Places to Visit in Kolkata

Located in the heart of Kolkata, the Victoria Memorial is one of the grandest and best places to visit in Kolkata. It was commissioned by Lord Curzon to honor Queen Victoria after she died in 1901 and was built between 1906 and 1921. The structure has an amazing combination of British and Mughal architectural styles, which was made entirely of white Makrana marble. Spread over 64 acres of area, this famous monument is situated amidst beautifully landscaped gardens, which include pathways, fountains, and statues of notable British figures.

Inside, the Victoria Memorial Hall Museum has more than 25 galleries, where rare paintings, artifacts, manuscripts, and weapons from the British era are included. Also, Calcutta Gallery shows the history and evolution of Kolkata, while the Royal Gallery displays pictures of Queen Victoria and other British monarchs.

Location: Victoria Memorial Hall, 1, Queens Way, Maidan, Kolkata, West Bengal 700071

Opening Hours: 10:00 AM- 06:00 PM (Tuesday- Sunday)

Tickets: INR 50 for Indians and INR 500 for foreigners

Opened in 1943, the Howrah Bridge is an engineering marvel of India and one of the famous landmarks in Kolkata. The bridge connects Kolkata and Howrah across the Hooghly River and serves as a lifeline for thousands of travelers daily. Also known as Rabindra Setu, this cantilever bridge is designed of steel but constructed without using a single nut or bolt.

Considered one of the busiest bridges in the world, the bridge is about 705 meters in length and 97 feet in width. While standing on the bridge, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the city, sunrise, or sunset over the Hooghly River. At night, it is illuminated by dazzling lights, creating a mesmerizing sight against the Kolkata skyline. It is not only a bridge but also a symbol of Kolkata’s heritage and resilience.

Location: Over the Hooghly River, connecting Kolkata and Howrah, West Bengal

Opening Hours: Open 24 Hours

Tickets: Free

One of India’s oldest and most renowned botanical gardens, it is also known as the Botanical Garden of Howrah. Spanning over 109 hectares of area, it was established in 1787 and is home to various collections of plant species, including tropical, subtropical, and exotic flora. The garden is also popular for its huge Great Banyan Tree which is over 250 years old and covers more than 3,500 square meters of area.

In the garden, you can explore a wide variety of plants, towering palm trees, medicinal herbs, and rare orchids while walking along the well-maintained pathways. You can also enjoy photography or relax as the garden includes fountains, lakes, and sculptures. It is considered as one of the famous places to visit in Kolkata due to its rich biodiversity, historical significance, and scenic beauty. Here, you can enjoy birdwatching, guided tours, and nature walks, making it an educational and recreational destination.

Location: Shibpur, Howrah, West Bengal

Opening Hours: 08:00 AM- 05:30 PM (Tuesday- Sunday)

Tickets: INR 30 per person

It is one of the largest urban parks in India and a major recreational landmark in Kolkata. Spread over 480 acres of area, it is built around a beautiful 112-acre lake, offering a peaceful escape from the city’s busy life. The park is divided into various themed zones like Rose Garden, Mask Garden, Japanese Garden, and Butterfly Garden. Here, you can take part in a range of activities like kayaking, cycling, zorbing, and boating, making it an ideal destination for families and nature lovers.

Eco Park also includes replicas of the Seven Wonders of the World, attracting tourists and locals for sightseeing and photography. In the park, you can also enjoy art exhibitions, cultural programs, and light shows, which make it lively throughout the year. Due to entertainment options, vast greenery, and scenic views, the Eco Park is one of the most loved attractions in Kolkata.

Location: Major Arterial Road (South-East), New Town, Kolkata, West Bengal

Opening Hours: 02:30 PM – 8:30 PM (Tuesday to Saturday) and 12:00 PM – 08:30 PM (Sunday)

Tickets: INR 30

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.

Built in 1696 during the British East India Company era, Fort William is a historic fort in Kolkata. The fort was named after King William III and constructed to protect the city from invasions. The fort has huge ramparts, colonial-era bastions, and moats, showing the classic military architecture. The fort also houses the Indian Army’s Eastern Command, due to which the public entry is highly restricted and permission is required.

