The tradition and culture of being the royal city in the continent are sure to mesmerize anyone; here are the places where you can opt for an enhanced view of the historical past of Kolkata. All these must-see spots in Kolkata have something or other that interest every kind of traveler. With an insight into history, going to this city will not be a disappointment for all the readers out there. Take a look!
1. Victoria Memorial
In the list of the beautiful tourist places to see in Kolkata, Victoria Memorial is a memorial monument constructed in memory of Queen Victoria. Its white marble structure resembling the Taj Mahal hosts a centurion museum with articles of paintings, weapons, and sculptures from the British period.
- Special Attraction: The grand structure of the building and the museum have artifacts from British rule in India.
- Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM, Close on Mondays
- Entry Cost: ₹30 for Indian passport holders and ₹500 for the foreigners
- Interesting Fact: The structure of the Victoria Memorial is made of white marble and is compared with the Taj Mahal of India in terms of the architectural beauty of the building.
2. Howrah Bridge
Howrah Bridge, also known as Rabindra Setu, is a cantilever bridge built across the Hooghly River. It links the two cities of Kolkata and Howrah and is a famous and busy landmark for its incredible architectural designs and scenic beauty. It has become one of the most famous tourist attractions in Kolkata.
- Special Attraction: One of the world’s longest cantilever bridges.
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Entry Fee: Free.
- Interesting Fact: This location, also known as Rabindra Setu, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kolkata, with a daily traffic volume of roughly 100,000 automobiles and countless people.
3. Dakshineswar Kali Temple
This place is one of the preferred places to visit in Kolkata. It is located in the eastern part of the metro near the Hooghly River, and the temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali. It is calm and peaceful, with 12 minor shrines accompanying the main shrine, which was built for Lord Shiva and is visited by tourists and followers.
- Special Attraction: The external characteristic of the temple is its beautiful location near the river’s spiritual interior.
- Timings: 5:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Entry Cost: Free
- Interesting Fact: A known saint, Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, used to come for worship in this temple.
4. Marble Palace
Marble Palace is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kolkata. It is an Anglo-Indian mansion from the 19th century that Raja Rajendra Mullick established. It contains many Western sculptures, Victorian equipment, and paintings by different artists.
- Special Attraction: Opulent Victorian, though built at the turn of the 20th century, rich artistic treasures.
- Timings: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Every Monday and Thursday is off
- Entry Cost: Free (Permission required)
- Interesting Fact: The palace has pieces of Western sculpture, Victorian furniture, and paintings by various artists from Europe and India.
5. St. Paul’s Cathedral
St. Paul is an Anglican cathedral church with features of Gothic architecture and stained glass windows, and it provides a very calm environment. It’s a house of prayer and is especially known to have a Christmas Eve midnight vigil.
- Special Attraction: Gothic Revival architecture work and stained glass windows work.
- Timings: Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM to 12 Noon; 3:00 – 6:00 PM
- Entry Cost: Free
- Interesting Fact: It is the biggest cathedral in Kolkata and was constructed in 1847.
6. Science City
Science City is among the attractions that one cannot afford to miss in Kolkata. The Innovation Science Center is a fun place to learn many things about science. This park features spaces like the Space Odyssey, Dynamotion Hall, and Evolution Park; children and science lovers greatly prefer it.
- Special Attraction: Science halls and the Space Odyssey hall.
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Entry Cost: ₹60 for regular entry, extra charge for specific sections, whatever they are.
- Interesting Fact: The Institution is one of the largest science centers in the country.
7. Birla Planetarium
Birla Planetarium is an astronomical theatre where people can visit daily and watch shows about what goes on inside space and the mysteries of the universe. Its modern and technologically-equipped amenities and enticing sessions interest a generation of visitors.
- Special Attraction: Television programs and planetarium shows.
- Timings: 12:30 PM – 6:30 PM
- Entry Cost: ₹ 100 for Indian visitors, ₹ 200 for the foreign visitors.
- Interesting Fact: It is also the largest planetarium in Asia and the second largest in the world.
