Kolkata the “City of Joy”, capital of West Bengal, is actually a 335 year old young city. There are several beautiful places to visit in Kolkata. Kolkata was capital of India during British rule, till 1911 before it was transferred to Delhi. The city has many interesting places to keep its visitors pleasantly engaged. From refreshing gardens, serene lakes, historical buildings, museums, libraries, sports stadiums to ancient temples and churches. Here we will discuss on 35 such places to visit for travelers.
Places to visit in Kolkata with important info.
Immersed in its timeless allure and unshakeable composure, Kolkata unfolds like a living chapter from history. As the largest city in eastern India, Kolkata, despite its metropolitan status, resists conformity. Nurtured by a community enamored with food, art, and culture, the city boasts a distinctive identity. With countless activities beckoning, one visit may not suffice to grasp the myriad experiences Kolkata offers. To capture the authentic essence of the City of Joy, our meticulously crafted guide ensures you explore like a true local.
1. Victoria Memorial
The Victoria Memorial is a large marble building, which is one of the best and romantic places to visit in Kolkata. Victoria memorial is built between 1906 and 1921, in the memory of Queen Victoria, this white marble beauty is a host to 20 lakhs of annual visitors. it is dedicated to the memory of Queen Victoria. Now, it is a museum and a popular tourist spot under the Ministry of Culture.
| From city center: | 3 km |
| Location: | Victoria Memorial Hall, 1 Queen’s Way, Kolkata |
| Timings: | 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. |
| Entry fees: | Rs 30 for Indians, and Rs 200 for foreigners |
2. Fort William
Situated on the eastern banks of the Hooghly river, Fort William, 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. Fort William has served multiple purposes to 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.
| From city center: | 3 km |
| Location: | Fort William, Hastings, Kolkata |
| Timings: | 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. |
| Entry fees: | None |
3. Belur Math
Belur Math is the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission. Belur Math was founded by Swami Vivekananda is prominent for its architecture that embraces Hindu, Christian and Islamic styles and stands as an icon of unity of all religions. It is one of the best Kolkata tourist places for people who wish to seek inner peace. The tranquil surroundings and architectural creativity make this place a hotspot of Kolkata tourism.
| From city center: | 7 km |
| Location: | Belur, Howrah, West Bengal |
| Timings: | 6:00 am to 11:30 am and 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm |
| Entry fees: | Free Entry |
Also read: Best Romantic Places in Kolkata
4. Howrah Bridge
A Kolkata sightseeing tour is truly incomplete without visiting the Howrah Bridge or the Rabindra Setu. It is a cantilever bridge and is regarded as one of the busiest ones among them. Titled as the ‘oldest but the busiest’ place in Kolkata, the Howrah Bridge was built over the Hooghly river to ensure connectivity between the two major cities of Kolkata and Howrah. It is among the top places to visit in Kolkata in the evening where you can hang out with your friends and gaze out at the lit bridge sparkling in the dark.
| From city center: | 2 km |
| Location: | Jagannath Ghat, 1, Strand Road. |
| Timings: | N/A |
| Entry fees: | None |
5. Birla Planeterium
Birla Planetarium is a single-storeyed circular shaped structure designed on the lines of Buddhist Stupa at Sanchi styles. This is the largest planetarium in Asia and the second largest planetarium in the world. 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.
| From city center: | 3 km |
| Location: | Cathedral Road, near Victoria Memorial. |
| Timings: | 11:00 am to 7:00 pm |
| Entry fees: | Rs. 80 |
6. Indian Museum
Located at the heart of the city, near park street, the Indian Museum. Discover the charm of the glorious country of India the oldest, and the largest museum in India, some of the most exquisite collections of ornaments, fossils, skeletons, antiques, armors, mummies and stunning Mughal paintings.. It is one of the best places to visit in Kolkata for youngsters where they can gain insights into the rich tradition and cultural heritage of their country.
