Former British capital of India which famous for delightful art, astonishing architecture, and
elocutionary literature of the city. Being the cultural and intellectual hub of India, this vibrant city invites you to witness its artistic grandeur, dazzling culture, and literary legacy through an exhilarating Kolkata sightseeing tour. Apart from its rich history, and ancient culture, here are some of the best places to visit in Kolkata which form an essential part of the city’s tourism.
Best Places To Visit In Kolkata
The history of Kolkata is sure to attract you, and here is a list of the places you can visit.
Victoria Memorial
Victoria memorial is one of the best places to visit in Kolkata, the building is situated over 57 acres of land, the beautiful building surrounded by greenery and at the top of the building a angel sculpture is situated which moves with the winds direction. Built in the memory of Queen Victoria, this white marble beauty is a host to 20 lakh annual visitors.
Location: Victoria Memorial Hall, 1, Queen’s Way, Kolkata
Timings: 10 am to 5 pm
Entry fee: INR 30 for Indians, and INR 200 for foreigners
Fort William
Fort William is situated on the eastern banks of Hooghly river, Fort Williams is a huge building from the pioneer era that has served multiple purposes till date. It is one of the few Kolkata points of interest which is a must-visit place during your Kolkata sightseeing tour. Known as the ‘black hole of Calcutta’, this place was once a temporary jail where prisoners were hauled, but now it serves as the headquarters of the Eastern Command.
Location: Fort William, Hastings, Kolkata
Timings: 10 am to 5:30 pm
Entry fee: Free Entry
Marble Palace
One of the most visited tourist places in Kolkata is this nineteenth-century luxurious mansion. It is one of the best restored royal family palaces in India that bluster of artistic statues, elegant glassware, and memorable paintings of renowned artists of the British Raj. The glorious architecture and unique design attract visitors from all over the globe who come in great numbers to witness this marble masterpiece, calling it one of the best places to visit in North Kolkata.
Location: 46, Muktaram Babu Street, Jorasanko, Kolkata
Timings: 10:30 am to 4 pm
Entry fee: Free Entry
Howrah Bridge
Kolkata sightseeing is totally incomplete without visiting the famous ‘Harbour Bridge of India’, formally known as the Howrah Bridge. It is famous for the ‘oldest but the busiest’ place in Kolkata, Howrah Bridge was built over the Hooghly river to connect between the two major cities Kolkata and Howrah.
Location: Jagannath Ghat, 1, Strand Road, Kolkata
Tagore’s House
Tagore’s House is famously known as the ‘Jorasanko Thakur Bari’, This is one of the important historical places in Kolkata. The residence of India’s most famous literaries, Rabindranath Tagore. This is now converted into a museum which houses a photo gallery, fascinating paintings, and Tagore’s literary works.
Location: Girish Park, Chittaranjan Avenue, Kolkata
Timings: 10 am to 5 pm
Entry fee: INR 10 per person, and INR 5 for students
Mother House
Mother House is formally known as the Missionaries of Charity, Mother House was established by Mother Teresa in 1950. The main aim for the Sisters of the house is to provide free services to the sick, the poor, drug addicts, physically and mentally challenged individuals, victims of natural calamities, orphans, and even run schools to educate street children. Today, the institution has several branches running all over the world to follow the same practices of selfless devotion and serve those in need. The most intriguing part of the house for visitors is the tomb of Mother Teresa. Located alongside this tomb is also an exhibition displaying her life’s work and her personal belongings like sarees, sandals, and her bag, which makes this one of the most unique places to visit in Kolkata.
Location: 54A, Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Rd, Ripon Street, Kolkata 700016
Timings: 8 AM – 12 PM and 3 PM – 6 PM (closed on Thursdays)
Entry fee: Nil
Sundarbans
The most famous Kolkata tourist spot, Sunderbans is one of the natural wonders of the world. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sunderbans is part of the world’s largest delta formed by the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna. It is also the largest tiger reserve and national park in India. Other than wildlife, the Sunderbans are an epitome of breathtaking natural beauty and the most surreal landscapes which make them one of the best places to visit in Kolkata for couples.
