places to visit in kolkata on independence day

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Independence Day 2023: The Top 13 Places To Visit In Kolkata To Celebrate The Day

Since Independence Day holds great importance in India, you will find several restaurants and eateries offering special menus and tricolour-themed dishes on this day. So, if you happen to be in Kolkata right now, we have brought to you thirteen restaurants that are offering a special menu on Independence Day:

Independence Day is a national festival that is celebrated in a grand way all over the country. It is a moment to pay homage to our freedom fighters for their sacrifice and recognise the achievements of our motherland. The day is observed by hoisting the national flag and organising cultural programmes. Each city is decorated with saffron, white, and green colours, and you will see the tricolour raised high on every street.

Since Independence Day holds great importance in India, you will find several restaurants and eateries offering special menus and tricolour-themed dishes on this day. They also provide discounts to their customers. So, if you happen to be in Kolkata right now, we have brought to you thirteen restaurants that are offering a special menu on this Independence Day, August 15. Visit these eateries with your friends and family and relish the flavours of freedom: 

Warehouse Café

Immerse yourself in the patriotic ambience of Warehouse Café and relish their exclusive Independence Day delight – the tricolour edamame cream cheese dim sum. Bite into the flavoursome blend of edamame purée, cream cheese, and water chestnut, perfectly wrapped in burrata, capturing the essence of India's tricolour.

Address: 4th Floor, South City Mall, Prince Anwar Shah Rd., South City Complex, Jadavpur, Kolkata 

Time: 12 to 11:30 PM

Price for two:  Rs. 1200 approx. 

Milee Droog Coffee & Bistro

Unwind with a range of flavourful dishes like epic cheese jalapeño croquettes, funghi trifolati, Moroccan shrimp bastilla, barbeque buffalo chicken wings, and refreshing beverages as you bask in the celebration of Independence Day with your loved ones. 

Address: Ground Floor, 34 Kavi Sabitri PR Chattopadhyay Road, Lansdowne Terrace, Kolkata

Price for two: Rs. 1600 approx. 

The Yellow Straw

Anticipate a delectable and healthy assortment of dishes such as the hara bhara kebab wrap, protein power paneer salad, sitaphal shake, fruitzee sundae, and the refreshing yummy-tummy straw juice. All are thoughtfully crafted to add a touch of patriotism to your dining experience.

Address: Multiple outlets

Price for two: Rs. 300, approx.

Lord of the Drinks

Celebrate Independence Day at Lord of the Drinks and experience a special menu that captures the tricolour essence. Try their unique tiranga drink, which beautifully blends the sweet and tangy flavours of the Indian flag's colours. Don't forget to indulge in the chicken roulade served with Provencal sauce.

Address: 4th floor, South City Mall, Kolkata

Time: 12 PM to 12 AM

Price for two: Rs. 1200 approx.

Paprika Gourmet  

If you are craving some delicious shushi cakes, then Paprika Gourmet is a must-visit. Located on Loudon Street, this restaurant is offering drool worthy mini sushi cakes in plenty of flavours, including carrot and spicy mushroom sushi cake, avocado mini sushi cake, and pumpkin sushi cake. With truly authentic flavours, this Asian delicacy will make you crave more.

Address: Surbhi Building, 8/1/2, Loudon Street, 1st Floor, Kolkata  

Time: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Price for the platter: Rs. 500 per piece

Homely Zest  

This Independence Day, indulge in a delicious treat at Homely Zest. Savour the spirit of freedom with the special assorted dumplings, along with a delectable range of dishes on the menu comprising paneer ragda tikki, Manchurian skewers, Korean chilli potatoes, pav bhaji fondue, and more.

Address : 21 Mandeville Gardens, Kolkata

Time: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM 

Hard Rock Cafe

Hard Rock Café serves an array of delicious offerings. Relish the signature burgers like the double decker double cheeseburger, the original legendary burger, and the surf & turf burger, along with the scrumptious treats such as kasundi bhetki fish, Cuban sliders, a south of the border cottage cheese bowl, one night in Bangkok spicy shrimp, and so on. To pair with these delicacies, they also have special mocktails, such as strawberry basil lemonade, mango tango, pineapple lemonade, and a lot more. 

Address: Park Mansion, 57-A, Park Street, Taltala, Kolkata 

Price for two: Rs. 2500 approx.

The Mint Enfold

Celebrate this Independence Day with some wholesome, healthy delights from the menu at The Mint Enfold. Choose from gluten-free snacking options like chocolate chip cookies or vegan energy-boosting treats like cacao-orange energy truffles and almond-orange energy truffles. All these treats are made without refined sugar or preservatives.

Address: 12 Sunny Park, Ashray Apartments, Block-C, Kolkata

Time: 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM 

Price for two: Rs. 500 approx. 

Balaram Mullick & Radharaman Mullick

What better way to celebrate Independence Day than with exquisite Indian sweets? The special offerings of Balaram Mullick & Radharaman Mullick include tricolour rasogolla and sandesh, a creative twist on the beloved Bengali sweets. The traditional white mishti is given a patriotic touch by incorporating the three colours of the Indian flag—saffron, white, and green.

Address: Across all outlets in the city

Time: 9.00 AM to 9.30 PM

Price for two: Rs. 300, approx. 

Veneto Bar & Kitchen 

Enjoy a patriotic culinary journey with a delightful Indian-style meal featuring the tiranga roma pizza, which showcases the colours of the Indian flag. Accompany your meal with an Independence Day-themed mocktail called tiranga punch, all set in the vibrant ambience of the venue. 

Address:  Veneto Bar & Kitchen, 4th Floor, South City Mall, Jadavpur, Kolkata 

Time: 11.00 AM to 11.00 PM

Price for two:  Rs. 1200 approx.

Pinkk Sugars

Embrace the spirit of Independence Day during the special happy hour at Pinkk Sugars. Relish a delectable combination of peri-peri cottage cheese panini sandwiches paired with your choice of hot or cold cappuccino, peach iced tea, the refreshing orange basil mojito, and many such combos. Additionally, explore their new Mexican menu filled with exciting dishes like veggie corn tostadas, creamy mushroom quesadillas, Tex-Mex rice bowls, and enchiladas rancheras.

Address: AD-37, AD Block, Sector 1, Bidhannagar, Kolkata 

Time: 11.00 AM to 10.30 PM  

Price for two : Rs. 1200 approx.

Sankalp Restaurant

Celebrate this festival with a flavourful assortment of South Indian delicacies on their special menu. Savour the authentic Mysore dosa, Kanchipuram achari rava dosa, and masala veg idli, complemented by a tricolour ice cream dessert, symbolising the essence of patriotism. 

Address: Shop R 4A, Plot, Podium Level, Godrej Waterside, 5, DP Block, Sector V, Bidhannagar, Kolkata 

Time: 11:00 AM to 10:30 PM 

Price for two: Rs. 800, approx. 

Saffron Restaurant

Delight in the spirit of freedom as you experience the rich flavours of the Independence Day special menu at Saffron Restaurant. Treat yourself to the unique paneer tiranga, a delectable medley of hariyali, lehsuni, and malai paneer tikka, representing the colours of the national flag, and indulge in an array of other mouthwatering dishes to commemorate the occasion. 

Address: 17, Park St., Taltala, Kolkata

Time: 11:00 AM to 3:30 PM and 6:30 to 10:30 PM 

Price for two: Rs. 700, approx. 

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35 Unique Things to Do in Kolkata (2024) – Your Ultimate Kolkata Travel Guide

By: Author Sophie Pearce

Posted on Last updated: January 1, 2024

Categories INDIA , KOLKATA

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

Are you looking for all the amazing and unique things to do in Kolkata? I was in your shoes before I went.  

There seems to be so much to do in this Mega City, it’s hard to get your bearings and you can get totally lost in these city streets and struggle to find the highlights!  

Kolkata is the old capital of the British Raj and has the third biggest population of any city in India.  

So expect big crowds, roaring traffic, grandeur colonial architecture and a labyrinth of bazaars with the holy Hooghly river connecting it all.  

I hadn’t heard or read great things about Kolkata to be honest. I knew there was poverty and from what I heard it was chaotic and dirty. But, I’m never one to judge a place before I have been myself.  

So I jumped headfirst into the fray.

The result? I absolutely fell in LOVE with this amazing city and already want to return.  

So, in this ultimate Kolkata travel guide, I am going to not only be going through the absolute best things you can do in this city.  

But also I’ll be covering how to get around, where to stay, top foodie places, important travel tips and some itinerary suggestions too!  

A brief history of Kolkata in West Bengal  

I think to really understand the mix of colonial architecture and culture here in Kolkata, you have to know the history of the city and its humble beginnings.  

That way, a lot of what you’re seeing will make more sense and you can understand why the city is a melting pot of cultures!

Kolkata used to be known as Calcutta and was a city that was originally developed by the British East India Company in the 17th century.  

During this time it was the centre for English trade in India and the British controlled many major villages in the regions of Calcutta.

Most of the officers were stationed at Fort William in the biggest village which had a presidency.

Later, it was established as a city and it became the capital of British India from 1711 controlled by the British East India Company.  

Then, eventually, it became the capital of the British Raj from 1858 after British Crown rule was established.

At this time, all of India became part of the British Empire. In 1911, the capital of the British Raj switched over to Delhi on the orders of King George V, so Calcutta changed to the capital of all Bengal.  

After the Indian Independence, in 1947, Kolkata remained the capital of West Bengal and still is the capital of the state to this day.  

Today, the vibrant city of Kolkata has over 4.4 million residents and that’s a whopping 24,000 people per square kilometre making it one of the most densely populated cities in India and the world. It’s also classed as a Mega City as it stretches out over 205 square kilometres (79 square miles).

What is the best time to visit Kolkata?

The best time to visit Kolkata is hands down in the winter season from around October – March.

Here is when it will not be as humid from monsoon or hot from summer;

July – September: Monsoon season. Although I visited in early October, the monsoon seemed to run a little later this year. So, it was on and off heavy rains on my visit, and the city suffered floods.

The drainage system here cannot handle all the water so you’ll be wading in polluted water sometimes. Not fun.  

October – March: Wintertime. Probably the best time to be here as the temperatures won’t be as hot and you’ll get the most sunshine! Plus, you may visit for festivals and holidays like Kali Puja and Diwali!  

April – June: Summers are brutal in India, I used to live in Delhi so I know the heat and have been really sick from it too. Many cities face temperatures up to the late 40s up to the 50 degrees Celsius mark.

As you’re by the sea the breeze may be a reprieve. But, during these times, I highly suggest air-conditioned cabs, staying hydrated all day with water and electrolytes, sticking to shaded areas etc.

Don’t take risks, sunstroke is not a great travel buddy.

How long do I need to visit Kolkata?  

It’s a HUGE city and there are so many things to do in Kolkata you’ll be spoiled for choice. I originally had planned 3 days for my visit.

But as I loved the city so much and wanted to explore it even further, I instantly extended my stay by two more days.  

I would suggest a minimum of 3 days to explore Kolkata.

This means you’ll have enough time to do everything you want at a comfortable pace. Any less time and I think you’ll try and shove too much in.

I would personally split your travel itinerary up by certain areas and aim to hit a couple of sites per day.  

My go-to strategy is to pin everything I want to look at on Google Maps. Then I look at ‘groups’ of those pins and aim to hit those sections so I’m not flying around all areas of the city. This makes the best use of your time.  

The next step, look at opening times for attractions (I include most of them below). These will be your main restrictions.

See what those are and then plan anything that doesn’t have an opening time before/after those.  

This itinerary has a Google Map I’ve made for you below with pins for all the things to do on this list. You can steal this and use it to plan your trip and itinerary!  

Tours of Kolkata  

When I landed in Kolkata, I had heard that the West Bengal Government-run guided tours of the city for a cheap fee. But, when I enquired at the desk, they weren’t running due to Durga Puja.  

If you would rather enquire for yourself you can do so here. It’s a bus tour that will take you around the main sites.

Failing that, there are plenty of tours you can book for Kolkata online if you wanted to do a half-day tour, day tour, food tour, or temple tour.

Click here and book the below Kolkata tours;

• Full day city tour with lunch
• Complete day tour

Is Kokata safe?  

100% YES, if you use caution and common sense like you would in any city.  

I know that a lot of people panic when they visit India as they think that it’s really dangerous, dirty and you’re going to be attacked on every street corner.

But, having visited 22 of 29 states in India most of them by myself as a solo female traveller, it really is just about being wary and keeping your wits about you.  

I’ve had my fair share of scams, stresses, and scares, but nothing too major. The hospitality in India is out of this world and people are really friendly.  

Don’t go out late at night alone, don’t ask men for directions and follow them down a dark alleyway, don’t tell strangers where you’re staying, wear clothes that respect the culture, learn about customs and traditions and what not to do.  

Drinking isn’t really condoned so if someone offers, be cautious.

Drugs aren’t really common either apart from Bhang Lassi (religious cannabis) which I do not recommend drinking alone.

From my years of personal experience in India now, Indian men don’t need a lot to be encouraged. A smile or a friendly face can do it.

So, make your feelings plain and stand your ground. Don’t be afraid to say NO or refuse to give out your phone number or social media details if you don’t feel comfortable doing so.    

I know you can’t avoid everyone and everything and meeting locals is one of my favourite parts of travel. I’ve made lifelong friendships in India from being open.  

Just always keep your wits and be on your guard is all. Keep these numbers handy just in case;

• 24 hours tourist help line in 12 languages: 1800-11-1363
• Womens helpline: 1091
• Police: 100

35 unique things to do in Kolkata  

So, let’s start this EPIC list of all the amazing things to do in Kolkata!

I’ve tried to group them into certain sections so you can easily organise your itinerary.

It includes colonial sites, cultural attractions, foodie things, shopping streets, market bazaars, and even things to do in Kolkata at night.   So, there is definitely something on this list for everyone!

Colonial things to do in Kolkata

1. visit victoria memorial.

This is truly the jewel in the crown of Kolkata attractions and this marble building is a marvel of colonial architecture.

The Victoria Memorial was commissioned after Queen Victoria’s death in 1901, but wasn’t opened to the public until twenty years later in 1921.  

It’s a huge domed building made from Makrana marble and massive quarries were made in Rajasthan to procure it.  

There are two parts to this attraction, the gardens which surround it and the Gallery Museum inside.  

The gardens open at sunrise and are a gorgeous way to spend a morning. You can take some of the many walking routes and admire the memorial from the reflection lagoon.

Or, you can enter the museum from 10 am that has 26 galleries and over 30,000 items in its exhibits.  

Better yet, come back in the evening to watch a light and sound show on the grounds.

Did you know that the Victoria Memorial was painted black during World War II and was funded by Indian royalty?

The gardens open from 5.30 am-5 pm. The museum is open from 10 is – 5 pm. The light and sound show start from around 6 pm, more info here. Completely closed on Mondays.

Click here to read more amazing facts about the Victoria Memorial !

2.   Step inside St John’s Church

St John’s Church was the very first public building that was erected by the British East India Company in 1787.  

The lands were kindly donated by Maharaja Bahadur and the funding for its construction was raised by a public lottery!  

The architect was James Agg who based it on St-Martin-in-the-fields in London.  

At the time, the stone was a very rare material in India, and the ones they used to build the church were actually stolen from the ancient city of Gour (Gauda)! They were then shipped down the Hooghly River.  

In the graveyard, you can see tombs of some notable people in the city such as Job Charnock.

He is often seen as the founding father of Kolkata! He was one of the first administrators of the British East India Company who landed here in 1690.

He tragically died two years later but his tireless work united villages here that eventually became the Indian trading post for the English.

Also on the grounds, you can see a memorial dedicated to the ‘smothered’ of The Black Hole of Calcutta.

A tragic incident where over 100 British officers were kept in a small cell and only 20 survived (more below).  

Inside the church are some beautiful stained glass windows, a pulpit, and architecture! While we were here it was being renovated but it was still incredible to see.  

There is also a small museum that houses old artifacts from members of the British East India Company.  

Warren Hastings’s original chair is kept here, he was the first English governor of the presidency at Fort William and laid the foundation stone of this church.

St. John’s Church is FREE to visit but donations are always appreciated. Opening times are 8 am – 5 pm Monday to Saturday. 10am – 4pm Sundays.

3. Admire the Writer’s Building

The Writers Building was constructed in 1777 and was the principal administrative office for writers of the British East India Company.  

Over time since Thomas Lyon designed it, the building has undergone many improvements and extensions and is now 150 metres long with 13 blocks!

It was home to the Fort William college and during the British Raj it served as the building for writers of the secretariat.  

One of the most notable events that happened in this building was when Lieutenant Colonel NS Simpson, the Inspector General of Prisons, was assassinated.  

Simpson was infamous for his harsh treatment of Indian Prisoners. So three Bengali freedom fighters infiltrated the building dressed as Westerners and shot him.

The busy area of BBD Bagh is named after them. Nowadays it is the home of the State Government of West Bengal.  

Although you cannot go inside, it is still a marvel to look at from the outside!

4. Enter St Paul’s Cathedral

Due to the growing numbers of British and European citizens in Kolkata, St John’s Church was getting far too small to cater to those wanting to worship.  

So, the city decided to build a brand new church that could cater to the masses. The founding stone of the church was laid in 1839 and the Gothic building was completed in 1847.  

It is regarded as an architectural wonder and the very first Episcopal Church of the Eastern world. It’s 247 feet in long and 81 feet wide, so it’s mesmerising to take in.

As well as the outside looking pretty. If you pop inside the church, you’ll be in for a treat.  

Inside there are multiple memorial statues, a beautiful nave with stained glass windows, and a bell from the old bell tower.  

I loved sitting under the cooling fans in here for a while, it was so peaceful.

As it’s the diocese of Kolkata, you can see all the notable seats with coats of arms inside.  

Fun fact: There is a legend that the first Bishop Wilson is buried somewhere beneath the church in a vault. But, to this day no one has found any evidence of it.  

St Paul’s Cathedral is FREE to visit but donations are accepted. Open daily from 10 am – 6 pm. No photos are allowed inside.

5. Look around the Indian Museum

The Indian Museum was opened in 1814 by the Asiatic Society, making it the oldest museum in all of India.

It’s set inside a wonderful colonial building that has two floors, six sections, and 35 galleries full of historic, rare, and unusual artifacts.

You can take in some antiquities sourced from Egypt, or look at prehistoric ruins and fossils on display, admire old coins or visit the art gallery.  

It was really interesting at first, but after around an hour, I got a little bored.

Some of the exhibits are dated and I saw a lot of similar stuff in the British Museum back home.  

But I have to admit it was a great place to come with the rain pouring down, so I didn’t mind the distraction!

There is no air conditioning (just fans) so it gets really hot and sticky inside. Just letting you know now.  

Tickets for Indian nationals tickets are 50 rupees, for foreigners it’s 500 rupees! You will also need to buy a photo pass for photography.

The Indian Museum is open from 10 am-6.30 pm Tuesday – Friday and 10 am – 8 pm Saturdays and Sundays. It’s closed on Mondays and public holidays. See here for more.

6. Visit the infamous Fort William at Maidan Park

I’ve mentioned Fort William a lot in this post. That’s because this place was really the beginnings of the city as we know it today.  

Job Charnock arrived on the shores of Calcutta in 1690 and in just two years he united three villages in the area. After that, Fort William was born in 1696 by the East India Company.  

It was named after King William III and took ten years to complete. It then became the seat of the presidency of Bengal in British India.  

This was the original Fort William or the ‘Old Fort William’ as it is now known.

Unfortunately, it was partially destroyed when the Nawab of Bengal temporarily sacked the city and committed the ‘Black Hole of Calcutta’.

A second Fort William was then built by the British in Maidan in 1758 and it’s now occupied by the Indian Army.  

The Old Fort was eventually restored and used as a customs house. This is now where the General Post Office (GPO) stands.

Although you cannot go inside Fort William you can walk around and see it on the grounds at Maidan Park.  

It’s a huge green space that also has the Victoria Memorial, Dalhousie Barrack, the Command Museum, and The Water Gate.

7. Take a look in the GPO (General Post Office)

If you want to see where the Old Fort William stood, you only need to visit the GPO or General Post Office which is a gorgeous piece of architecture in itself.  

On the steps outside of the GPO you can see brass lines that lead down. This marks the boundaries of the first Fort William and is the only piece that remains.  

A sign on the wall outside of the GPO marks the alley of the site of the guardhouse.

This held the dungeon where the infamous Black Hole of Calcutta happened. Although it does mark a grisly past, the GPO itself is a marvel.

This huge domed building with giant columns was designed by Walter B. Grenville in 1864. Inside you can visit the GPO Postal Museum that has original stamps and postal memorabilia from the time!

The museum is FREE, non-flash photography is allowed and it’s open from 11 am – 4 pm every day

8. Go palace and mansion hopping

Did you know that there are hundreds of old mansions and palaces dotted around Kolkata? Most of these have been repurposed into government buildings but some are completely abandoned!  

They’re often known as the Forgotten Palaces of Calcutta and a whole book was written about them by Joanne Taylor. My tour guide in Kolkata was a historian who contributed to this book!

Most of the mansions were built by members of the British East India Company or wealthy businessmen.  

Although there are many dotted around the city which is crumbling and serve merely as facades, they give you an idea of the grandeur of the time.  

One of the best-preserved of these mansions that you can actually visit today is the Marble Palace.

This neoclassical building was constructed in the 19th century by Raja Rajendra Mullick, a wealthy Bengali businessman. It is filled with amazing statues and paintings. It’s well worth checking out.  

The Marble Palace opens at 10 am and closes at 3 pm but is closed on Mondays and Thursdays. It’s completely FREE to visit!

9. Visit India’s oldest high court

The Calcutta High Court claims the title of India’s oldest high court and was built on permission by Queen Victoria in 1862.  

But this incredible red and white Neo-Gothic building was built ten years later in 1872. Although the city is no longer called Calcutta, the Calcutta High court still retains the original name.

Today, this High Court makes a striking impression on the strip and has a long line of Chief Justices.

Its remit covers the whole West Bengal area, Port Blair in the Andaman Islands, and Jalpaiguri too!  

You cannot go inside the High Court Building. But, it’s a nice photo opportunity.

10. Metcalfe Hall

Finally, our last colonial building in this list takes us to Metcalfe Hall which can be found on Strand Road.  

It’s built in the British Imperial Style with elements of the Neoclassical from the Corinthian pillars at the entrance.  

A fun fact about this museum is that it used to be the Calcutta Public Library! Lord Metcalf, the then Governor-General, transferred over 4,600 books from Fort William College.

Today, this museum is a little bit of a hidden secret and so that’s why you HAVE to go.

You can visit the hall and see its various exhibitions including rare artifacts donated by the Asiatic Society.

There are antique hand-drawn rickshaws, old boats, and galleries that celebrate the life of the people in the city.

Entry is FREE. The Metcalfe Hall is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am – 5 pm, and is closed on Mondays. 

Cultural things to do in Kolkata

11. visit kalighat temple – shakti peetha.

Kalighat Temple is one of the most famous temples in Kolkata and is dedicated to the blood-thirsty warrior goddess Kali.  

It’s also famous due to the fact it is home to a Shakti Peetha. If you’re not aware of what Shakti Peethas are, I’ll give you a short overview.

In the ancient texts, it reads that Lord Shiva’s wife Shakti died. Shiva was so upset and enraged he carried Shakti’s body with him everywhere he went, mourning her and performing his dance of destruction.  

Eventually, he was causing so much chaos, Lord Vishnu cut Shakti’s body up into 51 pieces and they fell all over India.  

Where each of these pieces fell, a temple is set up as a place of worship. Kalighat Temple is where Shakti’s right toe fell.

Many people come on a pilgrimage to Kolkata to visit this temple. You can find thousands of people every single day. Even more around festival times.  

Queues can take hours so Brahmin’s (higher caste priests) usually charge a ‘VIP’ fee for tourists. Although it sounds like a tourist trap, many locals do this to skip long queues.  

We felt like the 300 rupees was a good deal. It saved so much time and it included an offering, entering the temple, being blessed, and receiving our red-yellow thread or Kautuka. I still wear mine now!

Although photos are not allowed inside the temple of the idol, I saw this mural painted outside which gives you an idea of what it looks like.  