| From city center: | 2 km |
| Location: | 27, Jawaharlal Nehru Rd, Near Park Street. |
| Timings: | 10:00 am to 5:00 pm |
| Entry fees: | INR 20 for Indians, and INR 500 for foreigners |
6. Mother House
Mother House in Kolkata is a holy and serene place. The Mother House is the Head Quarter of the Missionaries of Charity that pulls thousands of visitors from all around the world. Mother House was established by Mother Teresa in 1950 as a religious assembly. The primary aim for the Sisters of the house is to provide free services to the sick, the poor and even run schools to educate street children. Today, the institution has several branches running all over the world. 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, which makes this one of the most unique places to visit in Kolkata.
| From city center: | 3 km |
| Location: | 54A, Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Rd, Ripon Street |
| Timings: | 8:00 am to 12:00 pm and 3:00 pm- 6:00 pm (closed on Thursdays) |
| Entry fees: | None |
7. Science City
Science City, one of its kind in India, is a major attraction for the residents of Kolkata as well as for the people visiting Kolkata. 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 Centre, and Earth Exploration Hall, it is one of the best Kolkata tourist places in terms of technology and architecture.
| From city center: | 5 km |
| Location: | J.B.S Haldane Avenue, Kolkata |
| Timings: | 9:00 am to 8:00 pm |
| Entry fees: | Rs. 15 to Rs. 80 depending upon the activities |
8. St. Pauls Cathedral
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. 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.
| From city center: | 4 km |
| Location: | Maidan, Kolkata |
| Timings: | 9:00 am to 12:00 pm and 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm |
| Entry fees: | None |
9. Tajpur
Tajpur is a small town between Mandarmani and Shankarpur, set on the Bay of Bengal’s tranquil shore. Considered to be a serene secret in West Medinipur district, the virgin beach is hidden away from view and is still unspoiled by commercialization and tourism. It is a perfect escape away from the hustle-bustle of city life. 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. The beach is surrounded by dense eucalyptus, tamarisk, and casuarina trees, giving you a perfect chance to relax and revive. It also has one of the best beaches near Kolkata.
| From city center: | 127 km |
| Location: | Purba Medinipur, West Bengal |
| Timings: | N.A. |
| Entry fees: | N.A. |
10. Birla Mandir
Built by the renowned Birla family, Birla Mandir is a famous Hindu Temple in Kolkata known for its magnificent architecture. This temple is perfect specimen 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.
| From city center: | 4 km |
| Location: | 29, Ashutosh Chowdhury Avenue, Ballygunge |
| Timings: | 5:00 am to 11:30 am and 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm |
| Entry fees: | None |
11. Eden Garden
Eden garden is one of the best places to visit in Kolkata. Eden gardens is the largest cricket stadium in India and the second largest in the world The Eden Garden stadium 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. Among the most popular tourist places in Kolkata, this magnificent stadium Eden Garden has an overall capacity of more than 66 thound people, which makes it the second largest cricket stadium in the world.
| From city center: | 3 km |
| Location: | Maidan, B.B.D. Bagh, Kolkata |
| Timings: | 5:30am to 11:30pm |
| Entry fees: | Depends on the match |
12. Jorasanko Thakur bari
Known as the ‘Jorasanko Thakur Bari’, Tagore’s house is one of the best places to go in Kolkata for history buffs. Jorasanko Thakur Bari is the house in which the first non-European Nobel laureate and poet, Rabindranath Tagore was born. Jorasanko Thakurbari is now converted into a museum that houses a photo gallery, fascinating paintings, and Tagore’s literary works.
| From city center: | 1 km |
| Location: | Girish Park, Chittaranjan Avenue, Kolkata |
| Timings: | 10:00 am to 5:00 pm |
| Entry fees: | Rs. 10 per person, and Rs. 5 for students |
13. Birla Industrial Museum
Being the first scientific and industrial museum in India, Birla Industrial and Technological Museum (BITM) is one of the prime attractions of Kolkata. The BITM was establshed in the year 1956. This Children’s Museum is an ideal spot to educate the younger generation about the long way that this country has come. Apart from giving the younger generation a chance to learn about the developments, this museum also gives them an opportunity to grasp the basic concepts of science. It is famous for its galleries and 3D shows.