Location: Dayapur, Gosaba, West Bengal
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Entry fee: INR 15 for Indians | INR 150 for foreigners
Rabindra Sarovar
Rabindra Sarovar is formally known as Dhakuria lake, it is an artificial lake in Kolkata. This is one of the best place if you are looking for a peaceful time. Every morning you can find various people jogging or walking along the shores of the lake. It is also a perfect spot for nature admirers who wish to get close to the beauty of nature.
Location: Southern Avenue, Golpark, Tollygunge, Dhakuria, Lake Gardens, Kolkata
Entry fee: Free
Botanical Gardens
It is located at the western banks of River Ganga, Botanical Garden is basically a 273-acre garden known for its huge decorative diversity. More than 12,000 different species of plants are there, it is one of the most beautiful places to see in Kolkata for travelers who wish to witness the fascinating beauty of nature.
Location: Shibpur, Howrah, West Bengal
Timings: 10 am to 7 pm
Entry fee: INR 10 for Indians | INR 100 for foreigners
Alipore Zoo
The Alipore Zoo is called as the Calcutta Zoo or the Zoological Garden of Alipore. It is India’s oldest ever zoological park and surely one of the best places to visit in South Kolkata. Attracting wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers from all over the country.The many different animals living here include the Royal Bengal Tigers, white tigers, Asian elephants, one-horned rhinoceros, zebras, antelopes, and deer. Apart from these animals, the park is also home to bird species like Macaws, Swinhoe’s Pheasant, Lorikeets, Lady Amherst’s Pheasants, Ostriches, Emus, Hornbills, and even the Sarus Cranes that migrate here during winters. A erect delight for families traveling to Kolkata, this park and its numerous wild animals always manage to bring a smile on the faces of youngsters and children.
Location: Belvedere Road, Lake Place, Alipore, Kolkata 700025
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM (closed on Thursday)
Entry fee: INR 25 (adults) | INR 10 (kids below 5)
Dakshineswar Kali Temple
Dakshineswar Kali Temple is located in the Dakshineswar town of Kolkata. Dakshineswar Kali Temple is a popular pilgrimage site dedicated to Goddess Kali. This temple is built by Rani Rasmoni and it is also famous for Sri Ramkrishna Paramhangso Dev’s meditation spot and he served Maa Kali in this temple. It is one of the must-visit places to visit in Kolkata in one day as one cannot afford to miss out on this architectural masterpiece which is also considered as one of the holiest places in the city.
Location: Dakshineswar, Kolkata
Timings: 6 am to 12:30 pm, 3 pm to 8:30 pm
Entry fee: Free Entry
Kalighat Kali Temple
Pursue blessings from Goddess Kali during your trip when you visit the mystical Kali Temple. It is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. It is one of the best places to visit in Kolkata to get familiar with the culture, traditions, and religious beliefs of the people of this beautiful city.
Location: Anami Sangha, Kalighat, Kolkata
Timings: 5 am to 2 pm, and 5 pm to 10:30 pm
Entry fee: Free Entry
St. Paul’s Cathedral
Known for Gothic style of architecture. The cornerstone was laid in 1839; the building was completed in 1847. It is the largest cathedral in Kolkata and the first Episcopal Church in Asia. Resembling closely to Norwich Cathedral,St Paul’s Cathedral is also one of the best places to visit in Kolkata for people seeking a religious tour.
Location: Maidan, Kolkata
Timings: 9 am to 12 pm, and 3 pm to 6 pm
Entry fee: Free Entry
Birla Mandir
Built by the famous Birla family the famous industrialist family of India , Birla Mandir is a famous Hindu Temple in Kolkata known for its magnificent architecture. The construction of the temple began in 1970. It took 26 years to complete the indelible structure. This temple is an epitome of craftsmanship that is a product of an amalgamation of traditional, and contemporary art and is also one of the best places to visit in Kolkata.
Location: 29, Ashutosh Chowdhury Avenue, Ballygunge, Opposite Ballygunge Post Office, Kolkata
Timings: 5 am – 11:30 am | 4 pm – 9 pm
Entry fee: Free entry
Nakhoda Mosque
Nakhoda Mosque is acknowledged as the largest mosque in the city of Kolkata, and hence, a popular worship place of the Muslims. Owing to its colossal size, Nakhoda Mosque is a prime tourist attraction, and one of the best places to visit in Kolkata.