Kalighat Temple is FREE (although I do recommend the VIP fee), open dawn until dusk

12. Admire the clay statues in Kumartuli  

One of my favourite areas of Kolkata can be found in the potters quarter of Kumartuli.  

When the British East India company were here, they split up “Black Town” or the Indian quarter of Calcutta by trade.

There were wine traders, carpenters, chicken sellers etc. The Potters of Kumartuli were located in Barabazaar.

Although many of the old trades have disbanded with time, the karigars of Kumartuli still remain.

A long tradition of potters settling here started with Durga Puja that celebrates the Hindu warrior Goddess Durga.

A Raja asked for an idol to be made of the Warrior Goddess after she came to him in a dream in the 19th century and ever since it has become an annual tradition.  

Kumartuli is a labyrinth of streets that has over 500 workshops. Although the potters make idols of many Gods and Goddesses all year, the best time to visit is around Durga and Kali Puja.  

In the build-up to the festivals, people are asking for many idols to be made and so the potters will showcase their best work.  

Fun fact: the statues are made from clay that is taken from the Ganges river (Hooghly). During Durga Puja they immerse the statues into the river. So, the statue does a full cycle and Hindus believe the Goddess has returned to nature.

It’s FREE to visit but they may charge a voluntary donation during festival times. Click here to read my complete guide about the incredible potters quarter

13. Cross over the bustling Howrah Bridge

There are many iconic bridges in Kolkata, but none so famous as Howrah Bridge or Rabindra Setu.

It sounds weird, but I was so excited to see this bridge for myself.

I had heard about it long before my visit to West Bengal and it’s almost a tourist attraction in its own right.

It was commissioned all the way back in 1871 by the British but wasn’t built until 1935. It stretches over 705 metres, required 23,000 tons of steel and it’s the busiest cantilever bridge in the entire world.

Approximately 100,000 vehicles and 150,000 pedestrians cross it each day! That’s not including the cows that roam here.  

So, you must join the crowds and cross for yourself!  

If you are wondering, there are a total of 4 bridges on the Hooghly River connecting Kolkata to Howrah.

The others are the second Hooghly Bridge, which kind of reminded me of a grey Golden Gate Bridge, Bally Bridge (Vivekananda Setu), and New Bally Bridge (Nivedita Setu).

14. Visit the world’s biggest Banyan Tree  

One of the top attractions in this city is The Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden. It’s the oldest botanical garden in all of India and was commissioned by Colonel Robert Kyd in 1787.  

The only reason why this was created was to cash in on some of the tropical plants and trees like teak wood and spice trade!  

This is actually where the English first started growing tea from China, so one of India’s biggest exports had its humble beginnings here.  

The most famous resident in the whole park is The Great Banyan Tree which is the widest Banyan tree in the whole world.

It’s over 250 years old and its circumference is over 4 acres! It survives without the main trunk and it has over 3,770 aerial roots.

Read my post with my top tips for the Botanical Gardens in Kolkata

15. Marvel at Parashnath Jain Temple in Kolkata  

One of the most impressive temples that I visited in Kolkata was the Parashnath Jain Temple or Calcutta Jain Temple.  

Jain is an ancient Indian religion that has a supreme principle of ahimsa (non-violence, peace, and charitable deeds) . They also have three guiding principles of the right belief, knowledge, and conduct.  

The temple complex is actually split into four separate temples and was built in the 19th century by Ray Badridas Bahadur in honour of Parashnath.  

The most amazing part of this temple is the fact is was made of thousands of mirrors, jewels, and glass. Some even call it the temple of a million mirrors!

The work is truly exquisite inside and out and you could spend hours in this serene place admiring the architecture.  

Fun fact: There is an eternal flame inside the temple that burns with ghee. Apparently, it has been burning since it opened in 1867!  

It’s FREE to enter and is open daily from 6 am – 10 am then from 5 pm – 8 pm

16. See life on the Ghats of the Ganges

The Hooghly River in Kolkata is actually a river that falls off of the River Ganges. So many people in the city refer to it simply as ‘Ganga’.  

The Ganges river is important in Hindu religion as many believe it is personified as the Goddess Ganga.  

So, it plays a huge part in the local culture of the city. People believe if you wash in the Ganga, the water is pure and you’ll be cleared of your sins.  

There are temples lined up along the Hooghly River with ghats or stairs that lead down to the water.  

Every day you’ll see locals praying, meditating, washing clothes, and even drinking this water.  

Visiting is a great way to not only learn about Hindu culture but also see the local life on the waterways.

17.   Visit Dakshineswar Kali Temple  

Another famous temple in Kolkata is the Dakshineswar Kali Temple.

Despite the name, it’s actually dedicated to Bhavatarini, an aspect of Kali rather than the warrior goddess herself.  

In pictures, it almost looks like an etching or 2D drawing due to the trippy line patterns on the architecture of the domes! Or maybe that’s just me, haha. Either way, it’s awesome to look at.   

It was built by Rani Rashmoni in 1855 who was a devotee of Kali.  

Inside there is the main Bhavatarini temple on nine domes, then outside there are shrines dedicated to Shiva here and a temple for Rada-Krishna.

If you’re on a temple trail, this is quite close to Belur Math as a next stop.

But, you will need to cross the river to access it. The local ferries here have a direct connection over the water. Ticket prices are 6 rupees ahead.

Or, click here to book a Kolkata temples tour which includes this one

18. Visit Kolkata for Durga Puja!  

Durga Puja is celebrated all over the world for those of the Hindu faith, but it is a huge and famous celebration in Kolkata.  

Many people from around the world visit the city during this time and it has huge events going on for 10 days. It’s all about celebrating the warrior goddess Durga.  

The city goes a little crazy around this time. So, you’ll find roads are blocked off, buses and taxis are packed to the rafters and people will walk the streets all night.  

There will be raucous music, street parades, and people singing and praying in the streets.  

Temples will be rammed, attractions and shops may be closed. It really is a big deal here.

During this time, I would highly recommend booking a quiet hotel. It’s a 24-hour party and you may struggle with the endless noise.  

I stayed at the Oberoi Grand and made sure I had an indoor-facing room away from the road.

Pandals of Durga Puja  

Although it would be a bit of a scrum and you may be queuing for hours, one of the best ways to see and experience Durga Puja is to visit the many ‘Pandals’.

Pandals are a series of temporary altars that are created for the festival and usually draw many talented artists to create them.  

The city even has a competition for the best Pandals and so you’ll find those big companies shed a LOT of money to sponsor these.

Pilgrims during Durga Puja will walk the streets all night, queueing to visit and giving offerings to the Goddess here.  

We actually visited one the day after Durga Puja and it was completely empty!

I couldn’t believe the size of it. Seriously, It was like a HUGE temple in itself.

The Pandal we went to had massive gold hands, faces of the goddess, and lotus flowers the size of elephants! I couldn’t get over the epic details and talent.  

It’s definitely something I would recommend seeing if you find yourself in Kolkata during the festival. But, if you don’t like mass crowds, I would do what we did and wait til the next morning when it’s emptier.  

19. Check out College Street Book Market

Did you know that the world’s largest second-hand book market is right here in Kolkata? You can find it on College Street and it even has the nickname Boi Para or “Book Town.”

Although I loved being here over Durga Puja, I was gutted that it was closed over the festival and if we went there no stalls would be open!  

It spans over 1 million square feet and has long been associated with the universities, colleges, and learning centres in the area.

You can find rare books here, including first editions at dirt cheap prices. So keep your eyes peeled for a bargain that you could make a fortune on back home.  

A highlight of any visit here is meant to be the old Indian Coffee House. It has been the haunt of many famous writers including Rabindranath Tagore. So, sip on a chai and watch the chaos of the market.

The nearest tram stop for College street is Esplanade Tram Depot

Markets to visit in Kolkata  

20. visit mullick ghat flower market at sunrise.

Every morning, thousands of flower sellers come to Mullick Ghat to sell their freshly cut blooms by the kilo! All the while they will be bartering and making sales with locals.  

Lots of colour, chaos, petals and people await you and you’ll experience the sights, smells and sounds of this amazing market.

The best time to visit is at sunrise as this is when the flowers are freshest. So, you’ll get to see all the nice colours and the best of the bunch!  

It can be a bit of a maze making your way around. But, that’s part of the fun. You’ll see lots of conversations and money being passed around too.  

This is one of the top things that I would recommend in Kolkata. So don’t miss out!  

Click here to read more reasons why you should visit the Mullick Ghat Flower Market and top tips

21. Explore the labyrinth of New Market in Kolkata  

Another market that should be on your list is New Market. It’s a huge space that’s mainly undercover and has everything you could need from an abattoir to saaris!

As it was monsoon around here, we were pretty much ice skating on the floors and much of it was flooded. So, we were wading through dirty, murky water with entrails and eggshells floating around.

It was NOT very pretty. But, some of the markets were amazing to see like the fruit and spices stalls. Also, there were bright and colourful clothes and jewellery to admire.

We found some unexpected delights in here like the Lalit Great Eastern Bakery.

Where they sell off their amazing (quite expensive cakes) from their hotel here for dirt cheap prices. I got a mouth-watering chocolate brownie for 50 rupees!  

Although the market is undercover, there are some great food stalls around the outside too.  

We stopped off at an Islamic eatery outside. Many of the local hole-in-the-wall restaurants in India are associated with different religions due to eating requirements and cooking traditions.

For example, many Hindus don’t eat meat but Muslims do. So, there are different restaurants.  

We treated ourselves to chai and some buttered toast here as a snack and the owners were so friendly. It was only 12 rupees (15p) each!  

22. Go Shopping on Esplanade

Another colonial area is Esplanade which still uses the old shopping street buildings from years ago.  

It’s a huge area that connects with Park Street another famous shopping street. So, it’s a great place to start out.  

Esplanade has lots of mainstream Western stores like Nike and Puma, some Indian chains like Bata, and huge shopping malls. But, that’s not really the fun part about this street.

The fun part is seeing all the amazing stalls that have been set up on either side of the Esplanade and   trying to battle through the crowds here.

You’ll have guys selling sunglasses, shampoo, toys, clothes, fake designer wallets, vanity mirrors, everything you could think of really!  

My hotel, the Oberoi, was in the middle of this street. So I passed it pretty much every day.

The same sellers would be shouting at me to buy something and each day I’d still say no lol. It became a little thing.

Dark tourism things to do in Kolkata  

23. visit the mother house of the missionaries of charity.

One of the main attractions in the city is to visit Mother Teresa’s tomb in Kolkata.  

It sits in the Mother Teresa Memorial home and, although it does sound a little morbid, it’s a nice little tomb to celebrate her life.  

Inside you can visit the museum to learn all about her life’s work. People often call her Saint Teresa here.  

She came from Albania and taught in a convent in Kolkata for many years. But she was so moved by the poverty in Kolkata she started to provide charity to the city.

She eventually won the Nobel Peace Prize for her work and she rubbed shoulders with the likes of Gandhi in her time.

After the museum, you can pay respects to her tomb and even visit her bedroom which has been preserved. Inside the room are her desk and original appointment book, her writing chair, and her telephone.  

On the day of her death, she attended mass. Then she came back and died in her bed.

After your visit there is a small café outside that has some nice souvenirs if you’d like to take something home to remember your visit.  

Entry is FREE but it is by donation. All proceeds will be donated to the missionaries of charity. You will need to take your shoes off to see the tomb.  

Opening times vary throughout the week and it’s closed on Thursdays.

24. Learn about the Black Hole of Calcutta  

I have always heard about the Black Hole of Calcutta, but I didn’t really have any idea what it meant really. It sounded something similar to the Bermuda Triangle but that wasn’t the case at all.  

The Black Hole of Calcutta was a tragedy that took place for three days starting on the 20th June 1756. It started with the Nawab of Bengal, Siraj-ud-Daulah, taking over the Old Fort William with his army.  

He then proceeded to shove over 146 men and women into a small dungeon in the fort.

This room was only around 4.3 × 5.5 metres or 14 × 18 feet. Many of the European men and women in here died of heat exhaustion and suffocation. Only 23 men survived.  

It was a terrible tragedy and it was wildly beefed up in the newspapers back home in the UK.

This was in the hope that the British would send a relief effort to rescue the men and send their armies from Madras to recapture Calcutta. Which they did and Siraj was overthrown and killed in the Battle of Plassey.

You can visit a memorial dedicated to the ‘smothered’ in St John’s Church and what remains of   the Old Fort William at the General Post Office.

25. Get spooked at South Park Street Cemetery  

Another fascinating place that is hidden away in South Park Street Cemetery.  

Often labelled as the most haunted place in all of Kolkata, there are 1600 gothic tombs that make up the graveyard. Established in 1767, it was used for European members of society, mainly the officers of the British East India Company and their families.  

It fell into disuse around 1790 and was completely abandoned in 1830. Today, it is maintained by the Archeological Survey of India.

Similar to Highgate Cemetery in London , the are lots of elaborate gothic tombs built around here. They’re all covered in green moss and there are ancient fern trees too.  

Some notable tombs are a bust of Henry Derozio, a radical Indo-Portuguese thinker, Walter Landor Dickens, Charles Dickens’ Son, and Sir William Jones, the founding father of the Asiatic Society.

Look out for the tomb shaped like a pineapple core! It was made for Rose Alymer who was just 17 years old when she died of Cholera. Walter Savage Landor, a famous poet, was in love with her and wrote a poem for her tomb.

The graveyard is open from 10 am – 5 pm and costs 50 rupees per person to enter. You must sign a guestbook. A kind volunteer here took us on a really informative tour and we tipped him for his time.  

Read my post on South Park Street Cemetery with what to expect when visiting

Foodie things to do in Kolkata

26. go on a kolkata street food tour  .

Kolkata is known for its street food, so if you’d rather go on a street food tour, there are a few that take place each evening.  

You’ll try a range of famous Kolkata street foods like;

• Fish Curry (Macher Jhol)
• Kolkata Biryani (yes each place has their own version in India and it’s almost criminal to just call it ‘Biryanai’)
• Mutton Curry (Kosha Mangsho)
• Phuchka – similar to Gol Gopan or Pani Puri
• and… so much more! (There are vegetarian options for those that do not eat meat)

So, make sure you book your food tour here to learn all about them

27. Try Hot Kati Rolls  

If you’re feeling peckish and looking for foodie ideas, you have to try one of Kolkata’s famous Hot Kati Rolls.  

There are many dotted around the city, but the original is a ‘hole-in-the-wall’ (quite literally) counter that can be found on Park Street. It’s the ultimate street food and can be compared with a kebab back home.  

You’ll get a wrap, filled with hot chicken, onions, spices, some unidentifiable sauce, and it will be all wrapped up and fried on the counter!  

It is absolutely delicious, ridiculously cheap at 50 rupees and crowds of locals come here to eat each evening.  

There are no seats inside as it’s just a street food counter, but just nearby you can sit down and enjoy.

28. Wander down Park Street

Park Street in Kolkata is a famous shopping street but it’s also the place where you can find some of the most amazing restaurants and bars in the city!

As well as the Hot Kati Roll, you have some of the most famous restaurants dotted along here like Peter Cat.  

We wanted to get in here but unfortunately, the waitlist was over an hour and we were already hungry.  

So, we popped into the famous Mocambo instead that has been open since 1956. It used to be on what was known as ‘Cabaret Row’ back then and singers used to belt out covers of US pop stars of the era.  

The whole vibe in here is vintage with low light, red tassel lampshades and the waiters are all in their historic finery.  

It serves up a great mix of classic Kolkata dishes like its famous grilled Beckty, a Bay of Bengal delicacy. Plus, it has a range of European classic dishes too.  

I had the Beckty sizzler and washed it down with a minty Mojito. It was absolutely fantastic and great value for money too!  

29. Try Sugar Cane Juice

Sugar Cane Juice can be found all over India but I found so many stalls selling it in Kolkata. So, you must try it if you get the chance.

We were watching them make it outside of Kalighat Temple. Essentially they run sugar cane through a press and then juice it!  

The result is a rather green-looking but refreshing sweet drink that will cool you down with the heat. Just be careful as they often mix it with local water.  

30. Sample the original Rasgulla

Every state has a sweet that they are famous for. Indians have a massive sweet tooth and so you’ll always find a famous shop in every city serving up sickeningly sweet sugary treats.  

In Kolkata, they are famous for Rasgulla and it’s almost a crime not to try it while you’re here!  

Rasgulla was invented right here in the city by Nobin Chandra Das in 1868. It’s a spongey syrupy dumpling made of chhena and semolina dough.

Now, it’s not only popular in Bengal but all over India too. I have tried Rasgulla many times in India, but they really are something special in this city.

The most famous sweet shop to try in Kolkata is K. C. Das. People queue up to buy boxes of the desert to take home. So, you must try some to see if they live up to the hype.  

Things to do in Kolkata at night time  

31. go on a hooghly river cruise  .

One thing I really wanted to do in Kolkata was a river cruise. Kolkata has the roaring Hooghly River, or Ganga, snaking through it and it brings together many of the cities main attractions.

We were recommended to book with Vivada Cruises who are a highly rated day cruise company in the area. We were not disappointed!

We opted for the 3-hour evening cruise, which included chai, snacks, and a stop at Belur Math for the evening aarti.

Not only were we treated to the most amazing colourful sunset over the river, but we also got to see a lot of the local life on the river and wave to people under the Hooghly Bridge.

It was an unforgettable experience and those ‘snacks’ were pretty much a whole meal. We were so stuffed we couldn’t eat another bite!

It only cost 1,000 rupees plus GST which is incredible value for money. They also do a lunch and dinner cruise for 1,500 rupees + GST.

Click here to read my full review of my Hooghly River Cruise

32. Visit Belur Math Temple Complex

One of the highlights of my evening cruise was a visit to Belur Math . It’s a HUGE temple complex that spans 40 acres on the banks of the Hooghly River.  

It’s the Headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and the Ramakrishna Mission who is a spiritual organisation.  

It was founded in the 19th century by Sri Ramakrishna, known as the Prophet of the Modern Age, and his chief disciple Swami Vivekananda, a forward thinker, and religious leader.  

Although there are 4 temples, plus education and medical centres in Belur Math, the Sri Ramakrishna Temple is the jewel in its crown.

Here, we got to see the magical evening aarti. Where the priests of the temples lead the local pilgrims in prayer.  

Women must observe in one section and men must be on the other as is the custom. You’ll quickly be ushered on by security if you end up in the wrong place.  

You can also buy all sorts of books with the teachings of Swami Vivekananda in the library afterward.

33. Watch the sound and light show at the Victoria Memorial  

If you’re looking for something unique to do in the evenings, why not visit the Victoria Memorial for a sound and light show?

By day, this incredible building is gleaming white in the sunshine, but after the sun sets it’s lit up beautifully against the night sky in all different colours.

In the memorial gardens, there is a sound and light show that has a magic water fountain with music and commentary.

One show is in Bengali and one show is in English, so make sure you get the right time!

34. See the city light up at night  

Something that I really didn’t expect to love so much was the city lit up at night time.

Although the colonial architecture is lovely in the day, it really comes alive at night when it’s all lit up.

The Howrah Bridge is also lit up and many of the buildings on the Hooghly come alive in different colours, so they make an amazing reflection on the river.

After our cruise, we were in for a real surprise as they had a street parade as part of the celebrations.  

We got to see all sorts of Durga floats, heading down the strip. Some were decorated with massive idols and others had dance troops performing scenes from sacred texts.

Kolkata at night time is really something special and you don’t know what surprises you may find!  

Day trips from Kolkata  

35. visit the sundarbans national park  .

The Sundarbans National Park is a treasure in West Bengal and is somewhere you should definitely visit if you’re in the area.

It’s a huge mangrove forest and bio reserve that is also inhabited by tigers. It spreads over both Bangladesh and India on the Ganges Delta.  

Personally, I would recommend a two-day one night trip as a minimum. Day trips are possible from Kolkata but depart at 4 am!

I went on an overnight trip to the Sundarbans with Sundarbans Chalo !

They are a budget tour company but came highly recommended and the value for money was crazy.

My trip cost 4500 rupees (£48 /$56 USD) which is a total bargain. This included;

• Return transfers to the Sundarbans (4 hours each way)
• A sunset cruise 
• A double room with private bathroom
• All meals (2 lunch, 2 breakfast and 1 dinner, tea & snacks) 
• A cultural dance performance
• A full 8 hour day cruising on the Sundarbans
• All my permits, photograhpy and entrance fees too.

You can’t really turn your nose up at that!

The things you absolutely cannot miss in the ‘City of Joy’  

I know that 35 things to do is a LOT and maybe you just want to prioritise the most important attractions.  

So, I’ll suggest some of the MUST DO sites to limit down your options;

• Victoria Memorial
• Mullick Ghat Flower Market  
• Kalighat Temple  
• Howrah Bridge
• The Mother House  
• South Park Street Cemetery  
• Dakshineswar Kali Temple

My top travel tips for Kolkata  

1. plan to stay connected  .

Buying an Indian SIM card in Kolkata: Getting an Indian SIM card for your phone is really simple. You can even do it on arrival at Kolkata Airport.

I would recommend an Airtel SIM for West Bengal and the North East. You’ll get packages where you’ll receive 1GB per day for 30 days. It’s recommended as it has the most signal.  

Use a WiFi hotspot: Failing that, you can stay connected with a WiFi Hotspot . I use Keepgo to stay online without the fuss of buying a SIM card.  

2. Don’t forget travel insurance

While you think of it, if you haven’t yet, make sure you have travel insurance!  

It’s always a necessary thing to have for peace of mind. I always use World Nomads for their reliable policies.

3. How to get exchange money in Kolkata  

I have never actually exchanged British currency in India itself. I’ve always just rocked up and got my money out of an ATM when I got here.  

I always use SBI, or State Bank of India as they give you FREE withdrawals and I’ve never had an issue with International Cards.

I know that sounds reckless to some but I really hate having to exchange money in India. I’ve been ripped off in the past.  

My biggest tip would be to NOT use the services at the airport. They have ridiculous rates.

Go to a currency converter in the city and use the ‘Currency Converter’ app to check the rates for the day. Then see what exchange they will give you.  

4. Prepare for some uncomfortable sights

Kolkata is a densely populated city and has a lot of poverty, so you can expect to see sights that may make you feel uncomfortable.

It cannot be avoided and many times I feel totally helpless as I wish I could help in some way.

More than 24% of India’s people live below the poverty line.

But, there are ways that you can support the people in the city. Supporting local businesses, buying products from people who are selling on the street, giving any money you can, and donating to organisations like the Missionaries of Charity all help to improve livelihoods.  

5. Always remember to haggle and look out for scams

Although I found that Kolkata had a lot fewer scams than the likes of Delhi, it wasn’t completely immune. Especially with things like transport.

Yellow Ambassador Cabs were an awesome way to get around. But, I found they were constantly overcharging.

At one point, a local even got involved and told him he was ripping us off (thank you to whoever you were!). My biggest advice here is to make sure the meter is switched on. Or, agree on a price before you get in.  

The same goes for auto-rickshaws (three-wheeled tuk-tuks), it was always a hassle to get a good price! So, there are a few ways to get around it.

I would use Uber for cabs, as it’s cheaper and you get a fair price. Or, get the metros and trams which are far more economical.  

The buses here looked like a death trap to me.   I’ll go through some more transport options below;  

How to get around Kolkata while you’re here

Getting from kolkata airport to kolkata city.

When you land at the airport, if you haven’t already scheduled a pickup, you have some choices.

All the locals gravitate over to the Pre Paid Taxi counter owned by the Bidhannagar City Police.

It’s an awesome service with cheap non-air-conditioned ambassador city cabs. They are a union, so you’ll pay a fixed price and get given a receipt/ticket that you’ll hand to the driver.  

But, they only take cash, so make sure you have rupees on you.

For me, a ride from the airport to my hotel on Esplanade in the centre cost 300 rupees! If I booked a transfer with my hotel directly they charged 4000.

If you’d prefer, there is both an Uber and an Ola (a competing app) counter here but it’s more expensive.  

Both counters will give you access to a WiFi hotspot so you can book one if you don’t have data.  

Then you just wait out at their collection point. You do need the app on your phone to use the service. So, make sure you have it.  

Click here to get a special discount on your first ride with Uber.

Transport options in Kolkata  

While you’re in the city, there are plenty of ways to make your way around.   As one of the most populated cities in India, you’ll find the city has thousands of buses, trams, ferries, rickshaws, taxis, and even an underground metro to help everyone get moving!

