Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is the capital city of the Indian state of West Bengal, known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and intellectual legacy. For those pondering things to do in Kolkata, visiting the Victoria Memorial, a grand marble building dedicated to Queen Victoria, and exploring the Howrah Bridge, an iconic cantilever bridge over the Hooghly River, are top activities.
The city’s bustling New Market offers a chaotic yet charming shopping experience, with vendors selling everything from spices and textiles to handicrafts and jewelry. Nearby, the Indian Museum, one of the oldest and largest museums in India, provides a deep dive into the country’s history, art, and culture.
Beyond its historical and cultural attractions, Kolkata is also renowned for its literary scene, with numerous bookshops and the annual Kolkata Literary Meet attracting writers and readers from across the country. For those seeking the best places to visit in India, Kolkata’s blend of colonial architecture, intellectual pursuits, and vibrant street life makes it a captivating destination.
Attractions & Things to Do in Kolkata, India
1. Victoria Memorial
The Victoria Memorial is a magnificent white marble edifice that stands as a fusion of British and Mughal architecture, dedicated to the memory of Queen Victoria. Now a museum, its galleries recount the history of Kolkata, complete with paintings, sculptures, and artifacts from the British era.
Location: Queen’s Way, Kolkata, India. Near Maidan Metro Station.
Scenic Spot: A grand white marble monument surrounded by lush gardens and reflecting pools.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for a pleasant stroll and to watch the light and sound show in the evening.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, ideal for families, history enthusiasts, and architecture lovers.
Price: €2.50 for Indian citizens, €6.30 for foreign visitors.
Travel Tip: Visit in the evening when the monument is beautifully lit up, and don’t miss the light and sound show that narrates the history of the city.
2. Howrah Bridge
Howrah Bridge, an iconic landmark of Kolkata, is a massive steel structure that spans the Hooghly River and is considered an engineering marvel. It’s one of the busiest bridges in the world and a symbol of Kolkata’s identity.
Location: Spanning the Hooghly River, connecting Kolkata and Howrah.
Scenic Spot: Stunning views of the river, best enjoyed at sunrise or sunset.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late evening to avoid heavy traffic.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but pedestrian walkways can be crowded.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: For a picturesque view of the bridge, take a boat ride on the Hooghly River at sunset.
3. Indian Museum
The Indian Museum is the largest and oldest museum in India and boasts a vast collection that includes rare antiques, armor, ornaments, fossils, skeletons, mummies, and stunning Mughal paintings.
Location: Jawaharlal Nehru Road, Kolkata, India. Near Park Street Metro Station.
Scenic Spot: India’s oldest museum, featuring rare artifacts, fossils, mummies, and Mughal paintings.
Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings to avoid crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though young children may find some exhibits less engaging.
Price: €0.60 for Indian citizens, €5 for foreign visitors.
Travel Tip: The museum is quite extensive, so plan your visit according to the sections you’re most interested in, to make the best use of your time.
4. Dakshineswar Kali Temple
The Dakshineswar Kali Temple is a beautiful, serene sanctuary situated on the banks of the Hooghly River, dedicated to the goddess Kali. It is renowned for its association with Ramakrishna, a mystic of 19th Century Bengal.
Location: Dakshineswar, Kolkata, India. Accessible via Dakshineswar Metro Station.
Scenic Spot: A stunning riverside temple dedicated to Goddess Kali.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for a peaceful experience and to witness the aarti (prayer).
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but can be crowded during festivals.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Try to visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and to participate in the live aarti (prayer offering).
5. Park Street
Park Street is the food and entertainment hub of Kolkata, known for its vibrant atmosphere and colonial-era architecture. It’s lined with a plethora of restaurants, pubs, and cafes.
Location: Central Kolkata, India. Well connected by metro and bus services.
Scenic Spot: A vibrant street lined with historic restaurants, pubs, and colonial-era buildings.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for a lively atmosphere, especially during Christmas.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but nightclubs and bars are better suited for adults.
Price: Free to explore; restaurant costs vary.
Travel Tip: Visit during Christmas or New Year’s when the street is festively decorated and has a carnival-like atmosphere.
6. Eden Gardens
Cricket is almost a religion in India, and Eden Gardens is one of the oldest and most iconic cricket grounds in the country. If you’re a sports fan, catching a live match here can be an electrifying experience.
Location: BBD Bagh, Kolkata, India. Near Esplanade Metro Station.
Scenic Spot: One of the largest cricket stadiums in the world with a thrilling match-day atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit: When an international or IPL cricket match is scheduled.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but may be overwhelming for very young children.
Price: €3-€25 depending on match and seating.
Travel Tip: Check the cricket schedule in advance and book tickets early if there’s a match during your visit.
7. Sunderbans National Park
A bit further afield from Kolkata is the Sunderbans National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and a tiger reserve. It’s known for its mangrove forests and large tiger population.
Location: 100 km from Kolkata, accessible via road and boat.
