important historical documents Location: Binoy Badal Dinesh Bag N, B.B.D. Bagh, Kolkata Timings: 8 am to 6 pm Entry Fee: Free Entry

13. Town Hall

Image Credits: Sujay25 for Wikipedia

When it comes to historical or heritage buildings in Kolkata, Town Hall is one of the top names that come in mind of many. This structural marvel is the finest example of colonial architecture that is spread all across the city. Apart from being a treat for the eyes, this structure also has a historical significance latched to itself. It was in Town Hall that some of the most important meetings and gatherings were held during the British era. One can witness these meetings being painted on the walls. The Doric style architecture has surely made its impact on the Indian minds.

Famous For: Exquisite colonial architecture Location: Esplanade Row W, B.B.D. Bagh, Kolkata, West Bengal 700001 Timings: 10 am to 5 pm Entry Fee: Free Entry

Suggested Read: Durga Puja In Kolkata: A Guide To Feel The Joy Of This Festival

14. Nizam Palace

Image Credits:Gonzo Goone for Wikipedia

Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.

Initially named as ‘Galstaun Park’, Nizam Palace is among those historical places in Kolkata that is standing tall, strong, and proud for centuries now. Constructed in the early years of the 19th century, Nizam Palace was visited by the famous King Edward VIII. This Palace has witnessed a lot of history. It was once used as a hospital when World War II was being fought. This Palace was built under the command of J.C. Galstaun as a tribute to his lovely wife and then named it ‘Galstaun Park’ in the year 1933.

Famous For: Its historical background; built under the command of J.C. Galstaun as a tribute to his wife. Location: 236, Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Rd, Sreepally, Bhowanipore, Kolkata Timings: 10 am to 10 pm Entry Fee: INR 65 per person

Suggested Read: 40 Thrilling Weekend Getaways From Kolkata You Must Visit

15. Botanical Gardens

Image Credits: Biswarup Ganguly for Wikipedia

Botanical Gardens offer the perfect blend of natural and historical vibes to visitors. Also named as the Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Botanical Garden, this reserve is spread over 109 hectares of land and is home to around 1200 species of plants. Built in the 18th century, this Garden is home to a massive banyan tree that acts as a perfect canopy to beat the summer heat. One can observe a million dried specimens of plants and trees from various corners of the world. There are also an orchid house with several types of orchids preserved in it.

Famous For: Lush greenery and rich flora Location: Shibpur, Howrah, West Bengal Timings: NA Entry Fee: INR 10 per person

Suggested Read: 10 Best Churches In Kolkata That Beautifully Reflects The Spiritual Essence

16. Eden Gardens

Image Credits: JokerDurden for Wikipedia

This historical place in Kolkata calls out to all the cricket fans out there in the country. Eden Gardens happens to be the oldest cricket stadium that is still standing proud. In the year 1864, Eden Gardens was considered as the first cricket stadium of the country. Set by the British during 1841, Eden Gardens is one of the most important historical marvels that is sitting on the floor of Kolkata. It is not only the oldest but also the biggest stadium in the country and can hold around 80,000 people at one time.

Famous For: Oldest cricket stadium Location: Maidan, B.B.D. Bagh, Kolkata Timings: NA Entry Fee: Prices start at INR 400

17. Birla Temple

Image Credits: Ankur P for Wikipedia

Owned by G.D. Birla, Birla Temples are spread all over the country and attract pilgrims from various corners. One such Birla temple is located in Kolkata and has now become a historically significant marvel. Birla temple is one of the most revered temples in Kolkata. Dedicated to Lord Lakshmi Narayana, the construction of this temple started in the year 1970 and took approximately 26 years to complete. Built completely in white marble, this eye-catching structure is around 160 ft tall. The perfect blend of spirituality and the architectural beauty can easily be embraced in this idyllic spot.

Famous For: Remarkable & eye-pleasing architectural design Location: 29, Ashutosh Chowdary Ave, Ballygunge, Kolkata Timings: 5:30 am to 11 am and 4:30 pm to 9 pm Entry Fee: Free entry

Suggested Read: Explore These 12 Temples In Kolkata For A Spiritual Enrichment

18. St. Paul’s Cathedral

Image Credits: Ankitesh Jha for Wikipedia

St. Paul’s Church is another one of the historical places in Kolkata that is a must visit. It is one of the most awe-inspiring churches in Kolkata. Also known as the first Eposcopal Church of the Eastern World, this beauty is around 247 feet tall and leaves the jaws dropped to the ground. The building was inaugurated in the year 1847 and is considered as one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture. The best time to visit this marvel is during Christmas when the building lights up and the festivities are at a full swing.

Famous For: A fine example of Gothic architecture Location: Cathedral Rd, Maidan, Kolkata Timings: 9 am to 12 pm, 3 pm to 6 pm Entry Fee: Free entry

Further Read: 9 Best Beaches Near Kolkata Which Are The Ideal Getaway For A Relaxing Vacation

Dreaming of a vacation already? Plan your holiday in Kolkata and witness the charm of these historical places in Kolkata to relish the true essence of the City of Joy. All of these places will surely leave you in awe of craftsmanship from a bygone Era!

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own rights to any of the images and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Historical Places In Kolkata

Which are the top historical food places in Kolkata?

Tiretta Bazaar at the Sun Yat Sen Street, Nahoum & Sons Jewish Bakery in the New Market, Gangurams in the Bow Bazaar, and Peter Cat in Park Street are some of the top places to eat in the city of joy.

Which are the best historical sites near Kolkata?

While there are many significant historical sites in and around Kolkata. The best ones are - Kolkata Gateway and Hooghly Imambara. They are certainly the best places to visit near the city for treating the history buff within.

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Places to visit in Kolkata

Kolkata is blessed with many sightseeing places that offer a unique experience to every visitor. The city has many interesting places to keep its visitors pleasantly engaged. From refreshing gardens, serene lakes, historical buildings, museums, libraries, sports stadiums to ancient temples and churches, there are umpteen number of places to visit in Kolkata .

Making the sightseeing more interesting are the shopping streets, amusement parks and mouth-watering eateries. With all these and much more, a tour to Kolkata is sure to leave every traveller enchanted.

1. Victoria Memorial

Victoria Memorial is the sightseeing place that one cannot miss when in Kolkata. Built in the memory of Queen Victoria, this memorial was opened to the public in 1921. It was designed by the renowned architect of that period, William Emerson, who was the then President of British Institute of Architects.

This place is undeniably one of the finest art museums in the country with a rich collection of paintings on royal British families, lithographs, historical documents and artefacts. With a 184 feet tall structure, spread over 64 acres of land, it presents an impressive architecture as well.

The massive premises of the Victoria memorial consist of manicured lawn and gardens that surround the museum building along with two huge pools in the gardens. The gardens and lawn were designed by Lord Redesdale and David Prain.

The entrance of the museum gates is donned by two lions made out of marble and as one enters the gates, there sits the humongous bronze statue of Queen Victoria. This statue was sculpted in England and was shipped to India.

There are quite a few trivial facts about Victoria Memorial and the most interesting among them is that it took 15 years to complete the building of the memorial and the total cost of construction went up to INR 10, 500, 000, where a major portion of the funds came from Indian princely states.

2. Howrah Bridge

Also called as Rabindra Setu, Howrah Bridge is considered to be the busiest bridge in the world and a fine example of 20th century engineering. A popular place to visit in Kolkata, Howrah Bridge stands over the Hooghly River. Around 705 meters long, this bridge connects Kolkata and Howrah.

It was built in 1874 on two 270 feet tall pillars, without the usage of nuts and bolts. There are two other bridges at other points of the Hooghly River, namely Vivekananda Setu and Vidyasagar Setu.

It is considered as the icon of Bengal’s history and culture as the bridge has witnessed several historical events, both World War I and II included. The bridge was called an architectural marvel at the time of its construction due to its classification as ‘Suspension Type Balanced Cantilever’ type structure, and was the third longest cantilever bridge in the world.

The major amount of high-tension steel required for the bridge’s construction was commissioned from Tata Steel and the entire project cost INR 25 million.

Today, the bridge is considered to be the busiest cantilever bridge in the world as it serves as a gateway to over 200, 000 vehicles and 150, 000 pedestrians every single day.

3. Dakshineswar Kali Temple

Dedicated to Devi Bhavatarini, a form of Goddess Kali, Dakshineswar Kali Temple is a place that attracts hordes of devotees every day. Built in 1847 by the Queen of Janbazar, Rani Rashmoni, this temple stands on the banks of River Hooghly. Spread over an area of 25 acres, this temple is rightly regarded among Hindu devotees who come here to seek Goddess’s blessings and get rid of their problems.