| From city center: | 4 km |
| Location: | Gurusaday Dutta Road, Ballygunge, Kolkata. |
| Timings: | 10:00 am to 5:30 pm |
| Entry fees: | Rs. 30 per person |
14. Rabindra Sarovar
Previously known as Dhakuria Lake, Rabindra Sarovar is an artificial lake in Kolkata, spread over 75 acres and is home to various migratory birds from Siberia and Russia. It is one of the best places to visit in Kolkata if you are looking for a quiet, and peaceful time. Every morning one would find numerous 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.
| From city center: | 7 km |
| Location: | Southern Avenue, Golpark, Lake Gardens, Kolkata |
| Timings: | 5:00 am to 10.00 pm and 4.00 pm to 8.00 pm |
| Entry fees: | Free |
15. Kalighat Temple
Seek blessings from Goddess Kali during your trip to Kolkata when you visit the mystical Kali Temple. 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. 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.
| From city center: | 6 km |
| Location: | Anami Sangha, Kalighat, Kolkata |
| Timings: | 5:00 am to 2:00 pm, and 5:00 pm to 10:30 pm |
| Entry fees: | Free |
16. Shovabazar Rajbari
Shobhabazar Rajbari is a testament to the city’s rich past and vibrant heritage. This magnificent palace, once the seat of the Shobhabazar royal family, is now a popular tourist destination, drawing visitors with its unique blend of architectural grandeur and historical significance.
Founded in 1772 by Raja Nabakrishna Deb, a prominent figure in Kolkata’s social and political landscape, the Rajbari is a prime example of Bengali architecture. The palace complex features a “saat-mahala” house, meaning a house with seven chambers, arranged around a large central courtyard. This courtyard, once the heart of the palace, served as a space for gatherings, celebrations, and everyday life.Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique and offbeat experience, the Shobhabazar Rajbari is a must-visit destination in Kolkata.
| From city center: | 3 km |
| Location: | 67C, Raja Nabakrishna Street |
| Timings: | 6.00 am to 5.00 pm |
| Entry fees: | Free |
17. Botanical Garden
Located along the western banks of River Ganga, Botanical Garden of Calcutta is a 110 hectares garden founded by Robert Kyd in 1787. The Botanic Gardens of Kolkata were later renamed Acharya Jagadish Chandra Indian Botanic Garden. The botanic garden is known for its extensive floral diversity. Housing more than 12,000 different species of plants. A Banyan tree in the garden, of more than 330 m circumference, known as The Great Banyan, is the largest tree in the world. It is one of the most beautiful sightseeing places in Kolkata for travellers who wish to witness the mesmerizing beauty of nature.
| From city center: | 11 km |
| Location: | Shibpur, Howrah, West Bengal |
| Timings: | 10 am to 7 pm |
| Entry fees: | Rs. 10 for Indians and Rs. 100 for foreigners |
18. Nakhoda Masjid
Placed in the Chitpur area in the Burrabazar business district, Nakhoda mosque is largest mosque in the city 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. Nakhoda Mosque is a prime tourist attraction, and one of the best places to pay a visit to in Kolkata.
| From city center: | 1 km |
| Location: | 92, Rabindra Sarani, Kolkata |
| Timings: | 11:00 am to 9:00 pm |
| Entry fees: | None |
19. Alipore Zoo
The Alipore Zoo is also sometimes called 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 exotic animals living here include the Royal Bengal Tigers and bird species like Macaws, Swinhoe’s Pheasant and even the Sarus Cranes that migrate here during winters. 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.
