Kolkata, also known as the City of Joy, is famous for its remarkable history and literature, artistic brilliance, magnificent architecture, and legendary literary landscape. The beautiful city glorifies the bygone era with its exceptional colonial-style buildings, memorials and palaces.
Here is a list of the 6 best places to visit in Kolkata to satisfy the history buff in you!
1. Victoria Memorial
Built between 1906 to 1921 in the memory of Queen Victoria’s 25 years of reign in India, the Victoria Memorial is considered the pride of Kolkata. It has Italian-style statutes and Mughal-style domes, making it a striking white marble wonder in the heart of the city. No itinerary to Kolkata is complete without visiting this place!!
Timings : Garden: 5:30 AM to 6:15 PM; Gallery: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day (Closed on Monday and national holidays)
Time Required : 2-3 hours
Entry Fee: 20 for Indians and 200 for foreigners.
2. Howrah Bridge
One of the most recognized landmarks in Kolkata, the construction of the Howrah bridge was completed in 1943. Interestingly, this bridge has no nuts and bolts and was constructed solely by riveting the entire steel structure. Today, it is the world’s busiest and the sixth-longest cantilever bridge handling about 100,000 vehicles and more than 150,000 pedestrians every day. One can visit this bridge on all days.
Timings : NA
Time Required : 30 mins
Entry Fee : No entry fee
3. St. Paul’s Cathedral
St Paul's Cathedral is an Anglican cathedral located in the heart of Kolkata that is very well-known for its Gothic architecture. It reminds us of the colonial era that attracts thousands of travelers across the country. It was consecrated in 1847 and dedicated to Paul, the Apostle.
Timings : Monday - Saturday: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM; Sunday: 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM
Time Required : 1-2 hrs
Entry Fee : No entry fee
4. St. Andrew’s Church
Situated in Barabazar, this church has striking colonial architecture, making it a must-see for those visiting the city. This is the only Scottish church in Kolkata which is also known as the Kirk. It was opened on March 8, 1818.
Timings : Monday - Saturday: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM; Sunday: 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM
Time Required : 2-3 hours
Entry Fee: 20 for Indians and 200 for foreigners.
5. Magen David Synagogue
This Italian- renaissance style red brick synagogue is the last surviving reminder of Kolkata’s Jewish past. The central hall with its extravagant pillars reflects European architecture, keeping the Jewish elements intact. The synagogue is open to visitors on all days and photography is not discouraged except Saturday.
Timings : NA
Time Required : 1-2 hrs
Entry Fee : No entry fee
6. Mother House
Established by Mother Teresa in 1950, Mother House or Missionaries of Charity is a religious congregation. It houses the tomb of Mother Teresa and the sisters of the church provide free services to the poor and the needy.
Timing: 8:00 AM-12:00 PM, 3:00 PM-6:00 PM (Closed on Thursdays, 22 August, Easter Monday, 26 December)
Time Required : 1-2 hrs
Entry Fee : No entry fee
Honorary mentions: Indian Museum, Jorasanko Thakurbari, Marble Palace, Nizam Palace, Town Hall, Shaheed Minar, Princep Ghat, South Park Street Cemetery, Fort William, Belur Math, Shobhabazar Rajbari, Metcalfe Hall, National Library, and Raj Bhavan.
If you are planning to visit Kolkata, then don’t miss these historical marvels. Be ready to be blown away by the jaw-dropping craftsmanship!
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