Renowned as the ‘City of Joy’, Kolkata has no dearth of the remnants from the time of British Raj that were all about the grandeur of the Victorian-style architecture. Known for its culture, people, food, music, and literature, the city is also rich in its historical heritage. And to witness the charm of its architectural grandeur, head to these historical places in Kolkata that also form an essential part of the city’s tourism.
Top 18 Historical Places In Kolkata
While there are a lot of places to see in the city of joy, its historical attractions are the ones that you must explore first during your trip. Offering a glimpse of the city’s rich history and culture, these historical places in Kolkata are definitely worth a visit!
1. Victoria Memorial
Located in the heart of Kolkata, the Victoria Memorial was built in memory of Queen Victoria to celebrate her 25 years of rule over India. Known to be one of the famous historical places to visit in Kolkata, it is spread over 57 acres of land, housing 21 lush green gardens, 28,394 artefacts, and 3,900 artistic paintings. The intricate memorial not only bears testimony to the British rule in India but also stands out as an example of advanced and exceptional architecture.
Famous For: Exemplary architecture
Location: Victoria Memorial Hall, 1, Queen’s Way, Kolkata
Timings: 10 am to 5 pm
Entry Fee: INR 20 for Indians, and INR 200 for foreigners
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2. Fort William
The mighty edifice of Fort William is one of the famous historical sites in Kolkata. Built in the year 1696, the fort gets its name from King William III and is spread over 70.9 acres. Meticulous stonework adorns the surface of the building, and it took as long as ten years to complete it. Today, Fort William is the property of the Indian Army, and has a capacity of accommodating up to 10,000 army personnel.
Famous For: Its meticulous stonework
Location: Fort William, Hastings, Kolkata
Timings: 10 am to 5:30 pm
Entry Fee: Free Entry
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3. Howrah Bridge
The iconic landmark of the City of Joy, Howrah Bridge measures about 1500 ft long and 71 ft wide. Set majestically over the Hooghly River, it is one of the renowned historical places in Kolkata. There are a total of 8 lanes of road, bicycles, and pedestrians also known as Rabindra Setu. The Bridge is a massive steel structure which is considered as one of the longest cantilever bridges of its type in the world. It is also regarded as one of the busiest ones among them as it carries a daily traffic of over 100,000 vehicles and countless pedestrians. What makes this bridge unique is the fact that it was built without a single nut or bolt and is held together by rivets.
Famous For: Being one of the longest cantilever bridges in the world
Location: Jagganath Ghat, 1, Strand Road, Kolkata
Timings: NA
Entry Fee: Free entry
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4. Belur Math
There are many places of historical importance in Kolkata and Belur Math is the most famous one. Serving as a pilgrimage site, and the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission, it was established by Swami Vivekananda and the temple spans over forty acres of land on the west bank of the Hooghly River. The temple is noted for its excellent architecture, which skillfully and artistically fuses Hindu, Christian, and Islamic motifs together as a symbol of unity of all religions.
Famous For: Stunning architecture
Location: Belur, Howrah, West Bengal
Timings: 6 am to 11:30 am, and 4 pm to 7 pm
Entry Fee: Free Entry
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5. Marble Palace
Built in the 19th century, the Marble Palace in North Kolkata is one of the best renovated royal family palaces in India. This palatial mansion is one of the most visited historical places in Kolkata that bears testimony to fine artistic statues, sophisticated glassware, and striking paintings of illustrious artists from the time of the British Raj.
Famous For: Elegant Infrastructure
Location: 46, Muktaram Babu Street, Jorasanko, Kolkata
Timings: 10:30 am to 4 pm
Entry Fee: Free Entry
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6. Tagore’s House
For lovers of history and Bengali literature, the Jorasanko Thakur Bari or the Tagore’s House is one of the favorite historical places in Kolkata. The home of Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore’s house is now converted into a museum and there are about 700 paintings exhibited in this ancestral home. The museum also houses three different galleries, manuscripts, books, and other antique items.
Famous For: Birthplace of Rabindranath Tagore
Location: Girish Park, Chittaranjan Avenue, Kolkata
Timings: 10 am to 5 pm
Entry Fee: INR 10 per person, and INR 5 for students
7. Indian Museum
One of the prominent historical places near Kolkata is the Indian Museum which is considered as the ninth oldest museum of the world and largest in India. Popularly known as ‘Jadughar’, it unveils some of the finest collection of historical importance ranging from contemporary paintings, a sacred relic of Buddha to the Egyptian mummies. In addition to these, the Indian Museum also boasts of some of the most exquisite collections of ornaments, fossils, skeletons, antiques, armours, and stunning Mughal paintings.