There is both spiritual as well as socio- political significance attached to the history of the temple. When it comes to talking about the architecture, the temple structure was built in traditional ‘nav-ratna’ (nine spires) style which is associated with the Bengal School of architecture. It took 8 years and a staggering amount of INR 900,000 to complete the structure.

The temple became famous among the devotees after Shri Ramakrishna Paramhansa took over as the head priest after the demise of his elder brother. Being an ardent devotee of Goddess Kali, he made quite a few changes to socio- religious environment in Bengal.

Rani Rashmoni, the founder of the temple was equally important in getting the reputation of the temple widespread. As opposed to archaic beliefs, she opened the temple gates for every sect of the society, thus breaking the societal barriers of class, caste, creed and religion.

The massive courtyard of the main temple has 12 smaller Shiva temples identical to each other with black stone shivalingas. The Shiva temples represent 12 Jyotirlingas and the temples are constructed in typical Bengal architectural style called ‘Aat- Chala’ (eight eaves). It is here in one of the Shiva temples that Shri Ramakrishna Paramhansa attained enlightenment.

4. Nicco Amusement Park

Located in the posh Salt Lake City of Greater Kolkata, Nicco Amusement park is spread across a total area of 40 acres which makes it the largest amusement park of Eastern India and it is best to spend an entire day at leisure to enjoy and have a good time with family here.

It was opened for public in the year 1991 and houses over 35 different attractions which include water rides, amusement rides such as Toy Train, Tilt-a-Whirl, Striking Cars, Paddle Boat, Water Chute, Water Coaster, Flying Saucer, Pirate Ship, River Caves, Cyclone and Moonraker.

The Nicco Park is also certified green park and keeping with the green theme, there is a greenhouse with a variety of plants grown and sold by the Indo-American Hybrid Seeds Limited, an organization which also runs the greenhouse.

The park is run as a joint venture between Nicco Corporation Limited and the Government of West Bengal. The conception of the idea of an amusement park was made by Rajive Kaul, who is the Chairman of Nicco Group, during the 300th anniversary of the founding of Kolkata.

Apart from the fun rides and exhibits, the park also provides educational recreation for kids under which there are quite a few educational exhibits within the park premises along with information on the scientific mechanism behind all rides right at the entrance gates of each ride.

Additionally, there is a solar energy village set up inside the park for children to understand how non-conventional energy sources can be utilized as alternatives instead of fossil fuels thereby making attempts of conserving them.

The Nicco Park has also received numerous awards and recognitions at national as well as global levels. Its river caves have been rated as most popular and innovative rides of 2010 and the giant cyclone was rated as best indigenously manufactured ride of 2007 by the Indian Association of Amusement Parks and Industries.

5. Indian Museum

Built in 1814, Indian Museum in Kolkata is considered to be the oldest museum of the country. Founded by Asiatic Society of Bengal in Kolkata, its founder curator was a botanist from Denmark, Dr. Nathaniel Wallich. It was opened to the public in 1878. With six main sections and over 60 galleries, this museum is the largest museum in the country. It also boasts of being the ninth oldest museum in the world.

A wide collection of Mughal paintings, fossils, armour, mummies, skeletons, ornaments and antiques are displayed here. Not only with a rich collection, this museum captivates visitors with beautiful architecture as well. It was designed by Walter B Grawille, an Italian architect.

6. Kalighat Temple

Out of the 51 Shakti Peeths, Kalighat Temple of Kolkata is considered to be one of the most important. It was earlier a ghat on the old course of River Hooghly, which also led to the name of the city. Kalighat is believed to be the place where Goddess Sati’s right foot toes fell off from her burnt body during Lord Shiva's Rudra Tandava.

There is mention of Kalighat temple in 15th and 17th century literature too. It is said that the original temple, which was a small hut was built during the early 16th century. However, the current structure of the temple is said to be only 200 years old.

The Kalighat temple is located by the banks of Adi Ganga, a small canal which falls into the Hooghly River. It is believed that the route of this canal was the original course or path of the Hooghly River and hence, it is named Adi Ganga where ‘Adi’ means ‘Original’. The presence of archer coins that were popular during the Gupta period, prove the fact that the temple had been present at the same location during Gupta period.

The temple premises houses a couple of smaller temples, one dedicated to Shiva and is called as Nakuleshwar Mahadev Temple and the other temple is dedicated to Radha- Krishna and the locals call it Shyamo- Ray temple. There are few raised platforms in the courtyard of the temple premises to carry out certain activities and also for watching the rituals that take place inside the sanctum sanctorum.

An interesting trivia which relates Kalighat and Kolkata is that, the presiding deity of Kalighat goes by the name ‘Kalika’, and the city of Kolkata is named after her.

7. Alipore Zoological Gardens

Popularly known as the Alipore Zoo or Calcutta Zoo, the Alipore Zoological Garden established and opened in 1876, is the oldest formal zoo of India. The zoo spans a total area of around 46.5 acres and has been home to several indigenous mammals, reptiles and bird species.

It was first established as a project of Indian Natural History, the private menagerie owned by Richard Wellesley, the then Governor General of India in 1800. Later it went on to become the first formal zoo of India.

The set up of the zoological garden was successful in 1875, after 3 failed attempts, in 1842, 1867 and 1873 respectively. The very first collections of the zoological garden came from private collections of the elites and nobility.

The zoological garden is home to around 1266 animals, that are a mix of primates, herbivores and carnivores belonging to 108 different species. Among the avian population, there are exotic pheasants, cockatoos, macaws, storks, and few endangered species like Spoonbill.

The Reptile House of the Alipore Zoological Garden is placed in a special corner, custom designed as per the specific need of each inhabitant, be it snakes, marsh crocodiles or ghariyals. The centrally located water bodies within the zoo premises attract a lot of migratory bird population every year.

The mention of Rai Bahadur Ram Brahma Sanyal, the first Superintendent of the garden becomes a must when Alipore Zoo comes into picture because of his immense contribution towards the captive breeding of animals coupled with his dedication to providing proper nutrition and medical care to the animals. His observations were recorded and published in his book “A Handbook of the Management of Wild Animals in Captivity in Lower Bengal" in 1892.

8. Kolkata Race Course

Boasting of being one of the oldest racecourses in India, Kolkata Race Course is the place where the first ever horse race was conducted. Its beautiful landscape makes it a must place to see on your Kolkata tour . Many of the horse races are conducted during public holidays and over weekends; however the best time to visit this place is during the months of September to March.

The race course is maintained by the Royal Calcutta Turf Club. Established in 1820 for the East India elites as a common place for social gatherings, sports and other amusements, the race course serves the perfect reminder of the colonial era.

The polo ground located adjacent to the race course is said to be the best in India. When there are no horse races organized, the elites of the city settle for polo matches organised by the Royal Calcutta Turf Club.

9. Marble Palace

Another place to visit in Kolkata is the Marble Palace, which was constructed in the year 1835. As the name suggests, it has been built with marble. Built as a private property of Raja Rajendro Mullick, who was a landowner, this palace is often referred as the ‘Palace of Art’.

The family members of the Raja’s family still reside in the palace although one can also visit and admire its beautiful architecture and the rich and artistic collection. It houses a mini zoo where you can spot varied kinds of birds and animals. Its various exquisite oil paintings and original works of renowned painters, sculptures, pictures and other artefacts are worth exploring.

There is a Jagannath temple inside the premises which can be visited only from outside since it is only the family members who have access inside the temple. The specialty of this temple is that it was built even before the palace was built.

The architectural style of the building is a mix of traditional Bengali and Chinese elements and was built with over 120 different varieties of marbles, collected from various parts of the country. The marble pillars, walls and floorings of the mansion have carvings that bear resemblance to one of the earliest wonders of the world, the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus.

10. Eco Tourism Park

Spread across 470 acres of land, Eco Tourism Park is a popular place to visit in Kolkata, offering a wide array of recreational choices. Also known as Prakriti Tirtha, it has lakes, museums, garden, amphitheatre, grassland, restaurants, mist house, etc., making it an ideal place to take a break from the monotony of everyday life.

The entire park area is surrounded by 103 acres of water body, giving it an appearance of an island. The three sections of the park are Ecological Zone, Theme Garden and Open Spaces with an array of activities that include zorbing, kayaking, cycling, rowing, paddle boating, speed boat rides, etc. which the visitors can choose to indulge in as per their interests.

There are official conference rooms as well as cottages to rent out for arranging both personal as well as official engagements. The location of the park makes it an absolute destination for a weekend getaway where one can unwind after a hectic work week.