By Bus: Buses were plentiful here, but they were also crazy. They would zoom around the city shouting for passengers, while locals chased after the bus and hopped on.

Same as most of India, but I really struggled with the local language here (Bengali). So, I didn’t even attempt it. But, it is a cheap way to get around if you know where the bus is headed.

By Tram: Kokata is famous for its trams and its the only tram network in the whole of India. So, if they are running you must hop on. Unfortunately for us, these were under construction on our visit.

By Metro: The underground metro in Kolkata is really cheap and efficient. But, it only has one line that runs through the central spine of the city.

You pay per kilometre and tokens start out at 10 rupees for 5 kilometre and max out at 25 rupees for 25 kilometres. It’s quick but there’s no air con so it’s pretty sweaty.  

By Rickshaw: You can get private and shared rickshaws here. Private will be the more expensive option. Always make sure that you haggle for a price before you get in or ask for the meter to be switched on. At night, if you’re in a private rickshaw, DO NOT allow anyone else to get in.

By Taxi / Uber: Yellow ambassador cabs are king in this city and they are plentiful but can rip you off! I preferred Uber, click here to read my article on how to use it with a discount code.

By ferry: The Hooghly River is the way that many people travel around the city. There are public ferries that run every 15-20 minutes throughout the day until around 9 pm at night. Tickets cost 6 rupees a journey and have many stops along the river.

A small note on hand pulled rickshaws in Kolkata

Kolkata is the only city in India where hand-pulled rickshaws are still running.  

Although I struggled morally to see it and it’s not something I would personally support. I understand it’s their livelihood and they’re struggling for trade. Many live hands to mouth.  

So, if you feel like it, you can use them for short journeys. They would be more than happy to have you.  

Outside Kalighat temple I simply tipped them without a ride as I felt heartbroken to see them ask so many for work and everyone pass by.  

Where to stay in Kolkata  

I stayed in the beautiful Oberoi Grand Kolkata. This was like an oasis to return to after a hot sweaty day out exploring in the monsoon!  

Their hotel is almost an attraction in itself and an icon of the city as it’s the second oldest hotel.

You can stay in one of their beautiful deco-like rooms with four-poster beds and it has a gorgeous washroom with a bathtub.

I would highly recommend booking a room indoor facing as the traffic is quite loud, especially during festivals.

Their delectable buffet breakfast at ThreeSixtyThree comes included and they have a refreshing pool with free smoothies!  

Click here to book your stay at Oberoi Grand for the night

Heading to North East India? Read more of my articles!

Top things to do in North East India

A complete guide for Hornbill Festival

Longwa Village travel guide

Best places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh

Top things to do in Dirang

My ultimate Tawang travel guide

How to find the double-decker root bridges in Meghalaya

A complete travel guide for Guwahati

Kamakhya Temple guide

A complete Kaziranga Safari guide

Majuli Island tips

My top North East India travel tips

Save these things to do in Kolkata for later!

Thursday 8th of December 2022

Nice post,Kolkata is full of beauty and culture.

Sophie Pearce

Hi Survi, yes I completely agree! Sophie x

Leandro Starling

Sunday 27th of September 2020

I agree with you

Tuesday 6th of October 2020

Thanks Leandro! Sophie x

Sameer Patel

Friday 6th of March 2020

Great post, Kolkata is one of the most beautiful city and has the third biggest population of any city in India. You are a great travel blogger, thanks for sharing an interesting article with us. Keep share more!

Saturday 7th of March 2020

Hi Sameer, I completely agree with you! Kolkata is one of the most amazing cities :) more to come ! Thank you for reading. Sophie x

Places To Visit In Kolkata

Top hotel collections.

Salt Lake City Hotels

Near Airport

Must Visit Places in Kolkata

Victoria Memorial

Fort William Kolkata

Howrah Bridge

• Filter (79)
• Garden & Park (9)
• Amusement & Theme Park (4)

1. Victoria Memorial

4 km from city center 1 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

The Victoria Memorial is a large marble building, which is considered to be the pride of Kolkata. Built between 1906 and 1921, it is dedicated to the memory of Queen Victoria. Now, it is a museum and a popular tourist spot under the Ministry of Culture.

2. Fort William Kolkata

3 km from city center 2 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Fort William is a fort built in Kolkata on the eastern banks of the River Hooghly, the major distributary of Ganges. The magnificent structure is spread over 70.9 acres and is embellished with hundreds of arched windows that overlook lush green gardens. Meticulous stonework adorns the surface of the building.

3. Belur Math

7 km from city center 3 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Belur Mutt is the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission, founded by Swami Vivekananda. Situated on the west bank of Hooghly River, the temple is prominent for its architecture that embraces Hindu, Christian and Islamic styles and stands as an icon of unity of all religions.

4. Howrah Bridge

2 km from city center 4 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Located over the Hooghly river in West Bengal, Howrah Bridge or the Rabindra Setu is the main connection between Howrah and Kolkata. It is a cantilever bridge and is regarded as one of the busiest ones among them.

Top Hotels In Kolkata

₽ 1,435 onwards

₽ 1,996 onwards

₽ 830 onwards

₽ 5,659 onwards

₽ 1,409 onwards

5. Birla Planetarium

3 km from city center 5 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

The Birla Planetarium in Kolkata, is the largest planetarium in Asia and the second largest planetarium in the world. It is a single-storeyed circular structure designed in the typical Indian style whose architecture is designed on the Buddhist Stupa at Sanchi. 

6. Indian Museum

2 km from city center 6 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

The Indian Museum is one of the oldest museums of the world boasting some of the most exquisite collections of ornaments, fossils, skeletons, antiques, armors, mummies and stunning Mughal paintings.

7. Marble Palace Mansion

2 km from city center 7 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

The Marble palace near the Chorbagan in North Kolkata built in 1835 by Rajendra Mallick is famed for its art collection of masterpieces by Reuben and paintings by various renowned international artists such as Reynolds, Van Gogh and Rembrandt.

8. Mother House

3 km from city center 8 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

This is the place where the Tomb of Mother Teresa is present. It is maintained by her missionaries and followers who have continued to promote her legacy.

9. Science City Kolkata

5 km from city center 9 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

One of its kind in India, the Science city was inaugurated on 1st July 1997. It is a major attraction for the residents of Kolkata as well as for the people visiting Kolkata. It is one of the finest and the largest science museums in the world and provides a fun way of learning science.

10. St. Paul's Cathedral Kolkata

4 km from city center 10 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Said to be the first cathedral built in the overseas territory of the British Empire, St. Paul's Cathedral is a Anglican cathedral located in Kolkata. Also said to be the seat of the Diocese of Calcutta, it is a very fine example of Indo-Gothic style of architecture.

127 km from city center 11 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Tucked between Mandarmani and Shankarpur, Tajpur is a small town set on the Bay of Bengal's tranquil shore, just 170 kms from Kolkata. Considered to be a serene secret of West Bengal, the virgin beach is hidden away from view and is still untouched by commercialization and tourism. The highlight of the pristine beach are the hundreds of red crabs that are found on the shores, which also give a perfect crimson colour to the beach.

12. Birla Mandir Kolkata

4 km from city center 12 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

The glowing structure that adorns the streets of Kolkata is the popular Hindu Temple, Birla Temple. Dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha, the temple is perfect specimen of craftsmanship.

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13. Eden Gardens

3 km from city center 13 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Popular as the largest cricket stadium in the India and the second largest in the world, the Eden Gardens can seat 66,000 spectators. It is set amidst an adjoining garden where Eden- related to the one-time Governor of Aukland and her sister would stroll during the evenings. 

14. Jorasanko Thakur Bari

1 km from city center 14 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Currently located on the Rabindra Bharati University campus in Jorasank, Jorasanko Thakur Bari is the house in which the first non-European Nobel laureate and poet, Rabindranath Tagore was born.

15. Birla Industrial & Technological Museum

4 km from city center 15 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Being the first scientific and industrial museum in India, Birla Industrial and Technological Museum (BITM) is one of the prime attractions of Kolkata. It is famous for its galleries and 3D shows.

16. Rabindra Sarovar

7 km from city center 16 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

The erstwhile Dhakuri lake is an artificial tank spread over 75 acres and is home to various migratory birds from Siberia and Russia. The lake is surrounded by gardens, children's park an auditorium, making it a popular recreational spot perfect for idyllic picnics making it one of the unique places to visit in Kolkata.

17. Kalighat Temple

6 km from city center 17 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Kalighat Temple, one of the 51 Shakti Sthals of India, is one of the most visited Kali temples in India. The spot is where the toes of Sati's right foot fell during Shiva's Rudra Taandav naach.

18. Shobhabajar Rajbari

3 km from city center 18 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

The Shobhabazar Rajbari is one of the grandest Bengali style houses ever built. It was build by the Royal family of Shobhabazar in Kolkata, and the grandeur is only palpable to the eye.

19. Botanical Gardens in Kolkata

45 km from city center 19 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

The Botanical Gardens of Calcutta were founded by Robert Kyd in 1787. Protected by the Botanical Survey of India, it stretches over 109 hectares. A Banyan tree in the garden, of more than 330 m circumference, known as The Great Banyan, is the largest tree in the world. The Botanic Gardens of Kolkata were later renamed Acharya Jagadish Chandra Indian Botanic Garden.

20. Nakhoda Mosque

1 km from city center 20 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Placed in the Chitpur area in the Burrabazar business district, Nakhoda mosque is one of the busiest Mosques of Kolkata and dates back almost a century. The prayer hall has a seating capacity of 10000, and the domes and minarets have been constructed in keeping with the Fatehpur Sikri style of architecture.

21. Alipore Zoo

5 km from city center 21 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

The Alipore Zoo, also known as the Calcutta Zoo or the Zoological Garden of Alipore, is the oldest zoological park to have been established in India and is a major tourist attraction in Kolkata. It attracts tourists from all across the nation who visit the zoo to explore the wildlife that happily thrives here and to enjoy themselves.

22. Sabarna Sangrahashala

12 km from city center 22 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Designed, developed and maintained by Sabarrna Roy Choudhary Paribar Parishad to preserve and display the heritage of one of the well known families of Bengal- The Sabarna Roy Choudhary family.

23. Eco Tourism Park, Kolkata

11 km from city center 23 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Eco Tourism Park is an expansive urban park designed to promote eco tourism in the city. It is the biggest urban park in India and occupies over 475 acres of land. The beauty of the location increases ten folds because of a water body that surrounds the park and forms an island in the middle.

24. Calcutta Jain Temple

4 km from city center 24 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Pareshnath Jain Temple is a temple complex dedicated to four Jain Teerthankaras. The complex is a beautiful arrangement of these shrines and draws tourists from all over the world. The architecture of the temples consists of intricately carved marbles and glass work. It is indeed one of the few temples that have a charismatic vibe.

25. Nicco Park, Kolkata

6 km from city center 25 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Nicco Park is an amusement park frequently visited for entertainment and recreational purposes. It is also called the "Disney Land of West Bengal: and attracts visitors in large numbers throughout the year. The park functions efficiently on solar energy that causes no pollution.

26. Prinsep Ghat

4 km from city center 26 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Prinsep Ghat, located on the banks of River Hooghly, is a majestic structure famous for its Greek/ Gothic inlays. IWith the magnificent Howrah Bridge in the background, watching the sunrise or sunset and taking a long walk in the cool air on the banks of the river are some of the preferred recreational activities here.

27. Aquatica

10 km from city center 27 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Aquatica is a water theme park and resort in Kolkata having many exciting themed rides, slides, entertainment and recreational activities for all their guests. The water park occupies over 75000 square feet of area and provides for a pleasant respite from the scorching summer heat. They provide lockers for the visitors to keep their belongings securely.

28. Park Street

1 km from city center 28 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Park Street is a major access route in Kolkata, also officially known as Mother Teresa Sarani. The street begins at Chowringhee Road or JL Nehru road and stretches till Park Circus crossing. It is said that Park Street never sleeps and is always bustling with activities. It is one of the major hangouts in the city as it has a number of pubs and restaurants.

29. Chowringhee

3 km from city center 29 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Chowringhee, also officially known as Jawaharlal Nehru Road, is a happening hub and frequently visited by locals for recreational activities and shopping. It is one of the few localities in the city with top end boutiques, hotels, malls, shops and restaurants.

30. ISKCON Kolkata

3 km from city center 30 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

ISKCON Radha Krishna Temple is a highly spiritual place for the devotees focusing on spreading the teachings of Lord Krishna. It is not restricted to any one particular religion as such and welcomes enthusiasts or people interested in learning about these teachings with open arms. The temple is a serene complex that houses beautifully ornamented idols of Goddess Radha and Lord Krishna.

31. South Park Street Cemetery

3 km from city center 31 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

South Park Street Cemetery is an 18th-century non-church cemetery, one of the earliest in the world. It is one of the largest burial grounds and a heritage site in Kolkata and maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India. Most of the tombs in the South Park Street Cemetery are aesthetically beautiful and very attractive.

32. Sonajhuri Forest

143 km from city center 32 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Away from the mell pell of the city lies a hidden gem in the state of West Bengal. Considered to be one of the most clean forests in India, Sonajhuri Forest is a great retreat to be close to nature. The Sonajhuri Forest is replete with lush green trees that has blooming flowers. This place is picturesque with quite a number of mesmerizing places to see and explore.

33. St John's Church

2 km from city center 33 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

St John's Church is one of the oldest churches in Kolkata that was built during the reign of the British Kingdom when the city was the capital of British India. It is a splendidly well-maintained structure that draws history and architecture buffs for its uniqueness and ancient features.

34. Barrackpore

22 km from city center 34 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Barrackpore was the first place where Britishers set up their cantonment and later spread their rules in India. This place is of great historical significance as it was also the first place where the spark to attain I from Britishers was lit. Not to stop at that, this place is also home to some of the most mesmerizing and green parks which are perfect to spend some time lazing around? and relaxing.

35. Jhargram

141 km from city center 35 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Jhargram is small city located in the state of West Bengal with a rich historical and cultural background. Surrounded by dense forests this place is mystical. A perfect place to spend few days in the lap of nature surrounded by friendly tribal population, you are bound to be mesmerized not only by its picturesque beauty but by the gregarious people who inhabit this place.

36. Baabur Haat

8 km from city center 36 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Dominated by natural fishing lakes or bheris, responsible for producing some of the tastiest fish in West Bengal, Babur Haat is a nature paradise. Fishing is one of the more popular activities here. You can also go on a short picnic trip to the nearby local village grounds.

37. Kamarpukur

81 km from city center 37 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

A cluster of small villages, Kamarpukur is nestled between Vishnupur and Tarakeshwar. Birthplace of a pious and sagacious saint, Sri Ramkrishna Paramhansa, this village is perfect getaway from the pell-mell of the cities. In this village you will be able to enjoy the pleasures of simple rural life.

48 km from city center 38 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Situated on the bank of river Roopnarayan, Deulti provides for an ideal picnic spot. If you are a bird lover, keep an eye (read ear) for the chirps of different birds, while you take a walk on the clay paths of the villages. 

39. Hooghly Riverfront

60 km from city center 39 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

The very picturesque Hooghly Riverfront is situated along two banks of River Hooghly in West Bengal- Kolkata in the East and Howrah on the West. The mighty river offers mesmerising sunrise and sunset views. After the beautification of the East promenade in 2011, the spot has become a major tourist attraction.

3 km from city center 40 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Also known as the Brigade Parade Ground, Maidan is the largest urban park in Kolkata. The humongous stretch of land includes the famous Eden Gardens, several football stadiums and the Race Course Kolkata.

41. Central Park

5 km from city center 41 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Also known as Banabitan, Central Park is the second largest urban park after Maidan, situated in Bidhannagar, Kolkata. Built around an expansive lake, the park also has a rose garden. Another attraction is its beautiful butterfly garden.

42. Millenium Park

2 km from city center 42 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Spread over an area of 2.5 kms on the banks of River Hooghly in Kolkata, Millenium Park is a privately owned park situated on the Strand Road. The park has beautiful landscaped gardens and numerous slides and swings for kids.

43. Deshapriya Park

6 km from city center 43 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Deshapriya Park is situated in the Kalighat area of South Kolkata and is used for playing outdoor games like cricket, football etc., both by amateur and professional players. In addition to that, Durga Puja is celebrated on a large scale where several pandals are set up in the premises for the celebrations.

44. Safari Park

7 km from city center 44 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Situated near Gariahat Golpark, Safari Park is one of the relatively smaller parks in Kolkata. The park also has a lake on the outskirts that is ideal for early morning walks and evening strolls. A smaller area on the side is also used as a cricket coaching for young kids. The park is buzzing with activity at all times of the day.

45. Mohor Kunja

4 km from city center 45 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Also known as Citizen's Park, Mohor Kunja is an urban park in Kolkata situated in the premises of Maidan. The highlight of the park are the several musical fountain concerts held in it. It also has well-paved walkways for evening and morning walks and an amphitheater to hold cultural events.

46. Elliot Park

3 km from city center 46 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Inaugurated in 2004, Elliot Park is one of the relatively newer parks to have been developed in the city. The park has a joggers' stretch of 1.5 km besides the lush green vegetation, swings for children and water fountains.

47. Gitanjali Sports Complex

7 km from city center 47 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Located at Kasba in Kolkata, Gitanjali Sports Complex is the newly established stadium in the city. Running for a length of 57.5 metres, the stadium has a massive seating space for 4000 people. Besides, it has a separate area for indoor games and a gymnasium.

48. Kishore Bharati Krirangan

9 km from city center 48 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Kishore Bharati Kirangan is a multi purpose stadium situated in the south Kolkata neighbourhood of Santoshpur. With a seating capacity of 12000 people, the stadium is mostly used for football and sometimes other sports as well.

49. Salt Lake Stadium

5 km from city center 49 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Known as Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan, Salt Lake Stadium is an international multi-purpose stadium in Bidhannagar, Kolkata. The stadium takes pride in being the largest stadium of the country, it can accommodate upto 1,20,000 people.

50. Rabindra Sarobar Stadium

7 km from city center 50 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Rabindra Sarobar Stadium is situated in the centre of the city of Kolkata in Rabindra Sarovar. Believed to be the oldest stadiums of the city, the stadium has a seating capacity of 20,000 people and host some of the important football matches.

51. Mohunbagan Stadium

0 km from city center 51 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Mohunbagan Stadium is the oldest and the first stadium in the country. It is also the place of inception of the very famous Mohunbagan Club. The stadium is considered the best in Kolkata as its emerald green grass cover is imported from Brazil.

52. Netaji Indoor Stadium

2 km from city center 52 out of 79 Places To Visit in Kolkata

Officially named as Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Indoor Stadium, Netaji Indoor Stadium is a multi-purpose indoors stadium in Babughat, Kolkata, opposite the Eden Gardens. The fully air-conditioned stadium is used to host various domestic and international events.

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48 Hours in Kolkata

48 Hours in Kolkata: The Ultimate Itinerary

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Visiting Kolkata for the weekend and wondering how to spend your time? This comprehensive two-day itinerary covers the city's Bengali heritage, as well as many iconic attractions and hot new restaurants. Kolkata is one of those cities best explored on foot to soak in the sights, so do wear comfortable shoes. Let's get started!

Day 1: Morning

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8 a.m.: Begin by acquainting yourself with Kolkata's British heritage. The British founded the city in 1690 as a trading post and later developed it as their capital. Many impressive historic buildings are located in the B.B.D. Bagh neighborhood, which was the central business district known as Dalhousie Square under British rule. Wandering through it is a comfortable way to ease yourself into the city and admire the various architectural styles. There are 55 landmark heritage buildings dating from 1695 and 1947 in the precinct. Notable ones include the General Post Office, Writer's Building, Treasury Office, Reserve Bank of India, Raj Bhavan, Stephen House, the Great Eastern Hotel, the Town Hall, the High Court, Saint Andrew's church, and Saint John’s church. Go on a guided walking tour, such as the one conducted by Calcutta Walks, to learn about the detailed history behind each building.

10 a.m.: Take a taxi to the Indian Coffee House to recharge with a snack and coffee. This café harks back to the time of India's independence movement in the early 1940s, when it was a popular meeting place for freedom fighters, social activists, revolutionaries, and bohemians. It remains a sought-after hangout spot for college students and intellectuals.

11 a.m.: Head over to the iconic Howrah Bridge; spanning the Hooghly River, it connects Kolkata with Howrah on the other side. This huge, busy, steel bridge was constructed during World War II and is regarded as an engineering marvel. It's fascinating to walk over it, or simply watch the constant stream of traffic.

Below the Howrah Bridge, at Mallik Ghat on the left side, you'll find Kolkata's famous flower market. It's been there since the mid 19th century and is one of the biggest such markets in Asia. The market is teeming with life and color, but do be aware it may be overwhelming if you're not used to crowds.

Day 1: Afternoon

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12:30 p.m.: Have lunch at an authentic Bengali cuisine restaurant . Depending on your budget, try Aaheli at the Peerless Inn for fine dining or Bhojohori Manna for a casual bite. You'll especially love the cuisine if you're a fan of seafood.

2 p.m.: Browse the shops in New Market , or check out one of Kolkata's museums nearby. The Indian Museum is not only the oldest museum in the country, it's also among the oldest in the world. Its three floors are filled with a diverse assortment of exhibits showcasing the cultural history of India from prehistoric to Mughal times.

4 p.m.: Cross the Maidan and stroll along the Hoogly River waterfront from Babu Ghat to Prinsep Ghat. This stretch is paved and well-maintained, and provides a captivating glimpse of daily life. Named after eminent British scholar James Prinsep, Prinsep Ghat features a white 19th-century Palladian-style porch in memory of him. If you're feeling hungry, grab something to eat from the street food stalls that line the promenade. Relax on the lawn at Prinsep Ghat for a while and enjoy the scenery.

Day 1: Evening

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5:30 p.m.: Hire one of the traditional wooden boats at Prinsep Ghat for a quintessential sunset ride on the Hooghly River. You'll need to negotiate the fare. Expect to pay 400 to 500 rupees ($5.50 to $7) for 45 minutes to an hour.

7:30 p.m.: After getting ready back at your hotel, spend the evening along Park Street—the hub of dining and nightlife in Kolkata . The street is lined with restaurants. Some are nostalgic old favorites that have been around for decades, such as Mocambo for sizzlers, Trincas for continental baked dishes, or Peter Cat for Chelo kebabs. Chic new restaurants include Spice Klub , which serves up contemporary takes on Indian food and Pa Pa Ya , which offers a variety of Pan-Asian dishes. Barbecue Nation is a reliable choice for grills.

9:30 p.m.: The Park Hotel is the focal point of entertainment on Park Street. Take your pick from two bars, a pub, and a nightclub. Other options for live gigs are the Hard Rock Cafe , The Lords and Barrons (a popular new pub), and Trincas for classic retro hits.

Day 2: Morning

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6 a.m.: If you didn't party on last night, try getting up early to enjoy the legendary Chinese breakfast at Tiretti Bazaar in Kolkata's Old Chinatown district. Chinese immigrants started arriving in the late 18th century and are an important part of the city's fabric. Members of the community serve up fresh delicacies at their roadside stalls from around 5:30 a.m. to 8 a.m. Sample yummy steamed momos, handmade sausages, stuffed buns, pork rolls, and fish ball soup.

7:30 a.m.: Take a taxi about 35 minutes north to Dakshineswar Kali temple , located by the Hooghly River. This magnificent 19th-century temple is dedicated to Kali, the presiding deity of Kolkata, and is where saint Sri Ramakrishna Paramhansa served as chief priest before going on to found Belur Math. His disciple, global spiritual leader Swami Vivekananda, also received his initiation at the temple. The divine energy feels especially strong early in the morning when the grounds are peaceful.

10 a.m.: Continue to explore the city's culture by visiting the native Bengali quarters of Kolkata. This district, encompassing Bagbazar and Sovabazar, was home to Bengali aristocracy. To get there, take a taxi 20 minutes south to Mayer Ghat and walk down Chitpur Street/Rabindra Sarani, said to be the oldest street in Kolkata. Keep an eye out for street art near Bagbazar Ghat. After a kilometer (0.6 miles), turn left onto Raja Naba Krishna Street and follow it about 500 meters (0.3 miles) to the 18th-century Sovabazar Rajbari, the old palace of the local royal family.

