Kolkata, India, is the third-largest city and a populous metropolis. It serves as the capital of the state of West Bengal and is located in eastern India. In historical periods, Kolkata was India’s former capital and a population center. The city’s rich cultural heritage is genuinely unique. It has been home to several prominent scholars and poets famous worldwide. With its rich history and iconic sights, Kolkata offers all travelers exploring the eastern part of India a wealth of places to explore.
Here is how you can reach Kolkata:
By Air: Kolkata is connected by air to all major cities in India and internationally. Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport is located within the city and offers numerous domestic and international flights daily. Travelers planning to visit Kolkata should have no trouble getting to Kolkata Airport without hassle.
By Rail: The best way to reach Kolkata is by traveling to Howrah Railway Station. This is a major railway station in eastern India and connects to all major Indian cities. From Howrah, you can connect to all parts of Kolkata.
By Road: Kolkata has a well-developed road system, making it easy to travel here from other states. You can travel from Delhi to Kolkata using NH19, which connects two major cities. Alternatively, you can also travel from Mumbai to Kolkata through NH53.
If you are a resident of Kolkata and want to explore Kolkata’s tourist attractions, here are some top tourist spots in Kolkata:
Victoria Memorial
The Victoria Memorial is an exquisite royal monument dedicated to Queen Victoria. This majestic edifice, entirely constructed from marble, presents Victoria Memorial in a resplendent and distinctive light, set against the lush exhibition grounds of the maidan. It is the grandest monument in the world erected in tribute to a monarch. Through the awe-inspiring fiscal artistry of collective India, Victoria Memorial is elevated to prime tourist destinations, among the finest places to visit in Kolkata. Victoria Memorial can be reached via both public and private transportation. Within the monument, a museum houses some of the Queen’s ancient artifacts. Furthermore, travelers can embark on a journey through the memorial’s gardens, beautifully gracing the verdant expanse. Victoria Memorial is open to the public daily from 10 AM to 5 PM. The entrance fee is INR 30 per person for Indian nationals and INR 300 for international visitors.
Indian Museum
Kolkata’s Indian Museum stands as one of the world’s top nine ancient museums. This museum boasts a remarkable collection and display that every tourist visiting Kolkata should behold. It is India’s largest museum, featuring various antiquities, armor and ornaments, fossils, mummies, and paintings, among numerous other treasures. The museum houses a myriad of items, from skeletal remains to coins, clothing, and the taxidermy of extinct species. To thoroughly explore the museum, you would need hours, paying meticulous attention to each section. Sculptures and temple structures centuries old, safeguarded by the museum, can also be witnessed. It is highly recommended to start early to fully appreciate each exhibit. The museum is open daily, except for Mondays, from 10 AM to 5 PM for visitors. The entrance fee is INR 10 for Indian nationals and INR 150 for foreign tourists.
Prinsep Ghat
Prinsep Ghat in Kolkata is situated along the banks of the Ganges River, offering a scenic view of the riverside. This location was constructed in 1841 in memory of the renowned Anglo-Indian scholar and antiquary James Prinsep. Designed by W. Fitzgerald, the monument continues to be one of Kolkata’s prominent tourist destinations. Prinsep Ghat provides an idyllic view of the Ganges and other Hooghly bridges. For those who wish to descend beneath the Princep Ghat, ample seating is available, enabling them to enjoy the riverside. The vicinity of the monument also offers delectable fast food, which entices tourists to Prinsep Ghat.
Alipur Natural Flora Garden
Alipur Natural Flora Garden stands as India’s most ancient wildlife sanctuary, and it’s regarded as one of Kolkata’s finest destinations for exploration. Established in 1876, this wildlife sanctuary spans a substantial 18.811 hectares (46.48 acres). Here, tourists arrive to witness all of the denizens. In this sanctuary, one can observe reptiles, fauna, avian species, and much more. Notably, it is home to significant creatures like the African lion, Asian lion, tiger, jaguar, sloth bear, Indian single-horned rhinoceros, and giraffe. Diverse avian wonders grace the park, including a type of parrot, shanku, lory, and lorikeets. Among other magnificent avian species are toucans and hornbills; splendidly hued game birds such as the golden pheasant, Lady Amherst’s pheasant, and the swinhoes pheasant are also part of this thriving menagerie. You can visit the Alipur Wildlife Sanctuary every day from 09:00 AM to 04:30 PM. The entrance fee is INR 30 per person.
Science City
Kolkata is known as the “Science City,” and it was the only city to witness its inauguration on July 1, 1997. Today, it stands as an essential attraction among Kolkata’s tourist destinations. Science City houses an exceptional science museum that explores the frontiers of science. Science City is divided into several sections, and even the park’s grounds have been transformed into an appealing labyrinth. You can participate in thrilling games within the park and witness daily events. When observing replicas of these extraordinary creatures, you are transported to the realm of dinosaurs through a safari, which is a unique attraction of Science City. If you have an interest in science and technology, Science City can be a splendid place for you. Additionally, this venue is renowned for its scientific collections, and you can gain ample important information there.
Bengal’s Local Cuisine
Kolkata is renowned for its captivating cuisine, which will leave you astounded. Bengal’s cuisine presents a beautiful tableau of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian delicacies. Kolkata’s street food is celebrated for its variety and taste. You can also choose the option of dining in some remarkable fine-dining restaurants for a few continental dishes. If you’re in Kolkata, we recommend a food walk in places like Park Street, Esplanade, Bada Bazaar, Vardaan Market, and Hindustan Park. You’ll come across an array of Western dishes, from American, Italian, French to British cuisine. The pocket pinch for street food is also minimal, allowing you to relish without budget concerns.
Delights of Bengal
Kolkata is renowned for its picturesque culinary panorama, poised to astonish the discerning palate. The gastronomy of Bengal paints a splendid picture, showcasing both vegetarian and non-vegetarian delicacies. The street food of Kolkata is acclaimed for its diversity and flavors. For those seeking continental cuisines, there’s the option of indulging in sumptuous dining at some extraordinary luxury restaurants.
If you happen to find yourself in Kolkata, we suggest embarking on a gastronomic journey across Park Street, the Esplanade, Bada Bazaar, Vardaan Market, and Hindustan Park. These locales are dotted with food havens catering to a plethora of Western cuisines, from American, Italian, French to British delicacies. Fear not the pocket pinch while savoring street food; it’s as budget-friendly as it is delectable.