Kolkata is the second-largest city in India. A very popular city that is the hub of old colonial Buildings. These buildings represent the era of the British over the city. Tourists come from all over the world to see this city. The serene views of the old buildings and the vibe of spiritual spots in the beautiful Kolkata is a rich hub of cultural, heritage, artistic and spiritual people under one roof. The famous sweet dish Roshogolla and Sondesh will enlightenment your taste buds.
A long walk on the busy streets of Kolkata is capable of developing curiosity inside your mind to discover every new product laid down in the new market. Do not miss the food market of Kolkata. While exploring the food market you will get an abundance of aromatic food under one roof.
By reading the entire article, you will learn about the 10 popular places to visit in Kolkata:
1. Victoria Memorial
It is one of the most attractive parts of whole Kolkata. Tourists reach Kolkata, just to have a glimpse of The Victoria Memorial from all across the globe. The amazing white marble of the stunning Victoria Memorial steals the heat of many. The Palace was built in the early nineteenth century for Queen Victoria.
Although these days the Victoria Memorial is been transformed into a stunning collection of ancient artworks in its 25 beautiful galleries. The visitor can visit the Victoria Memorial from 10 am to 5 pm. The entry fee is starting from Rupee 20.
Location: Maidan, Kolkata
Highlights: Grand marble architecture, historical exhibits, lush gardens
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Activities: Exploring the museum, strolling in the gardens, photography
Tips: Visit in the late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the evening light on the monument. The light and sound show in the evening is a must-see.
2. Howrah Bridge
Visiting Howrah Bridge should be on your priority list. It is the fourth busiest cantilever bridge is known in the whole world. This amazing bridge is placed on the famous Hooghly river. This river is famous by the name of the sorrow of Bengal. Howrah Bridge connects eastern Kolkata and eastern Howrah.
At the time of evening, this sparkling and gazing bridge looks more stunning as compared to the morning view. You do not require to pay any entry fee to visit the famous Howrah Bridge. The Howrah Bridge has located at Jagannath Ghat, 1, Strand Road in Kolkata.
Highlights: Iconic cantilever bridge, engineering marvel, bustling atmosphere
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late evening
Activities: Walking across the bridge, enjoying the views of the river and cityscape, photography
Tips: Early morning visits offer a serene experience and beautiful sunrise views. Be cautious of traffic and crowds.
3. Fort William, Kolkata
This great fort was constructed in the late nineteenth century. Fort William was named under King William III. As history conveys King William was the first strong holder of the British in 1969. This huge fort was built is spread over more than 70 acres of area and the palace is filled with artistic craft, early mixed Indian and western architecture.
This amazing fort is blessed with the lush green widespread garden around the fort. You will be amazed after listening that the completion of this fort took almost 10 years this amazing fort is situated beyond the Hooghly river.
Location: Maidan, Kolkata
Highlights: Historic colonial fort, lush greenery, military presence
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Activities: Guided tours, exploring the grounds, visiting the museum
Tips: Prior permission is required for entry as it is still an active military base. Check the visiting hours and tour availability in advance.
Read more: Weekend Trips from Kolkata in September
4. Belur Math
This is a popular destination among tourists. Belur. This famous temple was founded by the great Swami Vivekananda, a by-heart follower of Ramakrishna Paramhansa. The Ramakrishna Math and Mission have its headquarters in Math.
The Belur Math is situated near the western side of the Hooghly river. The area of the Belur Math is spread over more than forty acres of land. Belur Math unite all religion by placing the distinctive architecture of a combination of Hindu, Christen, and Islamic motifs.
Location: Belur, Howrah
Highlights: Headquarters of the Ramakrishna Mission, serene riverside location, beautiful architecture
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Activities: Meditation, exploring the temple complex, attending evening aarti
Tips: Dress modestly and respectfully. The evening aarti is a serene and spiritually uplifting experience.
5. Birla Planetarium
The St. Paul’s Cathedral Birla planetarium is the largest planetarium in the whole of Asia. This will amaze you that the St. Paul’s Cathedral Birla planetarium is the second largest planetarium in the whole world. The location of the St. Paul’s Cathedral Birla planetarium is near the Victoria Memorial.
Birla planetarium was inaugurated in 1963 by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. 9th is place is also famous by the name of Taramandal. You will definitely develop your interest in the planetarium because it regularly holds a number of shows in different languages like Hindi English, Bengali, and other religious languages.
Location: Cathedral Road, Kolkata
Highlights: One of the largest planetariums in Asia, educational exhibits, star shows
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Activities: Attending star shows, exploring astronomical exhibits
Tips: Check the schedule for star shows in your preferred language. Arrive early to secure good seats.
6. Indian Museum
Indian museum situated in Kolkata is the largest museum in the country. Indian museum was built in the early eighteenth century. Indian museums Kolkata is the ninth-largest museum in the whole world. This place is close to the tourist’s heart because it is the center of multi-disciplinary activities in the last eighteenth century.
