Top 10 Places To Visit In Kolkata

If you love to travel and explore new places, then a visit to Kolkata is a must. Being the birthplace of some most talented literature writers, this lively city of joy invites you to witness its artistic grandeur and  impressive culture through an exciting sightseeing tour. Here is the list of some places you can’t afford to miss. 

1. VICTORIA MEMORIAL

 The large white marble building dedicated to the memory of Queen Victoria is now a museum and tourist destination; the memorial lies on the Maidan by the bank of the Hooghly river. This is one of the most magnificent monuments of not only the city of joy but also for our entire country. The architecture is based on Indo-saracenic style.  There are 25 galleries inside the memorial including the royal gallery, the sculpture gallery and the Calcutta gallery among others. It is a house of exceptional collections which includes marvellous paintings, artefacts and maintains some possessions of the Queen like her writing desk and chair. It is a vital part of tourism. 

2. JORASANKO THAKURBARI

The house of the Thakurs, Jorasanko Thakurbari is the ancestral home of the Tagore family that is located in Jorasanko in the north of Kolkata. This is an exciting and enjoyable place to visit especially for the lovers of history and Bengali literature. This glorious mansion contains 700 captivating paintings to capture the attention of the visitors. It also has a splendid museum known as the Rabindra Bharati Museum, established in 1961. The room where Tagore was born is open to visitors. The timings are 10:30 am to 5pm {closed on Monday}. This is a must visit because here you will get the chance to explore the history and lifestyle of such an eminent personality in the world of literature.

3. KALIGHAT TEMPLE

Don’t forget to seek blessings from Goddess Kali during your trip to Kolkata. The Kalighat temple is one of the best places to visit to get acquainted with the cultural tradition and religious beliefs of the people of the city of joy.  Moreover, Kalighat is regarded as one of the 51 Shakti Peethas of India where the various parts of Sati’s body are said to have fallen ,in the course of Shiva’s Rudra Tandava. Kalighat represents the site where the toes of the right foot of Sati fell. A popular religious attraction of Kolkata ,Kalighat Temple is a favourite spot to visit. The temple is open to the public from 5 a.m. to 2 p.m. and from 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. on all days of the week.

4. HOWRAH BRIDGE

An iconic and significant landmark of Kolkata, Howrah Bridge is a steel Bridge constructed over the Hooghly river. Also known as Rabindra Setu,the bridge  connects Howrah and Kolkata. The splendor of the bridge comes alive in the night time, as it is all lit up. The bridge also has a separate Footpath for pedestrians to walk. Today, it is the sixth longest bridge of its type in the world. Surely, you don’t want to miss this place. The view of the city from the ferry, especially in the night is amazing. Howrah Bridge remains one of the key attractions of the city.

5. PRINCEP GHAT

Built by the British in 1841 on the bank of Hooghly river the Princep Ghat is another aesthetic tourist spot to spend a relaxing evening. Boating services are also available at the ghat  and it is also a common spot for romantic dates. The view of Vidyasagar Setu from Princep Ghat is mesmerizing. It is famous for its Greek and Gothic inlays. This is one of the best spots for recreational activities. 

6. FORT WILLIAM

Kolkata tourism thrives due to this famous place as well. Situated on the eastern bank of Hooghly river, the fort was named under King William III. This place was one a temporary jail where prisoners were hauled,but now it serves as the headquarters of the Eastern Command.  It is undoubtedly  one of the best historical places to visit.

7. BELUR MATH

The city of joy is not only famous for the historical places it offers but also for the fabulous temples which helps you to find inner peace. One such place from where you would not wish to return is Belur Math. This place is the heart of the city. Founded by Swami Vivekananda,the chief disciple of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, this temple is known for its distinctive architecture which uses Hindu ,Christian and Islamic motifs as a Symbol of Unity of all religions. The Evening Aarti takes place at 5:30 p.m. and you can’t afford to miss it. The Aarti songs are hymn of praise to Sri Ramkrishna and Sri Sarada Devi. The Aarti here is quite different from other temples since one is just required to sit and meditate. If you really want to explore the religious beliefs and notions  of Bengali people then you must visit this  exquisite place. 

8. INDIAN MUSEUM

The 9th oldest Museum of the world and largest in India,the Indian museum popularly known as ‘Jadugar’ has the finest collection of contemporary paintings ,sacred relics of Buddha, Egypt mummies and ancient sculptures.The Museum has 35 galleries which has been divided into six categories namely art ,archaeology, anthropology , Geology, zoology and economic botany.  Travel back in time by experiencing the extraordinary collections this museum holds.

9. SCIENCE CITY 

Science city is a major attraction for the people visiting Kolkata. It is one of the excellent and the largest science museums in the world and provides a fun way of learning science. There is so much fun to explore. This place is a favourite among kids as well as adults. Time machine is also very popular among all the visitors  as it gives you the opportunity to travel to outer space from where you can travel back in time and enter the age of dinosaurs. You can also try the ropeway in order to get the view of the city. Science city is going to offer you thrilling and fascinating  experience and will make your holiday worth it. 

10. EDEN GARDENS

This cricket stadium is kept in good condition and attracts cricket lovers from all over the world. Located in BBD Bagh area, it is one of the most popular tourist places in Kolkata. This magnificent stadium has the  capacity of 66,049 people, which makes it the second largest stadium in the world.

The list is never ending. These are some of the places without which your vacation will be incomplete. Do comment and let us know which one you are most eager to visit.