11. Eden Gardens

Being the oldest cricket ground of India, Eden Garden is nothing less than a pilgrimage for cricket fanatics and has been named as one of the most iconic cricket stadiums in the world. It is a place for several historical moments related to the sport.

With a seating capacity of 68,000, it has undergone many improvements since its construction. The first ever first- class match that was hosted in this stadium was in 1917-18. The first test match in Eden gardens was played in 1934 while the first ODI match was played in 1987. It is indeed a place worth visiting in Kolkata.

It is not only the largest cricket stadium in India but the second largest in the world, second to the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Australia. It is home to the Bengal Ranji Team and IPL team, the Kolkata Knight Riders. Eden garden is famous for being home to the loudest and liveliest audience and has been called ‘The Lords of Indian Subcontinent’ by former Australian captain, Steve Waugh.

The trivial fact about Eden Garden is that it was initially named ‘Auckland Circus Gardens’ but later was changed to ‘Eden Gardens’, after the Eden sisters of Lord Auckland Eden, Emily and Fanny Eden.

12. Jorasanko Thakurbari

A visit to Kolkata is incomplete without visiting the ancestral home of one of its most loved citizens, who also happens to be the first ever Asian to win the coveted Nobel Prize. Jorasanko Thakur Bari, the ancestral home of Rabindranath Tagore, who was a poet and an artist, is a not to be missed destination when in Kolkata.

The Thakur Bari, which literally means, ‘House of Tagores’ has now been converted into Rabindra Bharati University and serves as a centre for Indian Classical Fine Arts and quality education. A portion of the building was converted into a museum in 1961 and is called Rabindra Bharati Museum. It exhibits the life and stories of all members of the Tagore family. It is a palatial ‘red brick’ mansion built on an area of 35,000 square metres.

It wasn’t just Rabindranath Tagore who was a person of importance in the house; all members of the Tagore family were known for their eminence in various walks of life, including the women of the family.

It is interesting to know that the purdah system which was prevalent in pre- independent India was never followed in the Tagore household. The women were equally encouraged to participate in discussions pertaining to politics, culture, art, literature, business and other worldly matters. One gets to get a glimpse of this and understand the family better while cruising through the museum.

Today, Jorasanko Thakur Bari is a must visit hub for all artists and art lovers from across the globe. It remains as popular as it used to be in the pre- independence era when all reformation activities, be it art or cultural, brewed right inside this mansion, including Bengal renaissance and Brahmo Samaj.

13. National Library

The largest library in India, National Library is an important place to visit in Kolkata. Built with the prime objective to preserve, collect and distribute literary materials that are created in India, the National library is a place that will interest everyone.

Spread over 30 acres of land, it is located on the Belvedere Estate in Alipore. This library is now managed by the Dept. of Culture, Ministry of Tourism & Culture, Government of India. Its rich collection consists of books in almost all the prominent languages of the country, varying from Telugu, Sindhi, Punjabi, Hindi, Urdu and many more. The library also has a separate section for children.

14. Mother House

The headquarters of the Missionaries of Charity, which is popularly known as ‘Mother House’ was found by Mother Teresa in 1950, with the motive to serve humanity. As her last resting place, her tomb lies in the same place.

Visitors can also see the house where she has spent most years of her life along with the tomb. It is an important place to visit in Kolkata. A small museum has also been built near the building, showcasing the life of Mother Teresa and whatever minimal utilities she lived with.

The artefacts and exhibits of the museum include handwritten letters of Mother Teresa, her saree, her crucifix and rosary, her worn out slippers and a worn out bowl. Her handwritten spiritual urgings are also placed as exhibits here. They are a reflection of the humility with which she spent her life.

The burial place or the room where Mother Teresa’s tomb is built is used by visitors for offering prayers and meditation. Sometimes, there are pilgrim group masses conducted here in presence of priests however; there is a need of an advanced notification to carry out such requests.

15. MP Birla Planetarium

Among the many famous landmarks and attractions of the City of Joy, Birla Planetarium, which loosely resembles the Sanchi Stupa in design, has its own uniqueness by being the oldest and largest planetariums in Asia, and second largest in the world. It was built in 1962 and had a grand inaugural at the hands of Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru, who was the then Prime Minister of India.

The idea of building a planetarium in India was conceived by the famous industrialist and philanthropist, Mr. M. P. Birla, the founder of the M. P. Group. He wanted it to not only be a planetarium but also an institute where education on astronomy, astrophysics and cosmology would be carried out.

The institute offers a 10- month course in astronomy on a weekly basis without any charges. The course is conducted during the evenings. Additionally, there are also graded programmes for school kids of all age groups and a detailed post- graduate diploma course in Astronomy and Planetary Sciences for students who majored in Physics and Mathematics.

One of the unique features of Birla Planetarium of Kolkata is that there are live lectures during the shows, which helps visitors to gain additional information, mostly trivial, thus giving them an opportunity to interact with industry experts.

One of the reasons for the popularity of Birla Planetarium is also because of its location within the vicinity of Maidan area and being in close proximity of the Victoria Memorial and St. Paul’s Cathedral, two most iconic structures of Kolkata, being significant in terms of both history and architecture.

16. Belur Math

Belur Math, the headquarters of Ramakrishna Math and Mission is a temple for seekers of spiritual fulfilment and makes it a must visit destination as it follows a non- sectarian and spiritual approach. It is spread across a total area of 40 acres, and is surrounded by palm trees and well maintained gardens.

The temple itself is the representation of one universal faith and is visited by people from all over the world. The Math was conceptualized and founded by the chief disciple of Shri Ramakrishna Paramhansa, Swami Vivekananda during the 20th century. The ideology behind setting up such an institution was ‘selfless service of God in man’.

Due to its impressive architecture, peaceful ambience and historical significance, Belur Math has become a must visit destination when in Kolkata.

It was Swami Vijnanananda, who designed the Belur Math temple, which is built in chunar stone and concrete in an area spanning 32, 900 square feet and 113 feet high. Since it is based on one universal faith, the elements and styles of design are inspired by religious diversity and blend into each other very smoothly. Due to this, the monument appears to be a temple, a cathedral and a mosque when seen from different angles.

Due to the many facets of its design, the monument has also been named as ‘Symphony of Architecture’ by the Ramakrishna Mission. The architect was also a direct disciple of Shri Ramakrishna.

Apart from the central monument, there is a museum which exhibits information and personal belongings of Ramakrishna and others, and temples of Holy Mother Sri Sarada Devi, wife of the great sage Sri Ramakrishna and all direct disciples of the sage. There is also a Samadhi enclosure which houses a marble plaque with names of 7 direct disciples of Shri Ramakrishna who were cremated there.

Participating in their volunteering services is a good way to be associated with and understand the philosophies of the Mission.

17. Fort William

Kolkata is a treasure trove of history and historical buildings and another must visit place that played a very significant role in India’s history is Fort William. It was named after King William III or William of Orange. The Fort William that now stands strong is the second and new fort which was commissioned by Sir Robert Clive in 1758 and was completed in 1781. The old Fort William was a smaller two- storeyed structure built in 1696 and is known as the infamous ‘Black hole of Calcutta’.

The new Fort William was built after British East India defeated and killed the then Nawab of Bengal, Siraj Ud Daulah in the Battle of Plassey. The new fort was built in a separate area and with a stronger defence structure laid over 5 acres of land. The fort building is octagonal in shape and the irregular star design makes it impassable. Fort William is the only fort in the entire world which could never be besieged.

Today, Fort William acts as the military headquarters of Eastern Command with a capacity to hold around 10,000 army personnel at a time. The fort complex has a museum wherein the exhibits are a collection of utilities or ammunitions or cannons captured during wartime right from medieval to modern day. Among them, a couple of such attractions are the cannons and tanks captured during the Bangladesh Liberation war of 1971.

The fort has a boxing ring, swimming pool, firing range, restaurants, outdoor playground, shopping complex, movie theatre, post office, library and laundry. The access to the fort is restricted for civilians without prior permits however; the Indian Army arranges a special display on 16th December every year, which is celebrated as ‘Vijay Diwas’.

18. Birla Mandir

Birla Mandir of Kolkata is another prominent place to visit in the city. Its impressive architecture with intricate carving and sculpting that has been built at an elevation of 160 feet above the ground, presents a mesmerising sight. Built in white marble, it is spread over an area of 130 acres of land. Started in 1970, its construction was completed in 1996. Also known as Lakshmi Narayan Mandir, Birla Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and Goddess Radha.

Apart from the principal deities, the temple also has statues of other Hindu Gods- Shiva in meditation mode, Goddess Durga and Goddess Shakti.

Built by the illustrious Birla Family of West Bengal, the temple has structural resemblance to the Lingaraj Temple of Bhubaneswar in Odisha and has a huge number of devotees from far off places visiting during the Janmashtami festivities.