Location: 92, Rabindra Sarani, Kolkata
Timings: 11 am – 9 pm
Entry fee: Free Entry
Indian Museum
The history of the origin and the growth of the Indian Museum is one of the remarkable events towards the development of heritage and culture of India Witness the charm of the glorious country of India the oldest, and the largest museum in India, the Indian Museum. It is one of the best places to visit in Kolkata for youngsters where they can gain insights to the rich traditional, and cultural heritage of their country.
Location: 27, Jawaharlal Nehru Rd, Colootola, New Market Area, Dharmatala, Taltala, Kolkata
Timings: 10 am to 5 pm
Entry fee: INR 20 for Indians, and INR 500 for foreigners
Princep Ghat
Princep Ghat is a ghat built in 1841 during the British Raj, along the Kolkata bank of the Hooghly River in India , Princep Ghat is a memorial inspired by Greek and Gothic styles of architecture. It is one of the best places to visit in Kolkata at night as the setup becomes totally lit with dazzling lighting throughout the place. It is also a popular picnic spot where people can spend quality time with their family.Surrounded by lush greenery on all sides, it’s the perfect spot for energizing evening walks amidst absolutely natural surroundings. There are also various food stalls nearby that sell delicious Kolkata street food, including the famous 50-year-old ice-cream cum fast-food joint that is famous among youngsters and college students here. Other than picnicking, people can also conduct religious rituals, take a dip in the water, or go boating, among other things that make this one of the finest places to visit in Kolkata near the airport.
Location: Fort William, Hastings, Kolkata
Timings: 8 am to 8 pm
Entry fee: Free Entry
Belur Math
Belur Math in West Bengal was founded by Swami Vivekananda, who was a chief disciple of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. This famous math (monastery) was built in the year 1898. Belur Math is an important pilgrimage site and the headquarters of Ramakrishna Math and Mission. It is one of the best places to visit in Kolkata for people who wish to seek inner peace. The tranquil surroundings and architectural creativity makes this place a hotspot of Kolkata tourism.
Location: Belur, Howrah, West Bengal
Timings: 6 am to 11:30 am, and 4 pm to 7 pm
Entry fee: Free Entry
Science City Kolkata
The Science City of Kolkata is the largest science center in the Indian subcontinent. Take some time to visit the architectural wonder of the Science City, which is the largest science center throughout India. Housing a Space Odyssey, Dynamotion, Evolution Park Theme Tour, Maritime Center, and Earth Exploration Hall, it is one of the best place to visit in Kolkata in terms of technology, and architecture.
Location: J.B.S Haldane Avenue, Kolkata
Timings: 9 am to 8 pm
Entry fee: INR 15 to INR 80 depending upon the activities
Birla Planetarium
Birla Planetarium was founded as an educational, research and scientific institution in September 1962 and formally inaugurated in July 1963 by the then Indian Prime Minister Pandit J. L. Nehru. Birla Planetarium is a circular shaped structure designed on the lines of Buddhist Stupa and Sanchi styles. It is one of the most attractive places to see in Kolkata not only for its architecture but also for its sky show which is screened every day. This show depicts various aspects of astronomy, and heavenly myths, thus imparting knowledge about the various characteristics of the night sky.
Location: Cathedral Road, near Victoria Memorial, Kolkata
Timings: 11 am to 7 pm
Entry fee: INR 80
Eden Gardens
The stadium was established in 1864. The stadium gets its name from the Eden Gardens, one of the oldest parks in Kolkata, adjacent to the stadium, designed in 1841 and named after the Eden sisters of Lord Auckland, the then Governor-General of India. Eden garden is one of the best places to visit in Kolkata for 2 days. This cricket stadium is well-maintained and attracts cricket lovers from across the world. Located in B B D Bagh area, near the State Secretariat and Calcutta High Court, it was commissioned by the Governor-General Auckland in the year 1864. This magnificent stadium has an overall capacity of 66,349 people, which makes it the second largest stadium in the world.