The localities call this museum by the name of Jadu Ghar. The museum=m contains the sculptures of lord buddha, Egyptian mummies, and a lot more.
Location: Jawaharlal Nehru Road, Kolkata
Highlights: Oldest and largest museum in India, diverse exhibits including art, archaeology, and anthropology
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Activities: Exploring various galleries, educational tours
Tips: Allocate at least a few hours to fully explore the museum. The Egyptian mummy and the extensive collection of artifacts are highlights.
7. Marble Palace Mansion
Marble Palace Mansion was built in the early eighteenth century by the popular Rajendra Mallick in 1835. Rajendra Malik is famous for the collection of amazing masterpieces by Ruben. Marble Palace Mansion also contains many paintings by famous artists named Reynolds, Van Gogh, and Rembrandt.
Marble Palace Mansion is located near the Chorbangan which is in the north of Kolkata. You will be surprised by knowing that this amazing mansion also boasts of a zoo where you will find rare pictures of am=animals and birds.
Location: Muktaram Babu Street, Kolkata
Highlights: 19th-century mansion, exquisite marble interiors, antique collections
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Activities: Guided tours of the mansion, viewing art collections
Tips: Entry is free but requires a permit from the West Bengal Tourism Information Bureau. Photography inside is prohibited.
8. New Town Eco Park
In Kolkata, there is a theme park called New Town Eco Park. There are numerous attractions in the park such as the Seven Wonders, Gaming Zone, Amphitheaters, Butterfly Lab & many more amazing mini architectures. One of the best and most natural places to spend time with family and friends is the City of Joy – Kolkata.
Beautiful environment and a great place for nature lovers to explore. There is a very ancient atmosphere surrounding the artificial seven wonders, which you will enjoy experiencing. There is a lovely outdoor area where you can enjoy an evening stroll.
Location: New Town, Kolkata
Highlights: Largest urban park in India, diverse recreational facilities, scenic landscapes
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Activities: Boating, cycling, bird watching, visiting themed gardens
Tips: Allocate a full day to enjoy all the activities. The park is vast, so renting a bicycle or electric cart can be helpful.
9. Alipore Zoo
Alipore Zoo is one of India’s oldest zoological parks in Kolkata. The park is 46 acres in size. The Zoo is famous for housing the 250-year-old tortoise Adwaita. There are various animals at the Zoo, including the Bengal Tiger, the Lion, the White Tiger, the Striped Hyena, Pythons, and Griffon Vultures.
Location: Alipore, Kolkata
Highlights: Oldest zoological park in India, diverse animal species, well-maintained grounds
Best Time to Visit: November to March
Activities: Viewing wildlife, picnicking, visiting the aquarium
Tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends. Wear comfortable walking shoes as the zoo is large and requires a lot of walking.
Conclusion
Kolkata, the city of dreams is the best place to invest your vacation. Kolkata is a hub of rich diversity, culture, art, and remarkable history. This place is for the one who wants to discover deep into the remaining symbols of history. A metropolitan city, covered with a lot of dreams and eye-catching talent. The great constructions of palaces, temples, or mansions by renowned Swami Vivekanand, made for king William or made just for the entertainment of tourists. We hope this article helped you in selecting the popular place to go in Kolkata.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What are the best places to visit in Kolkata?
Some of the best places to visit in Kolkata include Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, and the Indian Museum.
2. Which places in Kolkata are ideal for evening visits?
Ideal places to visit in the evening in Kolkata are Eco Park, Princep Ghat, and Park Street.
3. Where can I go with friends in Kolkata for a fun time?
For a fun time with friends, you can visit Nicco Park, Science City, and South City Mall.
4. What are the most famous places in Kolkata?
The most famous places in Kolkata include Victoria Memorial, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, and Marble Palace.
5. What are the top natural places to visit in Kolkata?
Top natural places to visit in Kolkata are the Botanical Gardens, Maidan, and Rabindra Sarobar.
6. Which places in Kolkata offer beautiful scenery?
Beautiful scenery in Kolkata can be enjoyed at places like Princep Ghat, Eco Park, and Millennium Park.
7. What are some famous historical places in Kolkata?
Famous historical places in Kolkata include Fort William, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Indian Museum.
8. Which places are popular among tourists in Kolkata?
Popular tourist places in Kolkata are Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, and Birla Planetarium.
9. Where can I find aesthetic and Instagram-worthy spots in Kolkata?
Aesthetic and Instagram-worthy spots in Kolkata include Victoria Memorial, Princep Ghat, and the streets of Kumartuli.
10. What are the must-visit places in Kolkata for a first-time visitor?
For a first-time visitor, must-visit places in Kolkata are Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, and the Indian Museum.