Built with a mix of design elements from both traditional and contemporary art, it is considered one of the finest architectural works of the country with fine and intricate artworks adorning the dome, pillars and walls of the temple. The marble walls have pictorial carvings of teachings and verses from the Bhagavad Gita. The entire structure was designed by architect Nomi Bose.

The temple is located on Ballygunge Road in South Kolkata.

19. Science City

Science City in Kolkata, being the largest science centre in the entire Indian subcontinent, is one of the major attractions and is a must visit as it offers one of a kind experience for the visitors. The Science City is a perfect place to experience the blend between Science and Entertainment. It was opened in 1997.

It is a unit of the National Council of Science Museums (NCSM) and was started with the single motto of popularization of science. Built on what used to be a dumping ground for more than 100 years, the Science City lies over a 50 acre land. The complex is divided into two portions namely, the Science Centre and the Convention Centre.

Paul Jozef Crutzen and Mr. Jyoti Basu, the then CM of West Bengal had inaugurated the Convention Centre in December 1996. The complete centre was inaugurated by Mr. Indra Kumar Gujral, the then Prime Minister of India in July 1997.

The centre which is equally famous among domestic as well as international tourists has a dedicated section for aquatic worlds that houses some of the most exotic fish and insects. Additionally, this section is also home to Space Odyssey, Dynamotion, Science Exploration Hall, Maritime Centre, Earth Exploration Hall and a sprawling Science Park.

20. Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Botanical Garden

Built in the 18th century, the Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Botanical Garden is spread over 109 hectares. With over 14,000 trees, shrubs, creepers and climbers put together, the garden houses 1400 different species of flora. It is one of the most beautiful tourist attractions of Kolkata, with lush greenery and refreshing environment to relax. It has an orchid house, an in-house library, and artificial lakes with the facility of boating as well.

The garden was conceptualized in 1787 by Lieutenant Colonel Robert Kyd, an army officer of the British East India Company. The garden was called East India Company Bagan and has been renamed many times until 2009 when it was named after the famous Indian Scientist, Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose.

The Botanical garden has an envious collection of several exotic plants including rare and endangered species, which is conserved into 25 separate divisions. These collectives are placed in glass houses, greenhouses and conservatories depending on the type of environment they need for their well- being.

The garden houses the oldest herbariums of the country which was named Central National Herbarium. It is one of the most extensive herbariums in the entire world with 2.5 million specimens of dried plants. This is maintained by the Botanical Survey of India.

Some of the rarest collections include Victoria Amazonica, a type of water lily, double coconut, Krishnabot and the Shivalinga tree. It is interesting to know that all the artificial lakes inside the garden are interconnected via underground pipes, which are further connected to the river for smooth inlet and outlet of water via sluice gates.

The major highlight of the botanical garden is its 250-year-old banyan tree, occupying an area of 1.89 hectares forming the largest canopy in the world. The tree finds mention in the Guiness Book of World Record, in almost all travel books and is famously called ‘The Great Banyan Tree’.

21. Writers’ Building

Initially built for the clerical and the administrative staff in 1690s, Writer’s Building which is also known as Mahakaran, is now used as the Secretariat of West Bengal Government. The building was named Writers as the junior staff was called writer back then.

The present impressive structure of the writer's building was built during the tenure of Lt. Governor Ashley Eden in 1877. The construction was done in the place of an old building. Located in the heart of the city, its red colour and gigantic structure is impossible to miss when in Kolkata.

22. St. Paul’s Cathedral

St. Paul’s Cathedral is a historical building with religious significance. The foundation to this building was laid out in 1839 while its construction was completed after 8 years.

Designed by Major William Nairn Forbes, the building of the cathedral was built in Indo-Gothic architectural style. However, due to natural calamities, it was destroyed twice. Later in 1934, St. Paul’s Cathedral was again constructed with an architectural resemblance to Bell Harry Tower of Canterbury Cathedral. Its beautiful structure makes it a place worth visiting.

23. Shaheed Minar

Given the history of Kolkata, it is quite clear that there were many wars and rebellions fought here, which makes the city a place of memorials. Located in the Esplanade area of Kolkata, next to the Brigade grounds, stands the Shaheed Minar, which literally translates to ‘Martyr’s Monument’.

It was first constructed in memory of Sir David Ochterlony, who was a Major General of Bengal Artillery in British East India Company. The memorial monument was initially named as Ochterlony Monument and was built to commemorate East India Company’s victory over the Marathas in Delhi in 1804 and Gurkha War in 1816.

Designed by architect J. P. Parker, the monument is mostly a blend of many architectural styles with elements inspired from Middle Eastern and Turkish designs. The ground surrounding the monument has remained witness to several political activities.

24. Aquatica Water Park

Spread across a total area of 17 acres, the Aquatic Water Park in Kolkata is considered to be the largest water themed park of Eastern India. The water park is located in Hatgachia, near Rajarhat township and was built in 1999. To get your dose of weekend getaway when in Kolkata, a visit to this theme park becomes necessary.

As the name suggests, the park’s main attraction is its various themed water rides however, the premises also have resort facilities wherein the guests can select from the deluxe and super deluxe rooms and book themselves a relaxed stay over the weekend and unwind.

When it comes to the themed water rides, there are options for every age group and they include Jungle safari, Black hole, Raft slide, Aqua dance, Niagara Falls, Cyclone, Wave pool, Lazy river, The Family pool, Pendulum and Multi-lane. Among these, the wave pool is the most popular and is rated highest on the demand scale.

In addition to resort and rides, Aquatica Park also offers services for corporate and large-scale events which also include weddings and receptions. There are conference halls, party lawns and an Aqua Hall that are specifically designed to host wedding receptions along with a few large scale corporate events that require a setup of formal sit- down dinners.

The 3 open lawns are named Aqua lawn, which is the largest among the open lawns, Central lawn which is surrounded by the lazy river and the third one is called Niagara Lawn as it has the Niagara fall ride which makes a pretty backdrop.

25. Rabindra Sarobar

An artificial lake which was dug out of a marsh, the Rabindra Sarobar is the second largest water body of Kolkata, spread across 73 acres out of the total green cover of 192 acres which constitutes indigenous flora and vegetation. The lake was made in 1921 and has become a favorite for thousands of morning walkers and joggers of the nearby area.

Considering it as a major environmental and ecological reserve, the Rabindra Sarobar has been named as a water body of national importance and also been declared to be a ‘National Lake’ in 1997. The lake also becomes home to several migratory birds during winter and is a sight to watch. Several birding enthusiasts flock to the lake during this time.

26. Rabindra Sadan

Established in the year 1967 on the Belvedere Street, Rabindra Sadan is one of the oldest cultural hubs and is a prime venue for theatre and several film festivals in Kolkata. It was named Rabindra Sadan in memory of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. Being the hub for culture and fine arts, artists from all over the world visit and participate in theatre and performing arts.

It is interesting to know that the foundation stone was laid by Prime Minister Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru in 1961 and the construction was completed in 1967.

The entire complex houses several cultural centres like Rabindra Sadan Stage, Nazrul Academy, Nandan- a fil and cultural centre sponsored by the government, Gaganendra Pradarshanshala, Paschimbanga Bangla Akademi- the official regulatory body of the Bengali language in West Bengal, and the auditorium named Sisir Mancha.

27. Raj Bhawan

Originally built in 1803, across a land area of 27 acres, the Raj Bhavan of Kolkata is the official residence of the Governor of West Bengal. Boasting of an impeccable architecture and surrounded by massive gardens, the Raj Bhavan is accessible to the public only upon producing government photo ID cards. For international visitors, both original and photocopies of passports are a must. Visitors are given guided tours of the building.

The scandalous but interesting story behind the building of the Raj Bhavan dates back to 1799 when the then Governor-General of India Marquess Wellesley decided to have a palatial house to himself as a symbol of his status. It took him four years and around 63,000 pounds to complete the construction, which did not go very well with the treasury of the East India Company. He was finally sent back to England after being accused of improper usage of Company funds.

Designed by architect Captain Charles Wyatt, the structure is built in neo- classical architectural style with baroque overtones. The impressive halls and curved corridors, balconies, throne room, banquet halls, residential suites are worth a visit to get the feel of the colonial opulence.

28. Prinsep Ghat

One of the highlights of one’s Kolkata trip should be a visit to Prinsep Ghat. Located between Fort William’s St. George Gate and the Water Gate, Prinsep ghat was constructed in 1843 using Palladian style architecture with Gothic and Greek inlays. The monument was designed by W. Fitzgerald and named after the Anglo- Indian scholar James Prinsep to honor his contributions to the fields of archaeology, meteorology, and ancient Indian scriptures.