Location: Maidan, B.B.D. Bagh, Kolkata Timings: 5.30am to 11.30pm
Shobhabazar Rajbari
Shobhabazar Rajbari (Shobhabazar Royal Palace) is the palace of the Shobhabazar royal family located in the Indian city of Kolkata. Maharaja Nabakrishna Deb (1737–97), founder of the Shobhabazar Rajbari (at 35), started life modestly but soon amassed considerable wealth in his service to the British, in particular by his role in assisting to topple Siraj ud-Daulah. Shobhabazar Rajbari is among the good places to visit in Kolkata. It is the palace of the Shobhabazar royal family. Its founder was Raja Nabakrishna Deb who established Rajbari in 1772. It features a saat-mahala house extended to a large central courtyard. The unique architecture of this Bari attracts thousands of visitors to this spot and make it an interesting excursion to be explored while holidaying in Kolkata.
Location: 67C, Raja Nabakrishna Street, Kolkata Timings: 4.00pm to 5.00pm
Sabarna Sangrahashala
Sabarna Sangrahashala in Kolkata is a museum about the Sabarna Roy Choudhury family and Kolkata. This family museum possesses rare documents, articles, including Kabilatipatras dating from the 18th and 19th centuries: an important holding being one which has the signature of Kavi Ramprasad Sen dated 1794. It is designed, maintained and developed by the Sabarna Roy Choudhary Paribar Parishad and exhibits a vast collection of rare articles and historical documents dated back to the early 18th century.
Location: Saptarshi Bhawan, Baro Bari, 67/3, Diamond Harbour Rd, Barisha, Kolkata
Timings: 10.00am to 12.00pm and 5.00pm to 7.00pm (Thursday closed)
Eco Tourism Park
Eco Tourism Park is an ecological garden that spreads over 480 acres of land and is surrounded by 104 acres of water body. Commissioned by the West Bengal Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (WBHIDCO), the park was inaugurated on 9th December 2012 and opened to public on 1st January 2013. Ecotourism park is an enormous urban park that is considered the best among the incredible places to visit in Kolkata. This biggest urban park in India is spread over 475 acres and is considered as a perfect retreat for nature admirers. The park features three major parts, that’s the ecological zones, the gardens, and the recreational zones. There are numerous activities that can be attended on the basis of the preference of the visitors. The cottages and conference halls inside the Eco tourism park can be rented for personal or business needs.
Location: Major Arterial Road(South-East), AA II, Newtown, Kolkata
Timings:2.30pm to 8.30pm (Monday closed)
State Archaeological Gallery
State Archaeological Museum established in Calcutta in 1962 has collections including rare tools of the Early, Middle and the Late Stone Ages from Susunia (Bankura) and other sites. The State Archaeological Gallery will give you a comprehensive report on the historic and prehistoric times. It hands down, one of the best places to visit in Kolkata if you’re a history buff. It was established in 1962 and is home to a plethora of artifacts such as early stone tools and antiques from Palaeolithic, Mesolithic and Neolithic sites.
Location: 1, Satyen Roy Road, Auddy Bagan Basti, Behala, Kolkata
Timings: 11 AM to 4:30 PM
Entry Fees: INR 5/- for all
Mother’s Wax Museum
Established in November 2014, it contains wax statues of more than 50 personalities, including statues of Bollywood actors Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan. The museum has been named after Mother Teresa. It is one of the most legendary places to visit in Kolkata. Built in 2014, it is home to a spectacular collection of wax figures of several great figures who have been raised in India and did some great things for the country. It is a kid-friendly place and has all the makings of a wonderful place to go to on the weekends.
Location: No. 69 -1111, HIDCO Tower, CBD-1, New Town, Kolkata
Timings: 12 noon to 7:30 PM
Entry Fees: INR 200/-
Academy of Fine Arts
The academy was established in 1933 by Lady Ranu Mukherjee. Academy of Fine Arts is one of the oldest places in Kolkata and fit for anyone who shares a passion for art and culture. It hosts several cultural programmes in the city. It is home to spectacular gallery displays and art exhibitions that will take your breath away. You will have the time of your life here.
Location: 2, Cathedral Road, Maidan, Kolkata
Timings: 3 PM to 9 PM
Calcutta Jain Temple
Pareshnath Jain Temple is dedicated to four Jain Teerthankaras. The architecture of the temple is beautifully designed with intricate carved marbles giving the temple an alluring look. The temple compound also houses a shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs. It is one of the most famous places in Kolkata and must not be missed when exploring Kolkata.
