Kolkata, fondly called the “City of Joy,” is a treasure trove of history, culture, and cuisine. From colonial landmarks to bustling markets, this city offers an experience like no other. In this article, we’ll guide you through the first five of Kolkata’s top attractions, complete with travel tips, ticket details, and local dining recommendations.

1. Victoria Memorial

Description: A stunning white marble monument surrounded by lush gardens, the Victoria Memorial is one of Kolkata’s most iconic landmarks. It houses a museum with British-era artifacts and paintings.
History: Built between 1906 and 1921 in memory of Queen Victoria, the memorial was designed by Sir William Emerson in Indo-Saracenic Revival style.
Google Maps Link: Victoria Memorial
Official Website: Victoria Memorial Official
Ticket Prices:
– Garden Entry: ₹20.
– Museum Entry: ₹30 (Indians), ₹500 (Foreigners).
Opening Hours:
– Gardens: 5:30 am – 6:15 pm (Daily).
– Museum: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm (Closed on Mondays).
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Maidan or Rabindra Sadan Stations (North-South Line).
– By taxi or bus.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Peter Cat – Famous for its Chelo Kebab.
– Flurys – Known for its breakfast platters and pastries.
Additional Tips: Visit during the evening for a serene stroll in the gardens, and don’t miss the light and sound show.

2. Howrah Bridge

Description: A cantilever bridge spanning the Hooghly River, the Howrah Bridge is an engineering marvel and a lifeline for Kolkata’s commuters. It offers breathtaking views, especially at sunset.
History: Inaugurated in 1943, the bridge was constructed to replace an earlier pontoon bridge. It’s one of the busiest bridges in the world.
Google Maps Link: Howrah Bridge
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices: Free entry (pedestrian access allowed).
Opening Hours: Open 24/7.
Travel Options:
– By Train: Howrah Junction Station.
– By bus, taxi, or ferry.
Nearby Restaurants:
– The Bhoj Company – Specializes in authentic Bengali cuisine like Prawn Malai Curry.
– Aaheli – Known for its traditional thalis.
Additional Tips: Visit early in the morning to see the bustling flower market nearby, or take a ferry ride for panoramic views.

3. Dakshineswar Kali Temple

Description: A revered Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, Dakshineswar is a spiritual haven on the banks of the Hooghly River. Its architecture is both grand and serene.
History: Built in 1855 by Rani Rashmoni, a philanthropist and devotee of Kali, the temple is associated with the famous saint Ramakrishna Paramahamsa.
Google Maps Link: Dakshineswar Kali Temple
Official Website: Dakshineswar Temple
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours:
– Summer: 5:00 am – 12:30 pm, 3:00 pm – 8:30 pm.
– Winter: 6:00 am – 12:30 pm, 3:00 pm – 8:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Dakshineswar Station.
– By taxi or ferry from Belur Math.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Suhana Restaurant – Offers North Indian and Chinese dishes.
– Bhojohori Manna – Known for Bengali classics like Kosha Mangsho.
Additional Tips: Combine your visit with a trip to Belur Math, located nearby across the river.

4. Indian Museum

Description: India’s largest and oldest museum, housing a diverse collection of artifacts, from Egyptian mummies to ancient sculptures and fossils.
History: Founded in 1814, the museum reflects Kolkata’s colonial legacy and serves as an important center for education and research.
Google Maps Link: Indian Museum
Official Website: Indian Museum Official
Ticket Prices:
– Indians: ₹50.
– Foreigners: ₹500.
Opening Hours:
– Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm.
– Closed on Mondays.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Park Street Station (North-South Line).
– By taxi or bus.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Mocambo – Famous for continental dishes like Devilled Crab.
– Arsalan – Renowned for its biryanis.
Additional Tips: Allocate 2–3 hours for a thorough visit, and bring your camera for capturing the fascinating exhibits.

5. Belur Math

Description: The headquarters of the Ramakrishna Mission, Belur Math is a tranquil retreat known for its unique architecture, blending Hindu, Christian, and Islamic motifs.
History: Established in 1898 by Swami Vivekananda, the math is a tribute to his guru, Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, and promotes universal brotherhood.
Google Maps Link: Belur Math
Official Website: Belur Math Official
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours:
– March to September: 6:00 am – 11:30 am, 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm.
– October to February: 6:30 am – 11:30 am, 3:30 pm – 6:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By Ferry: From Dakshineswar or Kolkata’s ghats.
– By taxi or Metro (Belur Station).
Nearby Restaurants:
– Chhota Bristol – Known for its snacks and local drinks.
– Kasturi Restaurant – Serves flavorful Bengali curries.
Additional Tips: Attend the evening aarti (prayer) for a peaceful experience.