Scenic Spot: A UNESCO-listed mangrove forest, home to the Bengal tiger.
Best Time to Visit: Winter (November-February) for better wildlife spotting.
Suitable for All Ages: Best for adventurous travelers; not ideal for infants or elderly visitors due to boat travel.
Price: €5 for Indian citizens, €12.50 for foreign visitors, plus boat safari charges.
Travel Tip: Plan an overnight stay to increase your chances of sighting wildlife, including the elusive Bengal tiger.
8. College Street
College Street is a book lover’s paradise with kilometers of sidewalks lined with book stalls, offering new and used books at bargain prices. It’s also home to the prestigious University of Calcutta and the iconic Indian Coffee House.
Location: Central Kolkata, near Sealdah Station.
Scenic Spot: A book lover’s paradise with endless stalls selling rare and second-hand books.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays for better deals and fewer crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, perfect for students, researchers, and literature lovers.
Price: Free to explore; book prices vary.
Travel Tip: Take time to browse through the collections; you might find rare books that are not available elsewhere.
9. New Market
New Market, also known as Hogg Market, is Kolkata’s historic and bustling bazaar, established in 1874. It’s a haven for shoppers looking for clothing, handicrafts, spices, and sweets, all under one roof.
Location: Lindsay Street, Kolkata, India. Near Esplanade Metro Station.
Scenic Spot: A bustling bazaar selling clothes, handicrafts, jewelry, and spices.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late evening for the best deals.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but can be overwhelming due to crowds.
Price: Free to enter; shopping costs vary.
Travel Tip: The market can get crowded, so keep an eye on your belongings and be prepared to haggle to get the best deals.
10. The Marble Palace
The Marble Palace in north Kolkata is a palatial nineteenth-century mansion, famous for its marble walls and floors, antiques, and sculptures from around the world. Accessible only by guided tours, it provides a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the city’s past zamindars (landowners).
Location: North Kolkata, India. Requires a special entry permit.
Scenic Spot: A 19th-century mansion with marble interiors, European paintings, and antique sculptures.
Best Time to Visit: Morning for guided tours.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but young children may not find it engaging.
Price: Free, but guided tour tips are expected.
Travel Tip: Photography is not allowed inside the mansion, so be sure to soak in the views with your eyes.
11. Belur Math
Belur Math is the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission, founded by Swami Vivekananda. The temple is noted for its architecture that fuses Hindu, Christian, and Islamic motifs as a symbol of unity of all religions.
Location: Howrah, West Bengal, India. Accessible by ferry from Dakshineswar.
Scenic Spot: A tranquil riverside spiritual center with unique architectural styles.
Best Time to Visit: Evening aarti for a serene experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but requires a respectful and quiet demeanor.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Dress modestly when visiting and check the schedule for the evening aarti, a spiritual experience not to be missed.
12. Jorasanko Thakur Bari
Jorasanko Thakur Bari is the ancestral home of the Tagore family, including Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. Now converted into a museum dedicated to the life and works of the Tagores, it’s a pilgrimage for lovers of Bengali literature and culture.
Location: Girish Park, Kolkata, India. Near Girish Park Metro Station.
Scenic Spot: Ancestral home of Rabindranath Tagore, now a museum dedicated to his life.
Best Time to Visit: During Rabindra Jayanti (Tagore’s birthday) for special events.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, especially for literature and history enthusiasts.
Price: €1.90 for Indian citizens, €4.40 for foreign visitors.
Travel Tip: Try to visit during Rabindra Jayanti, the annual celebration of Rabindranath Tagore’s birthday, for special performances and exhibitions.
13. Science City
Science City is the largest science centre in the Indian subcontinent, offering a dynamic and stimulating environment to learn about scientific principles through interactive exhibits.
Location: JBS Haldane Avenue, Kolkata, India. Near Sealdah Station.
Scenic Spot: Interactive science exhibits, a space theater, and a time machine experience.
Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings for fewer crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, particularly engaging for children and students.
Price: €3.80 for adults, €1.90 for children.
Travel Tip: Don’t miss the Space Odyssey hall and the time machine for a fascinating educational experience.
14. Kalighat Kali Temple
One of the 51 Shakti Peethas, Kalighat Kali Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to the goddess Kali. It’s a site of intense religious significance and attracts thousands of pilgrims each year.
Location: Kalighat, Kolkata, India. Near Kalighat Metro Station.
Scenic Spot: A famous Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, one of the 51 Shakti Peethas.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late evening to avoid crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but can be crowded and chaotic.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: The temple area is known for being very crowded, so keep personal belongings secure and be aware of the touts.
15. Eco Park
Eco Park is a vast, contemporary park in New Town, providing ample space for recreational activities, themed gardens, and water sports on a large lake.
Location: New Town, Kolkata, India. Easily accessible by car or bus.
Scenic Spot: A massive recreational park featuring themed gardens, water sports, and cycling paths.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for a pleasant walk and illuminated gardens.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with activities for children, adults, and seniors.