There is surrounding lush greenery and imposing walls, making the fort a notable landmark. If you are a history or architecture lover, viewing Fort William from the outside or during special guided tours gives you an insight into Kolkata’s colonial past. Due to its strategic and historical significance, Fort William is one of the best places to visit in Kolkata, offering a glimpse of the city’s military heritage.

Location: Hastings, Kolkata, West Bengal

Opening Hours: Restricted

Tickets: No general public tickets available

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.

One of the most famous places to visit in Kolkata, the Dakshineswar Kali Temple is renowned for its spiritual ambiance and architectural beauty. The temple was built in 1855 by Rani Rashmoni, a devotee of Goddess Kali, and it is dedicated to Bhavatarini, a form of Goddess Kali. It is the Navaratna (nine-spired) style of Bengal architecture, which is situated on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River.

There are twelve shrines in the temple complex, including Lord Shiva, the Panchavati Garden, and a Radha-Krishna temple. People come here not only to offer prayers but to enjoy the calm riverside ambiance and scenic views of the Hooghly. The temple becomes a lively place of celebration and devotion during festivals like Kali Puja and Durga Puja.

Location: Dakshineswar, North Kolkata, West Bengal

Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 3:30 PM – 07:30 PM

Tickets: Free

Established in 1876, it is India’s oldest zoo and one of Kolkata’s most popular attractions. Spread over 46 acres of area, the zoo is home to a range of birds, animals, and reptiles from around the world. It is also popular among visitors for its Royal Bengal tigers, elephants, white tigers, Himalayan black bears, and lions. Also, there is a rich collection of exotic animals such as chimpanzees, zebras, and giraffes. You can explore the large Aviary section, including colorful birds such as peacocks, macaws, flamingos, and pelicans.

The zoo also features an Aquarium, Primate House, and Reptile House where you can have a fun and educational experience. It is also known for wildlife conservation and breeding programs for endangered species. During winter, various tourists and locals visit to enjoy picnics in its open green areas.

Location: Belvedere Road, Alipore, Kolkata, West Bengal

Opening Hours: 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM (Friday- Wednesday)

Tickets: INR 20 (Children below 5 years free) and INR 50 (Adults)

One of the most revered Hindu temples in Kolkata, it is dedicated to Goddess Kali, the fierce form of Shakti. Established more than 300 years ago, the temple attracts thousands of devotees every day who come to perform rituals and seek blessings. It features the Nagara style of Bengal temple architecture and a curved roof made of brick and lime plaster. It is also popular for its unique idol of Kali, which has her tongue out and four arms holding symbolic weapons.

The temple becomes a center of vibrant celebrations with wonderful decorations and rituals during festivals like Kali Puja and Diwali. You can see traditional worship practices, participate in rituals, and stroll through the nearby markets to purchase souvenirs and religious items. The rich history, spiritual significance, and lively ambiance make it one of the best places to visit in Kolkata for tourists and devotees.

Location: Kalighat, South Kolkata, West Bengal

Opening Hours: 05:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 04:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Tickets: Free

In South Kolkata, Rabindra Sarobar is a large urban lake and recreational area. It is also known as the city’s “lungs” due to its calm ambiance and lush greenery. Created in the 1930s, it is one of the favorite places for families, joggers, and morning walkers as it is surrounded by gardens, amphitheaters, and walking paths. You can enjoy boating on the lake in the evening while admiring the reflection of the sun on the water.

The area also hosts open-air concerts, cultural events, and festivals, attracting performers and artists regularly. Birdwatchers can also spot various species of birds here, such as egrets, kingfishers, cormorants, and herons, and various migratory birds in winter. Due to natural beauty, cultural ambiance, and leisure activities, Rabindra Sarobar is one of the top places to visit in Kolkata for recreation and relaxation.

Location: Southern Avenue, Kolkata, West Bengal

Opening Hours: 06:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Tickets: Free

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.

South Park Street Cemetery is one of the oldest cemeteries in India and a famous historical landmark in Kolkata. Established in 1767, the cemetery is the final resting place for many soldiers, British officers, and famous figures from the colonial era. It has wonderful Gothic and Indo-Saracenic architecture with pyramidal structures, grand tombs, and intricate carvings that show 18th- and 19th-century design styles.