Travel Tips:

Best Time to Visit: October to March is ideal, with pleasant weather for exploring both indoor and outdoor attractions.
Local Cuisine to Try: Bengali sweets like rasgulla, mishti doi, and dishes like macher jhol (fish curry) and shorshe ilish (hilsa in mustard sauce).
Transportation: Kolkata’s Metro, taxis, and app-based cabs like Uber are reliable and affordable.

6. Marble Palace

Description: A 19th-century mansion showcasing intricate marble interiors, priceless artifacts, and an eclectic collection of paintings and sculptures.
History: Built in 1835 by Raja Rajendra Mullick, a wealthy Bengali merchant, the Marble Palace remains a private residence but allows guided tours of certain areas.
Google Maps Link: Marble Palace
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices: Free entry (permission required from West Bengal Tourism).
Opening Hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm.
– Closed on Sundays and national holidays.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Girish Park Station (Line 1).
– By taxi or auto-rickshaw.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Chitto Babur Dokan – Known for its Kolkata-style mutton chops and cutlets.
– Putiram Sweets – Offers traditional Bengali sweets like sandesh and pantua.
Additional Tips: Photography is not allowed inside. Wear comfortable footwear as the mansion has extensive grounds.

7. Prinsep Ghat

Description: A picturesque riverside promenade along the Hooghly River, Prinsep Ghat is famous for its colonial-style pavilion and scenic views of the Vidyasagar Setu.
History: Built in 1843 in honor of James Prinsep, an English scholar and antiquary, the ghat served as a key location during the British era for leisure and public events.
Google Maps Link: Prinsep Ghat
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours: Open 24/7 (best visited during sunrise or sunset).
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Maidan Station (Line 1).
– By taxi or bus.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Scooter’s Café – Known for its cozy ambiance and finger foods.
– Cafe Ekante – Offers a blend of Bengali and continental dishes.
Additional Tips: Take a boat ride on the Hooghly River for stunning views of the sunset and nearby bridges.

8. Eden Gardens

Description: Known as the “Mecca of Cricket,” Eden Gardens is one of the most iconic cricket stadiums in the world and a must-visit for sports enthusiasts.
History: Established in 1864, Eden Gardens has hosted numerous historic matches and is considered the oldest cricket stadium in India.
Google Maps Link: Eden Gardens
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices:
– Match tickets: Vary by event (starting from ₹500).
– Guided tours: Available through local operators.
Opening Hours: Open during matches and events only.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Esplanade Station (Line 1).
– By taxi or bus.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Bar-B-Q – Known for its Indian and Chinese fusion dishes.
– Nizam’s – Famous for Kolkata’s iconic kati rolls.
Additional Tips: Check the match schedule in advance and arrive early to avoid queues.

9. St. Paul’s Cathedral

Description: A stunning Gothic Revival-style cathedral known for its beautiful stained-glass windows and tranquil atmosphere.
History: Completed in 1847, St. Paul’s Cathedral is the first Episcopal Church in Asia and a symbol of Kolkata’s colonial heritage.
Google Maps Link: St. Paul’s Cathedral
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm, 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm.
– Sunday: Closed during services (open for visitors post-service).
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Maidan Station (Line 1).
– By taxi or walking from Victoria Memorial.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Flurys – Known for its breakfast spreads and pastries.
– Mocambo – Famous for continental dishes like baked Alaska.
Additional Tips: Visit during Christmas to see the cathedral beautifully illuminated and decorated.

10. Science City

Description: A fun-filled, interactive science museum featuring exhibits, a space theater, and an outdoor park with ropeways. It’s a perfect spot for families and children.
History: Opened in 1997, Science City is the largest science center in the Indian subcontinent and is run by the National Council of Science Museums.
Google Maps Link: Science City
Official Website: Science City Kolkata
Ticket Prices:
– General Entry: ₹60.
– Space Theater: ₹80 (additional).
– Combo Tickets: ₹120.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 9:00 am – 8:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Salt Lake Sector V (East-West Line), then a short taxi ride.
– By taxi or bus.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Oh! Calcutta – Renowned for its upscale Bengali cuisine.
– 6 Ballygunge Place – Offers an excellent buffet with regional flavors.
Additional Tips: Plan for a half-day visit to explore all the interactive exhibits and outdoor activities.

