(This blog is for informational purposes. Travel timings, ticket prices, and facilities may change. Please check official sources before visiting.)
Kolkata, often called the “City of Joy”, is one of the most beautiful and historic cities in India. From grand colonial buildings to colorful temples, street food to art galleries—this city has something for everyone.
If you are planning a trip, you might wonder: What are the best places to visit in Kolkata? What are the top things to do in Kolkata? Don’t worry! In this blog, we will guide you through the most popular Kolkata tourist places, easy enough for beginners and families to enjoy.
Top Tourist Places to Visit in Kolkata
1. Victoria Memorial
- A white marble monument built in memory of Queen Victoria.
- Surrounded by gardens and fountains.
- Inside, you will find paintings, books, and old artifacts.
👉 Perfect for history lovers and photography.
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM (Closed on Mondays)
2. Howrah Bridge
- An engineering marvel and one of the busiest bridges in the world.
- Connects Howrah to Kolkata.
- Best viewed at night when it lights up.
👉 A must-see landmark and one of the best places to visit in Kolkata for couples and families.
3. Dakshineswar Kali Temple
- Dedicated to Goddess Kali.
- Built in the 19th century on the banks of the Hooghly River.
- Known for its large courtyard and peaceful atmosphere.
👉 Visit early in the morning to avoid the rush.
4. Kalighat Temple
- One of the Shakti Peethas in India.
- A very sacred place for devotees of Goddess Kali.
- Often crowded, but filled with devotion and energy.
5. Indian Museum
- The largest and oldest museum in India.
- Houses mummies, fossils, coins, and beautiful art.
- A fun place for children and families.
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
6. Science City
- A modern science park with interactive exhibits.
- Ropeways, 3D shows, and a space theater.
- Great for kids, students, and curious minds.
7. Birla Planetarium
- Modeled after the St. Paul’s Cathedral in London.
- Shows about stars, planets, and space science.
- Available in English, Hindi, and Bengali.
8. Eco Park
- A huge urban park with lakes, gardens, and cycling tracks.
- You can go boating, ice-skating, or just relax with family.
- A modern addition to the city.
9. Mother House (Missionaries of Charity)
- Home of Mother Teresa and her resting place.
- A peaceful place where you can learn about her life and work.
10. Park Street
- Famous for its restaurants, bakeries, and nightlife.
- During Christmas, the whole street is decorated with lights.
- A must-visit for foodies and music lovers.
Other Famous Places in Kolkata Worth Visiting
- St. Paul’s Cathedral – Beautiful Gothic church.
- Marble Palace – Rich mansion with art collections.
- Alipore Zoo – Great for kids and families.
- Prinsep Ghat – Riverside view with evening boat rides.
- Botanical Garden – Home to the Great Banyan Tree.
Best Things to Do in Kolkata
1. Try Kolkata Street Food
- Puchkas (pani puri), kathi rolls, mishti doi, rasgulla.
- Park Street and College Street are top food hubs.
- Find the best bakery in Kolkata for the tasy cakes.
2. Ride the Tram
- Kolkata is the only Indian city with trams still running.
- A slow but charming way to explore the city.
3. Visit College Street Book Market
- Asia’s largest book market.
- You can find rare books and second-hand gems.
- Stop at the Indian Coffee House nearby.
4. Watch a Cricket Match at Eden Gardens
- Known as the “Mecca of Indian cricket”.
- If there’s a match, don’t miss the electric atmosphere.
5. Take a Hooghly River Cruise
- Evening cruises with music and food.
- Offers beautiful views of the city skyline.
Best Time to Visit Kolkata
October to March – Pleasant weather, perfect for sightseeing.
- Winter (Dec–Jan) is great for outdoor events and food festivals.
- Avoid heavy rains during monsoon (July–Sept).
Travel Tips for Visitors
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
- Carry a water bottle—Kolkata can get hot.
- Try public transport like metro, tram, and yellow taxis.
- Respect local traditions when visiting temples.
FAQs About Kolkata Tourist Places
Q1: What is Kolkata famous for?
Kolkata is famous for its culture, literature, Durga Puja festival, sweets, and colonial buildings.
Q2: Which is the No. 1 tourist place in Kolkata?
Victoria Memorial is considered the top tourist attraction in Kolkata.
Q3: How many days are enough for a Kolkata trip?
2–3 days are enough to cover the main attractions.
Q4: Is Kolkata safe for tourists?
Yes, Kolkata is generally safe, but like all big cities, take basic safety measures.
Q5: Which is the best thing to buy in Kolkata?
You can buy sweets, books, sarees, handicrafts, and tea.
Final Thoughts
Kolkata is more than just a city; it’s an experience. From the historic Victoria Memorial to the modern Eco Park, from spiritual temples to busy food streets, there are countless places to visit in Kolkata.
👉 If you are looking for culture, food, and history all in one, Kolkata should be on your travel list. Whether you are a family, couple, or solo traveler, the City of Joy has something special for everyone.