With the Vidyasagar Setu in the background, sunsets from Prinsep Ghat are a sight to revere. Most locals flock here in the evenings and wait till sunset as it offers one of the most beautiful sunset views. One can also take a walk on the newly constructed riverfront that stretches from Prinsep ghat to Babughat and the entire stretch is lined by garden and fountains.

29. Park Street

When in Kolkata, one cannot and must not avoid a visit to Park Street, the nerve centre of the city’s evening recreations and happening night life thereby gaining its reputation as ‘the street that never sleeps’. The park street area is thronged with youngsters and elites alike due to the variety of places it offers.

Apart from being the hub of most prominent landmark heritage buildings of the city, Park Street is also famous for the food, hence, is also called the ‘Food Street’. It is the place where the iconic South Park Street Cemetery is situated, which is considered among the most haunted places of India.

Some of the famous restaurants and nightclubs in the area are Trinca’s, Peter Cat, Moulin Rouge, Mocambo, Blue Fox, Charcoal Grill, Tung Fong, Over the Top and Only Pub. Park Street also offers shopping experience for both street shoppers and elites.

30. Tipu Sultan Mosque

The multi-dome mosque in the heart of Esplanade in the city of Kolkata tells tales of a fallen royal family. The mosque in question is the Tipu Sultan mosque which was built by Prince Ghulam Mohammed Anwar Shah, the youngest son of the legendary and braveheart King of Mysore, Tipu Sultan.

Constructed in the year 1832, the mosque locally known as Tipu Sultan Shahi Masjid is an architectural and cultural heritage with double aisles and tall minarets. It is believed that the family of Tipu Sultan was exiled in the then city of Calcutta after the king was killed.

Forced to live a penniless life after the death of his father, the young prince started saving the stipend he received from the British East India Company and used his enterprising skills to acquire all the land from South to Central Kolkata. He built twin mosques in honor of his father, Tipu sultan and named both the mosques after him.

The mosque might not be very popular but due to its interesting history, is visited by people from far and wide.

Along with these, there are a few more interesting places to visit in Kolkata such as South Park Street Cemetery , Town Hall , Nakhoda Mosque , etc. And if you have a day or two extra, then you can plan a visit to various sightseeing places near Kolkata city. Some of these are Sundarbans National Park, Shantiniketan, terracotta temples of Bishnupur and beaches in Digha and Mandarmani.

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Popular Tourist Places to Visit in Kolkata

• Dakshineswar Kali Temple Kolkata
• Howrah Bridge Kolkata
• Park Street/Food Street Kolkata
• Indian Museum Kolkata
• Victoria Memorial Kolkata
• Birla Temple Kolkata
• Kolkata Race Course
• Eden Gardens Kolkata
• Marble Palace Mansion Kolkata
• Kalighat Kali Temple Kolkata
• Fort William Kolkata
• Writers’ Building Kolkata
• St. Paul’s Cathedral Kolkata
• National Library Kolkata
• Mother House Kolkata
• Eco Tourism Park Kolkata
• Mother's Wax Museum Kolkata
• Nicco Park Kolkata
• Birla Planetarium Kolkata
• BBD Bagh Kolkata
• Science City Kolkata
• Belur Math Kolkata
• Alipore Zoological Gardens Kolkata
• Millennium Park Kolkata
• Shaheed Minar Kolkata
• Aquatica Water Park Kolkata
• Armenian Church Kolkata
• College Street Kolkata
• General Post Office Kolkata
• Kumartuli Kolkata
• Lal Dighi Kolkata
• Misti Hub Kolkata
• Nakhoda Mosque Kolkata
• Netaji Bhawan Kolkata
• Police Museum Kolkata
• Prinsep Ghat Kolkata
• Raj Bhavan Kolkata
• Shobhabazar Rajbari Kolkata
• St. John’s Church Kolkata
• Star Theatre Kolkata
• Town Hall Kolkata
• Tram Museum Kolkata
• Vidyasagar Bridge Kolkata
• Rabindra Sadan Kolkata
• Tipu Sultan Mosque Kolkata
• Rabindra Sarobar Kolkata
• Shantiniketan Kolkata
• Sundarbans National Park Kolkata
• Elliot Park Kolkata
• Wet-O-Wild Kolkata
• Hooghly Imambara Kolkata
• Nehru Children’s Museum Kolkata
• Snow Park, Axis Mall, Kolkata
• Babughat Kolkata
• Mandarmani Beach Kolkata
• Digha Beach Kolkata
• Bandel Church Kolkata
• Maddox Square Park Kolkata
• Muhammad Ali Park Kolkata
• Santosh Mitra Square Kolkata
• Patuli Floating Market Kolkata
• Kolkata Gate / Biswa Bangla Gate
• Maidan / Brigade Parade Ground Kolkata
• Vivekananda Setu / Bally Bridge Kolkata
• Chintamani Kar Bird sanctuary Kolkata
• Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary Kolkata
• ISKCON Radha Govinda Temple Kolkata
• Swami Vivekananda's Ancestral House Kolkata
• Jorasanko Thakurbari / House of the Thakurs Kolkata
• Birla Industrial and Technological Museum Kolkata
• Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Botanical Garden Kolkata
• Nature Park Kolkata

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17+ Unique Places to Visit in Kolkata: India’s Cultural Capital (2024)

• Last Updated: April 8, 2024
• Asia , Destinations , India

There are so many unique places to visit in Kolkata. Often described as the cultural capital of India, there’s something about Kolkata that’s hard to describe, and incredibly special.

Perhaps it’s the crumbling, faded grandeur. The giant gnarled trees with snaking vines, pushing up through uneven pavements. Or maybe it’s the unique mix of old and new. Or the city’s huge wealth of culture and history.

Whatever it is, there’s something magical in the air here. I’ve been to Kolkata several times, have spent almost a month in the city in total, and also have several friends from there.

Many people pass through Kolkata on their way up to the tranquil hill stations of north-east India , or the spectacular trekking paradise of the eastern Himalayas .

But it’s definitely worth spending at least a couple of days in the city, too. From historical landmarks to trendy neighbourhoods, here are some of my favourite places in Kolkata.

Table of Contents

Popular Places To Visit In Kolkata

Kolkata is a huge city with a lot to see and do. Here are some of the best-known spots.

1. Victoria Memorial

The Victorian Memorial is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kolkata. This large marble monument was opened in 1921 and is dedicated to Queen Victoria.

The Victoria Memorial is located in the Maidan, an enormous central park that’s the biggest urban park in West Bengal and one of the largest in all of Asia.

It’s surrounded by 64 acres of beautiful grounds and ornamental gardens.

Calcutta was the former British capital of India, and this monument was built as a symbol of imperial power and opulence.

Inside the Victoria Memorial Hall, there’s a museum with exhibitions on the history of Kolkata and India under British rule, as well as several other galleries.

It’s well worth a visit. You’ll find it filled with interesting artefacts and exhibits, including paintings, sculptures, and other memorabilia from the colonial period.

There’s a small but very reasonable entry fee of 20 rupees per person for Indian citizens and 200 rupees ($2.50 USD) for foreign tourists.

Address: 1 Queens Way, Maidan, Kolkata, West Bengal 700071, India

Opening hours: 10am-5pm, Monday-Sunday

2. Dakshineswar Kali Temple

Located on the banks of the Hooghly River north of the city centre, the Dakshineswar Kali Temple is one of the most important religious sites in Kolkata. The temple was built in 1855 and is dedicated to the goddess Kali.

It’s a popular place with Hindu pilgrims, many of whom travel from all over West Bengal and other parts of eastern India to come and worship here.

All visitors, Hindu and non-Hindu alike, are welcome and there’s usually somebody at the entrance who will be happy to explain the history and significance of the temple.

The temple complex consists of a large central walled courtyard, the main temple itself, plus several shrines and other rooms.

Visitors can also enjoy views of the Hooghly from the complex, and there’s a ghat (a set of steps) leading down to the river where local people come to wash and bathe.

The Dakshineswar Kali Temple is very atmospheric, and one of the most unique places to visit in Kolkata.

Address: Dakshineswar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700076, India

Opening hours: 6am–12:30pm + 3pm–8:30pm, Mon-Sun

3. Howrah Bridge

Another iconic landmark in Kolkata is the Howrah Bridge, which spans the Hooghly River and connects the city centre to the district of Howrah.

The bridge is one of the largest cantilever bridges in the world, as well as being one of the busiest, and is an impressive sight to behold. Amazingly, the Howrah Bridge was built without using any nuts or bolts.

