Top 10 Places to Visit in Kolkata

Kolkata (formerly Calcutta), famously known as the City of Joy, is the capital of West Bengal, India. Originally founded as an East India Company trading post, Kolkata served as the capital of British India from 1773 to 1911. The city is celebrated for its grand colonial architecture, vibrant festivals, world-class art galleries, and mouth-watering cuisine. It is also home to the Mother House—the headquarters of the Missionaries of Charity founded by Mother Teresa—and the birthplace of the legendary poet, artist, and Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore.

Visiting Kolkata is a delightful experience filled with culture, history, and warmth. If you love exploring stories of the past and immersing yourself in rich heritage, this city offers an unforgettable journey. Here are the Top 10 must-visit places in Kolkata:

1. Howrah Bridge

An iconic symbol of Kolkata, the Howrah Bridge (also known as Rabindra Setu) is one of the longest cantilever bridges in the world. Built over the Hooghly River, it connects the twin cities of Howrah and Kolkata. The bridge sees over a lakh vehicles and countless pedestrians daily. Visit at night to see it beautifully illuminated, and don’t miss a ferry ride between the cities from the nearby launch ghat.

2. Victoria Memorial

This magnificent white-marble monument is one of the most famous remnants of the British Raj. Built in honor of Queen Victoria, it closely resembles its namesake in London. Surrounded by 64 acres of lush gardens and adorned with statues and sculptures, the Victoria Memorial is as breathtaking as it is historic.

3.Fort William

Located on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River, Fort William was constructed in 1696 and named after King William III. This sprawling fort covers over 70 acres and features arched windows, manicured lawns, and historic architecture. Today, it serves as the headquarters of the Eastern Command of the Indian Army and can house up to 10,000 soldiers.

4. Botanical Garden

Nature lovers must visit the Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden, commonly known as the Botanical Garden. Located in Shibpur, Howrah, this 273-acre garden was established in 1787 and features an impressive collection of rare plants, artificial lakes, and rolling landscapes. It’s an oasis of greenery and tranquility just outside the city.

5. Belur Math

Located on the west bank of the Hooghly River, Belur Math is the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission. Spanning 40 acres, the temple complex was founded by Swami Vivekananda and is a center of spirituality and peace. Visitors from around the world come to admire its unique architecture and serene atmosphere. The math also houses a museum and affiliated institutions.

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6. Indian Museum

Founded in 1814, the Indian Museum is the ninth oldest museum in the world and the largest in India. Known locally as Jadughar, it features extraordinary collections of Buddhist artifacts, Egyptian mummies, fossils, Mughal paintings, and ancient sculptures. The museum’s 35 galleries are divided into six sections: Art, Archaeology, Anthropology, Economic Botany, Geology, and Zoology.

7. Mother House

The Missionaries of Charity, also known as the Mother House, was founded by Mother Teresa in 1950. This Roman Catholic congregation is dedicated to serving the poor and sick. The house is now a place of pilgrimage for those inspired by Mother Teresa’s life and legacy. It’s a humbling experience that puts life’s challenges into perspective.

8. Birla Mandir

Located in Ballygunge, Kolkata, the Birla Mandir is an architectural marvel dedicated to Lord Krishna and Goddess Radha. Built over 26 years and completed in 1996, artisans from Agra, Mirzapur, and Muzaffarpur were specially brought in for its construction. This temple is a perfect blend of traditional and modern architecture, making it a must-visit spiritual destination.

9. Birla Planetarium

If you’re fascinated by the cosmos, a visit to the Birla Planetarium is a must. Situated near the Victoria Memorial and St. Paul’s Cathedral, it is the largest planetarium in Asia and the second-largest in the world. Also known as Taramandal, it hosts daily shows in English, Hindi, and Bengali, exploring the mysteries of space and astronomy.

10. Tajpur

For those looking to unwind away from the city’s bustle, Tajpur is the perfect escape. Located around 170 km from Kolkata on the Bay of Bengal, this tranquil beach town is surrounded by tamarisk, casuarina, and eucalyptus trees. With its untouched shoreline and peaceful ambiance, Tajpur offers a serene retreat ideal for introspection and relaxation.

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