Location: Badridas Temple Street, Kolkata
Timings: 6.00am to 10am and 5pm to 8pm
Entry Fee: No entry fee
South Park Street Cemetery
History of Park Street Cemetery The cemetery was named after “Park Street” after the private deer park built by Sir Elijah Impey around Vansittart’s garden house. South Park Street Cemetery, now a Kolkata heritage site is an 18th century non-church cemetery. Maintained by the Archaeological Survey Of India, the tombs here are very attractive and draws tourists in large numbers. The tomb architecture is a mix of Gothic and Indo Saracenic and while some tombs have a mysterious, the other has a soothing vibe. The location has also been featured in many Bengali and Tollywood movies.
Location: 52, Park Street, Opp Assembly Of God Church, Kolkata
Timings: 9.00am to 5.00pm
Entry Fee: No entry fee
St.John’s Church
The St. John’s Church was built in 1787 by architect James Agg. The land for the church was donated by Raja Nabo Kishen Bahadur of the famed Shovabazar Raj Family of North Kolkata. St.John’s Church is a must-visit when on a Kolkata sightseeing tour. It is one of the oldest churches in Kolkata. This well-maintained structure draws history buffs for its uniqueness. The unique tall features is its highlighting part. Visiting St.John’s is the best place for a spiritual escape in the city.
Location: 2/2, Council House Street, Opp Dewars Garage, Lal Dighi, BBD Bagh, Kolkata
Timings: 8.00am to 5.00pm (8.00am to 9.00am – prayers)
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Baabur Haat
Babur Haat is known for its idyllic village life and the innumerable fishing lakes and bheris surrounding the village. Located at a distance of about 50km from Kolkata, Baabur Haat is the perfect weekend destination near Kolkata. If you want to take some time off from the hectic city life, head to this place with your closed ones. Baabur Haat is a nature paradise with fishing being one of the popular activities here. You can also go to the nearby local village grounds which serve as an ideal picnic spot.
Central Park
Central Park situated in Salt Lake is a public urban park. It is also known as Banabitan. It is the second largest open space in Kolkata Metropolitan Area after the Maidan. Central Park is situated in Bidhannagar, Kolkata. Being a favorite hangout for lovers, the park has a rose garden which has different varieties of domestic and imported roses. The park is built around an expansive lake and the lake is a heaven for water birds. Another famous attraction in the park is the beautiful butterfly garden which is home to numerous species of butterflies.
Timings: 10.00am to 5.30pm
Entry Fee: INR 10 for adults and INR 5 for kids
Genesis Art Gallery
Genesis Art Gallery, Kolkata, was established in 1985 and has grown to become one the most consistent, regular and reliable galleries over a period of more than two decades. Genesis Art Gallery has been popular for more than 30 years now. It has grown to become one of the most consistent gallery that encourages not only Indian artist but also international talent and art works. It holds numerous exhibitions and displays on contemporary arts from time to time. The well-known names of the gallery are Suhas Roy, Rameshwa Broota and Sunil Das.
Location: Geetanjali Apartments, 8B, Middleton St, Kolkata
Timings: 10.00am to 7.00pm
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Nicco Park
Nicco Park is one of the most popular amusement parks of Eastern India. The 40 acre park is a tourist magnet. It is also known as the Disneyland of West Bengal. The park is basically an ideal place for family recreation and has been specifically designed to provide both educational as well as fun-filled activities. One of the best places to visit in Kolkata, Nicco Park is an exhilarating amusement park developed for the sole purpose of recreational activities for families. It is one of the oldest amusement parks in Kolkata that houses various adventurous, and fun filled rides for children as well as adults where they can spend some rejuvenating time with their families.
Location: Jheel Meel, Sector IV, Salt Lake City, Kolkata
Timings: 10:30 am to 7:30 pm
Entry fee: INR 200 to INR 650
Aquatica
Aquatica is a 705000sq ft (17 acre) water theme park in Kochpukur, Greater Kolkata, India. The theme park was started in 1999. It is one of the largest water amusement parks in and around Kolkata, as well as eastern India. It is quite a popular destination on the day of Holi. For people who seek light-hearted adventure along with some fun-filled activities, Aquatica is one of the best places to visit in Kolkata with friends where one can enjoy numerous thrilling rides and activities.
Location: Kochpukur, P.O Hatgachia, Near Rajarhat Township, Kolkata
Timings: 10 am to 6 pm
Entry fee: INR 450 to 550 for adults, and INR 300 for children
mR. Happer 