| From city center: | 5 km |
| Location: | Belvedere Road, Lake Place, Alipore |
| Timings: | 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (closed on Thursday) |
| Entry fees: | Rs. 25 (adults) and Rs. 10 (kids below 5) |
20. National Library
For enthusiasts of literature and knowledge in Kolkata, there are several noteworthy places to explore, and among them is the National Library. This institution houses a collection of invaluable writings, including ancient texts, out-of-print works, and those elusive pieces that may be challenging to find elsewhere. The blend of the aroma from aged books mingling with the scent of new ones creates a heavenly atmosphere for book lovers. The National Library offers a diverse range of reading materials, encompassing monographs, manuscripts, Indian books, and language-specific publications. National Library stands as a haven for avid readers, providing a rich tapestry of literary treasures.
| From city center: | 5 km |
| Location: | Belvedere Road, Block A, Alipore, PIN – 700027 |
| Timings: | 9:00 am to 8:00 pm |
| Entry fees: | None |
21. Sabarna Rajbari (Sangrahasala)
The Sabarna Sangrahashala is a museum that preserves and exhibits the heritage of one of the well-known families of Bengal, the Sabarna Roy Choudhary family. The land of Calcutta is said to be owned by the Sabarna family prior to establishing Calcutta by Job Charnok in 1690. The Sangrahalay 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.
| From city center: | 12 km |
| Location: | Saptarshi Bhawan, Baro Bari, 67/3, Diamond Harbour Road. |
| Timings: | 10:00 am to 12:00 pm and 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm (Thursday closed) |
| Entry fees: | None |
22. Eco Park
Eco park is an enormous urban park that is considered the best among the 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 beauty of the location increases ten folds because of a water body that surrounds the park and forms an island in the middle. 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 park can be rented for personal or business needs.
| From city center: | 11 km |
| Location: | Major Arterial Road, AA II, Newtown |
| Timings: | 2.30 pm to 8.30 pm (Monday closed) |
| Entry fees: | Rs. 30 per person |
23. Mother’s Wax Museum
It is one of the most legendary and unqiue 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. Enhancing
| From city center: | 10 km |
| Location: | No. 69 -1111, HIDCO Tower, CBD-1, New Town |
| Timings: | 12 noon to 7:30 pm |
| Entry fees: | Rs. 200 |
24. Jain Temple (Pareshnath Temple)
Pareshnath Jain Temple is dedicated to four Jain Teerthankaras. The architecture of the temple is beautifully designed with intricately carved marbles giving the temple an alluring look. 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. The temple complex also houses a shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs. It is one of the most famous places in Kolkata that draws tourists from all over the world. A trip to this place must not be missed when exploring Kolkata.
| From city center: | 4 km |
| Location: | Badridas Temple Street, Kolkata |
| Timings: | 6:00am to 10:00 am and 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm |
| Entry fees: | Rs. 200 |
25. Nicco Park
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 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. 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.
| From city center: | 6 km |
| Location: | Jheel Meel, Sector IV, Salt Lake City, Kolkata |
| Timings: | 10:30 am to 7:30 pm |
| Entry fees: | Rs. 200 to Rs. 650 |
26. Princep Ghat
Prinsep Ghat, situated along the banks of the River Hooghly, stands as a majestic structure from the British era, renowned for its Greek/Gothic embellishments. Especially enchanting during the night, this location in Kolkata is illuminated with dazzling lights, making it a prime destination for evening visits. Beyond its visual appeal, Prinsep Ghat serves as a popular spot for picnics, allowing families to enjoy quality time together. Embraced by verdant surroundings, it offers an ideal setting for invigorating evening strolls in a truly natural ambiance.