Travel Tips:

Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon visits are ideal for open-air attractions like Prinsep Ghat and Marble Palace, while Science City is perfect for daytime exploration.
Local Cuisine to Try: Don’t miss Kolkata’s iconic kati rolls, fish curry, and sandesh.
Transportation: Use Kolkata Metro or app-based cabs for convenient travel between attractions.

11. Kalighat Kali Temple

Description: A revered Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, Kalighat is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas and a key religious site in Kolkata.
History: Believed to have been established in the 16th century, the temple has been rebuilt and renovated over the years. It’s said to mark the spot where Sati’s toes fell during Shiva’s Tandava dance.
Google Maps Link: Kalighat Kali Temple
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices: Free entry (donations appreciated).
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 5:00 am – 2:00 pm, 5:00 pm – 10:30 pm.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Kalighat Station (Line 1).
– By taxi or bus.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Sharma Tea House – Known for kachori and tea.
– Mitra Café – Offers classic fish cutlets and chops.
Additional Tips: Avoid visiting during weekends to escape long queues and crowds.

12. Mother House (Missionaries of Charity)

Description: The final resting place of Mother Teresa, the Mother House is a place of peace and reflection. It also houses a small museum showcasing her life and work.
History: Founded in 1950 by Mother Teresa, the Missionaries of Charity operates worldwide to help the poor and sick. The Mother House remains the headquarters of the organization.
Google Maps Link: Mother House
Official Website: Missionaries of Charity
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm, 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm.
– Closed on Sundays and holidays.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Park Street Station (Line 1).
– By taxi or walking.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Blue Sky Café – Known for budget-friendly continental and Indian dishes.
– Park Street Café – Offers quick bites and refreshing beverages.
Additional Tips: Spend time reading the letters and artifacts displayed in the museum to understand Mother Teresa’s mission.

13. Birla Planetarium

Description: Known as the “Taramandal,” this planetarium offers an engaging experience with its astronomy shows, interactive exhibits, and impressive dome structure.
History: Inaugurated in 1963 by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, the Birla Planetarium is one of Asia’s largest and oldest planetariums.
Google Maps Link: Birla Planetarium
Official Website: MP Birla Planetarium
Ticket Prices:
– General Admission: ₹80.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 12:00 pm – 6:30 pm (shows every hour).
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Maidan or Rabindra Sadan Stations (Line 1).
– By taxi or walking from St. Paul’s Cathedral.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Au Bon Pain – Offers sandwiches and pastries.
– Peter Cat – Known for its iconic Chelo Kebabs.
Additional Tips: Arrive early to secure seats, as the shows can get crowded, especially during weekends.

14. New Market (Sir Stuart Hogg Market)

Description: A bustling shopping hub offering everything from clothing and jewelry to spices and local handicrafts. It’s a paradise for bargain hunters and souvenir seekers.
History: Opened in 1874, New Market was initially a shopping space for the British elite in colonial India. Today, it’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Google Maps Link: New Market
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 10:00 am – 8:30 pm.
– Closed on Sundays.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Esplanade Station (Line 1).
– By taxi or bus.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Nahoum and Sons Bakery – Famous for plum cakes and savory pastries.
– Mitra Café – Offers delicious Mughlai dishes.
Additional Tips: Bring cash for better deals, as most vendors do not accept cards.

15. Alipore Zoological Gardens

Description: One of India’s oldest zoos, Alipore Zoological Gardens is home to a wide variety of animals, birds, and reptiles, making it a great spot for families.
History: Established in 1875, the zoo gained fame for housing Aldabra tortoise Adwaita, believed to have lived over 250 years.
Google Maps Link: Alipore Zoological Gardens
Official Website: Alipore Zoo
Ticket Prices:
– Adults: ₹30.
– Children: ₹10.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm.
– Closed on Thursdays.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Rabindra Sadan Station (Line 1), followed by a short taxi ride.
– By bus or taxi.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Deckle Edge – Known for its multi-cuisine options.
– The Tollygunge Club – Offers a luxurious dining experience.
Additional Tips: Visit during winter to enjoy the zoo in pleasant weather, and avoid peak holiday seasons to escape large crowds.