To get a good view of Howrah Bridge, you can take a boat ride underneath it, walk across it, or simply enjoy the views from either side.

Also, if you take a taxi from central Kolkata to Howrah railway station (on the western bank of the Hooghly), you will almost certainly pass over the bridge.

At night, Howrah Bridge is lit up with brightly coloured lights. This is also one of the best places to view the city’s illuminated skyline.

4. Marble Palace

For a taste of old-world luxury, visit the Marble Palace, one of the most opulent homes in North Kolkata.

The Marble Palace was built in 1835 by Raja Rajendra Mullick, a prominent and wealthy merchant from West Bengal.

Today, the palace is still owned by Mullick’s descendants and is one of the grandest and best-preserved houses of nineteenth-century Calcutta.

Built largely in Neoclassical style, and incorporating various features of traditional Bengali and Chinese architecture, the palace has marble floors and walls, and a number of ornate marble sculptures.

It now houses a museum containing Mullick’s large collection of art and sculpture, including portraits, statues, and paintings by various famous European artists.

You can explore the many rooms and halls of the palace, and also enjoy the tranquil landscaped gardens.

The Marble Palace is a unique and fascinating place to visit in Kolkata, don’t miss it.

Address: 46, Muktaram Babu St, Raja Katra, Jorasanko, Kolkata, West Bengal 700007, India

Opening hours: 10am-4pm, Tues-Weds + Fri-Sun (closed Mon + Thurs)

5. Kolkata Botanical Garden

For a perfect break from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to the Kolkata Botanical Garden, formally known as the Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden.

It’s one of the largest botanical gardens in India and is home to over 12,000 species of plants, flowers, and lush green trees.

The whole place is well-landscaped and nicely maintained. It’s incredibly green and peaceful, with a number of small lakes, lawns, tropical plants and trees, including a giant banyan tree that is thought to be 250 years old.

On the shores of one of the larger lakes, you can hire little boats and potter around at your leisure.

A taxi from the city centre to the Kolkata Botanical Garden typically takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Address: Botanical Garden Road, B Shalimar Area, Howrah, West Bengal 711103, India

Opening hours: 5:30am–7:30am + 9am–4pm, Tues-Sun (closed Mondays)

6. Birla Planetarium

Another popular tourist attraction in Kolkata is the Birla Planetarium, which is located on the edge of the Maidan, next to St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Opened in 1962, this enormous planetarium is the largest in Asia and the second largest in the world. It has a large circular gallery with over 500 reclining seats and a state-of-the-art 360-degree projection system.

Here you can watch incredible virtual-reality shows on a range of topics, including space exploration, constellations, cosmic collisions, and phenomena such as nebulae and black holes.

You can even take a guided virtual starship tour of our solar system.

Shows are conducted daily in English, Bengali and Hindi.

There is also a museum with exhibits on the history of astronomy and space exploration, detailed celestial models, as well as a space research laboratory.

The Birla Planetarium is a really fantastic and unique place to visit in Kolkata and offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of astronomy and the immense scale of the universe.

Address: 96, Jawaharlal Nehru Road, Kolkata, West Bengal 700071, India

Opening hours: 12:30pm–6:30pm, Mon-Sat; 10:30am–6:30pm, Sunday

7. Park Street Area

One of the trendiest and liveliest places to visit in Kolkata is the Park Street area , which stretches from east of the Maidan to Park Circus 7 Point.

In this district, you’ll find chic cafes, trendy bars, and upscale restaurants. It’s the perfect place to people-watch and enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the sights and sounds of the city.

The Park Street area is also home to some of Kolkata’s best nightlife, with buzzing live music venues, bars with DJs and a number of other fun places to hang out in the evening.

For food, you’re spoilt for choice here, with a huge range of options ranging from street food stalls selling kati rolls and chaat to fancy restaurants serving food from all over the world.

I particularly love the  Nepali street food  stands where you can buy delicious momos (dumplings), thukpas (noodle soup), and baras (fried lentil pancakes).

South Park Street Cemetery / South Park Cemetery

Near the eastern end of the Park Street area is the  South Park Street Cemetery , a peaceful 18th-century Christian graveyard, containing the large, ornate tombs of many of the city’s former colonial rulers.

South Park Cemetery is open every day from 10am-5pm.

8. St Paul’s Cathedral

Located next to the Birla Planetarium, St Paul’s Cathedral is the most important Christian church in Kolkata and the first Anglican cathedral in Asia. It’s also one of the most beautiful buildings in the city.

The cathedral was built in 1847 in Indo-Gothic style, with stained glass windows, intricate carvings, and Florentine Renaissance-style frescoes.

It’s a very large and impressive building, with the nave measuring 75 metres in length and 25 metres in width.

The cathedral has a square tower, modelled on the 12th century Canterbury Cathedral in England, with a central spire that’s 61 metres tall.

Visitors can explore the inside of the cathedral, and even take a tour of the bell tower for stunning views of the city. The views of the Victoria Memorial that you get from up here are fantastic too.

Address: Cathedral Rd, Maidan, Kolkata, West Bengal 700071, India

Opening hours: 10am-6pm, Mon-Sun

9. Sudder Street

Popular with budget travellers, Sudder Street is a narrow road in central Kolkata, close to the Indian Museum. It’s famous for its super-cheap hostels and budget hotels.

The street rose to fame on the hippie trail in the 1960s and has been a well-known destination for backpackers ever since.

I first visited Sudder Street as a penniless backpacker in 2011 and stayed at the Hotel Maria , one of the better-known budget hostels in the city.

I paid less than £4 GBP for my own room. The place was pretty grimy to say the least, though I’ve heard that it’s (slightly) nicer today.

As well as cheap accommodation, Sudder Street is famous for its second-hand bookshops and vinyl record sellers, plus vendors selling clothes, shawls, and a range of souvenirs.

Even if you don’t stay here, I’d still recommend checking out Sudder Street – it’s a very iconic place to visit in Kolkata.

And while you’re in the area, the Indian Museum is also worth a visit, especially if you’re interested in Indian art, archaeology and anthropology. It’s open from 10am–5pm every day except Monday.

10. Fort William

Fort William is a large fort located on the Hooghly River’s eastern banks. It was built by the British East India Company to protect against attack from the French and Dutch.

It was named after King William III, otherwise known as William of Orange , and is one of the most famous historical places in Kolkata.

Fort William is the site of the infamous “Black Hole of Calcutta”, a tiny dungeon in which hundreds of British prisoners of war were held in conditions so cramped that many died from heat exhaustion and suffocation.

Today, Fort William is used by the Indian Army as a regional headquarters.

Sadly, visiting Fort William is not usually possible. You can usually only view the fort from the outside, due to it being a military facility. However, those interested in the history of Kolkata will still find this a fascinating place to see.

Address: Fort William, Hastings, Kolkata, West Bengal 700021, India

Opening hours: N/A

11. Eden Gardens

Eden Gardens is the name of a much-loved park just north of the Maidan and south of B.B.D. Bagh, the busiest commercial district in the city and Kolkata’s buzzing nerve centre.

It’s also the name of the enormous 19th-century cricket stadium located inside the park next to the Netaji Indoor Stadium, an indoor multi-purpose sports arena.

Eden Gardens park is peaceful and picturesque, home to a wide range of plant species, and is dotted with ornamental lakes, temples and shrines.

It’s a great spot for a picnic on a sunny afternoon and is popular with people of all ages.

The iconic Eden Gardens stadium is the oldest in India and is often referred to as the home of Indian cricket.

With a capacity of 66,000, it’s also the third-largest cricket stadium in the world and regularly hosts major Indian Premier League and international cricket matches.

For fans of cricket, this is a must-visit place in Kolkata!

I once got caught up in the enormous wave of fans leaving a match here. The atmosphere was really electric, like a giant carnival, with people singing, dancing and just having the best time. And India had actually lost the game.

Watching a match here is high on my bucket list!

12. Mother House

Another interesting historical site in Kolkata, the Mother House is a convent and the headquarters of the Missionaries of Charity.

It’s famous as being Mother Teresa’s house, the place where she lived and worked, and is also where she was buried.

Mother Teresa was an Albanian-Indian nun who founded the Missionaries of Charity to look after orphaned street children and abandoned babies in the city.

She died in 1997, aged 87, and was officially declared a saint by the Catholic church for her work.

Mother House is now a popular pilgrimage and tourist destination in Kolkata. There is an on-site museum with exhibits on Mother Teresa’s life and work and a small chapel.

Address: 54A, Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Rd, Taltala, Kolkata, West Bengal 700016, India

Opening hours: 8am-12pm + 3pm-6pm, Fri-Weds (closed Thursdays)

Hidden Gems In Kolkata

As well as seeing the famous attractions in Kolkata, if you have time I recommend digging a little deeper. This is a city unlike any other, and the longer you spend exploring the more it gets under your skin.