It's also worth taking a short detour to the Kumartuli potter's colony , especially from June to January when idols are made for various festivals. If you'd like to go on a guided walking tour, The Ganges Walk's Sunati Trails is a recommended option.

Day 2: Afternoon

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12 p.m.: From Sovabazar Rajbari, head to either Mitra Cafe or Arsalan for lunch. The former has been in business for more than a century and is one of Kolkata's oldest restaurants. It's a simple and inexpensive "cabin cafe" that offers quick Bengali bites, including fish and chicken kabiraji cutlets. Alternatively, Arsalan is suitable for a longer meal in an air-conditioned setting. Serving north Indian Mughlai cuisine, the restaurant is also renowned for its distinctive Kolkata-style biryani.

1 p.m.: Take a taxi 20 minutes south to Victoria Memorial Hall . This imposing white marble relic of the British Raj has been turned into a museum amid expansive landscaped grounds that are an attraction in themselves (and an ideal spot to rest post lunch). The museum's recently revamped galleries showcase the history of British rule in India and include paintings, rare photographs, manuscripts, textiles, and armor. One gallery is dedicated to the development of the city as the British capital.

4 p.m.: After exploring the museum for a few hours, freshen up with English high tea. There are a few options to choose from, the most central of which is the Elgin Fairlawn Hotel . Built in 1783, this characterful hotel was recently given a facelift; high tea is served every afternoon in its dining room. The luxury Taj Bengal hotel puts on a fine spread of sandwiches, cakes, teas, and coffees in its Promenade Lounge. Meanwhile, hip and contemporary Karma Kettle is a specialty tea company and one of India's finest tea blenders. Its leafy tea room offers Indian (Burra Sahib) as well as English (Gora Saheb) high tea. Pick up some tantalizing Indian teas while you're there—they make great gifts!

Alternatively, if you're interested in the humanitarian work of Mother Teresa, visit the Mother House to see where she lived.

Day 3: Evening

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6 p.m.: Calcutta Walks' Bengali cooking experience is a must-do for foodies who'd like to learn the art of Bengali cooking. You'll be guided through a market to become familiar with the ingredients before participating in a cooking demonstration, led by a Bengali housewife or by the owner of one of the best restaurants in Kolkata. Finish off with authentic Bengali sweets.

Those who prefer the arts to cooking can check out the exhibitions at the Academy of Fine Arts , which features works by up-and-coming local artists. Or, check out Harrington Street Arts Center (open until 8 p.m.) for contemporary Indian and international works.

8 p.m.: Head over to Camac Street for dinner. This entertainment precinct has trendy new restaurants and bars such as Scrapyard for craft beers, The Fatty Bao for Asian, and SAZ - American Brazzerie for gourmet grills and burgers. Nearby, Gabbar's Bar and Kitchen has a Bollywood theme, and specializes in molecular gastronomy and cocktails.

World Monuments Fund, Dalhousie Square .

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Must-see attractions in Kolkata (Calcutta)

Victoria Memorial

Kolkata (Calcutta)

The incredible Victoria Memorial is a vast, beautifully proportioned festival of white marble: think US Capitol meets Taj Mahal. Had it been built for a…

Botanical Gardens

Despite being an awkward journey by public transport, Kolkata’s lovely 109-hectare Botanical Gardens makes for a great place to escape from the city’s…

Set very attractively amid palms and manicured lawns, this large religious centre is the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Mission, inspired by 19th-century…

Kumartuli Idol-makers

Countless clay effigies of deities and demons immersed in the Hooghly during Kolkata’s colourful pujas (offering or prayers) are created in specialist…

Marble Palace

Built in 1835 by a raja from the prosperous Mallick family, this resplendent mansion is as grand as it is curious. Its marble-draped halls are overstuffed…

Tagore’s House

The stately 1784 family mansion of Rabindranath Tagore has become a shrine-like museum to India’s greatest modern poet. Even if his personal effects don’t…

Indian Museum

India's biggest and oldest major museum celebrated its bicentenary in February 2014. It's mostly a lovably old-fashioned place that fills a large…

A vast expanse of green in the heart of the city's brick-and-mortar matrix, the Maidan is where Kolkata's residents congregate for walks, spirited cricket…

Marked by a distinctive red-brick clocktower, this enormous warren of market halls dates to 1874, but was substantially rebuilt after a 1980s fire. By day…

Howrah Bridge

Howrah Bridge is a 705m-long abstraction of shiny steel cantilevers and rivets, which serves as a carriageway of nonstop human and motorised traffic…

St John’s Church

This stone-spired 1787 church is ringed by columns and contains a small, portrait-draped room once used as an office by Warren Hastings, India’s first…

Rabindra Sarovar

The lakes here prettily reflect hazy sunrises, while middle-class Kolkatans jog, row and meditate around the tree-shaded parkland that was once the site…

St Paul’s Cathedral

Arguably Kolkata's most iconic Gothic superstructure, decorated with a central crenellated tower, St Paul’s would look quite at home in Cambridgeshire but…

South Park Street Cemetery

Active from 1767 to about 1840, this historic cemetery remains a wonderful oasis of calm, featuring surreal mossy Raj-era graves from rotundas to soaring…

Horticultural Gardens

A hidden island of tranquillity in the heart of Kolkata, this delightful garden complex offers visitors an opportunity to acquaint themselves with…

Mullik Ghat Flower Market

Near the southeast end of Howrah Bridge, this flower market is fascinatingly colourful virtually 24 hours a day. However, if you visit at daybreak, you'll…

Ramakrishna Mandir

The centrepiece of the Ramakrishna Mission complex at Belur Math is the huge 1938 Ramakrishna Mandir, which somehow manages to look like a cathedral,…

Kalighat Temple

This ancient Kali temple is Kolkata’s holiest spot for Hindus, and possibly the source of the city’s name. Today’s version is the 1809 rebuild, with…

Birla Planetarium

Loosely styled on Sanchi’s iconic Buddhist stupa, this 1962 planetarium presents slow-moving, half-hour audiovisual programs on the wonders of the…

BethEl Synagogue

Literally meaning 'House of God', this atmospheric synagogue's front facade looks a little like a 1930s cinema. Within the building (dating back to 1856),…

Alipore Zoo

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Armenian Church of Nazareth

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Dakshineswar

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Indian Coffee House

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Harrington Street Arts Centre

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Birla Mandir

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Shahid Minar

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Netaji Bhawan

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Ashutosh Museum of Indian Art

Priceless antique Indian sculptures, brasswork and terracotta objects of art are mundanely displayed along with a diverse array of collected treasures in…

Town Hall Building

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Nakhoda Mosque

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Metropolitan Building

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Mausoleum of Job Charnock

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Hooghly Riverbanks

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A cutting-edge contemporary-art gallery located on the 2nd floor of an upmarket South Kolkata building complex, CIMA is a great place to check out works…

Mother Teresa's Motherhouse

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One of Kolkata’s greatest architectural triumphs, the High Court building was built between 1864 and 1872, loosely modelled on the medieval Cloth Hall in…

Birla Academy of Art & Culture

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Old GPO Building

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10 Must-See Places to Visit in Kolkata

Kolkata’s unique blend of rich cultural heritage, historical significance and vibrant arts scene makes it a wonderful destination to visit in India! Be sure to check out these places to visit in Kolkata to learn about the city and experience life there.

Kolkata (previously known as Calcutta) has a very rich history and there is so much to learn when you visit! Seriously, there’s a lot to do in this city which is known as the Cultural Capital of India.

For some background, it was made a trading post by the British in the late 17th century and later became the capital of British India. It went on to play an important part in the Indian independence movement. You can easily see the British influence among many of the places to visit in Kolkata.

Since the 19th century, Kolkata has been an intellectual and cultural hub of the country! It is well-known for its arts scene and rich culture which makes it such a unique place to visit in India.

In this post you’ll learn about popular places to visit in Kolkata that will help you experience the culture and history of the city. These are go-to stops for anyone traveling to Kolkata, so be sure to check them out! You can also see tips for planning your trip to India with this Ultimate Travel Guide to India .

This post is all about places to visit in Kolkata.

Top Places to Visit in Kolkata

#1 victoria memorial.

The Victoria Memorial is like the city’s crown jewel among the places to visit in Kolkata. It’s a huge white marble building that looks like it’s straight out of a fairytale!

It was built in the early 20th century and dedicated to Queen Victoria. It has a museum about India’s colonial past that is super interesting and well-organized. There are paintings, old photos, sculptures, historical artifacts and more things to help you see what life might’ve been like during that time.

There are gardens all around the outside of the memorial where you can find a beautiful spot to relax. At night, they light up the memorial and it’s truly beautiful. The whole area around has a lot of beautiful green space and is close to other tourist attractions.

This is one of the best places to visit in Kolkata that I really recommend everyone to see! Not only does it showcase some history, but it’s also got some stunning architecture.

Hours: 10am – 6pm (except Mondays) and the garden opens earlier from 5:30am – 6pm

Price: 500 INR for foreigners and 30 INR for Indians

#2 St. Paul’s Cathedral

Right across from the Victoria Memorial you will find St. Paul’s Cathedral. It’s a huge, beautiful old church built in the 19th century. After visiting the memorial, it’s worth a stop to go into the cathedral and have a look around.

The cathedral is famous for its gothic architecture. It’s got high ceilings and beautiful stained glass windows. Honestly I mean it when I say it is a BIG cathedral! 

There are also beautiful gardens surrounding it where you can relax as well.

Hours: 10am – 6pm or you can attend a mass. For more details about timings and history you can read this article all about the cathedral .

Price: Free

#3 Fort William Area

Fort William is also very near to the Victoria Memorial. The fort was originally built at the beginning of British rule and holds a lot of historical value. 

Today, it’s no longer used as a fort and is instead a headquarters for the Indian Army. It’s not open to tourists because it’s a militarized area and has high security. But the area around the Fort is huge which you can explore and they do sometimes have different exhibits, especially related to old war pieces.

If you’re going to be in the area, it’s worth walking by to have a look! Don’t expect to spend a lot of time there since you can’t enter, but still an important piece of history to take in.

Hours: View from outside anytime

#4 Park Street (Best places to visit in Kolkata for food & nightlife!)

If you’re looking for good food or nightlife, Park Street is where you will find all of the best places to visit in Kolkata! It’s a super popular, lively area with a wide range of options to choose from. It’s really where all the action is in Kolkata!

Park Street area is where you’ll also find cool shops, theaters and art galleries if you’re looking to take in some of the culture. And it’s the best place to go for drinks or nightclubs! In general, there’s a lot to do and it’s the perfect area for travelers to spend time hanging out or book a hotel nearby.

Some popular and famous restaurants to check out are…..

• Flurys – Flurys is an iconic tearoom famous for its cakes and pastries
• Peter Cat – This is a long-time favorite for locals and tourists and is famous for its chelo kebabs and sizzlers
• Barbecue Nation – BBQ Nation is popular and is uniquely known for having a grill at each table. There are a lot of veg and non-veg options too!
• Mocambo – This is another iconic restaurant around Park Street that has continental and north Indian food. The devilled crab is really good!

#5 Indian Museum

The Indian Museum is also near the Victoria Memorial. It’s a great stop for a crash course in India’s history and culture! You’ll see ancient sculptures, historical artifacts, mummies (shocking, right!) and all kinds of interesting things from the past.

The museum features different exhibits and sometimes has various cultural performances. There are sections about archaeology, art, anthropology and more. The building is quite big and a beauty within itself too!

Hours: 10am – 6pm (closed on Mondays)

Price: 500 INR for foreigners and 75 INR for Indians

#6 The Mother House of the Missionaries of Charity (Mother Teresa’s old home)

Whether you’re religious or not, visiting the Mother House is a worthwhile stop. It’s a very simple building where Mother Teresa lived and started her work caring for the poor and sick. Today, it’s a convent and has a museum with interesting photos and memorabilia from her life.

You can see her room and learn about her experiences as well as what life was like for the underprivileged at that time. It’s also where her tomb is kept. The Mother House is very peaceful and calm, and it’s an incredible reminder of the impact one person can have on the world.

Hours: 9am – 12pm and 3pm – 5:30pm

#7 Marble Palace

The Marble Palace in Kolkata is one of the places in Kolkata to visit that requires a permit to enter. It’s a beautiful stunning mansion, so even if you don’t want to get a permit, it’s worth walking by and taking in the beauty!

The mansion was built in the 1800s and is called the Marble Palace because it’s literally full of marble! It’s quite a stunning sight.

If you decide to get a permit from the West Bengal Tourism Information Bureau (you have to go to their office to get it) and go inside, you’ll be on a private guided tour to see art collections, antiques, and even a small zoo in the courtyard. 

Otherwise, it’s still a sight to see for anyone who likes art, history or appreciates old houses!

Hours: View from outside any time or obtain permit for guided tour

#8 Jorasanko Thakur Bari (House of the Thakurs)

Combine your stop to the Marble Palace by going just a few buildings over to Jorasanko Thakur Bari. This is the ancestral home of Rabindranath Tagore, a world famous writer and the first person from Asia to win a Nobel Prize for literature. He also wrote the national anthem for India.

The house is now a museum where you can find collections of his personal belongings, manuscripts, paintings and more. The architecture is breathtaking and a stunning example of the traditional Bengali-style mansions.

The Jorasanko Thakur Bari is the perfect place to visit for anyone interested in literature, art, history, or if you just want to pay homage to a cultural legend! During different times of the year, they also have light shows to see at night.

Hours: 10:30am – 5pm (closed Mondays), light shows happen in the evening but differ in timings and are only during certain months of the year

Price: 150 INR for foreigners and 20 INR for Indians

#9 Eco Park

Eco Park is away from the main city hub of Kolkata and is a breath of fresh air! It’s a huge, green park that prides itself in being eco-friendly and has various attractions. It’s essentially an amusement park but focused on nature activities.

There’s a path you can walk or bike along that circles a lake. They have a section that is famous monuments from around the world (like the Eiffel Tower for example), a rose garden, butterfly garden, and play areas for kids.

This is the perfect stop if you’re looking for a break from the city or traveling with kids. They also have boating, toy train rides and a ton of other small attractions. It’s perfect for a picnic or to hang out outdoors. You can even stay in one of the cottages there!

If you have limited time in Kolkata and are more interested in learning about the history and culture, you can leave this stop off your list because it’s not very close to the city hub. But, it is great for families or for time in nature. I visited it when I was staying at a hotel near the airport and it is unique!

Hours: 12:30pm – 8:30pm (closed Mondays)

Price: 30 INR for all adults, but extra cost depending on what attractions you want to do

#10 Howrah Bridge

One of the busiest places to visit in Kolkata is the Howrah bridge! It’s a massive steel bridge that goes over the Hooghly river and is one of the most-used bridges in the world.

It was built during British rule and it is very interesting to see from afar, especially at night when it lights up. The bridge is a part of daily life for so many people and hence, it’s always busy and bustling.

When we traveled to Kolkata, we decided to walk across the bridge. But to be honest, it was quite overwhelming with all of the crowd! I preferred to see its beauty from further down the river. It is totally walkable though and if you’re up for the experience, you’ll see a lot about daily life!

The Howrah Bridge is an icon for Kolkata and is a famous sight to see in the city.

Hours: See or use any time

Being the cultural capital of India, there are endless places to visit in Kolkata! These are some of the most popular spots that are perfect for travelers visiting the city. You might also want to check out this Ultimate India Packing List to tips on what to wear and things to bring!

This post was all about places to visit in Kolkata.

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How To Explore Kolkata Like A Local

Soak in the old world charm of the city of joy with a list of things to do in kolkata. we have curated the ultimate guide for you..

By: Sreetama Basu Published: Jan 31, 2023 08:00 AM IST

With its old-world charm and imperturbable demeanour, Kolkata is a page straight out of a history book. If you think Bollywood and films have romanticised Kolkata through rose-tinted glasses, wait till you visit the city to find locals living in that world every day. Oh, and if you’re actually visiting the city, here are a few things to do in Kolkata.

Even though Kolkata is a metropolitan city and the biggest city in eastern India, it doesn’t like to fit in. Run by food, art and culture-loving Bengalis, Kolkata has a world of its own. There are, of course, a hundred things to do in Kolkata, and just one trip to the city is probably not going to be enough. But if you want a true essence of the City of Joy, we have curated the ultimate guide for you to adhere to, to explore like a local.

Best places to visit in Kolkata

Early breakfast at tiretta bazaar.

A neighbourhood near Lalbazar in Central Kolkata, this is the Old China Market. If you like to start your day early and have a hearty breakfast, head to Tiretta Bazaar on a Sunday morning. At this breakfast hub of Kolkata, you will find Indian and Chinese vendors sell freshly-cooked noodle soup, momos, baos and more. Once home to 20,000 ethnic Chinese Indian nationals, the population has now dropped down to approximately 2,000. Have a taste of Chinese culture in India on your things to do in the Kolkata itinerary.

Timings :  6:30 am – 8:30 pm

Address : Terita Bazar, Tiretti, Kolkata, West Bengal – 700073

Discover a world of clay at Kumortuli

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Kolkata’s original pottery district, this place has a heritage of its own. Home to the numerous Durga idols used during Durga puja across Kolkata and many other Hindu gods and goddesses, the art of idol making at Kumortuli has lived on for generations. A small network of streets featuring more than 500 workshops, Kumortuli will take you back to a quaint village of Bengal, where tranquillity is everybody’s best friend.

Timings : All day

Address : Hatkhola, Kolkata, West Bengal – 700005

Enjoy a slow tram ride

Nothing spells more vintage about Kolkata than taking a tram ride. Slower than the slowest vehicle you have been in, the beauty of a tram ride lies in something we have all been trying to learn in life, to slow down. Step inside a tram, take a seat and watch time come to a standstill as the world around you moves by in hurry. Trams have become rare in the city and that makes it all the more reason to keep this as one of the things to do in Kolkata.

Book shopping at College Street

The bibliophile in you will never be complete if you don’t visit College Street at least once in your lifetime. Why? It is the largest second-hand book market in the world. Every book that you can ever think of or Google, you’ll find it here. You will find this place flocked by school and college students who know that the best place to find books in their curriculum is this! Even if you have nothing to buy, just head over to witness the madness!

Timings : 10:00 am – 11:00 pm

Address : College Square, Kolkata – 700073

Visit the Marble Palace

Built by the Bengali merchant Raja Rajendra Mullick in 1835, one of the most unique things about this place is that his family still lives in this mansion. The USP of this place remains the art collection. In here, there are masterpieces by Reuben and paintings by renowned artists around the world like Reynolds, Van Gogh and Rembrandt. Made of 26 varieties of Italian marbles, this is one of the most elegant and well-maintained buildings you will find in Kolkata. Looking for things to do in Kolkata? Put a tour of Marble Palace up on the list.

Timings : 10:00 am – 4:00 pm Closed on Monday and Thursday

Address : 46, Opp Ram Mandir, Muktaram Babu Street, Jorasanko, Kolkata, West Bengal – 700007

Visit the food street, Park Street

Don’t worry, even if you are not a foodie, you will not be able to resist the charm of this place. With countless restaurants and eateries on both sides, Park Street is an iconic location in Kolkata. From the pre-Independence Flury’s to more new-age restaurants like Peter Hu and more, Park Street in Central Kolkata is easily accessible and one of the most happening places here.

A trip to the world of science at Science City

A perfect winter afternoon in Kolkata is incomplete without a visit to this one-of-its-kind hub of knowledge, intellect and all things science. Established by the National Council of Science Museum in 1997, Science City is the perfect balance of education and fun. With highly interactive exhibits, 3D theatre experiences, a special section for the world under water and a hi-tech motion simulator, Science City is an experience you shouldn’t miss.

Timings : 10:00 am – 7:00 pm

Address : JBS Haldane Ave, Mirania Gardens, East Topsia, Topsia, Kolkata, West Bengal – 700046

Visit the iconic Howrah Bridge

Another must-visit place, Howrah Bridge is as iconic as the city itself. Take a yellow cab ride across Howrah Bridge to truly soak in the beauty of this humongous structure over the calm Ganga waters. One of the absolute must things to do in Kolkata, this bridge required 23,000 tons of steel to build and today, it is the busiest cantilever bridge in the entire world.

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A date with history at fort william.

Built in 1696 by the East India Company, the structure was named after King William III. It was the first stronghold of the British in the country and became the seat of the presidency of Bengal in British India. A part of the original fort was destroyed by the Nawab of Bengal, after which a new one was built, which is now under the Indian Army. This means that you can’t go inside it, but you can still explore around it and parts of it.

Address : Maidan, Fort William, Hastings, Kolkata, West Bengal – 700021

Visit the biggest banyan tree in the world

The Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden, or the Botanical Garden, is home to the biggest banyan tree in the world. It is also the oldest botanical garden in all of India, which was commissioned in 1787 by Colonel Robert Kyd. While you can just take a casual stroll around the garden, you cannot miss the more than 250-years-old banyan tree with a circumference of over 4 acres. Another item to add to the bucket list of things to do in Kolkata.

Timings : 5:30 am – 7.30 am; 9:00 am – 4:00 pm

Address : Botanical Garden Rd, B Shalimar Area, Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology, Botanical Garden Area, Howrah, West Bengal – 711103

A quiet evening at the Ganga ghats

If you are tired from all the going around and just want to enjoy some peaceful time, sit by the Ganga ghats in Kolkata. Quiet, serene and gorgeous, spend some time to disconnect from the city. You can find kids playing around, new couples celebrating young love, and the elderly sitting around for their regular evening walks- just humans being humans!

Go for a picnic at New Town Eco Park

One of the most happening picnic and tourist spots in the city, this unique place should be on your list of things to do in Kolkata. One of the biggest urban parks in India, the entire park is set among sprawling green landscapes and features a number of fun recreational activities. It also features miniature versions of the seven wonders of the world.

Timings : 11:00 am – 7:30 pm

Address : Major Arterial Road (South-East, Biswa Bangla Sarani, AA II, Newtown, Kolkata, West Bengal – 700156

Get everything you need at New Market

One of the most iconic markets in India, this is one of the places where you can get just about everything. Clothes, bags, jewellery, books, raw ingredients, bakeries, eateries- you name it, they have it.

Timings : 10:30 am – 8:30 pm

Address : Dharmatala, Taltala, Kolkata, West Bengal

Check out the oldest eateries in Kolkata

Yes, you get amazing food and ambience at a new restaurant, but you can get that anywhere. When in Kolkata, dine like a Kolkatan. The magic of vintage restaurants in Kolkata, some of which are more than a century old, is unmatched. Like most other places in Kolkata, the clock has stopped on these eateries as well. What has remained constant is the taste, quality and patrons queueing outside them.

Visit the iconic sweet shops

No meal in Kolkata is complete without a touch of sweet in the end. And that’s why these sweet shops exist. The sweet shops in Kolkata are nothing like what you have seen before. Old and iconic, some of them have recipes as old as India’s independence. People from all ages and walks of life gather at these sweet shops to grab a bite and pack some for their homes to be had and enjoyed with their families.

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Experience the fish market madness.

You have not truly seen Kolkata until you visit a fish market. It’s utter madness, chaos and love for the one thing Bengalis live to eat. At these fish markets, you will find the salaried middle class trying to find the best value for money, while they hunt for the perfect fish and the perfect cut.

Check out our list of best hotels in Kolkata here .

Hero and Featured Image: Courtesy Shutterstock

This story first appeared on Lifestyle Asia India

Related: Chef Gary Mehigan Talks About Food From Kolkata And What Sets It Apart

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Answer: Some of the best places to visit in Kolkata are the Howrah Bridge, Science City, Marble Palace, Maidan. College Street, Ganga ghats and so much more.

Answer: Kolkata is a city that's laced with history in every coner. The high Court, Victoria Memorial, College Street, Park Street, St Paul's Cathedral are some of the important places you can visit in Kolkata.

Answer: Take a ferry ride, taste some of the most iconic dishes, take a walk through the lanes of North Kolkata, visit Marble Palace, take a tram ride, go on a food walk, take a tram ride, buy books at College Street, among other things.

