The Most Famous Sightseeing Attractions of Kolkata

Kolkata, also known as Calcutta, is the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal. It is one of the most vibrant cities in India that reflects a rich cultural history and charm. Kolkata is home to some of the most exciting tourist attractions. In this blog post, we will explore the most famous sightseeing attractions of Kolkata that you shouldn’t miss while visiting this amazing city.

1. Victoria Memorial

The Victoria Memorial is an iconic landmark in Kolkata. It is a monument built-in memory of Queen Victoria of England. The memorial was constructed between 1906 and 1921, and it took 20 years to complete. The Victoria Memorial is a magnificent structure that houses a museum and art gallery. The 184ft tall edifice is made of white Makrana marble, and the architecture is a splendid combination of Mughal and British styles.The museum at the Victoria Memorial houses an extensive collection of books, paintings, manuscripts, and other exhibits from the British era. The art gallery displays paintings by famous artists like Thomas Daniell, George Stubbs, and many more. You can also take a stroll around the beautiful gardens surrounding the memorial.

2. Howrah Bridge

The Howrah Bridge is another iconic landmark of Kolkata. It is a bridge over the Hooghly River that connects the city of Howrah to its twin city Kolkata. The Howrah Bridge was built in 1943 and is considered to be one of the busiest bridges in the world. The bridge is nicknamed “Rabindra Setu” after the famous poet Rabindranath Tagore.The Howrah Bridge is a suspension-type bridge that is 705m long and 97ft wide. It carries around 80,000 vehicles and more than 1.5 million pedestrians per day. The best time to visit the Howrah Bridge is during the evening when the view of the sunset is spectacular.

3. Dakshineswar Kali Temple

The Dakshineswar Kali Temple is a famous Hindu temple located on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River. It is dedicated to Goddess Kali, one of the most significant deities in the Hindu religion. The temple was built-in 1855 by Rani Rashmoni, a famous philanthropist and devotee of Goddess Kali.The temple complex comprises 12 temples dedicated to various gods and goddesses. The main temple is five-storied and has 12 spires. The unique feature of the temple is the white marble statue of Goddess Kali, which is adorned with golden jewelry. The temple attracts thousands of devotees and tourists every day.

4. St. Paul’s Cathedral

St. Paul’s Cathedral is a beautiful Anglican Cathedral located in Kolkata. It was built-in 1847 and is considered to be one of the finest churches in India. The architecture of the cathedral is a blend of Gothic and Indo-Saracenic styles. The high altar of the cathedral is made of Italian marble, and the walls are adorned with beautiful stained glass windows.The cathedral is set amidst serene gardens, and the peaceful ambience makes it an ideal place for solitude and prayer. The cathedral is open to people of all religions and beliefs.

5. Indian Museum

The Indian Museum is the oldest and largest museum in India. It was built-in 1814 and houses a vast collection of natural history exhibits, coins, sculptures, paintings, and artifacts from ancient India. The museum has six sections that showcase different aspects of India’s rich cultural heritage.The most popular exhibit in the museum is the Egyptian mummy of the lady Ta-Sherit. The museum also has an excellent library that houses rare books and manuscripts. A visit to the Indian Museum is a great way to learn about India’s history and culture.

Conclusion

Kolkata is a beautiful city that has a lot to offer to tourists. The Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Indian Museum are some of the most famous sightseeing attractions of Kolkata that you must visit. These attractions provide a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Kolkata and make your visit to the city a memorable experience.

An Insider’s Guide to Kolkata

Are you planning a trip to Kolkata? This city holds an incredible amount of history, art, music, and of course, its unique culinary culture. From the famous landmarks to the hidden gems that only locals know about, there is so much to explore. We have created an insider’s guide to help you experience the Kolkata that tourists often miss.

Local Attractions: Uncovering the Hidden Gems

While the Victoria Memorial and Howrah Bridge are must-see attractions, Kolkata has much more to offer beyond these famous landmarks. Take a stroll through College Street, a paradise for book lovers. The street is lined with bookstores that have been around for over a century. Explore the narrow lanes of Kumartuli, the potters’ quarter, and watch the artisans creating beautiful clay idols of different Hindu gods and goddesses.

For a unique experience, visit the Marble Palace, a mansion that houses an exceptional art collection, including works by Rubens and Titian. The best part? The palace is free to visit, although you must make an appointment in advance.

Dining Spots: Eat Your Way Through the City

Kolkata’s culinary culture is an integral part of its charm. Start your day with a glass of tea at the famous local tea stalls, or “chai er dokan.” Try “puchka,” a popular street food consisting of crispy shells filled with spiced mashed potatoes, tamarind chutney, and mint water.

Local cuisine in Kolkata is incomplete without trying the famous “Rosogolla,” a spongy dessert with soft cheese balls soaked in sugar syrup. For authentic Bengali cuisine, visit the six-decades-old Bhojohori Manna restaurant chain. Order the “Thali,” a selection of rice, dal, vegetables, fish or chicken curry, and dessert.

Cultural Experiences: Dive into the City’s Traditions

The Durga Puja, Kolkata’s biggest festival, is a must-visit if you’re in the city in October. Watch the pandals, elaborately crafted and decorated makeshift structures that house the idols of the goddess Durga. Or attend a traditional “jatra,” a Bengali folk theater performance that depicts stories from Hindu mythology.

For live music, visit Sohini’s Academy of Music, where the maestros of Indian classical music perform. Alternatively, attend a “live paint show” at Gariahat, where artists create masterpieces in front of you while you sip chai.

Local History: Discover the City’s Fascinating Past

Kolkata has a rich history that dates back to the 17th century when it was a trading post for the British East India Company. Visit the St. John’s Church, a beautiful Anglican church built in 1787. Or witness the influence of British architecture in the Government House and the Victoria Memorial.

For something unconventional, visit the South Park Street Cemetery, the city’s oldest graveyard. It is now a protected heritage site, and walking through the cemetery with an experienced guide will give you a good understanding of Kolkata’s colonial history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Adventure Awaits

Get a bird’s eye view of the city by taking a hot air balloon ride at Eco Tourism Park. For a different perspective, take a tram ride around the city, a slow and relaxing way to see Kolkata’s charming streets.

Escape the bustling city by visiting Sunderban National Park, the world’s largest mangrove forest. Cruise down the river spotting exotic wildlife such as the Royal Bengal Tiger, saltwater crocodile, and Gangetic dolphin.

Conclusion:

Kolkata is a city full of surprises. Yes, it’s known for its colonial architecture, intellectual heritage, and delicious cuisine. But beneath the surface, there is so much more to explore. We hope this insider’s guide helps you delve deeper into the city’s soul. Whether it’s exploring hidden gems or tasting mouth-watering street food or discovering its rich history and tradition, we guarantee you’ll fall in love with Kolkata.