Here are some places in Kolkata that are a little less well-known, but still definitely worth seeing.

13. Chinatown, Tangra

Another unique place to visit in Kolkata is the city’s Chinatown, located in the neighbourhood of Tangra. This is particularly noteworthy as being the only Chinatown in India.

This area of Kolkata has had a Chinese population ever since the 18th century. Merchants from all over southern China established themselves here.

The streets are busy and vibrant, and mouthwatering aromas accompany you wherever you go. You’ll probably see Chinese residents selling spices, street food, homemade sauces, and other items.

Here you can explore narrow alleyways lined with Chinese restaurants, grocery shops and temples, and eat delicious authentic “Hakka”-style Chinese cuisine.

14. Science City

Science City, on the eastern edge of Kolkata, is a must-visit for anyone interested in science and technology.

The complex is the largest science centre in Asia and one of the best science museums in the region.

It has a number of interactive, hands-on exhibits on a range of topics including the evolution of life, emerging technologies, space, and physical geography.

There’s also an IMAX cinema, where you can watch amazing high-definition films and a few theme park-style rides.

Science City is a great place to spend a day and is fun and educational for people of all ages.

Address: JBS Haldane Ave, Mirania Gardens, East Topsia, Kolkata, West Bengal 700046, India

Opening hours: 10am–6pm, Mon-Tues + Thurs-Sat; 10am–7pm, Weds; 10am–8pm, Sun

15. Rabindra Sarobar

Rabindra Sarobar is a large artificial lake located in South Kolkata.  The lake is surrounded by over 100 acres of parks and gardens. It’s a great spot for a run, a walk or a picnic.

Previously known as Dhakuria Lake, it was initially constructed in the 1920s. It’s a peaceful, green oasis amidst the urban sprawl. Some local residents also come here to watch the sunrise, meditate and pray.

On the north-western side of the lake is the Rabindra Sarobar Football Stadium, and in the north-east is Nazrul Mancha, an outdoor music venue.

On the south side, there is the Durga Exhibition Museum, a gallery that houses artwork and a number of carvings and idols from previous annual Durga Puja  festivals held in the city.

The parks and gardens surrounding the main lake also have several other sights and facilities.

These include a Japanese Buddhist temple, a swimming lake, cricket and archery training areas, a rowing club, and various playgrounds.

Rabindra Sarobar is popular with people who live in this part of the city, but very few tourists make it here. If you have the time, I think it’s well worth the effort to see a different side of the city.

16. Shahid Minar

Shahid Minar is a large monument on the northern edge of the Maidan. It was originally built in 1828 and named the Ochterlony Monument, to commemorate Sir David Ochterlony of the British East India Company.

However, in 1969 the monument was re-dedicated to honour those who died fighting for Indian independence. “Shaheed Minar” translates to “Tower of Martyrs”.

Mark Twain visited Shahid Minar during his time in India, and described it as the “cloud-kissing monument”.

It’s 48 metres tall and was designed and constructed with inspiration from traditional Turkish, Syrian and Egyptian architectural styles.

Best Places To Visit Near Kolkata

There are also several fantastic places to visit in the area around Kolkata that make great day trips from the city. These are two of the most popular options.

17. Sundarbans

Located about 90 kilometres south-east of Kolkata, the Sundarbans is the world’s largest mangrove forest.

Covering an area of 10,000 square kilometres (3,900 square miles), these vast wetlands and tidal flats straddle the border between India and Bangladesh.

The whole area lies in the delta formed by the confluence of several rivers, which then flow into the Bay of Bengal. It’s an important habitat for hundreds of species of birds, fish, mammals and reptiles.

This is one of the best places in the world for seeing Bengal tigers in their natural habitat.

Several companies offer safari tours, nature walks and boat trips, and if you’re lucky you might get to see one of these magnificent creatures up close.

Click here to book a tour of the Sundarbans from Kolkata.

Four sections of the Sundarbans are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including (on the Indian side) the Sundarbans National Park . This is the closest part of the forest to Kolkata and the easiest area to access from the city.

Can I stay in the Sundarbans?

Yes.  You can either visit the Sundarbans National Park on a day trip from Kolkata. Or, spend the night in one of the various eco-lodges and guesthouses in the area.

There are a few cosy homestay-style guesthouses located on the edge of the jungle.

How to get to the Sundarbans

It is possible to travel independently to the Sundarbans, although it does take the best part of a day to get there.

First, you need to take a suburban train to Canning station, then a bus to one of the villages on the edge of the delta, such as Sonakhali (the most popular option), Nazat, Raidighi, or Namkhana.

From there, you must then take a boat along the waterways and into the forest itself.

A much easier option would be to book a tour that includes transport to and from Kolkata.

I usually prefer to visit places independently. But, in this case, I think a tour makes more sense and will save you a lot of time and effort.

This tour  includes private transportation to and from the national park, a boat ride, and a traditional Bengali lunch.

18. Nicco Park

Much closer to Kolkata, Nicco Park is an amusement park located on the eastern outskirts of the city.

The park features over 30 different rides and attractions, including a water park, and spreads over 40 acres.

It’s known as the “Disneyland of West Bengal”, and is a fun place to come if you fancy a day out of the city, especially if you have children.

From the top of some of the taller rides, you get fantastic views out over Kolkata and the surrounding area.

One thing I really like about Nicco Park is that it aims to offer an educational, as well as a fun, experience.

Throughout the park, boards display a range of educational content. There’s an explanation of the science behind the rides next to each one.

There’s also a Solar Energy Village inside the park, which showcases the various uses of solar and other types of renewable energy.

Address: Salt Lake Bypass, Jheel Meel, Sector IV, Bidhannagar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700106, India

Opening hours: 10:30am–7:30pm, Mon-Sun

Tours Of Kolkata

Here are a few well-reviewed tours that will help you get the most out of your time in the city.

I recommend booking yourself onto one or two of these. Then, spend the rest of your time in the city exploring by yourself.

• Street food tour – explore Kolkata’s narrow backstreets and taste some delicious, high-quality street food.  (If that one’s fully booked, this similar tour is an excellent alternative.)
• Culture kaleidoscope walking tour – scratch under the surface and learn about Kolkata’s rich and vibrant mix of cultures, religions, and communities.
• Full-day sightseeing tour – this tour takes you to many of the places mentioned in this post, and would be perfect for those who only have a small amount of time to see the city.
• Raj heritage walking tour – perfect for those interested in the colonial history of Calcutta, the former capital of British India.

Final Thoughts

Whenever I am in India, I always try to visit Kolkata. It’s an amazing, vibrant city with so many places to visit and so much to offer.

From historical landmarks to trendy neighbourhoods, there’s sure to be something that interests you in this fascinating destination.

Have you ever been to Kolkata? What’s your favourite place in the city?

Check out some of my other posts on India, including:

• 6 Best Hill Stations Near Kolkata, India: A Helpful Guide
• Trekking In Sikkim: A Secret Himalayan Paradise
• Best Time To Visit Kerala: A Comprehensive Guide

Related Posts

• Best Time To Visit Kerala: A Comprehensive Guide (2024)
• 9 Best Hill Stations Near Kolkata, India: A Helpful Guide (UPDATED 2024)
• Best Places To Visit In Northern Turkey (2024)

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• Things To Do In Park...

Things To Do in Park Street, Kolkata's 1960s Hipster Hub

Park Street in Kolkata has an old-world charm, with bakeries and restaurants that have been around for decades. Here’s how to experience the Park Street of yesteryear, at age-old eateries and bars that have hardly changed.

Ask a longtime resident of Kolkata about their memories of the city, and they will tell you about Park Street. You might not think so today, with its five-star hotels and people spilling out of the local Starbucks, but in the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s, this effervescent pedestrian street was the place where you could find twenty-somethings jiving to peppy Motown numbers, or men in white dinner jackets feasting on prawn cocktail and lobster thermidor at one of the many restaurants. Here’s where to go and what to see on a nostalgic jaunt through Park Street.

Indulge in rum balls that are famous city-wide at Flurys Bakery

When Swiss couple Frieda and Joseph Flury first opened the doors to their bakery in 1927, the Christmassy aroma of plum cakes and their excellent Sunday breakfasts drew in British and Bengali crowds alike. The bakery kept its sheen, even as the Europeans left in large numbers after India’s Independence, and stayed under the management of the Flurys until the 1960s.

