Many call Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, the “City of Joy” because of its exciting traditions, great past and loving community, and good places. The city is famous for its colonially designed buildings, traditional culture and busy arts sector. If you love history, food or art, you’ll find lots to discover here. Have a look at this list of attractions you won’t want to miss in Kolkata.
1. Howrah Bridge – A Famous Mark of Kolkata
Anyone travelling to Kolkata should make sure to see the famous Howrah Bridge. Over the Hooghly River, this bridge connects Kolkata and Howrah and is said to be the world’s longest supported cantilever bridge. Designed and built in 1943, the bridge shows off both the city’s architectural skills and its past as an industrial centre.
This bridge really stands out at night thanks to its bright lights which reflect onto the river. Those visiting can take a boat adventure below the bridge or, alternatively, admire it from above along the river’s edge. The Howrah Bridge is not only a recognisable feature, but also an important part of the city.
2. Victoria Memorial Is a Grand Monument for the British Empire
The Victoria Memorial is famous all over Kolkata and demonstrates the influences of its colonial history. In honour of Queen Victoria, this building was constructed using motifs from British and Mughal styles. While the complex stands amid green gardens, visitors can go to the museum to see how Kolkata grew during the British era.
After you enter the memorial, you can look at paintings, sculptures and other items from the royal family. Enjoying the garden’s beauty makes for a restful stroll and Victoria Memorial shines brightly at sunset.
3. Indian Museum Endlessly Preserves Its Old Tradition
Kolkata’s Indian Museum is India’s biggest and oldest museum. Since 1814, it has collected several types of artefacts, including sculptures, paintings, fossils and many rare manuscripts. You will find exhibits on archaeology, anthropology, art and geology throughout the museum.
Via the Indian Museum, you can learn much about India’s culture and history. Anyone interested in history, art or how Indian civilization has grown will love seeing what this place has to offer. Because the museum is in the city centre, guests do not have trouble finding it.
4. A Traditional Place of Worship – the Dakshineswar Kali Temple
The Dakshineswar Kali Temple is very important to Hindus in Kolkata. You can find the temple on the Hooghly River, where it honours Goddess Kali and is known for both its beautiful design and its importance to many. Rani Rashmoni founded the temple in 1855 and each year thousands of religious followers visit it.
Visitors will find the calm atmosphere at the temple through which they can explore all the complex’s buildings, dedicated to a variety of deities. Because it is next to the river, the location delivers gentle and breathtaking vistas that make it good for quiet spiritual thought.
5. Park Street is Where the Nightlife in Kolkata Happens
Park Street is where you’ll find the best of Kolkata’s nightlife. Because of all its eateries, cafes, bars and clubs, Park Street is a favourite place for many people in the city. You’ll find many restaurants here offering dishes from Bengal, India and other places. Wherever you want to eat, be it local or international, Park Street has what you’re looking for.
As well as its food, Park Street is famous for its colonial architecture and a bustling community. It’s a fantastic spot to go out, hear live music or stroll and take in the city’s lively atmosphere.
6. Marble Palace – A Look at Kolkata’s Royal History
Raja Rajendra Mullick, a Bengali businessman, built the Marble Palace, a 19th-century mansion, in the early 20th century. The palace is recognised for its beautiful marble structures which join modern European and traditional Bengali themes. With its many sculptures, paintings and historic furniture, the Marble Palace should definitely be on an art lover’s list of places to see.
The palace both delights your eyes and shows visitors what life was like for Kolkata’s wealthy families when the British were in charge. People come to cheque out the magnificent halls and enjoy all the artworks and artefacts found there.
7. Belur Math – An Environment Full of Devotional Peace
The Ramakrishna Mission’s headquarters, Belur Math, is by the Hooghly River and a place of major spiritual significance for Hindus. Ramakrishna Paramahamsa is honoured at the temple and because it is so calm, people use it for prayer and meditation.
Belur Math is built using styles from Hindu, Christian and Islamic architecture, showing the universal lessons taught by Ramakrishna. Take in the serenity of Belur Math and the pretty sights of the river while hiding from the noise in the city.
8. New Market Offers a Shopper’s Perfect Destination
Anyone wanting to see the area’s thriving local culture should check out New Market. A popular and old market, New Market was established in 1874. They have a large offering with clothing, jewellery, electronics and locally made handicrafts.
You’ll find everything from classic items to the latest products in New Market. You’ll find it easy to sample street food here, including Indian snacks and sweets. The energy at the market reflects the spirit you might find in Kolkata.
9. Science City Allows You to Learn and Have Fun
For many families and children, Science City is an exciting place to learn. You can find several exhibits at this science museum, amongst them a 3D theatre, a space theatre and virtual reality experiences. Science City wants to make understanding science and technology exciting for everyone who visits.
Anyone interested in science and learning by doing can find many interesting exhibits and demonstrations here. Regardless of if you want to get the main ideas of physics or just have a good time, Science City is a place for all ages.
10. Alambazar – Well known for its fabulous flowers
If you’re seeking something out of the ordinary, go to the flower market at Alambazar. Right by the Howrah Bridge, you’ll find a loud and lively flower market. The place to see the link between Hyderabad and floristry is the Alambazar with its many flowers.
Durga Puja and Diwali festivals bring plenty of bright and beautiful flower decorations to the market. Plenty of photographs can be taken here and there’s a lively buzz to enjoy.
Conclusion
Both tradition and modernity are found together and live peacefully in Kolkata. If you visit Victoria Memorial, Dakshineswar Kali Temple or Park Street, you’ll see just how much there is to explore in Kolkata. Its time as a British colonial city, its lively arts and the local foods all draw travellers looking to understand the true India. Be ready to see Kolkata’s amazing side by packing and getting there soon!
