The Victoria Memorial Hall is a famous museum and tourist attraction of Kolkata built to commemorate Queen Victoria's 25-year reign in India. This white marbled structure is surrounded by lush green gardens and exhibits many interesting artifacts from British India, including books, paintings, sculptures, and arms. A visit to this place is a must, especially for those who like to delve into history and witness India's colonial past.
The Indian Museum of Kolkata is one of the oldest museums of its kind in the world. It is a vast treasure house of artifacts, antiques, and exhibits. The collection ranges from rare fossils to Mughal paintings, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to Chinese porcelain. The museum has a very informative audio guide that provides an exciting insight into the objects displayed. Visitors are advised to set aside 2-3 hours for this museum.
The Howrah Bridge is an iconic symbol of Kolkata, and the entry point to Howrah from Kolkata. This steel cantilever bridge spans across the Hooghly River and connects Howrah to Kolkata. The best time to view the bridge is in the evening when it is illuminated, and the view of the city and river is fantastic. A stroll on the bridge is a buzzing and mesmerizing experience as it gives a glimpse into the lives of locals who frequent it every day.
The Dakshineswar Kali Temple is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to goddess Kali. Located on the banks of the river Ganges, it is one of the largest and most visited temples in Kolkata. The temple's architecture is fascinating, and its intricate carvings and sculptures are delightful to look at. Visitors can take a dip in the river to cleanse their sins and get the temple's blessings. A trip to Kolkata cannot be complete without visiting this beautiful temple.
If you have more time, you can include the following places: St. Paul's Cathedral, Marble Palace, Park Street, Science City. For those planning to stay longer, you can visit the Sunderban National Park or Bishnupur's Terracotta temples. If you are short on time, you can skip the Indian Museum. However, if you are a history buff, you can skip the Howrah Bridge and instead visit the Belur Math Ramakrishna Mission.