Now owned by the Apeejay Surendra Group, Sunday morning breakfast here is a tradition that is still going strong. People pour into this iconic tearoom soon after it opens its doors at 7.30am, to seat themselves among an explosion of pink. From the unmissable pink sign bearing the name of the establishment, to the menus, decor and waiters all dressed in pink, in Kolkata the colour is almost synonymous with Flurys.

Vikas Kumar, executive chef at Flurys says his venue has been “the quintessential ‘Queen of Park Street’, for close to a century now. It’s impossible to imagine Park Street without Flurys. Although we have 38 outlets now, the Flurys at Park Street remains the most nostalgic for the last five generations of patrons. In essence, Flurys is the style icon of Kolkata, just the way Park Street is!”

Try the Jogger’s Breakfast (possibly named so because only a jogger can afford the calories), or a Flury’s favourite – the eggs benedict. Apart from breakfast staples, Flurys is also famous for the heritage items on their menu – those that have been around since its inception – like the Rumball, a golf ball sized hunk of chocolate truffle that has featured extensively in local blogs and newspapers. Joseph Flury may have died long ago, but his European rumball is here to stay.

Buy the latest paperback and drink some cha at Oxford bookstore

Tucked between nightclubs and bars on Park Street is Oxford Bookstore , its bright red sign as recognisable as any of the famous eating joints here. The bookstore has hardly changed since it first opened its doors in 1919, with a full range of books spread over two floors. The upper floor houses Cha Bar ( ‘cha’ is tea in Bengali), a small café that contributes most of this quiet bookstore’s noise pollution. Usually buzzing, especially on weekends, you’ll be able to spot customers chatting with friends and browsing through coffee table books here.

Eat some 1950s Spaghetti with Meatballs at Mocambo

In the ’50s and ’60s, dinner on Park Street looked like a scene from a black and white movie, where men in white dinner jackets held sway at European-influenced restaurants like Mocambo and Moulin Rouge. Shivji V. Kothari, who founded Mocambo in 1956, had employed an Italian chef at the time and the menu reflected the chef’s culture. Though white dinner jackets are no longer necessary (they were in the ’50s), diners will find that items like spaghetti with meatballs and lasagne still have pride of place on the present-day menu.

In previous decades, Mocambo was also a top spot for dancing. Kolkatans could let loose on the restaurant’s colourful glass dance floor (revolutionary at the time), and jive to the tunes of a live six-piece band. These days the dance floor, musicians and dancers are a memory, but the original decor of red sofa-style chairs and orange hanging lamps is intact.

Listen to live music at Trincas

Fifty years ago, it was not uncommon to see ‘Elvis the Pelvis’ imitations on the dance floor at Trincas, as the restobar was the beating heart of Kolkata’s rock and roll scene. Bands like Savages, the Trojans and Flintstones were in the spotlight, making their teenage and twenty-something audiences groove until dawn. Usha Uthup, a popular playback singer who had a huge fanbase also took to this storied stage, once memorably performing a foot-stomping version of ‘ Fever ’ in a sari . The Trincas stage is currently graced by an in-house English band called Sweet Agitation, a Hindi band, and sometimes eager members of the audience.

In its heyday, people would queue around the block to get into Trincas. Though it isn’t as popular today, the venue has hosted Bollywood stars including Amitabh Bachchan and Rekha, and continues to draw in music-loving crowds.

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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Places to Stay

The best boutique hotels to book in kolkata.

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The top things to see and do in central kolkata.

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The top 10 restaurants in central kolkata.

The Best Hotels to Book for Foodies in Kolkata

The 10 Best Restaurants In Central Kolkata

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Presenting the Top 10 Best Places To Visit in South Kolkata

Places to visit in south kolkata.

Are you planning to visit South Kolkata? Yes? Well, the entire of Kolkata is famous for its tourism, in short Kolkata is one of the major tourist places in West Bengal . So, wherever you visit in Kolkata you will get a place to enjoy. South Kolkata is also famous for its tourism. To help you know about the best places to visit in South Kolkata .

1. The National Library of India

The National Library of India is located in the New Alipore area in Kolkata. It is known as the largest library in India by volume. This library has a huge collection of around 2.2 million books, 3200 manuscripts, and 86000 maps. The outdoor area of the library has beautiful greenery. All this makes the National Library of India among South Kolkata tourist places .

Read – Top 10 Places To Visit in New Town

2. Science City – Places to visit in South Kolkata

Science City in Kolkata is the largest science museum in the entire Indian subcontinent. I t has a large dome-shaped museum along with some buildings. It is a place where you can learn about science and technology. There are also areas for children where they can enjoy and learn about science. Science City is among the places to visit in South Kolkata .

Read – Top 10 Best Cake Brands in Kolkata

3. Rabindra Sarovar

Are you a nature lover or do you love to spend some time in peace? Rabindra Sarovar is a beautiful place where you can sit and see pebbled pathways surrounded by long green trees, small ponds, and birds.

4. Alipore Zoo – South Kolkata tourist places

The Alipore Zoo is the oldest zoological park in India and a big tourist attraction in Kolkata. Visiting Alipore Zoo is one the best things to do in Kolkata with family , it is better to visit the zoo in winter. In this season, you will be able to see many migratory birds. In this zoo, you will see many different animals such as Royal Bengal Tiger, White Tiger, One-horned Rhinoceros, Indian Elephant, Giraffe, wild Yak, Banteng, and reptiles. All this makes Alipore Zoo among the tourist places in South Kolkata .

Read – Top 10 Famous Durga Puja Pandals in Kolkata

5. South City Mall

Do you want to go shopping in South Kolkata? You can visit South City Mall. It is a beautiful shopping mall in South Kolkata. Situated at Prince Anwar Shah Road in the Jadavpur area, South City Mall has many fashion brands, a food court, and a large space to sit and relax. All this makes this mall among the top tourist attractions in South Kolkata and one of the best shopping malls in Kolkata .

6. Indian Botanical Gardens – South Kolkata visiting places

Indian Botanical Garden has a banyan tree that has one of the largest canopies in the world. The garden is so spacious that you can even sit and relax there. This garden has many rare varieties of plants. You should visit here. It is among the tourist spots in South Kolkata .

Read – 7 Best Places To Visit in North Kolkata

7. Patuli Floating market

Patuli floating market is a floating market in South Kolkata. The market was built by Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority it has around 112 boats and 200 stores. Two water bodies were merged and waterproof wooden walkways were made. It is among the famous places to visit in South Kolkata .

8. Khidderpore Dock – places to visit in South Kolkata

Kidderpore Dock is a famous dock situated on the left bank of the Hooghly River. It functions under the Kolkata Dock System (KDS). It is among South Kolkata visiting places .

9. Oh! Calcutta

Oh! Calcutta is one of the famous Bengali cuisine restaurants in Kolkata . It uses fresh ingredients and authentic ways to prepare food items. You should try their signature food items such as the Barbecued Apple Prawns – they are really delicious. It’s an important food item in Kolkata and you taste it. All these make Oh! Calcutta is among the best places to eat in South Kolkata.

10. Sea-esta Inn

Sea-esta Inn is a restaurant that has the theme of a sea beach. It serves a variety of sea foods as well as Chinese and Indian food items. The ambiance of this restaurant is welcoming. The Staff and service are also very polite. All these make Sea-esta Inn among the top places to visit in South Kolkata .

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Discover the Best Places to Visit in Kolkata

Updated - sept. 6, 2023 2 min read.

Kolkata is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage. From the iconic Victoria Memorial to the bustling markets of New Market, there are plenty of places to explore in this city. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, Kolkata has something for everyone.

Here are some of the best places to visit in Kolkata.

Victoria Memorial

Image Courtesy: Wikipedia

The iconic Victoria Memorial is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kolkata. Built in 1921, this grand building is a tribute to Queen Victoria and is home to a museum that houses a collection of artifacts from the British Raj. The memorial is surrounded by lush gardens and is a great place to spend a day exploring the history of the city.

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Howrah bridge.

The Howrah Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Kolkata. This cantilever bridge spans the Hooghly River and is a popular spot for tourists to take in the views of the city. The bridge is also a great spot for photography and is a great place to take a stroll.

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Indian museum.

The Indian Museum is one of the oldest and largest museums in India. It houses a vast collection of artifacts from all over the world, including sculptures, paintings, and coins. The museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of India and is a must-visit for any traveler.

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Eden gardens.

Eden Gardens is one of the most popular cricket grounds in India. It is home to the Kolkata Knight Riders, one of the most successful teams in the Indian Premier League. The stadium is a great place to watch a match and soak in the atmosphere of the city.

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New Market is one of the oldest and busiest markets in Kolkata. It is a great place to shop for everything from clothes to electronics. The market is also a great place to sample some of the local cuisine and is a great spot to explore the city’s culture.

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