In the cemetery, some of notable personalities like Henry Louis Vivian Derozio, a famous poet and educator and Sir William Jones, founder of the Asiatic Society were buried here. It is surrounded by moss-covered pathways and tall trees, offering a peaceful atmosphere. You can see the beautifully preserved tombs and gain an insight into the city’s past under British rule.

Location: 52, Park Street, Kolkata, West Bengal

Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 05:00 PM

Tickets: INR 20 per person

Also known as Taramandal, it is one of the largest planetariums in Asia and a famous attraction in Kolkata. It was opened in 1963 which offers an incredible journey through space, stars, and galaxies. The planetarium includes a massive dome-shaped theatre where daily shows in English, Hindi, and Bengali run. The planetarium houses a state-of-the-art Zeiss projector that replicates the night sky, showing more than 8,000 celestial bodies like planets, stars, and constellations.

You can enjoy a virtual tour of the universe and understand astronomical phenomena in an engaging way. Also, you can explore wonderful space models, exhibits, and celestial maps, showcasing the latest discoveries in astronomy. One of the top 10 places to visit in Kolkata, it is not only an educational planetarium but also an entertaining attraction for visitors.

Location: Jawaharlal Nehru Road, near St. Paul’s Cathedral, Kolkata, West Bengal

Opening Hours: 12:00 PM – 06:00 PM

Tickets: INR 140 per person

Established in 1864, it is the oldest and second-largest cricket stadium in India. One of the most iconic cricket stadiums in the world, it has a seating capacity of more than 66,000 people. Also known as the “Mecca of Indian Cricket,” the garden is known for its thrilling atmosphere, especially when India plays. It features modern facilities, lush green outfield, and a scenic location near the Hooghly River, making it one of the top places to visit in Kolkata for sports lovers. During the non-match day, you can marvel at its architecture and gain insights into its rich sporting history.

Location: Maidan, B.B.D. Bagh, Kolkata, West Bengal

Opening Hours: 09:00 AM – 06:00 PM

Tickets: Free

One of the largest and most important mosques in Kolkata, the Nakhoda Mosque is famous for its grand architecture and spiritual importance. It was built in 1926 by the Kutchi Muslim community and has been serving as the central mosque for the city’s Muslim population. In the mosque, you can marvel at impressive minarets, domes, and intricate marble work, showing the amazing Mughal and Islamic architectural styles. It also has a spacious prayer hall that can accommodate thousands of worshippers during major religious events.

The mosque becomes a center of lively celebrations and spiritual gatherings during festivals like Ramadan and Eid. Nakhoda Mosque is one of the famous places to visit in Kolkata due to its architectural beauty and historical importance. You can marvel at the carved motifs, elegant arches, and peaceful courtyard, and gain insight into the city’s Islamic heritage.

Location: Zakariya Street, Central Kolkata, West Bengal

Opening Hours: 05:00 AM- 10:00 PM

Ticket: Free

The largest and oldest museum in India, the Indian Museum, was founded in 1814 by the Asiatic Society of Bengal. It is also popular as “Jadughar” (House of Magic) among locals due to its fascinating and vast collection. In the museum, there are more than 100,000 artifacts, including fossils, ancient sculptures, paintings, meteorites, and coins. Its Egyptian gallery also includes a real mummy, which is one of the key highlights.

Other notable sections include the Buddhist gallery, showcasing the relics of the Buddha. You can also see the treasures from the Indus Valley Civilization in the Archaeology gallery. The spacious halls and the grand colonial architecture of the museum make it an ideal place to explore for history lovers and tourists. With an insight into rich culture and artistic heritage, the museum is one of the top 10 places to visit in Kolkata.

Location: 27 Jawaharlal Nehru Road, Park Street, Kolkata, West Bengal

Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Tuesday- Sunday)

Tickets: INR 75

Situated on the banks of the Hooghly River, the Prinsep Ghat is one of the most beautiful and historic riverfront places in Kolkata. It was built in 1841 during British rule and is famous for the wonderful Prinsep Monument, which was constructed in memory of James Prinsep, a British scholar and antiquary. The monument has Greek and Gothic styles, including curved arches, white columns, and intricate detailing, which reflect classical European architecture.