• Best Kolkata eateries
• Best places to eat at Kolkata
• Kolkata Durga Puja
• Things to do in Kolkata

Sreetama Basu

A journalism student who studied the subject only to meet SRK in person, she settled for the best way to meet him. Covering Entertainment throughout her career, and now Food, Health and Lifestyle as well, Sreetama is also a self-proclaimed plant mom. In love with all things slow and quiet, she can often be found hunting for quiet corners with a glass .. Read More of wine in hand. Other loves include little, inconsequential things, like neatly tucked-in bedsheets and big, significant things, like whole cheesecakes. She dreams of being a baker and writing about food someday. Read Less

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10 Places to Visit in Kolkata + Things To Do

Kolkata, located in eastern India, is renowned as “the City of Joy” and is well-known for its stunning historical architecture and has spread along the banks of the Hooghly River in a straight line.

You can find colonial buildings, museums, art galleries, traditional cuisine, temples, live music, and theatre in Kolkata. It combines classic and contemporary elements. Kolkata is well-known for its theatre and movies. The city is home to Rabindranath Tagore, and every home may be heard playing Rabindra Sangeet. Kolkata is also known to be India’s most chaotic yet lively city. Take a day trip to Sundarbans and see the world-famous Bengal Tigers. Savour the local street food of Kolkata, and enjoy the world-famous Bengali sweets and deserts the Indo-Chinese historic restaurants are a must-visit.

The most convenient way to get to Kolkata is by air. There are connections between the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport and significant cities in India and Abroad.

To help with your trip planning, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted below. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference. But before you start ticking goals off your bucketlist, here are travel essentials & discounts you’ll need to check. Pre-book online for a hassle-free trip!

Kolkata travel essentials

Click below to compare rates & read reviews:

Kolkata Hotels Tours + discounts Flights

See also: Two Days in Kolkata: India Solo Travel 101 .

Popular tours & discounts booked by other travelers:

View all travel tips on: Kolkata .

1. Victoria Memorial

Location : Victoria Memorial Hall, 1, Queens Way, Maidan, Kolkata, West Bengal 700071, India . Save on Google Maps .

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2. St. Paul’s Cathedral

Location : Cathedral Rd, Maidan, Kolkata, West Bengal 700071, India . Save on Google Maps .

3. Nakhoda Mosque (Nakhoda Masjid)

Location : Rabindra Sarani, Chowringhee North, Bow Barracks, Kolkata, West Bengal 700073, India . Save on Google Maps .

4. Bara Bazar

Location : Barabazar Market, Kolkata, West Bengal, India . Save on Google Maps .

5. Writers’ Building

Location : Binoy Badal Dinesh Bag N, Lal Dighi, B.B.D. Bagh, Kolkata, West Bengal 700001, India . Save on Google Maps .

6. B.B.D. Bagh

Location : Kolkata, West Bengal, India . Save on Google Maps .

7. St. Andrew’s Church

Location : 15, Binoy Badal Dinesh Bag N, Murgighata, Barabazar Market, Kolkata, West Bengal 700001, India . Save on Google Maps .

8. Chowringee Road & The Maidan

Location : Sreepally, Bhowanipore, Kolkata, West Bengal, India . Save on Google Maps .

9. Howrah Bridge

Location : Howrah, West Bengal 700001, India . Save on Google Maps .

10. Hooghly River

Location : Kolkata, India . Save on Google Maps .

Where to go near Kolkata

Mahabodhi Temple & Bodhgaya

Location : Bihar, India . Save on Google Maps .

Bodhgaya Travel Essentials

Where to stay

See more : Mahabodhi Temple & Bodhgaya travel tips

Beyond Kolkata

Location : Uttar Pradesh, India . Save on Google Maps .

Varanasi Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts

See more : Varanasi travel tips

Taj Mahal & Agra

Agra Travel Essentials

Top discounts

Taj Mahal Fast Track Entry Ticket

3D2N Golden Triangle Tour from Delhi

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Walk through History of Indian Freedom Movement at 10 Best Places This Independence Day

The Independence Day of India (August 15) is the day to recall sacrifices by the freedom fighters that made evergreen history for generations. The map of India is dotted with multiple sights and spots of freedom struggle as the freedom movement had spread like wild fire across the country. Some of our customers who are flying to India in the second week of August this year approached us with a request to recommend the best places to visit on Independence Day in India . Indian Eagle picks up the following:

Cellular Jail, the Andamans

The Cellular Jail in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands tops the list of the places to visit on the Independence Day of India. It is a living witness to the brutal treatment of the freedom fighters behind the bars. The Cellular Jail reminds generations of the solitary confinement that the heroes of the National Freedom Movement were sentenced to suffer for years during the colonial rule. An important chapter in the history of British India, the Cellular Jail was declared a national memorial in 1969. On display are the sculptures silently retelling the stories of atrocity that the prison inmates were subjected to.

Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar

Jallianwala Bagh is a must visit in Punjab . Located near the Golden Temple, it is the site where General Dyer shed the blood of thousands who had assembled for a meeting in protest against the Rowlatt Act in 1919. The massacre of 1919 which Jallianwala Bagh has been bearing witness to in form of bullet marks on inside of the wall is one of the most condemnable British acts during the colonial times of India. Jallianwala Bagh is a must stop during Punjab travel at any time of the year.

Indian Coffee House, Kolkata

If you are in Kolkata this Independence Day, do visit Coffee House nearby Presidency University on College Street, have a cup of brewing coffee, and take a walk down the memory lane to the bygone decades when the College Street Coffee House used to be a hotbed of debates on politics, art, music, cinema and culture in the then Calcutta. A favorite haunt of the elite, the literati, and intellectuals of Bengal, including Satyajit Ray, Amartya Sen, Mrinal Sen, Ritwik Ghatak, Samaresh Majumdar, Sunil Ganguly and likes, Coffee House was also frequented by the then political revolutionaries. In the post-independence era, Kolkatas College Street Coffee House witnessed to several mass agitations and movements in the changing socio-political landscape of Bengal. Integral to the cultural history of Bengal, Indian Coffee House in Kolkata is one of the best places to visit on the Independence Day of India.

Also Check: Proposed Museum on History of College Street and Coffee House

Sabarmati Gandhi Ashram

The Sabarmati Ashram was Mahatma Gandhijis workplace for social activism and his activities for National Freedom Movement. He spent 12 years of his life here. The ashram is the place where Satyagraha, Civil Disobedience Movement and Swadeshi Movement had gathered momentum at. Situated on the bank of the Sabarmati River, the ashram is one of the best places to visit in Ahmedabad .Gandhijis Dandi March to disobey the Salt Act implemented by the British began from the ashram in 1930. The Sabarmati Ashram introduces visitors to Gandhijis values, philosophy, vision and support for self-reliance.

India Gate, New Delhi

The India Gate, one of the most popular Delhi attractions, is not just a monumental architecture but also a war memorial. Also known as the All India War Memorial, the India Gate has been carrying the names of nearly 70, 000 soldiers who fought and died in the First World War, and the names of some 12, 516 Indian soldiers who embraced martyrdom on the North-west Frontier. Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, the India Gate and the Flame of the Immortal Soldier under the archway stand for the martyrs of India. It is a must see during Independence Day celebrations on August 15.

Santi Institute Library, Kolkata

A most significant among the age-old, red-brick buildings in Kolkatas Bowbazar is the Santi Institute. The 100-year-old building of the Santi Institute is not just an iconic library of 41000 books of various genres but also a lesser-known historical place. Founded as a haven of peaceful reading after the First World War, the library was started with just 27 books and 21 young members. Gradually, it grew into a hub of stimulating discussions and animated debates among the then liberals, revolutionaries and freedom fighters. A favorite of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, the Santi Institute Library in Bowbazar was also frequented by Bipin Behari Ganguli, Surendranath Banerjee, the educationist Triguna Sen, the historian Ramesh Chandra Majumdar, and the the famous lawyer Radhabinod Pal.

Agra Fort, Agra

The Agra Fort, an integral part of the Mughal history of India, is associated with the history of British India as well. One of the world heritage sites recognized by UNESCO, the Agra Fort was the site of the Indian Rebellion of 1857. Also known as the Sepoy Mutiny, it was the first seed of the National Freedom Movement. Located by the Yamuna River, the fort features a unique blend of Hindu and Islamic styles in construction as well as design.

Netaji Bhawan, Kolkata

Netaji Bhawan or Netaji Shubhash Chandra Boses residence in Kolkata City is among the places that remind of British India, freedom fighters and national movement. It is the place where he was put under house arrest and where he escaped from to Berlin in 1941. A part of Netajis life, struggle and mission for freedom of India, the house has got a museum and a library today.

Viceregal Lodge, Shimla

Viceregal Lodge, a splendid English Renaissance architecture of colonial times in India, is not just a tourist attraction of Shimla but also a historic place. Viceregal Lodge was the summer residence of Lord Dufferin, the Viceroy of British India, and the place where discussions on the most fateful India-Pakistan partition were held. Also known as Rashtrapati Niwas, this colossal landmark in Shimla houses a museum exhibiting some stories of Indian freedom movement.

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5 thoughts on “ walk through history of indian freedom movement at 10 best places this independence day ”.

If you suggest all location in same city at a time is much better, i think….;) just kidding……

by the way nice collection….appreciate

Although independence day is now over for 2014, nevertheless, great suggestions. I have put these places in my to do list. http://www.kiransawhney.com

Hi Kiran. Independence Day will come the next year again. Try our suggestions the next year and do share with your friends too. Thanks a lot!

Very nice places i’m thinking to add this on my site http://www.independencedaystatus.com/ so when i publish this on my blog will surely let you know please drop your views then, thanks in advance.

Thank you very much for appreciating it! You can republish this particular post on your website, with proper credit to us or linking back to our portal. We will be happy. Thank you once again!

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Tourist Places to Visit in Kolkata

A prominent city in India, Kolkata is a charming destination that has a life of its own with every spot narrating a rattling story. The striking contrasts embedded in the ordinary here attract tourists from near and far. While many places to visit in Kolkata demonstrate its willingness to adapt with the times and strive to be a modern metropolitan, time-worn colonial architecture stand tall as reminders of the past. Kolkata is known as the cultural capital of India and the City of Joy, yet soul-stirring evidence of chaos and decay adds to the quaint charm of the city. Settled on the banks of the River Hooghly, the city seems to be in constant celebration of the Bengali spirit. The alluring places to visit in Kolkata are testaments to the city’s heritage and culture, and will surely add unquantifiable value to your trip to Bengal!

Places to visit in Kolkata: Ancient Buildings

The most popular places to visit in Kolkata remain the ancient architectural wonders that reflect the zeitgeist of yesteryear. The city used to be the capital of the Indian subcontinent where the British established a stronghold. Visiting these edifices that are important elements of the legacy left behind by colonialism will help you to closely interact with the rich history of this city. It is thus recommended to go on a heritage tour. Some of the main places to visit in Kolkata you must add to your itinerary to understand the city include:

Victoria Memorial

An architectural wonder constructed from white marble in the memory of Queen Victoria, the Victoria Memorial now serves as a museum. One of the eminent places to visit in Kolkata, the structure encapsulates a blend of different architectural styles and has become a prominent landmark of the city. Paintings, sculptures, books, weapons and other colonial relics are put on display here. Some of the remarkable exhibits here include ancient illustrated books of Shakespeare, paintings by Thomas and William Daniell of the Indian scenery, and Tipu Sultan’s journal from wars. After looking at the impressive artefacts, you can attend the light and sound show that is organised every evening, describing the country’s colonial history up to its independence. It is surrounded by vast clean and well-maintained gardens that add to the aesthetic quality of the monument, which makes it one of the most popular places to visit in Kolkata. 

St. Paul’s Cathedral

An exemplary Gothic building, this classic white cathedral is among the stand-out places to visit in Kolkata. This is the largest cathedral in the city and the first to be constructed in the British Empire outside its mainland. Created to accommodate the growing population of Christian Europeans, the ancient feel of the 1800s still pervades the iconic building which attracts thousands of tourists irrespective of their religious beliefs. Inside, you can learn about the life of St. Paul through paintings and documents. Make sure you make a stop here among other places to visit in Kolkata.

Fort William

Fort William is a grand colonial structure that has stood the test of time since the 17th century. It is one of the first few examples of British architecture in the country, and is thereby one of the important places to visit in Kolkata. Located on the bank of the Hooghly River, the impressive building stands out for its arched apertures commanding a view of the  Maidan , the largest park in the city. Fort William was used as an official space to manage imports and exports by the British. When the Nawab of Bengal took the fort under siege, a dungeon inside was used as a prison which came to be known as the Black Hole of Calcutta. Years after, in the post-independence era, the fort now belongs to the Indian Army and functions as a base for the Eastern Command. Tourists, therefore, do not have free access to explore the interiors of the fort, yet people from all over the world arrive at this significant place to see in Kolkata to revisit the past. 

Marble Palace

The Marble Palace is a stately mansion from the 19th century and is one of the top places to visit in Kolkata. Built by Raja Rajendra Mullick in 1835 – a wealthy merchant and an art aficionado – it is still a place of residence for his progeny. Barring a few areas, visitors are allowed to marvel at his collection of paintings and sculptures by Western and Indian artists, along with impressive Victorian furniture and relics. Diving deep into this peculiar collection makes for an interesting visit! 

Writers’ Building

One of the most beautiful places to visit in Kolkata, Writers’ Building is a vibrant edifice in the B.B.D Bagh area that makes tourists and locals alike to stop in their tracks in amazement. The building has undergone several renovations. Initially, it was used as an office for clerks, also called writers. Over the years, it turned into an academy for the writers to master Oriental languages. The institution dissipated over time and was handed over to private individuals. It was also used as quarters of residence, godowns and shops for officials of the British Raj. It was also utilised by the East India Railway Company. A need for more space for the company’s administrative work led to the expansion of the building. More recently, after independence, it housed the Secretariat of the West Bengal State Government. It has since been evacuated again to be refurbished, yet it proves to be a marvellous sight to behold amidst other places to visit in Kolkata .

Kolkata Town Hall

This is one of the places to visit in Kolkata that has witnessed many historical events. Some of the notable moments are the celebration of Rabindranath Tagore’s birth anniversary, a demonstration by the polymath Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose of his work and lectures by prominent figures such as Amartya Sen. When constructed, its main purpose was to be used as a site for gatherings for Europeans. It went on to house the Calcutta Municipality, the Magistrate’s Office and the West Bengal Public Service Commission. Not many places to visit in Kolkata have a rich history as the town hall. After independence, however, the Roman-Doric building was subject to decline due to abject neglect. With some effort by outspoken citizens, the city was encouraged to revive the structure. It is now used as a centre for locals to congregate at the Kolkata Museum on the ground floor or for cultural and scholarly events held in the hall on the first floor. This is one of the finest places to visit in Kolkata to dive into its thriving culture.

Kolkata High Court and General Post Office

Important government institutions still reside in ancient buildings made during colonialism. The two major examples are the High Court and the General Post Office, important places to visit in Kolkata. The Calcutta High Court is the oldest in the country, established in 1774, and was once the highest court in British India. Similarly, the site the post office is in now was where the first Fort William stood. The current building, recognisable from afar owing to its distinct dome roof, was established in 1868. It also houses a postal museum. You can find a remarkable exhibit of postcards, stamps, photographs and maps among other interesting things, such as a savings book by Rabindranath Tagore. Although these places are functional and not exactly tourist destinations in Kolkata, many travellers are lured to visit owing to their commendable architecture. 

Places to visit in Kolkata: Other Landmarks

Besides the splendid colonial architecture, there are many places to visit in Kolkata that have become integral to its identity. People travel from all over the world to visit these tourist places in Kolkata. A few of these renowned destinations include: 

Howrah Bridge

A cantilever bridge that endures the weight of more people than any other in the world, Howrah Bridge is the most iconic of all the places to visit in Kolkata. Linking the city with one of the most famous places to visit near Kolkata, Howrah, since 1943, the huge steel bridge suspends over the Hooghly River. On its Howrah end is the Howrah Railway Station, which is the oldest in the country. Hence, the bridge has been known as the gateway to Kolkata since its inception. Besides being an essential part of the lives of the city’s residents, the bridge carries huge cultural significance. It is one of the prominent places to visit in Kolkata that has been included in a number of films as a symbol of the city. At night, the bridge is the most attractive as it is lit up and offers a dreamy view of the city sitting on the banks of the river. There is a lane specially restricted to pedestrians, hence an evening stroll here is an ideal way to end your day of visiting the places to visit in Kolkata. 

Tagore’s House

Jorasanko Thakur Bari – commonly known as the abode of Rabindranath Tagore, the first non-European Nobel laureate – is among the most revered places to visit in Kolkata. He played a significant role in changing the political, philosophical and artistic scenario within Bengal and the country at large. He was born here, spent most of his childhood in and eventually passed away in this house. It has since been turned into a museum dedicated to his life. The house is set up similar to how it was when inhabited by Tagore and his family, and the various exhibits inside offer an insight into their involvement in monumental movements such as the Bengal Renaissance. Many special events are organised here on occasions such as Tagore’s birth and death anniversaries. People who admire Tagore’s contribution to Modern India never skip this on their itinerary of tourist places in Kolkata.

Indian Museum

This is the oldest and largest museum in India and the ninth oldest in the world! Its installation in early 19th century signifies the importance of preserving the cultural and history of the country. It has been one of the most significant places to visit in Kolkata for more than a century. The Indian Museum consists of unique collections comprising of paintings, weapons, tools, jewellery, fossils, skeletons and many other antiques under several sections. The museum seeks to maintain interdisciplinarity and is divided into segments relating to art, archaeology, anthropology, economic botany, geology and zoology. It houses intriguing selections from across the world. This is one of the places to visit in Kolkata that gives you a taste of the history and culture from around the globe. Some interesting finds here include an Egyptian mummy, a Buddist stupa, a Pillar of Ashoka and several fossils of extinct animals. Visitors can also spend some time in the library and bookstore within the premises. The Indian Museum makes for one of the most interesting places to visit in Kolkata that should not be skipped. 

Located beside Hooghly River, Belur Math is one of the most popular pilgrimage places to visit in Kolkata. It is the nerve centre of the Ramakrishna movement, founded by the esteemed Indian monk Swami Vivekananda.  The architecture of this temple is unique as it is an amalgam of Hindu, Christian, Buddhist and Muslim elements to represent its ideals of unity. The complex offers a comfortable and serene environment to visitors, hence people come here regardless of the religion they follow. Exploring the campus that includes temples dedicated to Sri Ramakrishna, Swami Vivekananda, Sarada Devi and Swami Brahmananda along with an affiliated museum can easily take up to three hours. 

Places to visit in Kolkata: Markets and Cultural Spots

The city’s everyday life is best experienced out on the streets. Some of the most admired places to visit in Kolkata are the street markets where you can soak in the experiences of the locals. You get to enjoy the street food, talk to the city’s residents, get your hands on traditional handicrafts and participate in activities that you cannot anywhere else. Some of the popular places to visit in Kolkata include:

Terreti Bazaar (Old Chinatown)

For a notable period as Kolkata continued to prosper, it experienced the emergence of a community of Chinese merchants. Although their activity has diminished over the years, the area they resided in, now referred to as the Old Chinatown, is one of the unique places to visit in Kolkata. The Chinese immigrant population has reduced to an significantly small number, replaced by a thriving Muslim population. Yet while exploring the area, you can find traces of Chinese influences. There are six Chinese temples here, some even dating back to the 18th century. The main market in the region, Terreti Bazaar, continues to be bustling with people ordering Chinese dishes. It is a great place to try local Bengali street food too. Besides soaking up energy from the lively fresh produce markets set up by locals, you can include the oldest shops in Chinatown in your list of places to visit in Kolkata: Hap Hing and Pao Chong. 

Kumartuli 

Kumartuli is a potter settlement in northern Kolkata and is over 300 years old. What makes it an interesting addition to popular places to visit in Kolkata is seeing thousands of local artisans hard at work, sculpting impressive idols and statues during the festive season. Huge, vibrant idols crafted here out of environmentally friendly materials such as bamboo and clay are ornately put up all over the city. The effigies made here are exported to other cities as well. It is a humbling place to experience the local culture at the grass-roots level. Idols are made throughout the year for different occasions, but the best time to go to one of the most artistic places to visit in Kolkata is around Durga Puja. You could plan a trip yourself or opt for guided tours. 

New Market, constituted of thousands of stalls set up every day, is a shopper’s dream come true. From clothes, jewellery, shoes, home decor items to quirky souvenirs, you can buy anything here. This is one of the oldest market places to visit in Kolkata. It was set up in the 19th century to meet the shopping needs of the British upper class. Years later, it has turned into a regular street market catering to both locals and tourists. Shopkeepers here are experienced sellers, hence it is recommended you hone your bargaining skills before coming here. This is one of the cheapest places to visit in Kolkata for shopping, but you can only save up if you haggle hard. The market shuts down at eight o’clock in the evening, but the streets are still full of tea and snacks stalls. 

Park Street

This is the most popular out of all the places to visit in Kolkata for locals to spend their evenings. Home to India’s first nightclub, this street has been populated by a plethora of fancy pubs and restaurants. It has been acknowledged as the perfect place for entertainment since the British period of rule and continues to retain its reputation. Some well-known places to visit in Kolkata are also located here, such as St. Xavier’s College, Asiatic Society and South Park Street Cemetery. Park Street is especially teeming with crowds during celebrations of New Year, Christmas and Diwali. The whole area is lavishly lit up with a fiery zest prevailing in the neighbourhood. To experience the best nightlife in the city, Park Street should be one of your top contenders among other places to visit in Kolkata. 

Although the places to visit in Kolkata mentioned above will plunge you into a classic Bengali experience on your first trip, they only mark the beginning of a lifelong tryst you are sure to have with the City of Joy! 

Written by Shruti Mishra, an in-house Tripoto writer.

Frequent search terms leading to this page: places to visit in kolkata, Tourist Places in kolkata, Place to see in kolkata, tourist destinations in kolkata, places to visit near kolkata

8 Places to Visit in Kolkata in One Day (2024)

Are you looking for the best places to visit in Kolkata in one day? Then you have come to the right place!

Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is one of my favourite cities in India. This was the capital of the country until it was moved to Delhi in 1911 and it is often nicknamed the City of Joy .

This city has got a lot to offer, from delicious street food and interesting museums to beautiful landmarks and mystical temples.

I visited Kolkata twice and spent a total of three weeks here exploring everything it has to offer. This guide features the 8 best places to visit if you’re planning on spending one day in Kolkata as a first-timer . This will be just enough time to see Kolkata’s most beautiful monuments and some other of the city’s highlights.

So, let’s dive right into it, here are the best places to visit in Kolkata in 1 day.

The best places to visit in Kolkata in one day

1. victoria memorial.

The Victoria Memorial had to be first on this list as this is one of the most famous landmarks in India .

This enormous marble building was constructed at the beginning of the 20th century and dedicated to Queen Victoria who ruled over British India.

Built in Indo-Saracenic revivalist style, the Victoria Memorial features a mix of British and Mughal elements. Its gardens are spectacular too and one of the best things to do in Kolkata is to take a stroll here.

Inside the Victoria Memorial, you will find a museum full of artefacts that once belonged to Queen Victoria along with a collection of paintings and manuscripts.

2. St. Paul’s Cathedral

This Anglican cathedral is one of Kolkata’s most famous colonial buildings and it is just a short walk from the Victoria Memorial. It was completed in 1847 and was the first Episcopal church in Asia.

St. Paul’s Cathedral was built to replace another, smaller church. As Kolkata’s European community kept growing, this church wasn’t large enough to accommodate everyone anymore, hence a bigger cathedral had to be built.

This cathedral’s interior is worth visiting too. Here, you will find stained glass windows, frescoes, sculptures and more.

3. Park Street

A visit to Kolkata wouldn’t be complete without strolling through Park Street, which is often dubbed the “street that never sleeps” or “food street”.

Park Steet has been one of the most popular streets in Kolkata since the 1970s and it is full of shops, pubs, restaurants and nightclubs .

In the olden days, however, this street was known as Burial Ground Road due to its large amount of cemeteries and this was not a popular area to live in. You will still find the colonial South Park Street Cemetery here today.

This is a great place to have lunch or dinner or to visit one of the pubs in the evening.

4. Nakhoda Mosque

Nakhoda Mosque, the principal mosque in Kolkata , is one of my favourite pieces of architecture in the city. This is the largest mosque in West Bengal and it can accommodate around 10,000 devotees at a time for prayers.