Famous For: Exquisite collections of ornaments, antiques and things of historical importance
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
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8. Birla Planetarium
Kolkata’s Birla Planetarium is a circular shaped structure designed on the lines of Buddhist Stupa, and Sanchi styles that was established by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru in 1963. One of the most-visited historical places in India, this planetarium hosts a spectacular sky show which is screened every day. Interestingly, Birla Planetarium makes use of equipment which is quite old and is no longer used in the newer facilities.
Famous For: Largest planetarium in Asia
Location: Cathedral Road, near Victoria Memorial, Kolkata
Timings: 11 am to 7 pm
Entry Fee: INR 40 per person
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9. Prinsep Ghat
Of all the historical places near Kolkata, the Prinsep Ghat is one of the well-known attractions. This magnificent memorial is inspired by Greek, and Gothic styles of architecture, and is built along the banks of the Hooghly River. Considered to be one of the finest places to visit in Kolkata at night, the setu is lit with dazzling lights throughout the place which also serves as a popular picnic spot for all.
Famous For: Greek and Gothic style architecture
Location: Fort William, Hastings, Kolkata
Timings: 8 am to 8 pm
Entry Fee: Free Entry
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10. Shaheed Minar
Formerly known as the Ochterlony Monument, this 18th-century monument is one of the major points of interest in the city. It was erected in the bygone era to show gratitude to the martyrs who fought for the country’s independence. No doubt, this 48-meter high monument is a major landmark in the city and absolutely impossible for anyone to miss.
Famous For: Dedicated to the martyrs of Indian freedom movement
Location: Dharmtalla bus stop, Dufferin Road, Kolkata
Timings: 10 am to 5 pm
Entry Fee: Free Entry
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11. Dakshineswar Kali Temple
Image Credits: Aenic for Pexels
Kolkata is a destination that has some of the most stupendous architectural marvels hidden in its lap. One of such marvels is Dakshineswar Kali Temple that is not only known for its structure but also the old-world charm that it exudes. Sitting on the eastern banks of River Hooghly, Dakshineswar is dedicated to Goddess Bhavatarani, who happens to be the reincarnation of Goddess Kali. It is often believed that Goddess would help the devotees walk the path of liberation and aid them in achieving redemption. One can observe the Nava-Ratna style adorning this historic masterpiece in Kolkata.
Famous For: Its marvelous architecture
Location: Dakshineswar, Kolkata, West Bengal
Timings: 6 am to 12:30 pm
Entry Fee: Free entry
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12. Writers Building
Image Credits: Matt Stabile for Wikipedia
Every historic building in Kolkata, obviously, has an interesting historical fact attached to itself. And for Writers Building, that interesting fact is that it got its fame for being the first ever three storied building in Kolkata! The building got its name for being a residence of the junior writers that were a part of the East Indian Company. Construction of this building was started as early as 1690 and is popularly known as ‘Mahakarn’. This is the place where the important documents and records of the Government of West Bengal are archived. Undoubtedly, it is one of the most prominent amongst the many Kolkata historical places.
Famous For: Collection of important historical documents
Location: Binoy Badal Dinesh Bag N, B.B.D. Bagh, Kolkata
Timings: 8 am to 6 pm
Entry Fee: Free Entry
13. Town Hall
Image Credits: Sujay25 for Wikipedia
When it comes to historical or heritage buildings in Kolkata, Town Hall is one of the top names that come in mind of many. This structural marvel is the finest example of colonial architecture that is spread all across the city. Apart from being a treat for the eyes, this structure also has a historical significance latched to itself. It was in Town Hall that some of the most important meetings and gatherings were held during the British era. One can witness these meetings being painted on the walls. The Doric style architecture has surely made its impact on the Indian minds.
Famous For: Exquisite colonial architecture
Location: Esplanade Row W, B.B.D. Bagh, Kolkata, West Bengal 700001
Timings: 10 am to 5 pm
Entry Fee: Free Entry
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14. Nizam Palace
Image Credits:Gonzo Goone for Wikipedia
Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.