Travel Tips:

Best Time to Visit: Morning hours are ideal for Alipore Zoo and Kalighat Temple, while New Market comes alive in the evenings.
Local Cuisine to Try: Plum cakes, kati rolls, and Kolkata-style fish curry.
Transportation: Use the Metro for quick access to central locations, and consider app-based cabs for more flexibility.

16. Eco Park

Description: A sprawling urban park featuring lush greenery, a boating lake, and replicas of world landmarks, Eco Park is a popular destination for leisure and family outings.
History: Opened in 2012, the park was developed by the Government of West Bengal to promote eco-tourism and provide recreational space for residents and tourists.
Google Maps Link: Eco Park
Official Website: Eco Park Official
Ticket Prices:
– Entry Fee: ₹30.
– Activities like boating and cycling have additional charges.
Opening Hours:
– Tuesday to Sunday: 12:00 pm – 8:30 pm.
– Closed on Mondays.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: New Garia-Airport Line (proposed station nearby).
– By taxi or app-based cabs.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Bhoomi – Known for traditional Bengali thalis.
– Cafe Ekante – Offers lakeside dining with a mix of Bengali and continental dishes.
Additional Tips: Visit in the late afternoon to enjoy the sunset and the illuminated replicas at night.

17. South Park Street Cemetery

Description: A serene and historical cemetery featuring Gothic-style tombs and monuments, South Park Street Cemetery is a peaceful retreat for history buffs and photographers.
History: Established in 1767, the cemetery is one of the earliest non-church cemeteries in the world and holds the graves of prominent colonial figures.
Google Maps Link: South Park Street Cemetery
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices: Free entry (donations appreciated).
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Park Street Station (Line 1).
– By taxi or walking.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Arsalan – Renowned for its biryanis.
– Mocambo – Offers a mix of Indian and continental cuisine.
Additional Tips: Carry a camera and visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.

18. Nicco Park

Description: Known as the “Disneyland of West Bengal,” Nicco Park is an amusement park offering thrilling rides, a water park, and family-friendly attractions.
History: Opened in 1991, Nicco Park was one of India’s first amusement parks and continues to be a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike.
Google Maps Link: Nicco Park
Official Website: Nicco Park Official
Ticket Prices:
– Entry Fee: ₹300 (Basic).
– Combo Packages: ₹700–₹1,500 for rides and water park access.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 10:30 am – 7:30 pm.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Salt Lake Sector V Station (East-West Line).
– By taxi or bus.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Barbeque Nation – Known for its buffet spreads.
– Afra Tafri – Offers casual dining with a variety of Indian and international dishes.
Additional Tips: Visit on weekdays to avoid long queues for rides.

19. Nakhoda Mosque

Description: A grand mosque featuring intricate Islamic architecture and a peaceful prayer hall, Nakhoda Mosque is a spiritual and architectural marvel.
History: Built in 1926 by Abdar Rahim Osman, a wealthy merchant from Gujarat, the mosque is inspired by the mausoleum of Akbar in Agra.
Google Maps Link: Nakhoda Mosque
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 6:00 am – 10:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Central Station (Line 1).
– By taxi or walking from Burrabazar.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Karim’s Kolkata – Famous for Mughlai dishes like kebabs and biryanis.
– Aminia – Renowned for Kolkata-style biryani and rezala.
Additional Tips: Wear modest clothing and avoid visiting during prayer times to respect worshippers.

20. Rabindra Sarobar

Description: A tranquil lake surrounded by greenery, Rabindra Sarobar is a popular spot for morning walks, boating, and birdwatching.
History: Developed in the early 20th century, Rabindra Sarobar is named after the Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore and serves as a key recreational area in Kolkata.
Google Maps Link: Rabindra Sarobar
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices: Free entry (charges for boating apply).
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 5:00 am – 9:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Rabindra Sarobar Station (Line 1).
– By taxi or bus.
Nearby Restaurants:
– South Indian Club Canteen – Known for authentic dosas and idlis.
– Lake Kalibari Sweets – Famous for Bengali sweets like rasgulla and sandesh.
Additional Tips: Visit early morning for a serene atmosphere and to catch the best views of migratory birds.

Travel Tips:

Best Time to Visit: Visit Rabindra Sarobar and Eco Park in the early morning or evening for cooler weather. Nicco Park is best explored during weekdays for shorter wait times.
Local Cuisine to Try: Mughlai kebabs, Kolkata biryani, and Bengali sweets like sandesh.
Transportation: Use the Metro for central locations and taxis for reaching farther attractions like Eco Park.