Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, the former capital of West Bengal is a wonderland where one can experience culture in its purest form. From Victorian skyscrapers to rolling trams, the city boasts its unique architecture. Soothing music, lively dance, evocative drama, and inspiring art all put you in touch with pure and untouched Calcutta. This place came under the Suzerainty of the Nawabs of Bengal under the Mughal Empire and eventually, the British Rule who took full control of the city in the year 1772. The city also experienced an industrial revolution in Central India with its modern Indian culture, poetry, art, and literary movement between the 19th and early 20th centuries. The city was also the capital of India under the British and was the center of the Indian independence movement.

The great charm of this vibrant city attracts many visitors. People come here to see the grandeur of the best places in Kolkata and talk a lot about its cultural ethnicities. Through this blog, we will help you to choose your favorite places to visit in Kolkata.

Howrah Bridge, Rabindra Setu

Location: Near Howrah Railway Station

Starting our list with the Howrah Bridge which is one of the top places to visit in Kolkata. The unofficial landmark of the city, the Howrah Bridge is worth a visit if you just want to spend some alone time with the river in front of you. Sit quietly here or just watch the fishermen go about their business in the morning and evening. In the memoir of Rabindranath Tagore, this bridge is now called Rabindra Setu. World’s sixth longest cantilever bridge, Howrah Bridge is one of the most famous landmarks in Kolkata. The bridge which replaced the old pontoon bridge over the Hooghly was originally called the New Howrah Bridge.

Victoria Memorial

The Victoria Memorial was completed in 1921 and stands at the southern end of the property. Built in memory of Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom, the Victoria Memorial is home to a collection of historic art from the British colonial era and a gallery, with many attractive statues, books, and paintings surrounded by a large garden which is an attraction in itself. The outside of the memorial is illuminated every night.

Park Street

Location: Central Kolkata

Park Street is Food Street, also known as the Street where locals never sleep due to the variety of restaurants and bars in the area. The place was one of the top nightlife spots in the 70’s and 80’s. It is one of the main streets in Kolkata and is home to many tourists and locals. Park Street is the home of India’s first independent nightclub.

Birla Planetarium

A spectacular planetarium built in a circular structure influenced by the style of the Buddha stupa and Sanchi. This architectural marvel located near the Victoria Monument will take you on spectacular cosmic exhibits and other wonderful astronomical aspects of myths and legends which is the perfect place to see the mysteries of the universe.

Dakshineswar Temple

Location: Near Dakshineswar Metro & Railway station. Then take the skywalk to directly reach the temple.

This temple is dedicated to Bhavatarani, an aspect of Goddess Kali and the ‘savior of the universe’. One of the oldest and most eminent temples ever built, it welcomes pilgrims from all over the world.

The temple was founded by Rani Rashmoni, who left her vast fortune after the loss of her husband. The idea of ​​building this temple came to her in a dream and it was her last act before leaving for Varanasi.

Science City

Established by the National Council of Science Museums, it is a major attraction in Kolkata. Downstairs, you will be amazed only by the spectacular light mirror illusions, where you can see your reflections. Light Energy balls, quicksand, and ocean waves are just a few of the other features it has in this wonderful museum. You can also take a quick ride through the ropeway.

Indian Museum

The Indian Museum in Kolkata is the largest and oldest museum in India, it was founded by a Dutch botanist and British Dr. Nathaniel Wallich The museum has 6 sections which are further divided into 35 galleries and features a variety of artifacts, accessories, monuments, paintings, etc. It features many timeless works of art that speak volumes about the culture, history, and heritage of the entire architecture industry. This is the best place to get a beautiful view of the traditional part of the country.

Belur Math

Regarded as a “place of heritage and national significance”, Belur Math is one of the major divine travel destinations. This miracle was established in 1899 by Swami Vivekananda. The sheer architectural beauty and majesty of this place are fascinating. This wonderful temple is dedicated to Ramakrishna, Swami Vivekananda, and Sarada Devi.

Eco Park

This is the largest park in the country. The 480-acre park is filled with several bodies of water and a central island. This is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Kolkata. Known as Kolkata’s biggest city park, the eco-park is ideal for relaxing in the peaceful arms of nature. This place offers a great time showing lots of beautiful large gardens, ecological attractions, and many recreational areas ideal for day trips moreover, you are likely to see traditional cultures mixed with natural wonder.

Princep Ghat

Location: Fort William, Hastings

Built by the British in 1843, the Princep Ghat on the banks of the Hooghly River, dedicated to English scholar James Prinsep, is one of the city’s most famous monuments Princep Ghat was built to replace Chandpal Ghat and later became a major tourist attraction for the visitors to the city. People in Kolkata now visit Princep Ghat to relax and walk along the banks of the Hooghly River. It is a scenic 2-km stretch of river bank and can be walked from Princep Ghat to Babugh Ghat. VidyaSagar Setu is next to it.

FAQ – Top Places to Visit in Kolkata