Completed in 1926, the Nahkoda Mosque was built to replace two other mosques that once stood on these grounds. Its architecture was inspired by Akbar’s Tomb in Sikandra , which is close to Agra, the city of the famous Taj Mahal .

Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to visit this mosque’s interior, as I was there during prayer hour. This is a good reason to go back to Kolkata, though.

5. Mother House

Mother Theresa lived in Kolkata for most of her life and the house in which she lived houses a small museum dedicated to her.

The Mother House is the headquarters of the Missionaries of Charity, but you will also find a museum displaying Mother Theresa’s belongings here, as well as the room in which she lived for 50 years.

Apart from that, Mother Theresa’s tomb can also be found at the Mother House. This is where she was buried in 1997 and today, many people come here to pay their respects and pray.

The Mother House is free to visit. It is good to know that it is open from 8 am to 12 pm in the morning and 3 pm to 6 pm in the afternoon every day except for Thursdays.

>> Read: 17 Things NOT to Do in India

6. Belur Math

The Belur Math Temple is the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission, a spiritual organization founded by Swami Vivekananda. Its aim is to spread the teachings of Vedanta, a Hindu philosophy, and to improve the social conditions of Indians.

What makes this temple so interesting is that its architecture features Hindu, Islamic, Buddhist and Christian elements. This stands a symbol of the unity of all religions .

The Belur Math Temple complex consists of multiple buildings and it is definitely worth checking out during a day in Kolkata.

7. Howrah Bridge and Hooghly River

Howrah Bridge is one of the most famous landmarks in Kolkata and it i

s one of the longest cantilever bridges in the world .

This bridge was constructed in the 1940s to replace another bridge that couldn’t handle the high amount of traffic that crossed it on a daily basis.

The best way to see this bridge is by crossing the Hooghly River by ferry. These are cheap, they leave often and, on top of that, it is a fun experience!

8. Magen David Synagogue

The Magen David Synagogue is the biggest synagogue in Kolkata . It was built by Elias Joseph Ezra, a member of a very influential Jewish family, in 1884.

Back in the day, Kolkata had a large Jewish community, as Jewish merchants from Aleppo and Baghdad settled in this city. Today, however, it is estimated that only 20 or 30 Jews still live in Kolkata. The majority immigrated to countries like Australia and Canada after India’s independence in 1947.

This synagogue is now maintained by Kolkata’s Muslim community and it is quite an interesting place to visit.

Map of the places to visit in Kolkata in 1 day

You will find a map with the places that are featured on this list below.

Other places to visit in Kolkata if you have more time

There are plenty of other interesting places to visit in Kolkata if you have more than one day in this city. You will find the most interesting ones below.

• Tagore’s House: This is the ancestral house of Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore, and it houses a museum dedicated to his life and work.
• Indian Museum: The Indian Museum is the oldest and largest museum in the country. It is home to an impressive collection of artefacts that will teach you more about the history of India.
• Dakshineswar Kali Temple: This beautiful Hindu temple is located on the banks of the river Hooghly. It was built by Indian businesswoman Rani Rashmoni, who was a devotee of Kali, in the 19th century.
• St. John’s Church: St. John’s Church is one of the oldest churches in Kolkata and it is also home to the grave of Job Charnock, who is considered to be the founder of this city.
• South Park Street Cemetery : Built in the 18th century, this cemetery used to be known as the Great Christian Burial Ground and it is said to be the most haunted place in Kolkata.
• Writer’s Building: If you’re into architecture, this monument is worth checking out. Writer’s Building is a huge structure that was built in 1777. It was originally built to house junior clerks but is now the seat of the State Government of West Bengal.

How to get around Kolkata

Although some parts of the city are walkable, Kolkata is quite big and most of its tourist attractions are not located very close to each other. The best ways to get around the city is by:

• Metro: Kolkata has an extensive metro system. Taking the metro was my favourite way of getting around the city; it doesn’t cost much and it is fast.
• Taxi: You can also hire a private car for a day, though this will be more expensive. Kolkata is famous for its old-school yellow cabs (which I’m obsessed with).
• Auto-rickshaw: There are rickshaws in Kolkata, but this didn’t work very well for me and I’m still not sure why. They didn’t show up when I used the Ola app and refused to take me when I asked in person.
• Scooter: If you’re confident enough to drive in Indian cities, another option is to rent a scooter. This is the most flexible way of getting around Kolkata.

Where to stay in Kolkata

Kolkata is a huge metropolis with an abundance of places to stay, it all depends on your taste and budget. You will find my top recommendations below:

• Central Bed & Breakfast (⭐ 9.4/10): Central Bed & Breakfast offers beautiful rooms in a perfect location – just 1,5 km from Park Street and from the Victoria Memorial. Breakfast is available and there are plenty of restaurants nearby.
• The Harrington Residency (⭐ 9.0/10) : This hotel is centrally located and offers comfortable, spacious rooms with all the amenities you might need.
• The Oberoi Grand (⭐ 8.8/10): If you’re looking for a luxurious stay in Kolkata, The Oberoi Grand is the place for you. This hotel comes with an outdoor swimming pool, a spa and a gym. Its rooms are stunning and there’s an onsite restaurant too.

Places to visit in Kolkata in one day: Final thoughts

And voila, this was my guide on how to spend one day in Kolkata! I hope that you have found exactly what you were looking for in this post and that you will have an amazing time exploring the so-called City of Joy .

Kolkata is an amazing destination with plenty of interesting places to discover, this is one of my favourite cities in India.

Although you could easily spend a few days visiting this city, one day in Kolkata will be just enough time to see its highlights.

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The Ultimate India Travel Bucket List: 35 Ideas

India travel planning guide.

🛫 Find the cheapest flights to India on  Skyscanner . 🏨 Find the best accommodation via  Booking  or  Hostelworld . 🛺 Download the  Ola app  to order a rickshaw or a taxi. 🚃 Use  12GoAsia  to book trains and buses in India. 🚗 Rent a car with  Discover Cars  to get the best rates. 💰 Get travel insurance via  VisitorsCoverage , one of the best-reviewed travel insurance companies. 👘 Check out my  complete India packing list for females . 📋 Don’t forget to  check if you need a visa   to visit India.

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Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has travelled to over 40 countries, many of them solo. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

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Top 10 Spectacular Places To Visit In Kolkata On Your Next Trip In 2024

Curious kasturi.

• Published: October 26, 2023

Kolkata boasts numerous sightseeing destinations that provide a distinct experience for every visitor. The city is adorned with a variety of captivating places to ensure its visitors are consistently delighted. From refreshing gardens, serene lakes, historical buildings, museums, libraries, and sports stadiums to ancient temples and churches, there are umpteen places to visit in Kolkata .

Exploring the city becomes even more captivating with its vibrant shopping streets, thrilling amusement parks, and delectable eateries. With these attractions and more, a visit to Kolkata is bound to enchant every traveler.

List of  Top 10 Spectacular Place To Visit in Kolkata :

Baffled about what are the best things to do in Kolkata ? Plug out your worries and sail your boat to the east for your quest for adventure. All of these experiences are something that one tends to cherish for a lifetime. Do not forget to mark out your favorites!

• Howrah Bridge – Capture The Beautiful Landscape
• Dakshineswar Kali Temple – Take Blessings
• Victoria Memorial Palace – Marvel At The Architecture
• Nicco Park – Have Some Fun Time
• Kolkata Race Course – Have Some Fun Time
• Eden Garden – Take A Plunge Into History
• Jorasanko Thakurbari   – Explore The Place
• Science City – Enhance Your Knowledge
• Aquatica Water Park – Relax At This Picnic Spot
• Park Street – Shop Your Heart Out

Howrah Bridge : 

Also known as Rabindra Setu, Howrah Bridge stands as a bustling testament to 20th-century engineering, holding the distinction of being the world’s busiest bridge. A prominent attraction in Kolkata, it spans the Hooghly River, stretching approximately 705 meters to connect Kolkata and Howrah.

Constructed in 1874 on two towering pillars each reaching 270 feet, the bridge is unique for its assembly without the use of nuts and bolts. Along the Hooghly River, two other bridges, namely Vivekananda Setu and Vidyasagar Setu, provide additional crossings.

The Howrah Bridge is a symbolic representation of Bengal’s rich history and culture, having witnessed pivotal events, including both World War I and II. During its construction, the bridge garnered acclaim as an architectural marvel, characterized as a ‘Suspension Type Balanced Cantilever’ structure and ranking as the third longest cantilever bridge globally.

Tata Steel played a crucial role, in supplying a significant amount of high-tension steel for the project, which incurred a total cost of INR 25 million. Today, the bridge stands as the world’s busiest cantilever bridge, facilitating the passage of over 200,000 vehicles and 150,000 pedestrians each day, serving as a vital gateway.

Dakshineswar Kali Temple : 

Built-in 1847 on the banks of the River Hooghly, Dakshineswar Kali Temple is dedicated to Devi Bhavatarini, a manifestation of Goddess Kali. Commissioned by Rani Rashmoni, the Queen of Janbazar, the temple spans 25 acres and holds immense significance for Hindu devotees seeking blessings and solutions to their problems.

The temple’s history carries both spiritual and socio-political importance. Following the traditional ‘nav-ratna’ (nine spires) style associated with the Bengal School of Architecture, the structure took eight years and a staggering INR 900,000 to complete.

Shri Ramakrishna Paramhansa, an ardent devotee of Goddess Kali, played a crucial role in the temple’s fame after becoming the head priest. His influence led to significant socio-religious changes in Bengal. Rani Rashmoni, the temple’s founder, also contributed to its reputation by opening its gates to all sections of society, and breaking barriers of class, caste, creed, and religion.

The main temple’s massive courtyard features 12 smaller Shiva temples, each with identical black stone shivalingas. Representing the 12 Jyotirlingas, these temples are constructed in the typical Bengal architectural style known as ‘Aat-Chala’ (eight eaves). It was within one of these Shiva temples that Shri Ramakrishna Paramhansa attained enlightenment.

Victoria Memorial : 

Victoria Memorial is an essential stop for anyone visiting Kolkata. Erected in honor of Queen Victoria, this memorial was unveiled to the public in 1921. The design credit goes to William Emerson, a distinguished architect and then President of the British Institute of Architects.

Regarded as one of the country’s premier art museums, Victoria Memorial boasts a diverse collection of paintings depicting royal British families, lithographs, historical documents, and artifacts. The monumental structure, standing at 184 feet tall and sprawling across 64 acres, showcases remarkable architecture.

The extensive grounds of Victoria Memorial feature well-manicured lawns and gardens surrounding the museum building, complemented by two sizable pools. Lord Redesdale and David Prain were the masterminds behind the design of these gardens and lawns.

Upon entering through the museum gates, visitors are greeted by two marble lions, and beyond them stands the colossal bronze statue of Queen Victoria, crafted in England and transported to India.

Delving into some intriguing trivia, the construction of Victoria Memorial spanned 15 years, with a hefty price tag of INR 10,500,000. Notably, a significant portion of the funding came from Indian princely states.

Nicco Amusement Park :

Situated in the upscale Salt Lake City of Greater Kolkata, Nicco Amusement Park sprawls across 40 acres, making it the largest amusement park in Eastern India. It’s an ideal spot for spending an entire day at leisure, enjoying quality time with family.

Opened to the public in 1991, the park boasts over 35 attractions, including water rides and amusement rides like the Toy Train, Tilt-a-Whirl, Striking Cars, Paddle Boat, Water Chute, Water Coaster, Flying Saucer, Pirate Ship, River Caves, Cyclone, and Moonraker.

Nicco Amusement Park, situated in the upscale Salt Lake City of Greater Kolkata, sprawls across 40 acres, making it the largest amusement park in Eastern India. Ideal for a full-day excursion, the park opened its gates to the public in 1991, offering a diverse array of attractions, including water rides such as the Water Chute and Water Coaster, as well as amusement rides like the Toy Train, Tilt-a-Whirl, Striking Cars, Paddle Boat, Flying Saucer, Pirate Ship, River Caves, Cyclone, and Moonraker.

Certified as a green park, Nicco Park features a greenhouse with a variety of plants cultivated and sold by the Indo-American Hybrid Seeds Limited. This organization also manages the greenhouse. The park operates as a joint venture between Nicco Corporation Limited and the Government of West Bengal. The concept of establishing an amusement park originated from Rajive Kaul, the Chairman of the Nicco Group, during the 300th anniversary celebration of the founding of Kolkata.

In addition to the entertaining rides and exhibits, the park offers educational recreation for children. Numerous educational exhibits within the park provide information on the scientific mechanisms behind each ride, displayed prominently at the entrance gates of the rides. The park also houses a solar energy village, providing children with insights into the utilization of non-conventional energy sources as alternatives to fossil fuels, contributing to conservation efforts.

Kolkata Race Course:

Being one of the oldest racecourses in India, the Kolkata Race Course proudly hosts the site of the inaugural horse race. Its picturesque setting adds to its allure, making it a must-visit destination on your Kolkata tour. While horse races are typically held on public holidays and weekends, the optimal time to experience this venue is from September to March.

Maintained by the Royal Calcutta Turf Club, established in 1820 for the East India elites, the race course originally served as a communal space for social gatherings, sports, and various amusements. It stands as a poignant reminder of the colonial era.

Adjacent to the race course is a polo ground often hailed as the best in India. In the absence of horse races, the city’s elite frequently engage in polo matches organized by the Royal Calcutta Turf Club.

Eden Gardens:

As the oldest cricket ground in India, Eden Gardens stands as a cricket pilgrimage for enthusiasts, earning its reputation as one of the most iconic stadiums globally. This venue has witnessed numerous historic moments in the world of cricket.

Boasting a seating capacity of 68,000, Eden Gardens has undergone several enhancements since its inception. The inaugural first-class match graced its grounds in 1917-18. The first test match unfolded in 1934, while the inaugural ODI match took place in 1987. A visit to this stadium is a must when in Kolkata.

Not only is it the largest cricket stadium in India, but it also ranks as the second largest globally, surpassed only by the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Australia. Serving as the home ground for the Bengal Ranji Team and the IPL team, the Kolkata Knight Riders, Eden Gardens is renowned for its spirited and boisterous crowd, earning the moniker ‘The Lords of the Indian Subcontinent,’ as coined by former Australian captain Steve Waugh.

A curious fact about Eden Gardens is its original name, ‘Auckland Circus Gardens,’ which underwent a change to ‘Eden Gardens’ in honor of the Eden sisters, Emily and Fanny Eden, siblings of Lord Auckland Eden.

Jorasanko Thakurbari :

A trip to Kolkata would be incomplete without a visit to the ancestral residence of one of its most revered citizens—the first Asian to clinch the prestigious Nobel Prize. Jorasanko Thakur Bari, the familial abode of Rabindranath Tagore, a renowned poet and artist, is an essential destination in Kolkata.

The Thakur Bari, meaning the ‘House of Tagores,’ has been transformed into Rabindra Bharati University, functioning as a center for Indian Classical Fine Arts and providing quality education. In 1961, a segment of the building was converted into Rabindra Bharati Museum, showcasing the lives and tales of all members of the Tagore family. This grand ‘red brick’ mansion spans an impressive 35,000 square meters.

Rabindranath Tagore was not the sole luminary in this household; every member of the Tagore family was distinguished in various fields, including the women. It’s intriguing to note that the purdah system, prevailing in pre-independent India, was not adhered to in the Tagore household. Women were actively encouraged to engage in discussions spanning politics, culture, art, literature, business, and worldly affairs. Exploring the museum provides insight into this aspect, offering a better understanding of the family dynamics.

Today, Jorasanko Thakur Bari remains a focal point for artists and art enthusiasts worldwide. Its popularity endures from the pre-independence era when this mansion played a pivotal role in various reformative activities, including the Bengal Renaissance and Brahmo Samaj.

Science City : 

The Science City in Kolkata stands out as the largest science center in the entire Indian subcontinent, making it a compelling destination for visitors seeking a unique blend of science and entertainment. Established in 1997, this attraction is a part of the National Council of Science Museums (NCSM) with the primary goal of popularizing science.

Situated on a sprawling 50-acre land, the Science City was built on what was once a dumping ground for over a century. The complex is divided into two distinct sections: the Science Centre and the Convention Centre. The Convention Centre was inaugurated in December 1996 by Paul Jozef Crutzen and Mr. Jyoti Basu, the then Chief Minister of West Bengal. The entire facility was officially inaugurated by Mr. Indra Kumar Gujral, the then Prime Minister of India, in July 1997.

This renowned center attracts both domestic and international tourists, offering a dedicated section for aquatic life that features exotic fish and insects. Notable attractions within the Science City include Space Odyssey, Dynamotion, Science Exploration Hall, Maritime Centre, Earth Exploration Hall, and a sprawling Science Park.

Aquatica Water Park : 

Spread across 17 acres, Aquatic Water Park in Kolkata stands as the largest water-themed park in Eastern India. Situated near Rajarhat township in Hatgachia and established in 1999, this park is a must-visit for those seeking a weekend getaway in Kolkata.

True to its name, the park’s primary allure lies in its diverse array of themed water rides. However, beyond the aqua adventures, the premises also house resort facilities. Guests can choose between deluxe and super deluxe rooms, providing an opportunity for a relaxed weekend stay.

The themed water rides cater to all age groups, offering attractions such as Jungle Safari, Black Hole, Raft Slide, Aqua Dance, Niagara Falls, Cyclone, Wave Pool, Lazy River, The Family Pool, Pendulum, and Multi-lane. Among these, the Wave Pool stands out as the most popular and in high demand.

In addition to accommodations and rides, Aquatica Park extends its services to corporate and large-scale events, including weddings and receptions. Purpose-built conference halls, party lawns, and the Aqua Hall are available for hosting wedding receptions and large-scale corporate events requiring formal sit-down dinners.

The three open lawns, namely Aqua Lawn (the largest), Central Lawn (surrounded by the lazy river), and Niagara Lawn (featuring the Niagara Fall ride as a picturesque backdrop), provide versatile spaces for various events and gatherings.

Park Street:

When in Kolkata, one cannot and must not avoid a visit to Park Street, the nerve center of the city’s evening recreations and happening nightlife thereby gaining its reputation as ‘the street that never sleeps’. The Park Street area is thronged with youngsters and elites alike due to the variety of places it offers.

Apart from being the hub of the most prominent landmark heritage buildings of the city, Park Street is also famous for its food, hence, is also called the ‘Food Street’. It is the place where the iconic South Park Street Cemetery is situated, which is considered among the most haunted places in India.

Some of the famous restaurants and nightclubs in the area are Trinca’s, Peter Cat, Moulin Rouge, Mocambo, Blue Fox, Charcoal Grill, Tung Fong, Over the Top, and Only Pub. Park Street also offers a shopping experience for both street shoppers and elites.

In conclusion, Kolkata is a city that captivates with its rich history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. These ten spectacular places offer a glimpse into the various facets of this charming metropolis. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a spiritual seeker, Kolkata in 2024 promises an unforgettable experience. Plan your trip wisely, and let the City of Joy weave its magic on you.

• Topics: beautiful places in Kolkata , beautiful places to visit in kolkata , best places to travel in kolkata , best things to do in Kolkata , places to visit in Kolkata , Top 10 Spectacular Place To Visit in Kolkata , tourist places in Kolkata

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1 Day Kolkata (Top Places to visit in Kolkata in One Day)

The City of Joy, Kolkata boasts an illustrious past with a thriving heritage, art, and cultural scene to impress people from far and wide. Combine all this with excellent culinary delights, vibrant festivals, and colonial architecture and we promise that you’ll love every bit of this tourist destination in India . If you are on a tight schedule, then we have curated a list of places to visit in Kolkata in 1 Day for your ease. While the list of sightseeing places in Kolkata is never-ending, there are a few attractions you cannot miss to explore on your 1-day visit.

Kolkata is a place that takes you back into the time of the bygone era. It is a place that makes you feel positive from the inside out. It is a place that allows you to relax and unwind in the serenity of nature. It is a place that introduces you to a diverse range of flora and fauna. It is a place that gives you a chance to set your heart racing. So, whether you’re traveling alone, as a couple, or with family, you’ll surely find things of interest on your Kolkata tour.

The places to visit in Kolkata in 1 day are as follows:

• Kolkata Places to visit in 1 Day: Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Botanical Garden, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, Nicco Amusement Park

1. Victoria Memorial

Take a walk down memory lane and see how our country has evolved from its colonization days by paying heed to the Victoria Memorial. It is a beautiful white monument that was constructed to honor Queen Victoria's 25-year reign as the Empress of India. The sprawling memorial complex covers an area of around 64 acres and is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, which add to its charm.

As you step into the memorial premises, you’ll be greeted by several grand entrances and gateways, each showcasing intricate craftsmanship and ornate designs. The memorial houses a vast collection of artifacts, paintings, and memorabilia from the British era including portraits of British monarchs, historical documents, weapons, and other items of historical significance. One can also find the galleries within the memorial that offer a fascinating glimpse into the country's colonial past and serve as a repository of art and history.

The surrounding gardens of the Victoria Memorial are meticulously maintained and provide a serene atmosphere for visitors. Lush green lawns, vibrant flower beds, and beautiful water bodies create a peaceful oasis amidst the bustling city. The gardens are a popular spot for leisurely walks, picnics, and recreational activities, attracting both locals and tourists alike.

2. Howrah Bridge

Another iconic landmark that draws a huge influx of visitors after the Victoria Memorial is the Howrah Bridge. Often referred to as Rabindra Setu, the Howrah Bridge is a massive bridge that spans the Hooghly River, connecting the city of Kolkata with its twin city, Howrah.

The Howrah Bridge is a testament to the architectural brilliance and structural engineering of its time. Its massive steel framework, painted in a signature rust-red color, has become an iconic sight that represents the crowded city of Kolkata. The bridge has withstood the test of time and continues to be a crucial transportation artery, carrying a significant volume of vehicular and pedestrian traffic between Kolkata and Howrah.

Walking along the Howrah Bridge is an experience in itself. The bridge offers stunning panoramic views of the Hooghly River, the majestic Kolkata skyline, and the bustling activity on both sides of the river. From the bridge, one can witness the convergence of various modes of transportation including buses, taxis, trams, and the famous yellow Ambassador taxis as they navigate their way through the city's bustling streets.

3. Botanical Garden

Lying close to the Howrah Bridge is the Botanical Garden. It is one of the oldest and largest botanical gardens in India that is renowned for its diverse collection of plants, its historical significance, and its tranquil ambiance.

The Botanical Garden is a haven for nature lovers, researchers, and tourists alike. It houses an extensive array of plant species, including rare and exotic plants from India and around the world. The garden's vast collection boasts over 12,000 living plants, making it a botanical treasure trove. Visitors can explore various sections within the garden, each dedicated to different plant species or geographical regions.

The garden also includes a Cactus House, Orchid House, Medicinal Plant Garden, and a dedicated section for aquatic plants. Each area provides visitors with a unique opportunity to explore and learn about different plant species and their ecological significance.

Visiting the Botanical Garden offers not only a chance to appreciate nature's beauty but also an opportunity for leisurely strolls amidst serene surroundings. The garden is adorned with well-manicured lawns, pathways, and water bodies, creating a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation and recreation. It's an ideal place for a family outing, a picnic, or simply enjoying a tranquil moment away from the bustling city.

4. Dakshineswar Kali Temple

The next tourist attraction to explore with our Kolkata tour packages is the Dakshineswar Kali Temple. It is counted among the most revered and significant pilgrimage sites that were built in the 19th century by Rani Rashmoni, a philanthropist and devotee of Kali. The construction of the temple complex began in 1847 and was completed in 1855. It stands as a magnificent architectural marvel, showcasing a blend of traditional Bengali Navaratna style and Islamic influences.

The main deity of the Dakshineswar Kali Temple is Goddess Kali, who is worshipped as the divine mother and the destroyer of evil forces. The idol of Kali is depicted standing over the body of Lord Shiva, her husband. The temple complex also houses several other shrines dedicated to deities like Radha-Krishna, Rani Rashmoni, and Lord Shiva.

Visitors to the Dakshineswar Kali Temple can experience the tranquil atmosphere that pervades the premises. The rhythmic chants, the fragrance of incense, and the ringing of bells create an ambiance of spirituality and devotion. The temple priests perform regular rituals and prayers, and devotees can participate in these sacred ceremonies.