The area is also dotted with food stalls, featuring delicious Kolkata street food, including a renowned 50-year-old ice-cream cum fast-food joint cherished by youngsters and college students. Aside from picnics, visitors can engage in religious rituals, take a refreshing dip in the water, or partake in boating activities, contributing to its status as one of the finest places to visit in Kolkata near the airport.
| From city center: | 4 km |
| Location: | Near Fort William, Hastings |
| Timings: | 8:00 am to 8:00 pm |
| Entry fees: | None |
27. Aquatica
Aquatica is one of the largest water amusement parks in Eastern India 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. Aquatica is one of the best places to visit in Kolkata with friends where one can enjoy numerous thrilling rides and activities.
| From city center: | 10 km |
| Location: | Kochpukur, P.O Hatgachia, Near Rajarhat Township |
| Timings: | 10:00 am to 6:00 pm |
| Entry fees: | Rs. 450 to 550 for adults, and Rs. 300 for children |
28. Town Hall
Erected in 1814, the Town Hall stands as a meticulously preserved gem and a top-notch attraction in Kolkata. An architectural marvel, the structure of the Town Hall showcases hints of Roman Doric styles. This site houses statues and monuments dedicated to distinguished British warriors, queens, emperors, and captains. With historical significance linked to the British Raj era, the Town Hall served as a central venue for various social gatherings during that time. The building is distinguished by its thirty feet high ceiling and two-storey layout, adding to its historical charm and architectural allure.
| From city center: | 0 km |
| Location: | Esplanade Row West, Bbd Bagh |
| Timings: | 9:00 am to 5:00 pm |
| Entry fees: | Rs 10 for weekdays and Rs. 15 for weekends |
29. Park Street Cemetry
South Park Street Cemetery, now a Kolkata heritage site is an 18th-century non-church cemetery. It is one of the largest burial grounds and a heritage site in Kolkata and maintained by the Archaeological Survey Of India, the tombs here are very attractive and draw tourists in large numbers. It’s among the unique and haunted places to visit in Kolkata. The tomb architecture is a mix of Gothic and Indo Saracenic and while some tombs have a mystery, the other has a soothing vibe. The location has also been featured in many Bengali and Tollywood movies.
| From city center: | 3 km |
| Location: | 52, Park Street, Opp Assembly Of God Church |
| Timings: | 9:00 am to 5:00 pm |
| Entry fees: | None |
30. St. John’s Church
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 feature is its highlighting part. Visiting St.John’s is the best place for a spiritual escape in the city.
| From city center: | 1 km |
| Location: | 2/2, Council House Street, Opp Dewars Garage, Lal Dighi, BBD Bagh, |
| Timings: | 8:00 am to 5:00 pm |
| Entry fees: | None |
31. Central Park
Also known as Banabitan, Central Park is a public urban park. It is situated in Bidhannagar, Kolkata. Being a favourite hangout for lovers, the park has a rose garden that 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.
| From city center: | 5 km |
| Location: | Fourth Ave, Central Park, Sector III, Bidhannagar. |
| Timings: | 10:00 am to 5:30 pm |
| Entry fees: | Rs. 10 for adults and Rs. 5 for kids |
32. Dakshineswar Temple
Located in the Dakshineswar town of Kolkata, the Dakshineswar Kali Temple is a popular pilgrimage site dedicated to Goddess Kali. Built by Rani Rashmoni in 1855 who was a devotee of Goddess Kali, the Bhavatarini form means ‘she, who liberates her devotees from the ocean of existence’. 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 one of the holiest places in the city. It is also surrounded by some of the best cafes in Kolkata.
| From city center: | 9 km |
| Location: | Dakshineswar, Kolkata |
| Timings: | 6:00 am to 12:30 pm and3:00 pm to 8:30 pm |
| Entry fees: | None |
Conclusion
Kolkata’s diverse attractions cater to every traveler. Craving family fun? Explore palaces and parks. Yearning for romance? Sail down the Hooghly. Solo adventure? Dive into bustling markets and ancient temples. History whispers from every landmark, art bursts from vibrant streets, and culture seeps into your soul. Choose your journey, embrace the old-world charm, and redefine what “vacation” means. Uncover Kolkata’s layers of wonder – your remarkable adventure awaits.