Price: €0.60 for entry; additional charges for activities.
Travel Tip: Rent a bicycle to explore the park’s expansive area comfortably and ensure you have enough time to enjoy all the activities on offer.
16. Birla Planetarium
The Birla Planetarium in Kolkata is one of the largest planetariums in Asia and a must-visit for astronomy enthusiasts. The sky show here provides an immersive experience of space and planets.
Location: Cathedral Road, Kolkata, India. Near Maidan Metro Station.
Scenic Spot: One of Asia’s largest planetariums with immersive space shows.
Best Time to Visit: Check the schedule for shows in your preferred language.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, great for children and astronomy enthusiasts.
Price: €1.90 for adults, €0.60 for children.
Travel Tip: Check the show timings in your preferred language as they vary throughout the day.
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Kolkata, India: Ratings
Kid-Friendly Activities in Kolkata: 7/10 – Kolkata offers a range of activities for families, including the Science City, the Alipore Zoological Gardens, and Nicco Park, an amusement park. The city’s numerous parks, such as the Maidan and Rabindra Sarobar, provide ample space for children to play and explore.
Nightlife in Kolkata: 6/10 – Nightlife in Kolkata is diverse but more laid-back compared to other major Indian cities. Areas like Park Street and Salt Lake City host a variety of bars, pubs, and clubs. Cultural performances, theater, and live music venues also offer evening entertainment.
Sport in Kolkata: 8/10 – Kolkata is passionate about sports, especially football (soccer) and cricket. The city hosts numerous sporting events and is home to iconic stadiums like Eden Gardens. For active sports enthusiasts, there are options for rowing, swimming, and local gyms.
Culture and Attractions in Kolkata: 10/10 – Kolkata is a cultural hub with rich heritage and numerous attractions, including the Victoria Memorial, Indian Museum, and Howrah Bridge. The city is known for its literature, art, and festivals like Durga Puja, which showcase its vibrant cultural scene.
Gastronomy in Kolkata: 9/10 – The culinary scene in Kolkata is renowned for its Bengali cuisine, including dishes like fish curry (macher jhol), mishti doi (sweet yogurt), and street food such as puchka (pani puri). The city also offers a variety of international cuisines, making it a food lover’s destination.
Shopping in Kolkata: 8/10 – Kolkata offers diverse shopping experiences, from traditional markets like New Market and Gariahat to modern malls like South City Mall and Quest Mall. The city is known for its textiles, saris, books, and handicrafts, offering unique shopping opportunities.
Prices in Kolkata: 8/10 – Kolkata is relatively affordable compared to other major Indian cities. Accommodations, dining, and shopping offer good value for money, making it accessible for a wide range of travelers.
Average price for a hotel night: $60
Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: $6
Price of a beer: $3
Price of a coffee: $2
Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Kolkata, India
For those looking to explore beyond the colonial charm and vibrant streets of Kolkata, top day trips near Kolkata reveal the rich tapestry of West Bengal’s culture and nature. From the sacred Ganges in Dakshineswar to the mangrove forests of the Sundarbans, each adventure offers a unique perspective on the region’s diverse heritage.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Kolkata accommodations offer a blend of historic elegance and modern luxury. From grand colonial-era hotels to contemporary serviced apartments, every traveler finds a cozy haven to return to in the City of Joy.
FAQ About Things to Do in Kolkata, India
What are the must-visit attractions in Kolkata?
Visitors should not miss the Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Indian Museum, and Dakshineswar Kali Temple when exploring Kolkata.
Can I explore the cultural heritage of Kolkata?
Absolutely! The Jorasanko Thakur Bari, the ancestral home of the Tagore family, and the Marble Palace are perfect for a deep dive into the city’s rich cultural history.
Is there an opportunity to see Bengal tigers near Kolkata?
While you won’t find Bengal tigers roaming close to Kolkata, a day trip to the Sundarbans National Park gives you the chance to see these magnificent creatures in the wild.
Are there any unique shopping experiences in Kolkata?
Yes, Kolkata is famous for its street markets. New Market and Gariahat Market offer a plethora of goods, from textiles to spices, at bargain prices.
What are some local foods I should try in Kolkata?
You must try Kolkata’s street food, including puchkas (a version of pani puri), kathi rolls, and sweets like roshogolla and sandesh.
Is Kolkata a good place for art lovers?
Definitely! Kolkata is known for its thriving art scene. The Academy of Fine Arts and the Kolkata Centre for Creativity are hubs for art enthusiasts.
What are some activities for nature lovers in Kolkata?
Nature lovers can visit the Botanical Gardens to see the wide range of flora, including the famous Great Banyan Tree, or take a boat ride on the Hooghly River.
Are there any important festivals in Kolkata I should know about?
Durga Puja is Kolkata’s most significant and celebrated festival, with the city transforming into a vibrant cultural spectacle of elaborate public pandals and processions.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kolkata
https://www.getyourguide.com/kolkata-l275/
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