8. Kalighat Kali Temple
Being enlisted in one of the most attractive tourist places to visit in Kolkata, Kalighat Kali Temple is one of the oldest and most regarded temples of Kolkata devoted to Goddess Kali. This place attracts people intending to take blessings and, sometimes, observe religious ceremonies while feeling the liveliness. All famous tourist attractions in Kolkata seem to be incomplete without this place.
- Special Attraction: One of the 51 Shakti Peethas of India.
- Timings: With opening hours of 5 AM-2 PM and 5 PM-10:30 PM.
- Entry Cost: Free
- Interesting Fact: This place is an important pilgrim center, as it is believed that Sati’s toe had fallen here.
9. Eden Gardens
Eden Gardens, one of the best sightseeing places in Kolkata, is the oldest cricket stadium in India and the most iconic venue in international cricket. Some have actually recorded past historical events, such as the World Cup final, while others give a glimpse of the passion Indian people have for cricket. Indeed, it is one of the must-visit places in Kolkata.
- Special Attraction: It is the oldest cricket ground in India.
- Timings: During matches (see schedule ).
- Entry Cost: Ticket prices are dependent on specific matches and sections.
- Interesting Fact: Eden Gardens is reputedly labeled as the “Mecca of Indian Cricket.”
10. Jorasanko Thakur Bari
Jorasanko Thakur Bari is a landmark noted in the list of the famous Tourist places to visit in Kolkata. It’s the mansion where Rabindranath Tagore, the Nobel laureate, was born. It became a museum of Tagore’s life, creative achievements, and collections.
- Special Attraction: The birthplace and home of Rabindranath Tagore.
- Timings: 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)
- Entry Cost: ₹10 for Indian citizens and ₹50 for Foreign nationals.
- Interesting Fact: It has been turned into a museum depicting the lifestyle and works of Tagore, and it is among the leading Tourist attractions in Kolkata
Best Time to Visit Kolkata
The climate of Kolkata is quite tropical. Thus, one should visit the province during the winter, which ranges from October to February. During this period, the climate is fairly good, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees C, which is perfect for tourism. The others: October is the most essential month as highly spectacular festivals are organized in the city, particularly Durga Puja. This is an occasion where the city streets are filled with ornate decor, cultural dances /music, and even special/ festive bazaars.
While the best time to visit this place is devoid of extreme heat, comfort can be enjoyed from November to February, from historical places and local cuisines to cultural events. Do not travel between March and June because it will be very hot, with temperatures sometimes getting to 35°C in some regions, and it’s even worse because of the humidity. The monsoon weather of the three months from July to September poses some inconvenience due to frequent rain showers, but the city boasts of a beautiful green view during this period.
The Bottom Line
Kolkata is indeed a fascinating city that provides many opportunities to experience both the culture and history and explore the spiritual and secular sides of the city. From the best-known sightseeing sites in Kolkata to the most off-beat tourist places in Kolkata, there is everything that any type of tourist can look forward to. If you are in the mood for history tours in this city, the best places to see in Kolkata, or simply to feel the local atmosphere, you will definitely not regret choosing Kolkata.
Hence, travelers should not miss out on the top 10 places to visit in Kolkata, as mentioned above.
Kolkata has various historical landmarks, including the Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, and South Park Street Cemetery, all providing insight into the city’s rich colonial past and cultural heritage.
Foodies can visit prominent locations such as Park Street for a broad selection of eateries, College Street for traditional Bengali snacks, and New Market for local street food delicacies.
Nicco Park, with its amusement rides, Eco Park, with its peaceful settings and recreational activities, and the Indian Museum, with its educational exhibits suitable for all ages, are all family-friendly attractions.
The greatest shopping areas in Kolkata are New Market for cheap shopping, Quest Mall for luxury goods, and College Street for rare books and academic textbooks.
Calcutta, Peter Cat, Bohemian, Arsalan Restaurant, and Aaheli are top restaurants in Kolkata that can help you experience the city’s traditional food.