The Dakshineswar Kali Temple holds a significant place in the hearts of millions of devotees and serves as a symbol of devotion, spirituality, and cultural heritage. Its architectural beauty, historical importance, and association with revered saints make it a must-visit destination for both devotees and tourists in Kolkata.

5. Nicco Amusement Park

Ideal for all those who are looking for boundless fun and entertainment under one roof, the Nicco Amusement Park is a renowned recreational destination that offers a diverse range of thrilling rides and family-friendly attractions to entertain people of all age groups.

From high-speed roller coasters for adventure buffs to gentle rides for children, the park boasts something for everyone. While thrill-seekers can enjoy adrenaline-pumping experiences on rides like the Cyclone, the Water Chute, and the Flying Saucer, families can have a delightful time on attractions such as the Merry-go-round, the Toy Train, and the River Cave Ride.

Apart from the rides, Nicco Amusement Park offers various entertaining shows including live performances, magic shows, and acrobatic displays. Visitors can enjoy cultural programs, dance performances, and musical events held within the park, adding an extra layer of entertainment to their visit.

In addition to the rides and attractions, Nicco Amusement Park also features well-maintained gardens and landscaped areas, providing a pleasant environment for visitors to relax and unwind. The park offers various food stalls and eateries where you can indulge in a variety of snacks, fast food, and refreshments.

You cannot return home from your Kolkata tour without indulging in shopping! Widely renowned for its bustling markets, upscale shopping malls, and traditional handicrafts, the city offers a diverse and exciting retail therapy experience to both the locals as well as tourists.

For instance, you can visit the New Market to shop for a wide variety of goods including clothing, accessories, jewelry, electronics, spices, handicrafts, and much more. Bargaining is a common practice here, so be prepared to negotiate for the best prices.

While the Gariahat Market is famous for its ethnic wear, the Dakshinapan Shopping Center specializes in selling textiles, sarees, terracotta items, leather goods, paintings, and more. It's a great place to discover and purchase authentic Indian crafts. If you’re interested in high-end shopping, you can head to the South City Mall or Quest Mall.

Apart from these specific destinations, Kolkata also has various other markets and shopping areas that are worth exploring. These include Hatibagan Market, Burrabazar, Chandni Chowk, and more. Not only do these places offer a mix of street shopping, local markets, and specialized stores but also cater to different needs and preferences.

Explore the aforementioned places on your 1-day visit to Kolkata to make the most of your time. If time permits, you can spend 2 days, 3 days, or a complete week to see what else it has to offer. Some of the points of interest that deserve your attention are Eden Gardens , Eco Tourism Park, Rabindra Sarovar, Mother House, Tagore’s House, Marble Palace, Fort William, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Indian Museum , and Mother’s Wax Museum.

Need any help with your itinerary planning? Get in touch with our professionals. We at Kolkata Tourism, a division of Holidays DNA , have designed a variety of all-inclusive Kolkata tour packages to address the different needs of our diverse clientele. Our all-inclusive packages can also be altered as per your choice. You just tell us what inclusions you wish to see in your shortlisted travel package and we promise to come with a package specially curated for you.

There is a list of top car rental companies in Kolkata available with us as well. From there, you can book a private taxi to commute within the city in your utmost comfort. Please fill out the Contact Us form to learn more about our services in detail.

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Popular Tourist Places to Visit in Kolkata

• Dakshineswar Kali Temple Kolkata
• Howrah Bridge Kolkata
• Park Street/Food Street Kolkata
• Indian Museum Kolkata
• Victoria Memorial Kolkata
• Birla Temple Kolkata
• Kolkata Race Course
• Eden Gardens Kolkata
• Marble Palace Mansion Kolkata
• Kalighat Kali Temple Kolkata
• Fort William Kolkata
• Writers’ Building Kolkata
• St. Paul’s Cathedral Kolkata
• National Library Kolkata
• Mother House Kolkata
• Eco Tourism Park Kolkata
• Mother's Wax Museum Kolkata
• Nicco Park Kolkata
• Birla Planetarium Kolkata
• BBD Bagh Kolkata
• Science City Kolkata
• Belur Math Kolkata
• Alipore Zoological Gardens Kolkata
• Millennium Park Kolkata
• Shaheed Minar Kolkata
• Aquatica Water Park Kolkata
• Armenian Church Kolkata
• College Street Kolkata
• General Post Office Kolkata
• Kumartuli Kolkata
• Lal Dighi Kolkata
• Misti Hub Kolkata
• Nakhoda Mosque Kolkata
• Netaji Bhawan Kolkata
• Police Museum Kolkata
• Prinsep Ghat Kolkata
• Raj Bhavan Kolkata
• Shobhabazar Rajbari Kolkata
• St. John’s Church Kolkata
• Star Theatre Kolkata
• Town Hall Kolkata
• Tram Museum Kolkata
• Vidyasagar Bridge Kolkata
• Rabindra Sadan Kolkata
• Tipu Sultan Mosque Kolkata
• Rabindra Sarobar Kolkata
• Shantiniketan Kolkata
• Sundarbans National Park Kolkata
• Elliot Park Kolkata
• Wet-O-Wild Kolkata
• Hooghly Imambara Kolkata
• Nehru Children’s Museum Kolkata
• Snow Park, Axis Mall, Kolkata
• Babughat Kolkata
• Mandarmani Beach Kolkata
• Digha Beach Kolkata
• Bandel Church Kolkata
• Maddox Square Park Kolkata
• Muhammad Ali Park Kolkata
• Santosh Mitra Square Kolkata
• Patuli Floating Market Kolkata
• Kolkata Gate / Biswa Bangla Gate
• Maidan / Brigade Parade Ground Kolkata
• Vivekananda Setu / Bally Bridge Kolkata
• Chintamani Kar Bird sanctuary Kolkata
• Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary Kolkata
• ISKCON Radha Govinda Temple Kolkata
• Swami Vivekananda's Ancestral House Kolkata
• Jorasanko Thakurbari / House of the Thakurs Kolkata
• Birla Industrial and Technological Museum Kolkata
• Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Botanical Garden Kolkata
• Nature Park Kolkata

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Places to Visit in Kolkata

• West Bengal
• Places To Visit

Tourist Places to Visit in Kolkata

Here are some of best places to visit in kolkata:, victoria memorial.

It is a beautiful White Marble structure which began making in 1906 and was completed by 1921. While it originally got built with the idea of dedicating a memorial to Queen Victoria of Britain, it has now turned into a museum that attracts numerous people due to its stunning architecture and display. The artistic monument is a mixture of British as well as Mughal form of architecture. Inside the huge fortress is a museum that has 25 galleries featuring sculptures, portraits, national leaders, arms, and armour. Moreover, it has unique, and original  works of William Shakespeare, Omar Khayyam, as well as Arabian Nights. Location: Victoria Memorial Hall, 1, Queens Way, Maidan, Kolkata. Price: -Rs. 30 for Indians, -Rs. 100 for citizens of the SAARC countries, -Rs. 500 for nationals of all other countries. Timing: -From 10 am to 6 pm (Tuesday- Friday)and, -From 10 am - 8 pm (Saturday, Sunday). Best time to visit: October and March.

Howrah Bridge

This one tops the list of places to see in Kolkata, probably because it gets so often portrayed in movies. It was constructed in 1943 replacing the Pontoon Bridge and is made of steel. Due to the immense popularity that the bridge has, tourists from far and wide travel to Kolkata just to visit the amazing bridge. One will be amazed to see the view from the bridge in the evening. The entire river Hoogli seems like an endless lake with the sun going down into the horizon. The suspended bridge ranks 6th amongst the longest bridges in the world. Location: Hooghly RIver, Kolkata. Best Time To Visit: In the Evening.

Botanical Garden

Previously known as the Calcutta Botanical Garden, the garden was established in 1786. It is spread over 270 acres of land. The present name of the garden is Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanical Garden. As the name suggests, the garden is full of plants, trees, and flowers related to the field of botany. At the moment, the garden is a home for over 12000 perennial plants that are still alive. One of the best attractions here is the giant Banyan Tree which forms the second largest canopy in the world. Also, the garden features over 1400 exotic species of plants, and trees. Location: Botanical Garden Road B Shalimar Area Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology, Botanical Garden, Area, Howrah, West Bengal 711103. Price: -INR 10/- for Indians and -INR 100/- for foreigners. Timing: 10 am to 5 pm, ( Mondays Closed). Best time to visit: October to February.

Top Experiences To Do in Botanical Garden

New Town Eco Park

When you’re looking for your leisure day out; the New Town Eco Park spread over 480 acres is one of the best places to visit in Kolkata. It is a recreational area with ample outdoor activities to enjoy with the family. Some such activities include: Ice Skating- enjoy skating on a layer of ice, in a city that never receives snow. The park features a huge ice-skate arena, and everyone can participate in the same. Kayaking: Yes, it is no surprise that the park also features water sports such as kayaking. Now you don’t have to take outstation trips for this water sport. And Zorbing- not everyone is a fan of the huge zorb ball; however, those who are, simply love it. You can enjoy this sport at the new town eco park. Apart from the above, cruising, taking a walk at the sangraha which is a beautiful art facility in the park, are some more things that one can enjoy. Location: Major Arterial Road(South-East), AA II, Newtown, Kolkata, West Bengal 700156. Timing: -2.30 pm - 8.30 pm (Tuesday- Saturday). -The timing for Sundays and the General holidays are 12 pm- 8.30 pm. Mondays (Closed). Best Time to Visit: Winter, And Springtime.

Best of Darjeeling

Mother Teressa House

The place was the home of India’s most iconic person, Mother Teresa. Because of the great figurine she was, her home now has inevitably become one of the most sought for places to visit in Kolkata. The building can be easily identified because of its grey color, as well as brown windows. The tomb of Mother Teresa lies on the ground floor of the beautiful building that is run by the ‘Missionaries of Charity House’. Some of the major things that the house features are the prayer cards of Mother Teresa, Mother Mary’s medallion, and many souvenirs as well. Location: 54A, Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Rd, Ripon Street, Kolkata, West Bengal 700016. Timing: -From 8 pm – 12 pm and -3 pm – 6 pm (except Thursdays). Best time to visit: Around Christmas Time.

Fort William

Fort William is named after King Williams and is one of the most popular places to visit in Kolkata. The site was built in 1696, where the builders used bricks and mortar to make this famous fort. Interestingly, the port has a total of 6 gates, namely; WaterGate, Saint Georges, Treasury Gate, Plassey, and Chowringhee. People who love British architecture will love this place. The gates are an architectural marvel, built by the British. Also, you can get to see the cannons kept on display. These cannons are quite old, and belong to the British. One can easily fall in love with the high roof, wide aisles, and solid structure of this magnificent fort. Location: Maidan, Fort William, Hastings, Kolkata, West Bengal 700021. Timing: 10 am to 5 pm everyday. Best time to visit: Weekdays.

Marble Palace

Marble Palace is an incredibly magnificent maisonette located in Kolkata, along the Babu street, India. As one can rightly guess, the palace is among the few remaining buildings of the nineteenth century.  Built in neoclassical style, the mansion continues to be the residence of the heirs of the King. To give you a scenic background of the mansion, it is surrounded by lush green lawns and beautiful fountains. Galleries run amidst the lawns of the mansion which display artistic statues, portraits, mirrors, chandeliers and paintings created by English, Dutch and Italian artists. It may interest you to know that the mansion also houses a private zoo. Location: Marble Palace located in Kolkata, West Bengal, in India. Timing:  10:00am to 4:00PM, everyday. Best Time To visit: Weekdays.

Dakshineswar Kali Temple

Dakshineswar temple located in West Bengal, India is a commonplace for festivals such as Yatra, Snana, Kalpataru Day, and Kali Puja. Additionally, the temple was started by Rani Rashmoni in the nineteenth century. The temple assumes Bengal architecture, a total of three floors. Little do people know that the total area of the temple complex measures about 54.4bighas and costs Rani Rashmoni around Rs 42, 500 only. The temple is loved by every Bengali and is considered to be an abode of Goddess Kali. The temple was a dream that Rani Rashmoni dreamt before undertaking a pilgrimage to Varanasi. Location: Dakshineswar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700076. Timing: -From 6:00 am to 12:30 (midday),and , -From 3:00 pm to 9:00 pm, every day. Best Time to Visit: 6:00AM to 8:00 PM.

Best of Sikkim

Alipore Zoological Gardens

Alipore Zoological Gardens located in Alipore Kolkata, West Bengal. The gardens occupy a total of over 46 acres and houses close to 1266 animals. This zoological garden is among the oldest zoological parks in India today. The garden serves as a habitat for different species of mammals, reptiles, birds as well as primates. Also known as Calcutta Zoo, It is one of the oldest zoological parks established in India. The Alipore Zoo attracts a flock of tourists from various locations, especially during winters. The Zoo is home to the expired Aldabra giant tortoise 'Adwaita', a tortoise which is almost extinct  (from the year 2006). Nature enthusiasts would love this place due to its abundant and plentiful wildlife. Location: Alipore, Kolkata, West Bengal, in India. Price: -INR.5 (aquarium), -INR.250 (photo) and -INR.30 (zoo). Timing: 9:00 am to 4:30 pm (Thursdays closed). Best time to visit: During morning hours.

Kalighat Kali Temple

It may interest you to know that Kalighat Kali Temple is now over two centuries old. Interestingly, the temple has a highly unique image that differs from most Kali images in Bengal. Kalighat Kali Temple is a popular tourist attraction of Kolkata and is considered as one of the 52 Shakti Peethas of India. Religious inquisitives may be delighted to know that the temple is said to be the site where the toes of the right foot of Sati fell. In the first phase of construction, only the face of the deity was constructed. Later on, the remaining parts of Kali that included the hands, tongue and jewellery were constructed using gold and silver. Location:  Anami Sangha, Kalighat, Kolkata, West Bengal 700026. Timing: -Nitya Puja opens from 5:30 am to 7:am, every day. -The Bhog Rag opens from 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm (Sandhya Arti 6:30 pm to 7 pm). Best Time to Visit:  5:30 am to 7:00 am.

Elliot Park

Elliot Park is a huge park that occupies a total area of nearly 90,000 square feet. It may interest you to know that Tata Steel constructed the park. The park consists of several walk-throughs, restaurants, museums as well as outlets. Also, the park is easily accessible as it is located at the center of the city. It would surprise you to know that the site where the Park is located used to be a dump for offal. In recent years, the dumpsite has been transformed into this beautiful park consisting of fountains and a vast expanse of trees and flowers. It also has sitting space and food stalls for visitors. Due to its easy accessibility, a lot of locals are drawn towards visiting this park in the evenings. Location:  Jawaharlal Nehru Rd, Maidan, Kolkata, West Bengal 700071. Time:  6:00 am to 10:00 pm, every day. Best Time to Visit: During Weekends.

Rabindra Sarobar

Rabindra Sarobar is a popular man-made lake, and was previously known as Dhakuria Lake. Today the lake occupies a total area of 300,000 square meters. The lake is surrounded by several trees of different varieties which makes the air around the lake very fresh. You’ll be happy to learn that the lake is close to the Dum Dum airport. It is one of the most attractive and peaceful places in the city making it a common place for people to take walks or meditate. Additionally, it is also a good canvas for people interested in naturalistic photography. Location:  Dhakuria, Rabindra Sarobar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700029. Best Time to Visit: -6:00 am to 4:00 pm, every day (Although visitors are free to visit the lake during night-time, daytime presents a better experience).

Best of Meghalaya

South Park Cemetery

South Park Cemetery is a privately-owned cemetery with a total of 1600 graves. Previously, the South Park cemetery was known as Park Street. The Cemetery has a mix of the Indo-Saracenic as well as the Golic style. You’ll be happy to know that the cemetery has three big restaurants that serve both modern as well as traditional foods. Opened in 1767, it contains a mix of tombs, cenotaphs and mausoleums protected by a brick wall. The cemetery contains a  number of the graves belonging to famous military and political figures like Sir William Jones, Sir Elijah Impey, Walter Landor Dickens (Son of Charles Dickens), and more. Green mosses and ferns cover most of the cemetery and give an eerie setting to the place. Location:  52, Park Street, Opp Assembly Of God Church, Kolkata, West Bengal 700017. Time: 11:00 am to 6:00 pm, every day. Best Time to Visit: During weekdays in the afternoon.

Birla Planetarium

Birla Planetarium is India’s biggest planetarium that features the largest projection of the night sky in the dome theatre. The structure has one floor and has a design that agrees with the Buddhist Stupa. It was constructed in 1963 and now serves as a museum. Inauguration of the planetarium was done by the then Prime Minister of India, Sri Jawaharlal Nehru. Birla Planetarium is among the largest planetariums in the continent of Asia. The Birla Planetarium is situated adjacent to St. Paul’s Cathedral and near Victoria Memorial is Kolkata’s landmark. The best fact about this site is that it is constantly upgraded to keep pace with modern technology. Recently in 2017, the planetarium was renovated to incorporate the latest advanced Carl Zeiss Hybrid Projection System. Location:  Paul's Cathedral, 96, Jawaharlal Nehru Road, Adjacent To St, Kolkata, West Bengal 700071. Pricing:  INR.80 per show at the Birla Planetarium. Time:  11:30 am, 4 pm and 6 pm, (the Telugu Sky) 12:15 pm, 3 pm, 5 pm, and 8:15 pm. Best Time to Visit: In morning hours.

Eden Gardens

The Eden Gardens is owned by the Cricket Association of Bengal and has a capacity of 66000. It is interesting to know that the gardens hosted the World cup in 1987 after it got renovated to expand its capacity from 40,000 to 94,000. It may shock you to learn that the stadium is now over 150 years old. You may already know that the Eden Gardens has the largest seating capacity in India and third-largest seating capacity in the world. It is often referred to as “cricket’s answer to the Coliseum. For cricket lovers, this place is a must visit. Location:  Maidan, B.B.D. Bagh, Kolkata, West Bengal 700021. Pricing: There is no entry fee to generally visit the stadium. (Tickets depend on the season and the matches held in the stadium). Time:  9:00 am to 6:00 pm, every day. Best Time to Visit: During the afternoon.

Nakhoda Masjid

The Nakhoda mosque has a total capacity of 10,000, and was built at a total cost of Rs. 1,500,000 to be built. Kuchhi Memon Jamat is the architect of this magnificent mosque. It may interest you to know that the mosque has a total height of 151 feet. Additionally, there are 25 smaller minarets ranging from 100 feet to 117 feet in height. The mosque has been named Nakhoda meaning Mariner after the founder of the mosque (Abdur Rahim Osman) who was shipping prince. On any day you would find muslims reverently cleaning the pool and praying in the hall creating a soothing and peaceful religious atmosphere within the mosque. Location: Rabindra Sarani, Chowringhee North, Bow Barracks, Kolkata, West Bengal 700073. Time:  6:00 am to 8:00 pm, every day. Best Time to Visit: Morning before many visitor’s troops in. You get a better view of this ancient yet magnificent and attractive mosque.

Best of Siliguri

Indian Museum

Indian Museum is among the oldest museums in the world. It was established in 1814, by the Asiatic Society of Bengal in Kolkata. The museum has plenty of ornaments, fossils, ornaments, armors as well as mummies. Also, the outstanding structure has a total of four galleries that are not just dedicated to natural history but also zoological information. If you’re in search of deep historical information, then this is among the best places to visit in Kolkata. The Gallery is often referred to as 'Jadughar' by the locals of Kolkata. For the interest of people who enjoy ancient artifacts, the Museum has a vast collection of contemporary paintings, sacred writings of Buddha, antique sculptures, ornaments, fossils, skeletons, mughal paintings etc. Location: 27, Jawaharlal Nehru Rd, Fire Brigade Head Quarter, New Market Area, Dharmatala, Taltala, Kolkata, West Bengal 700016. Price: INR.30 for Indian citizens and INR.500 per foreigner. Timing:  10:00 am to 5:00 pm every day. Best Time to Visit: In the afternoon.

Prinsep Ghats

Prinsep Ghat was constructed in 1841 and is now among the oldest recreational facilities located in Kolkata. The place also has recreational facilities such as boat rides. Millions of visitors come to the place for a memorable pre-wedding shoot due to the picturesque howrah bridge in the background. The hundreds of flowers and trees in Princep Ghat makes it a perfect destination for you and your lover. It is also an apt place for people who love to be around nature due to the lush greenery around the place. You can organise a picnic, or even camp at the Prinsep Ghats, to enjoy the night around the river Hoogly. Location: Strand Rd, Maidan, Fort William, Hastings, Kolkata, West Bengal 700021. Best Time to Visit: In the evening.

Belur Math is a popular temple with a notable design that exhibits different religions such as Christianity, Hindu, Buddhism, as well as Islam. The different exhibits symbolizes unity in terms of religion. Belur Math serves as the nerve-center of the Ramakrishna movement. The unique feature is that the place looks like a mosque, as well as a temple, and also a church, at the same time. You’ll also notice a statue that sits upon the lotus which is that of Sri Ramakrishna who was the initiator of the Ramakrishna movement. Belur Math is truly among the most preferred places to visit in Kolkata. Location: Belur, Howrah, West Bengal 711202. Timing:  8:30AM to 5:30 pm. Best Time to Visit: Afternoon.

Tipu Sultan Mosque

Tipu Sultan Mosque is among the oldest magnificent mosques of all times. Construction of this capacious mosque ended in 1842, and the place of worship has a staggering capacity of 1000.  Prince Ghulam Mohammed is the man behind the breathtaking design of the Tipu Sultan mosque. Unknown to many, Prince Ghulam was the youngest child of Mr. Tipu Sultan. Despite the fact that this mosque is more than 150 years old, it’s still a huge source of history and heritage. As per the structure of any other mosque, the Tipu Sultan Mosque also has 4 minarets on four corners. In the middle are 16 domes that are painted in green color. Due to the color of the mosque, as well as the intricate carvings, one can spot it from a good distance. Location: 185, Lenin Sarani Rd, Esplanade, Chandni Chawk, Bowbazar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700013. Price: The entry fee is required to gain access into the Tipu Sultan Mosque. Timing: 4:00PM to 6:00PM, evening. Best Time to Visit: 8:00 am to 11:00 am.

Best of Orissa

Science City

Science City is one of the most preferred science centers in the city. The science park is under the management of the National Council of Science Museums with its headquarter located in Kolkata itself. The place holds different types of exhibitions based on multiple science topics. Some of the science topics include Freshwater aquarium - It consists of different types of fishes for one to observe. and Power of ten that explains the micro and macro phenomenon of the universe. Also, Illusions - one of the most interesting activities that teaches the importance of visual perception in terms of placement and motion. In a huge garden area called Live butterfly, lies this butterfly enclave. People can observe the movement of butterflies from one place to another. Location: JBS Haldane Avenue, Basanti Hwy, Kolkata, West Bengal 700046. Price: -INR.60 per person, -Entry fee for students in group INR 30. Time: 9:00 am every day up to 8:00 pm. Best time to visit: During weekdays.

Birla Industrial & Technological Museum

Birla Industrial & Technological Museum is a government-owned museum, constructed in 1954. The museum is science-based and has over 100 staff working there. It falls under the ministry of culture. Some of the available galleries include television, motive power, life science, electricity, children’s gallery, metals, biotechnology, among plenty of others. No wonder tourists rate it as among the best tourist attractions in Kolkata. Location: Birla Industrial and Technological Museum located in West Bengal in India. Timing: -From 9:30AM to 6:00PM during the weekdays and -From 10:30 am to 8:00PM during weekends. Best Time to Visit: During weekends.

Millennium Park

Millennium Park is a popular privately-owned park based in Kolkata along Strand Road. This breathtaking park borders the famous Hooghly river. You’ll be overjoyed to learn that the park extends to up to 2.5 kilometers. Unknown to many, the Millennium Park gets named after the Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority. Additionally, the Millennium is just a small part of one of the larger Kolkata Riverside Beautification projects. Some of the activities for the visitors include boat riding, break dancing, toy trains, among other activities. The park is among the most highly rated tourist attractions in Kolkata. Location: Millennium Park situated in Kolkata, along the Strand road. Price:  INR.300-INR.400 (including boating). Timing:  10:00 am to 6:30 pm, every day. Best Time to Visit: Afternoon.