Initially named as ‘Galstaun Park’, Nizam Palace is among those historical places in Kolkata that is standing tall, strong, and proud for centuries now. Constructed in the early years of the 19th century, Nizam Palace was visited by the famous King Edward VIII. This Palace has witnessed a lot of history. It was once used as a hospital when World War II was being fought. This Palace was built under the command of J.C. Galstaun as a tribute to his lovely wife and then named it ‘Galstaun Park’ in the year 1933.
Famous For: Its historical background; built under the command of J.C. Galstaun as a tribute to his wife.
Location: 236, Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Rd, Sreepally, Bhowanipore, Kolkata
Timings: 10 am to 10 pm
Entry Fee: INR 65 per person
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15. Botanical Gardens
Image Credits: Biswarup Ganguly for Wikipedia
Botanical Gardens offer the perfect blend of natural and historical vibes to visitors. Also named as the Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Botanical Garden, this reserve is spread over 109 hectares of land and is home to around 1200 species of plants. Built in the 18th century, this Garden is home to a massive banyan tree that acts as a perfect canopy to beat the summer heat. One can observe a million dried specimens of plants and trees from various corners of the world. There are also an orchid house with several types of orchids preserved in it.
Famous For: Lush greenery and rich flora
Location:Shibpur, Howrah, West Bengal
Timings: NA
Entry Fee:INR 10 per person
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16. Eden Gardens
Image Credits: JokerDurden for Wikipedia
This historical place in Kolkata calls out to all the cricket fans out there in the country. Eden Gardens happens to be the oldest cricket stadium that is still standing proud. In the year 1864, Eden Gardens was considered as the first cricket stadium of the country. Set by the British during 1841, Eden Gardens is one of the most important historical marvels that is sitting on the floor of Kolkata. It is not only the oldest but also the biggest stadium in the country and can hold around 80,000 people at one time.
Famous For: Oldest cricket stadium
Location: Maidan, B.B.D. Bagh, Kolkata
Timings: NA
Entry Fee: Prices start at INR 400
17. Birla Temple
Image Credits: Ankur P for Wikipedia
Owned by G.D. Birla, Birla Temples are spread all over the country and attract pilgrims from various corners. One such Birla temple is located in Kolkata and has now become a historically significant marvel. Birla temple is one of the most revered temples in Kolkata. Dedicated to Lord Lakshmi Narayana, the construction of this temple started in the year 1970 and took approximately 26 years to complete. Built completely in white marble, this eye-catching structure is around 160 ft tall. The perfect blend of spirituality and the architectural beauty can easily be embraced in this idyllic spot.
Famous For: Remarkable & eye-pleasing architectural design
Location: 29, Ashutosh Chowdary Ave, Ballygunge, Kolkata
Timings: 5:30 am to 11 am and 4:30 pm to 9 pm
Entry Fee: Free entry
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18. St. Paul’s Cathedral
Image Credits: Ankitesh Jha for Wikipedia
St. Paul’s Church is another one of the historical places in Kolkata that is a must visit. It is one of the most awe-inspiring churches in Kolkata. Also known as the first Eposcopal Church of the Eastern World, this beauty is around 247 feet tall and leaves the jaws dropped to the ground. The building was inaugurated in the year 1847 and is considered as one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture. The best time to visit this marvel is during Christmas when the building lights up and the festivities are at a full swing.
Famous For: A fine example of Gothic architecture
Location: Cathedral Rd, Maidan, Kolkata
Timings: 9 am to 12 pm, 3 pm to 6 pm
Entry Fee: Free entry
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Dreaming of a vacation already? Plan your holiday in Kolkata and witness the charm of these historical places in Kolkata to relish the true essence of the City of Joy. All of these places will surely leave you in awe of craftsmanship from a bygone Era!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Historical Places In Kolkata
Which are the top historical food places in Kolkata?
Tiretta Bazaar at the Sun Yat Sen Street, Nahoum & Sons Jewish Bakery in the New Market, Gangurams in the Bow Bazaar, and Peter Cat in Park Street are some of the top places to eat in the city of joy.
Which are the best historical sites near Kolkata?
While there are many significant historical sites in and around Kolkata. The best ones are - Kolkata Gateway and Hooghly Imambara. They are certainly the best places to visit near the city for treating the history buff within.
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