Kolkata is a city that is crowded and also has very attractive places. From its busy corners to its ever-expanding markets, the City of Joy has a lot to offer to tourists who are ready to explore and explore new things. Whether you are a student of literature or someone who likes to delve deeper into different cultures, Kolkata has something for everyone. If you are planning to visit Kolkata, then we have brought here a list of places to visit in Kolkata for you.
10 Best Places to Visit in Kolkata
| 1. | Victoria Memorial |
| 2. | Dakshineswar Kali Temple |
| 3. | Howrah Bridge |
| 4. | Babu Ghat |
| 5. | Princep Ghat |
| 6. | St. Paul’s Cathedral |
| 7. | Old Chinatown |
| 8. | Indian Museum |
| 9. | Jorasanko Thakur Bari |
| 10. | Kumartuli |
There is a lot to visit and see in Kolkata. While some of these are iconic, there are places that are hidden from the city’s tourist hordes and are yet to be explored. The city of Kolkata is a unique amalgamation of modern and culture. At the time of Durga Puja, it is as if the feet of the people of this city do not even touch the ground. At the same time, there are many such places of the British era, which are fascinating to visit in themselves. If you are coming to visit Kolkata for a short time, then do not forget to visit these famous places.
Victoria Memorial
A grand white monument, Victoria Memorial is one of the most visited places in Kolkata. Named after Queen Victoria, it is now housed as a museum and is perfect for history buffs. Light and sound shows are held in the evening. The era of India’s freedom struggle is showcased not only through light and sound shows but also through an array of paintings, artifacts, sculptures and books. The museum is open from 10:00 am to 05:00 pm on all days except Mondays. At the same time, its garden is open every day from 05:30 in the morning to 06:15 in the evening.
Dakshineswar Kali Temple
The temple is dedicated to Bhavatarani, an aspect of Goddess Kali and the ‘savior of the universe’. One of the oldest and most important temples ever built, it is the first choice of pilgrims from all over the world. The temple was founded by Rani Rashmoni, who had lost her husband and had a great deal of wealth. The idea of building this temple came to him in a dream and he did this last thing before going on a pilgrimage to Varanasi.
Howrah Bridge
To say that Howrah Bridge is one of the top places to visit in Kolkata would do justice to it. An unofficial symbol of the city, Howrah Bridge is worth a visit if you want to spend some alone time with the sea just in front of you. Sit here in silence or just watch the fishermen go to work in the morning and evening. But do you know that the name of the bridge has been changed to Rabindranath Tagore and now it is called Rabindra Setu.
Babu Ghat
If you want to visit a place that is not overcrowded and offers beautiful views, then do visit Babu Ghat. Offering a spectacular view of the iconic Howrah Bridge, it is the perfect place for photography enthusiasts and is well worth a visit in the early morning hours before it gets too crowded. It is built on Strand Road, BBD Bagh.
Indian Museum
Its foundation was laid in 1814, the Indian Museum is one of the oldest museums in the world. Its 35 galleries are filled with historically significant objects such as stunning Mughal paintings, skeletons, fossils, Egyptian mummies and other sacred objects. It is the largest multi-purpose museum in the entire Asia-Pacific region. It is built on Park Street, Kolkata.
Jorasanko Thakur Bari
Are you fond of poetry and Rabindranath Tagore? Then you must visit this place. It is the ancestral home of the late Tagore and the house consists of three separate galleries filled with paintings, personal items of the Tagore family, including his books and manuscripts. The house is surrounded by a lush garden and has a peaceful location in the heart of the city.
St. Paul’s Cathedral
It is one of the first churches built by the British in India. Situated in the heart of the city, St. Paul’s Cathedral is built in an Indo-Gothic style and is an impressive structure that you should not miss out on. The cathedral complex is serene and the building makes you feel at ease. The entry timings are 9:00 am to 12:00 pm and 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm.
Princep Ghat
Situated on the banks of the Hooghly River, Prinsep Ghat is a perfect place to spend your evening. The surroundings are fully lit up after sunset and you can pack some food and spend a relaxing time enjoying the grounds. Prinsep Ghat is a Greek style building located at a strategic location just below the second Hooghly Bridge. The best time to visit here is after 6:00 pm.
Old Chinatown
The only Chinatown in all of India, this place is a paradise for those who want to taste the cuisine of this Asian country. This place developed after the Chinese traders who came to work at the ports settled here. Although the place has lost its authenticity, there are a few stalls that still serve authentic Chinese appetizers such as pork sausage, prawn crackers, momos and fish ball soup.
Kumartuli
Durga Puja is probably one of the most vibrant and extravagant festivals celebrated in Kolkata. From pandals lasting for 10 days to the delicious food served on the last day, the celebrations take place on a grand scale. Idols of Durga are made in Kumortuli. A potter’s community that is about 300 years old, this place is buzzing with life in the weeks leading up to the festival. More than 150 families live in this area and work diligently to complete all the idols for the festival. You can take a tour of the place and talk to the potters and get a better idea of how these beautiful idols are made.
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