Kolkata (Calcutta), or Calcutta as it’s more commonly known, boasts many historical places of interest that are well worth visiting – from Princep Ghat and Eden Gardens to Writer’s Building and so much more.
Fort William is one of the city’s landmarks and was completed in 1696 to commemorate King William III.
Shaheed Minar
Shaheed Minar stands as an architectural masterpiece of Kolkata that will leave visitors breathless with its breathtaking 247 foot tower, which will leave anyone speechless. Don’t miss it; its beauty will leave an indelible mark.
Shaheed Minar or Martyrs’ Monument was initially constructed to commemorate Sir David Ochterlony and originally known as Ochterlony Monument before later changing to Shaheed Minar or Martyrs’ Monument as it has since become part of Kolkata culture and an icon. Situated within Esplanade neighborhood, Shaheed Minar has become an integral symbol for Kolkata.
At present, the monument is currently undergoing restoration and will open for visitors to admire upon its completion. Meanwhile, you can enjoy its mesmerizing beauty as you wander its peaceful surroundings. This historical location is also well-known for being peaceful.
Victoria Memorial
Victoria Memorial stands as one of the city’s premier heritage spots and was constructed to honour Queen Victoria’s rule over India. Though situated along Chowringhee Road – known for its traffic congestion and honking of horns – once you enter its grounds it transports you into another realm altogether.
The sparkling white building sits amidst 64 acres of gardens. While its architecture echoes contemporary British civic classicalism, there are also deliberate Eastern references present within.
Home to some of the finest collections of paintings, lithographs and historical documents; in addition to this there is also a gallery featuring national leaders’ pictures as well as several items associated with Indian freedom fighters.
Jorasanko Thakur Bari
Kolkata is home to numerous heritage buildings, among them is Jorasanko Thakur Bari, where Rabindranath Tagore was born and lived out his life, along with his two sons Gaganendranath and Abanindranath who founded the Bengal School of Art.
Housed within Rabindra Bharati University, this house now serves as a museum. Comprising three galleries that showcase different aspects of Rabindranath Tagore’s life; two others honor other notable Bengalis (such as his family or other stalwarts of Bengal); the first gallery focuses on Tagore while others showcase family or other important figures from Bengal.
Rabindra Bharti Museum in Kolkata is one of the top historical destinations to see, especially if you enjoy his literary works and Bengali culture.
Birla Planetarium
Birla Planetarium in Kolkata is one of the most fascinating and educational places to visit, providing both students and adults alike with invaluable information regarding planets and their threats directly from NASA. This interactive facility displays updated positions of planets as well as threats through live data feeds directly.
This circular edifice is loosely inspired by Sanchi Stupa and stands as one of Kolkata’s most distinctive landmarks. Visitors to Kolkata often come here to witness its daily sky show!
Dakshineswar Kali Temple is an iconic shrine dedicated to Goddess Kali that draws devotees from across India. The intricate architecture is absolutely captivating and captures old-world charm perfectly; making this an excellent spot for photography enthusiasts and enthusiasts.
Rabindra Setu
No visit to Kolkata would be complete without visiting the Howrah Bridge (Rabindra Setu). Dating back 76 years and constructed over the Hooghly River, this architectural marvel stands as one of the city’s premier historical attractions. Notably designed without bolts or nuts – which makes this remarkable piece of engineering truly iconic!
The Victoria Memorial was constructed to remember Queen Victoria, making it a beloved and memorable tourist destination in the city. Constructed of white marble, this iconic memorial stands amid beautiful gardens and features an opulent museum.
The Indian Museum, established in 1814, is one of the world’s nine oldest and largest multipurpose museums. A treasure trove of historic objects and artifacts such as contemporary paintings, ancient sculptures, and sacred relics of Buddha await visitors here.