General Post Office

General Post Office is the main post office in West Bengal. The post office’s construction kicked off in 1864 and ended in 1868. It may interest you to know that Mr. Walter B. Grenville was the architect of the post office. The most conspicuous feature of this post office is the domed roof, which goes up to 220 feet. You won’t believe this; the staircase of the eastern part of the post offices comprises pure brass plates. Location: Netaji Subhas Rd, Fairley Place, B.B.D. Bagh, Kolkata, West Bengal 700001. Timing: 10:00AM to 6:00 pm, every day. Best Time to Visit: 3:00PM to 5:00pm.

Best of Sundarban

Writers building.

Writers’ Building is a famous building of West Bengal’s government. The building has a total length of 150 meters and stretches the entire part of the Lal Dighi pond. It may interest you to know that Thomas Lyon was the architecture of this magnificent structure. The building used to serve as the office for junior clerks for the British East India Company. Shockingly, the Writer’s building covers a total area of nearly 550,000 square feet. Location:  Binoy Badal Dinesh Bag N, Lal Dighi, B.B.D. Bagh, Kolkata, West Bengal 700001. Best Time to Visit:  Only during day time.

Shaheed Minar

Shaheed Minar is a tall monument that was constructed in 1828. Unknown to some, the monument was constructed in honor of the late Major General Sir David Orchterlony. Most people wonder how a monument still stands despite being over two centuries old. The secret lies in the design, as well as the materials used to construct it. The construction of the Shaheed Minar started in 1825 and ended in 1828. The monument is 48 meters tall. Location: Bus stop, Dharmtalla, Dufferin Rd, Kolkata, West Bengal 700069. Best Time to Visit: During the daytime.

Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Temple

Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Temple is commonly known as Kolkata's Japanese Buddhist Temple. This Buddhist temple is a home to the famous monk, Bhikshu Morita. He is known to be a part in stopping the 1992 communal riots by chanting ‘Nam Myo Ho Ren Ge Kyo’, as a cry for peace. While at the temple, you can start a conversation with this monk, and learn about life. Moreover, the temple is quite peaceful, and people looking for a peaceful, as well as calm environment can visit this temple at any time they want. Location: 60, Kabi Bharati, 1, Lake Terrace Rd, Hemanta Mukherjee Sarani, Lake Market, Kolkata, West Bengal 700029. Price: The entry fee is required to gain entry into the temple. Timing: -From 5:30 am to 12:30 pm and -From 3:30 pm to 7:30 pm, everyday. Best Time to Visit: 4:30 am 7:00 pm.

Best of Ranchi

Sabarna Sangrahashala

The Sabarna Sangrahashala was constructed in the memory of the oldest zamindars who resided in Kolkata, known as the Sabarna Roy Choudhury family. The museum was started in 2015 to raise awareness of the essence of proper preservation of sources of historical information. The museum is rich with different historical materials such as publications, journals as well as travelogues. The museum is especially useful for students as well as researchers who are passionate about historical information. Location:  Saptarshi Bhawan, Baro Bari, 67/3, Diamond Harbour Rd, Barisha, Kolkata, West Bengal 700008. Timing: 10:00 am to 7:00 pm, everyday. Best Time to Visit:  Weekend.

Wet O Wild is a common entertainment joint with incredible recreational facilities. Some of the fun activities include wave pooling, watching the Niagara falls, swirl riding, body sliding as well as lazy river ride. You’ll also notice a huge tube-like structure that leads to an artificial pool of water. The essence of the tube is to facilitate a particular activity known as tube sliding. Tube sliding suits both kids as well as adults. Location: Street Number 27, Salt Lake Bypass, Sector IV, Kolkata, West Bengal 700106. Pricing: INR. 750. Timing: 10:30 am to 5:30pm, everyday. Best Time to Visit: Weekend.

Nehru’S Children’S Museum

As the name suggests, the Nehru’s Children’s Museum is a special place that is fully dedicated to youngsters. The museum was established in 1972 and has numerous ancient arts and craft equipment for the kids. Additionally, the place provides kids an opportunity to have fun by participating in contests. Some of these contests include Nehru Talent Search contests, learn to live together, Toy train projects as well as the Sishu Bhaban Patrika. Location: 94/1, Chowringhee Rd, Maidan, Bhowanipore, Kolkata, West Bengal 700020. Price: -Above 16 years INR.20 and -Below 16 years INR.10. Timing:  11:00 am to 7:00 pm (except Monday and Tuesday). Best Time Visit: Weekends only.

Aquatica is a popular resort that sits upon a total area of 75000 square feet. The water park features several recreational facilities such as slides and themed rides. You’ll be happy to know that the water resort also features multiple luxurious rooms to accommodate both single travelers as well as large families. Most people visit the resort to celebrate essential events such as weddings, birthdays as well as engagements. The high-quality room services, parking services, and fast internet connection will leave you speechless! It’s one of the best places to see in Kolkata. Location: Kouchpukur,P.O Hatgachia,P.S. :K.L.C, Near Rajarhat Township, Kolkata, West Bengal 700156. Price: On Weekdays- -INR. 900 per adult and -INR.450 for children, On Weekends- -INR 1000 for adults and -INR 500 for kids. Timing: 10:00AM to 6:00PM. Best Time to Visit: Weekends.

People Also Ask About Kolkata

Which are the unique places to visit in kolkata, which are the best places to visit in kolkata at night, which are the best places to visit in kolkata for 2 days, what is kolkata famous for, how can i spend 3 days in kolkata, what is the famous food of kolkata.

Some of the most famous non-vegetarian foods here are Kosha Mangsho, Biryani, Macher Jhol, etc. Vegetarian foods include the puchkas, jhaal moori, luchi, alu dom, ghugni, aloo kabli, etc. The famous Bengali desserts include rasgulla, chamcham, sandesh, mishit doi, and chanar jilipi

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• Places To Visit In Kolkata

Places to Visit in Kolkata

With its quaint yellow taxis, vintage trams, massive bridges, age-old jazz bars, colonial structures, heritage homes, iconic eateries, Durga Puja festivities, picturesque ghats and boat rides over Ganga -- Kolkata is the city of picture perfect snapshots.

Things To See & Do

Dakshineshwar Kali Temple

Dedicated to goddess kali.

Minimum 2 hours

Suggested Time

Vast Public Park in the Heart of Kolkata

0.5 hours to 1 h...

A Beautiful Pilgrimage Destination

Howrah Bridge

The floating lifeline of kolkata.

15 to 30 minutes

Victoria Memorial

British-era palatial marble museum.

Indian Museum

Treasure-trove of indian history.

Netaji Bhawan

Memorial for freedom fighter subhas chandra bose.

Prinsep Ghat

River hooghly's most famous ghat.

1 to 2 hours

Jorasanko Thakur Bari

Birthplace of rabindranath tagore.

Maulana Azad Museum Kolkata

Celebrating a freedom fighter's legacy.

Dalhousie Square

Kolkata's colonial heritage, best time to visit kolkata, throughout the year, peak season, moderate season.

• Whattoexpect : Cool weather.
• Thingsyou'lllove : Regional festivals, street food and sightseeing.

FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

Ramzan As per Islamic Calendar

Eid ul Fitr As per Islamic Calendar

Dussehra September � October

Diwali October � November

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Best places to visit in kolkata.

Set on the opposite side of the Hooghly River, this temple is devoted to Bhavatarini, a manifestation of Parashakti Adya Kali. Rani Rashmoni, a devotee of the goddess Kali as well as a prominent reformer and independence fighter in Bengal, is credited with establishing the shrine. It is among the most revered places to visit in Kolkata.

This museum, one of the most insightful places to visit in Kolkata, is located in New Market, and it features exhibits of precious artwork, fossils, antiques, and more. It is the ninth-oldest museum in the world and is more commonly referred to as "Jadughar." Not to mention, it is among the top 10 places to visit in Kolkata.

The Howrah Bridge is a cantilever structure that carries traffic over the Hooghly River in the Indian state of West Bengal. It is among the most popular places to visit in Kolkata.

This enormous marble palace is one of the most recognisable places to visit in Kolkata. It was constructed between 1906 and 1921. It was built in remembrance of Queen Victoria, the British monarch who served as Empress of India from 1876 until 1901. This is also among the most popular places to visit in South Kolkata.

The magnificent Belur Math , one of the holiest places to visit in Kolkata, is a temple that is found on the western bank of the River Hooghly. It is set on the western bank of the Hooghly River in Belur. It is considered to be the spiritual epicentre of the Ramakrishna movement as a whole. Belur Math should be on your list of places to visit in Kolkata for 2 days.

Best Time to visit Kolkata

The summer season in Kolkata begins in March and lasts all the way through the month of May. The heat and humidity are both at their peak levels, and the temperature is consistently about 40 degrees Celsius. Despite the stifling heat, there are places to visit in Kolkata in summer.

The monsoons typically occur between the months of June and September. Heavy rains fall during the monsoon season, raising the humidity level to its highest point. The greatest time to visit Kolkata is in the months following the end of the monsoon season.

The city experiences winter from the months of November through February. At this time of year, the temperatures that drop to their lowest point typically average around 12 degrees Celsius. This is the perfect time to explore the best places to visit in Kolkata since the temperature is just right and the weather is really lovely.

Places to visit in Kolkata with family & friends

The Tagores made their first home in Kolkata in a building known as Jorasanko Thakur Bari. It is among the most historically insightful places to visit in Kolkata. It was the scene of considerable political and cultural debate throughout India's war for independence, and it was also the location of the conflict. It is also counted among the top places to visit in North Kolkata.

This park, which is 1,000 acres in size, is regarded highly by the city's sports-obsessed population and serves as the city's lungs. Another name for the Maidan is the Brigade Parade Ground. It is India's largest urban public park. You can have a wonderful time here with your family, making it one of the top places to visit in Kolkata.

If you are looking for places to visit in Kolkata in one day, then include this tourist site in your list. This building was once Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose’s birthplace but is now used as a museum dedicated to his legacy. It is among the most incredible places to visit in Kolkata. This structure is currently being used as the headquarters for the Netaji Research Bureau.

Best Places Kolkata for couples

Dalhousie Square is the name that most people give to the administrative district which is known as BBD Bagh. The vast majority of these buildings were created during the period of time that Kolkata served as the capital of the British Empire. You can have a wonderful time exploring the vintage charm of this area with your partner. It is among the ideal places to visit in Kolkata in evening.

Fort William

If you are looking for unique places to visit in Kolkata, then Fort William should be on your list. It was built at the time that the Bengal Presidency was a part of British India. It has a strategic location on the Ganges River's most significant tributary, the Hooghly River, which runs along the river's eastern banks. It also has no less than six gates.

Park Street

There are plenty of famous places to visit in Kolkata, including Park Street. The city of Calcutta in India is home to a roadway that is known as Park Street. It is home to several spots such as showrooms, schools and colleges as well as restaurants and pubs.

Good Places to visit at Night in Kolkata

This contemporary hotel bar is well-known for its wines and cocktails as well as its stylish and minimally decorated interiors. It is among the good places to visit in Kolkata for enticing drinks.

Someplace Else

The hotel bar exudes an air of yesteryear and is decked out entirely in wood; it serves beer and cocktails and frequently features live entertainment.

The Irish House

This is a lively pub with an Irish atmosphere that serves classic cocktails, beer from the tap, and a global cuisine menu with a unique spin.

Best places to visit near Kolkata

Barrackpore.

If you are looking for nearby places to visit in Kolkata, then you must head to Barrackpore. The Viceroy of Bengal had his country residence or suburban weekend retreat located in Barrackpore, which is a cantonment on the Hooghly River about 20 kilometres north of Kolkata. Barrackpore is located on the Hooghly River. It is also home to several stunning temples.

Mayapur has a border with Nabadwip and is located at the confluence of the Jalangi River and the Bhagirathi River, which are both rivers that flow into the Ganges. This place is quite famous among those who practise the Gaudiya Vaishnava religion.

The town of Bishnupur offers the perfect opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life by exploring the stunning temples built of local terracotta.

You can spend a wonderful time exploring the cultural capital of India with your loved ones. From stunning temples and incredible monuments to winding lanes and bustling markets, Kolkata has plenty to offer. Not to mention, the historic places to visit in Kolkata make this city a top-rated tourist destination in India.

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about Kolkata

What are the top things to do in kolkata.

Kolkata is an incredibly lively place and is popularly known for its topmost things to do like Dakshineshwar Kali Temple, Maidan, and Belur Math. You will have a great time here, then why wait? Book your trip now!

What are some of the most famous restaurants and eateries to explore in Kolkata?

If you are a foodie, Kolkata is the right place for you. Kolkata has many famous restaurants and eateries for you to explore, some of which are Peter Cat, Park Street, Mocambo, Park Street and Nahoum and Sons @ New Market.

What are the things that you should not miss out on when you are in Kolkata?

If you are a true traveller, you should definitely not miss out on Dakshineshwar Kali Temple, Maidan, and Belur Math when you are in Kolkata to make a funfilled vacay.

Destinations Near Kolkata

Top places to visit in nearby destinations, other popular things to do near kolkata, similar places to visit in other destinations, more places & things to explore in kolkata, best time to visit in similar destinations, explore more, more destinations to explore, similar destination like kolkata, top countries to explore, top states in india, best places to visit in months, places to visit in countries from india, places to visit in states in india, best international places to visit in 2024, weather in april for similar destinations.

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10 Best Things to Do in Kolkata 1 Day: Updated Activities list

Budget Hotels > Travel Blog > Destinations > Kolkata > 10 Best Things to Do in Kolkata 1 Day: Updated Activities list

It is said that once you visit Kolkata, you never really leave the city. A part of Kolkata always stays in your heart. But, what if you have just one day to explore this splendid city and all its wonders? Fret not, because even a single day in the City of Joy can leave you with a bagful of lovely memories to cherish forever. Just make sure to book your stay in one of the hotels in Kolkata beforehand to have your lodging sorted, and you will be all set to explore the city.

Wondering where to start and what to visit? Read on. In this blog, we give you a snapshot of the top 10 things to do in Kolkata in one day.

Things to Do in Kolkata in One Day:

1. visit the iconic landmarks in kolkata.

#1 of 10 Best One Day trips From Kolkata

The erstwhile capital of British India is known for a number of monuments and edifices that scream architectural grandeur. Here are a few must-visit attractions in Kolkata:  

Howrah Bridge

The iconic Howrah Bridge is an architectural wonder in itself. Commissioned in 1943, it is the busiest cantilever bridge in the world and is also among the most-visited structures in Kolkata. Make sure that you visit the bridge during the night when it is illuminated, giving it a magical charm.

• Location : Howrah
• Timings : 24×7

Prinsep Ghat

A fascinating jetty dating back to the colonial era, the Prinsep Ghat (also spelt Princep Ghat) is home to a captivating monument rich in Gothic and Greek inlays. You can get a splendid view of Vidyasagar Setu, also known as the Second Hooghly Bridge, from here. A visit to Princep Ghat is counted among the top things to do in Kolkata at night .

• Location : Fort William, Hastings

Vidyasagar Setu

Another iconic landmark in Kolkata is Vidyasagar Setu, a bridge on river Hooghly. The place looks best during the night, lit up with lights, so you can take a trip to the bridge after you are done with all your sightseeing activities.

• Location: Kona Expressway
• Timings: 24×7

St. Paul’s Cathedral

Regarded as the largest cathedral in Kolkata, St. Paul’s Cathedral embodies history, culture, and artistic grandeur. One of the most visited churches in Kolkata , it is known for its majestic Gothic architecture.

• Location : Cathedral Road
• Timings : Monday to Saturday – 9:00 am to 12:00 noon and 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm; Sundays – 7:30 am to 6:00 pm

Read our blog on the top tourist places in Kolkata to know more about the city’s must-visit landmarks.

2. Explore the Fascinating Museums in Kolkata

#2 of 10 Best One Day trips From Kolkata

Kolkata is proud of its heritage, and its museums are the preservers of its rich history. The city has museums dedicated to not just art, culture, and personalities, but even to trams and railways. Check out our list of the most famous museums in Kolkata :   

Victoria Memorial  

• Location : Queens Way
• Timings : 10:00 am to 6:00 pm; closed on Mondays and National Holidays
• Entry Fee : ₹ 30

Indian Museum

• Location : Jawaharlal Nehru Road
• Timings : 10:00 am to 5:00 pm (March-November) 10:00 am to 4:30 pm (December-February) Closed on Mondays and National Holidays
• Entry Fee : ₹ 20

Mother’s Wax Museum

• Location : New Town
• Timings : 12:00 noon to 7:30 pm; closed on Mondays
• Entry Fee : ₹ 250

Marble Palace

• Location : Muktaram Babu Street
• Timings : 10:00 am to 4:00 pm; closed on Mondays and Thursdays
• Entry Fee : No entry fee but permission to be obtained 24 hours in advance from West Bengal Tourism Information Bureau

Netaji Bhawan

• Location : Bhowanipore
• Timings : 11:00 am to 4:30 pm; closed on Mondays
• Entry Fee : ₹ 5 for adults; ₹ 2 for children

Smaranika Tram Museum

• Location : Maidan
• Timings : 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm; closed on Thursdays
• Entry Fee : ₹ 10

3. Have Unlimited Fun at the Amusement Parks in Kolkata

#3 of 10 Best One Day trips From Kolkata

The city has a fun side to it as well, which can be best experienced on a visit to one of its amusement parks. The rides, slides, and gaming zones at these parks offer you unlimited fun, keeping you engaged for a whole day. Below are the most popular amusement parks in Kolkata .

• Location : Salt Lake City
• Timings : 10:30 am to 7:30 pm; every day
• Entry Fee : ₹ 200 for 12 rides; ₹ 650 for all rides of amusement and water parks
• Location : Kouchpukur
• Weekdays – ₹ 800
• Weekends and public holidays – ₹ 1000
• Location : Axis Mall, New Town
• Timings : 11:00 am to 9:00 pm; every day
• Entry Fee : ₹ 500 for 1-hour session

4. Go Book Hunting at College Street

College Street is the Mecca for bibliophiles and book collectors in Kolkata. This market of second-hand books is the second largest of its kind in the world. If you have the patience to go through the collections, you can find even priceless first editions of books dating back to the 19 th and 20 th centuries.

• Location : Bowbazar
• Timings : 11:00 am to 7:00 pm (Monday to Saturday)

5. Enjoy a Tram Ride

#5 of 10 Best One Day trips From Kolkata

Kolkata boasts being the only city in India and one of the few in the world where you can ride electric trams. Hop on one of these trams and enjoy a lovely journey through the busy city that still loves to keep in touch with its past.

• Location : Esplanade Tram Depot, Maidan
• Timings : 6:30 am to 9:30 pm; every day

6. Relish a Sumptuous Breakfast at Tiretti Bazar

#6 of 10 Best One Day trips From Kolkata

If you are a foodie who loves to gorge on Chinese delicacies, Tiretti Bazar is a place that you must not miss out on visiting. This is one of the very few places in Kolkata where you can enjoy authentic Chinese food early in the morning. Momos, rolls, sausages, rice balls, chicken baos, meatball soup, pork pies, breaded pork fillets, fish Siu Mai, spring rolls, name it and you can get it all and more here.

• Location : Sun Yat Sen Street
• Best Restaurants: Golden Joy, Big Boss, Beijing, Kafulok, Kim Ling, and Fung Fa

7. Get a Taste of Kolkata’s Street Food

#7 of 10 Best One Day trips From Kolkata

There’s no doubt that Kolkata is a foodie’s paradise. You will find the city enticing you with soulful treats in almost every nook and corner. If you do not taste the mouth-watering street food in Kolkata , you will be missing out on a gastronomic experience like no other. Here are our suggestions on which street grubs to try and where to try them.

• What to try: Phuchkas, Rolls, Aloo Chop, Ghugni, Jhalmuri, Shingara, Peyaji, and Chanar Jilipi
• Popular food streets: Theatre Road, Shyam Bazaar, Deshapriya Park, Gariahat More, Park Street, Vivekananda Park, and Dacre Lane

8. Visit the Famous Temples in Kolkata

#8 of 10 Best One Day trips From Kolkata

Whether you are religiously inclined or not, you need to visit the city’s temples on your one-day trip. You can offer prayers at these temples or simply walk around soaking in the tranquil vibes and visually feasting on their architectural grandeur. Check out our list of the famous temples in Kolkata :

• Dakshineswar Temple (Dakshineswar)
• Kalighat Temple (Anami Sangha, Kalighat)
• Belur Math (Belur, Howrah)
• Calcutta Jain Temple (Badridas Temple Street)
• ISKCON Temple (Minto Park)

9. Go on a Shopping Spree

#9 of 10 Best One Day trips From Kolkata

Shopaholics, we have got good news for you! One of the most exciting things to do in Kolkata is shopping. It definitely helps that the city has a number of markets where you can find everything from garments to jewelry and even home decor items. Some of the best shopping destinations of Kolkata include:

• Timings : 10:00 am to 8:00 pm; Closed on Sundays
• What to buy : Garments, ladies handbags, jewelry, footwear, spices

Gariahat Market

• Timings : 11:00 am to 8:00 pm; Closed on Sundays
• What to buy : Jewelry, garments, home decor items, bags

Hatibagan Market

• Timings : 9:00 am to 10:00 pm; Closed on Sundays
• What to buy : Clothes, home decor, jewelry

10. Stroll through the Botanical Gardens

#10 of 10 Best One Day trips From Kolkata

When you are looking for places to visit in Kolkata in one day, you can’t leave behind the Botanical Gardens. This sprawling garden spreading across 109 hectares is home to around 12000 species of plants and trees, some of which are quite rare. The main attraction of this garden is the Great Banyan, a huge banyan tree which is touted to be the largest tree in the country and perhaps in the whole of Asia.  

• Location : Shibpur, Howrah
• Timings : 8:00 am to 6:00 pm; every day

Kolkata has a lot more to offer to its visitors. Its warmth, vivacity, and numerous attractions, all blend together to make it a one-of-its-kind destination. Come, fall in love with the spirit of Kolkata, and go back richer in memories and experiences that only the City of Joy can give you!

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When and where the solar eclipse will be crossing the U.S.

A total solar eclipse will grace the skies over North America on Monday, one of the most hotly anticipated sky-watching events in recent years.

Weather permitting , millions of people in Mexico, 15 U.S. states and eastern Canada will have the chance to see the moon slip between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light .

The total solar eclipse will be visible along a “path of totality” that measures more than 100 miles wide and extends across the continent. Along that path, the moon will fully obscure the sun, causing afternoon skies to darken for a few minutes.

Follow live updates on the solar eclipse

In all other parts of the continental U.S., a partial solar eclipse will be visible, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun. Exactly how big a bite depends on the location.

The first spot in North America that will experience totality on Monday is on Mexico’s Pacific coast at around 11:07 a.m. PT, according to NASA .

After moving northeast across Mexico, the eclipse’s path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Slivers of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

In Canada, the eclipse will be visible in parts of southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

The timing of the eclipse and the duration of totality varies by location. Most places will experience around 2 minutes of darkness, but the longest periods of totality are typically in the center of the eclipse’s path.

This year, the longest stretch of totality will last 4 minutes and 28 seconds in an area northwest of Torreón, Mexico.

Below is a list of timings for some U.S. cities along the path of totality, according to NASA .

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m. CT.
• Idabel, Oklahoma: Partial eclipse begins at 12:28 p.m. CT and totality at 1:45 p.m. CT.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m. CT.
• Poplar Bluff, Missouri: Partial eclipse begins at 12:39 p.m. CT and totality at 1:56 p.m. CT.
• Paducah, Kentucky: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 2:00 p.m. CT.
• Carbondale, Illinois: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 1:59 p.m. CT.
• Evansville, Indiana: Partial eclipse begins at 12:45 p.m. CT and totality at 2:02 p.m. CT.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Erie, Pennsylvania: Partial eclipse begins at 2:02 p.m. ET and totality at 3:16 p.m. ET.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Burlington, Vermont: Partial eclipse begins at 2:14 p.m. ET and totality at 3:26 p.m. ET.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.
• Caribou, Maine: Partial eclipse begins at 2:22 p.m. ET and totality at 3:32 p.m. ET.

Other resources can also help you figure out when the various phases of the eclipse will be visible where you live, including NationalEclipse.com and TimeandDate.com .

If you plan to watch the celestial event, remember that it’s never safe to look directly at the sun, including through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses. Special eclipse glasses are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent permanent eye damage.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.