Top 3 Places in Kolkata -

Top 3 Places in Kolkata

Best Tour Place in Kolkata: From Culture to Charm

Welcome to Kolkata, not just the former capital of India, but an emotion in itself. As soon as you step into Kolkata, you will feel a different kind of warmth in the air from the friendly smiles of locals to the comforting aroma of fresh fish curry and roadside cha (tea). Once you enter this city, you’ll find every street humming with poetry, politics, and the smell of fresh telebhaja, the tangy aroma of fuchka, jhal-muri, Rasogolla (Sweet) and street-side addas (chit-chats) over countless cups of cha (tea). Think of trams slowly gliding past colonial buildings and vibrant Durga Puja pandals lighting up narrow lanes.

You will experience the lively culture, warm people, and a charming spirit that finds happiness in everyday moments, even when times are tough. It’s about the enduring optimism and zest for life you feel everywhere here, and that’s why Kolkata is also known as the “City of Joy.” Whether you’re a history lover, a foodie, a spiritual seeker, or someone who just enjoys exploring new cultures, Kolkata has something magical waiting for you. In this blog, I’ll take you on a virtual tour of the best tour places in Kolkata that truly capture the soul of the city – from majestic monuments and ancient temples to peaceful river ghats and buzzing street life.

So, let’s begin our virtual tour through the “City of Joy.”

Victoria Memorial – Where History Meets Elegance

If there’s one place that truly defines the elegance of Kolkata, it’s the Victoria Memorial. Standing tall in white marble against the backdrop of blue skies and green gardens, this iconic monument feels like stepping into a page of history. This was built between 1906 and 1921, the architecture is the blend of British Renaissance, Saracenic, and Mughal elements inspired from Taj Mahal. It was dedicated to Queen Victoria, but today, it belongs to everyone who loves beauty.

As you walk through the grand entrance, you’ll be greeted by sprawling lawns, artistic fountains, and the peaceful chirping of birds and squirrels. Inside, the museum showcases rare paintings, sculptures, colonial-era photographs, and personal belongings of the British Raj. Even if you’re not a history buff, the calm atmosphere and stunning architecture make it a perfect spot to relax and take in the grandeur.

Important:

Opening Time 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM Tuesday to Sunday.

Closed On Monday and designated national holidays.

And do not forget the evening light and sound show called “Kolkata the City of Joy”. It adds a magical touch to the already dreamy vibe of the place. The show occured every Tuesday to Sunday from 6.30pm at Victoria Memorial hall In this show you will know about Kolkata’s history, culture, sports, cinema etc. On Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday in Bengali language, Thursday and Saturday in Hindi and in English on Wednesday.

And do not miss the evening light and sound show called Kolkata The City of Joy. I experienced it during my visit, and it truly brought the city’s spirit to life. The show occurred every Tuesday to Sunday at 6:30 PM. Inside the Victoria Memorial Hall.

It was a wordless moment and I believe you will also feel same once you see the grand white monument start telling story through light and music where you will get to know about Kolkata’s age old history, culture, cinema, sports and so much more.The interesting part is the narration what happens in three different languages in different ways, on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays in Bengali language,Thursday and Saturday for Hindi and English on Wednesday.

If you really want to feel the heartbeat of Kolkata in just 45 minutes then this show is something you should not skip.

Important:

Ticket Fair – 100/- rupees

You can purchase tickets from the East Gate counter of Victoria Memorial or you can purchase from online – https://victoriamemorial-cal.org

(It is not typically held on Mondays, national holidays.)

Howrah Bridge & Prinsep Ghat – A Walk Through Time by the River

No trip to Kolkata feels complete without experiencing the attractive pillar less Howrah Bridge and the serenity of Princep Ghat, both considered as the best tourist places in kolkata. I came here with my college friends by local train from Dumdum station. First time I visited the place and I still remember the beauty of Princep Ghat during golden hour, how the soft gold setting sun painted the sky with gold and pink colour shade and you will notice how the large Hooghly River celebrates the art by reflecting every shade and the birds are flying through the sky. After some time you will see that the second Hooghly Bridge also known as Vidayasagar Setu lightens up to enhance the beauty of nature. You will feel that every object whether it is living or no living all comes together to make your day happy. It was a moment of pure calm in the heart of this busy city.

After enjoying the serenity I began my walk towards Babughat ferry through the historic ghat built in 1841 in Greek and gothic style columns. Princep Ghat to Babu Ghat distance 1.7km. You will notice local trains are passing through Princep Ghat Station. Couples are taking selfies, even pre-wedding shoots are happening there, street vendors are selling cha, ghoti garam (made with a mix of fried and spiced ingredients, onion, green chilli, carrot mustard oil.) We could not resist grabbing ghoti garam along with a cup of tea and just soaking in the scene. As you walk along the ghat, you will see colorful boats lined up by the river that you can easily hire for a short ride. (don’t forget to bargain a little)

Once we reached Babughat ferry we collected tickets for Howrah ferry ghat ticket fair for 6.00/- rupees each. As we slowly drifted along Hooghly River, the view of the iconic Howrah Bridge gradually uncovered before my eyes, Howrah. Watching this huge pillarless steel structure decorated by lights reflecting on the river gives you a new perspective, its sheer size and beauty are even more impressive from the bottom.

The boat ride was calm and peaceful and it lets you enjoy the cool river breeze which makes you fresh. In about 20 – 30 minutes we reached Howrah Ferry Ghat. From there you can explore local markets but we booked Kolkata’s iconic yellow taxi since we have a plan for dinner in Chinatown. If you love chinese food you should definitely visit Chinatown because this is a home to some of the best chinese restaurants in Kolkata.

Travel Tips: Visit Princep Ghat around 4.00pm to catch the golden hour.

Dakshineswar Kali Temple - A Spiritual Pause by the River

Dakshineswar kali temple is one of the best tourist attractions in Kolkata. Stands out not just for its spiritual importance but also for stunning architecture and peaceful environment. I had heard a lot about this temple but visiting it in person was a different experience which is beyond a word. I came here by metro from Dumdum. Once you reach Dakshineswar metro station you will notice a skywalk outside the metro station. You can take that or if you want you can take the road, but if you ask me then I would prefer a skywalk because this is the easy way to reach the temple. Once you walk through the skywalk on the right hand side you will notice a line of stores who are offering you “Dala” to (in Dala you will get hibiscus flowers with dry-sweets) to dedicate Kali. Starting price of Dala is around 50/- rupees. on the left hand side you will notice a line of stores selling different types of things like photo frames of Dakshineswar Kali, Shivling, toys, keyrings etc.

This 19th century mandir is dedicated to goddesses Kali, located on the eastern bank of Hooghly River. Kali is one of the most worshiped deities in Bengal. As per the rules mobile, camera, laptop shoes are strictly not allowed, so I have submitted my mobile, bag shoes. As I entered through the temple gate, the view of its nine trail spires and the peaceful environment instantly filled me with a sense of serenity. I noticed devotees standing patiently in line, holding Dala filled with flowers and offerings, ready to dedicate them to goddesses Kali, some devotees are chanting and meditating, lighting incense sticks, offering prayers.