Overlooking the Vidyasagar Setu and surrounded by lush gardens, the ghat has a calm ambiance for walks, picnics, and evening boat rides. The area is also illuminated at night, creating a perfect backdrop for photography. Prinsep Ghat is among the unique places to visit in Kolkata, with its riverside charm, colonial-era design, and rich history. While strolling through the ghat, you can also enjoy local snacks from nearby stalls while admiring the sunset.

Location: Strand Road, Fort William, Hastings, Kolkata, West Bengal

Opening Hours: 08:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Tickets: Free

Located on the western bank of the Hooghly River, it is one of the spiritual landmarks of Kolkata. It was founded by Swami Vivekananda in 1897, and it serves as the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission. The temple has a unique architecture and beautiful design that is the symbol of all religions, i.e., Islamic, Hindu, and Christian styles. The main temple is dedicated to Sri Ramakrishna, and other temples in the complex are devoted to Swami Vivekananda and Holy Mother Sarada Devi.

In the evening, you can admire the glowing temple under the soft golden lights and enjoy a soothing atmosphere with calm chants. The peaceful riverfront area and spiritual ambiance make it an ideal place for meditation.

Location: Belur, Howrah, West Bengal

Opening Hours: p6:30 AM - 11:30 AM, 03:30 PM - 06:00 PM

Tickets: Free

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.

Opened in 1997, Science City is one of Kolkata’s largest and most engaging science-themed attractions. This center aims to promote education and scientific awareness through fun learning experiences and interactive exhibits. In the complex, you can explore various areas like the Earth Exploration Hall, Space Odyssey, Science Park, and Dynamotion Hall. In these spaces, you can get insight into some concepts like astronomy, physics, chemistry, and biology interactively. There is a 4D theater and a Science Magic Show in the complex, providing learning along with entertainment.

Science City is a favorite destination for students, families, and tourists, making it one of the famous places to visit in Kolkata. You can take part in hands-on experiments, learn about the wonders of space and technology, and explore the botanical garden. With entertainment, education, and outdoor activities, it is a perfect place for fun and learning.

Location: JBS Haldane Avenue, Kolkata, West Bengal

Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 05:30 PM

Tickets: INR 70

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.

Located on the eastern banks of the Hooghly River in Kolkata, it is a famous and beautiful urban park. Stretching for nearly 2.5 kilometers, the park was opened in 1999 and is a part of the city’s riverfront beautification project. The park provides wonderful views of the river and the iconic Howrah Bridge. It is a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle as it is designed with fountains, lush green lawns, and flower beds.

While strolling through the park, you can take boat rides on the Hooghly River during the sunset. Kids can enjoy the dedicated play areas and rides while adults can take rest on the benches under the shade of trees. There are small food stalls and cafes where you can have local snacks and tea. Be amazed by the magical riverside atmosphere as the Millennium Park illuminates beautifully with decorative lights.

Location: Strand Road, Fairley Place, B.B.D. Bagh, Kolkata, West Bengal

Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 06:30 PM

Tickets: INR 10 per person

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.

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.

Also known as the “Disneyland of West Bengal”, Nicco Park is one of the most popular amusement parks in Kolkata. Opened in 1991, the park was designed to provide education and entertainment about science and environment. The park is situated in a large area with lakes, beautifully landscaped gardens, and a range of exciting attractions. There are more than 35 rides and activities, including Water Chute, Toy Train, Moonraker, Pirate Ship, and Cyclone Roller Coaster, providing endless thrill and fun.

One of the famous places to visit in Kolkata, Nicco Park also includes a water park, amusement arcade, cable car rides, and mirror maze. The Wet-O-Wild Water Park, is a key highlight with wave pools, water slides, and family splash zones, ideal for summer fun.

Location: Salt Lake City, Sector IV, Kolkata, West Bengal

Opening Hours: 10:30 AM – 06:30 PM (Monday to Saturday); 10:30 AM – 07:30 PM (Sunday)

Tickets: INR 500 per person

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 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.

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.

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.