Biswarup Ganguly, CC BY 3.0
Explore Places to visit in Kolkata in 2026—heritage landmarks, culture, timings, entry fees, and routes across Kolkata, West Bengal.
Kolkata is not a city you simply visit; it’s a city you slowly understand. Its trams, ghats, bookshops, and colonial buildings whisper stories of revolutions, art, faith, and everyday life. This guide to places to visit in Kolkata brings together history and practicality—what to observe, how to reach, timings, and entry fees—so your Kolkata sightseeing feels rich, unrushed, and deeply memorable.
1) Victoria Memorial
Built in 1921 in memory of Queen Victoria, this marble monument is one of the most iconic tourist places in Kolkata. Inside, galleries narrate the British era, while outside, vast gardens invite long walks and quiet reflection.
How to reach: Metro—Maidan; buses/cabs available
Opening hours: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM (Closed Monday)
Entry fee: ₹30 (Indians)
2) Howrah Bridge
Commissioned in 1943, this cantilever bridge is not just an engineering marvel but the lifeline of the city. Watching lakhs of people cross it daily gives a true sense of Kolkata’s rhythm and resilience.
How to reach: Howrah Station / Burrabazar side
Opening hours: Open 24×7
Entry fee: Free
3) Dakshineswar Kali Temple
Established in 1855 by Rani Rashmoni, this riverside temple is closely linked to Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. The peaceful Hooghly backdrop and rhythmic chants create a deeply calming atmosphere.
How to reach: Metro—Dakshineswar; ferry available
Opening hours: 6:00 AM–12:30 PM, 3:00–8:30 PM
Entry fee: Free
4) Indian Museum
© Vyacheslav Argenberg
Founded in 1814, it is the oldest museum in India and a treasure house of archaeology, art, and science. From Egyptian mummies to ancient sculptures, it adds intellectual depth to best places to visit in Kolkata lists.
How to reach: Metro—Park Street/Esplanade
Opening hours: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM, closed in Monday and holidays.
Entry fee: ₹50 for Indians and ₹ 500 for foreigners.
5) St. Paul’s Cathedral
by Ankitesh Jha, CC BY-SA 3.0
Completed in 1847, this Gothic-style cathedral reflects Kolkata’s colonial past. The stained-glass windows and quiet lawns offer a peaceful pause amid city noise.
How to reach: Near Victoria Memorial
Opening hours: 9:00 AM–12:00 PM, 3:00–6:00 PM
Entry fee: Free
6) Princep Ghat
by Amit Kumar Sahoo, CC BY-SA 4.0
Built in 1841, Princep Ghat commemorates scholar James Prinsep. Today, it’s one of the most romantic Kolkata tourist attractions, especially during sunset along the Hooghly River.
How to reach: Prinsepghat railway station
Opening hours: Open daily
Entry fee: Free
7) Belur Math
by Prasenjit Basu, CC BY-SA 4.0
Founded in 1897, Belur Math is the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Mission. Its architecture blends Hindu, Islamic, and Christian styles, symbolizing harmony of faiths.
How to reach: Ferry from Dakshineswar or road
Opening hours: 6:30–11:30 AM, 3:30–8:30 PM
Entry fee: Free
You can also read – Blissful 12 One day trips from Kolkata
8) Kalighat Kali Temple
by Ankur P from Pune, India, CC BY 2.0
One of the 51 Shakti Peethas, Kalighat has been a pilgrimage site for centuries. The narrow lanes, rituals, and devotion show the spiritual pulse of Kolkata.
How to reach: Metro—Kalighat
Opening hours: 5:00 AM–2:00 PM, 5:00–10:30 PM
Entry fee: Free
9) Marble Palace
by Swarnasubarna26, CC BY-SA 4.0
Built in 1835 by Raja Rajendra Mullick, this mansion showcases rare paintings and sculptures. Visiting feels like stepping into a private aristocratic world.
How to reach: Metro—MG Road (permit required)
Opening hours: 10:00 AM–4:00 PM, closed on Monday & Thursday.
Entry fee: Free (with permit)
10) Science City Kolkata
by Apurv013, CC0, via Wikimedia Common
Opened in 1997, Science City makes learning playful through interactive exhibits and space theatres. It’s among the most engaging tourist places in Kolkata for families.
How to reach: EM Bypass
Opening hours: Daily 10:00 AM–7:00 PM
Entry fee: From ₹70
11) Mother House
by Hiroki Ogawa, CC BY 3.0
This was the home of Mother Teresa and remains a place of simplicity and silence. Visitors often leave with a sense of calm and humility.
How to reach: Metro—Park Street
Opening hours: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM(Thursday closed)
Entry fee: Free
12) Alipore Zoo
Established in 1876, it is India’s oldest zoological garden. The wide green paths and rare species make it a refreshing break during Kolkata sightseeing.
How to reach: Metro—Rabindra Sarobar
Opening hours: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (Closed Monday)
Entry fee: ₹50
13) Eden Gardens
by Marajozkee, CC BY-SA 4.0
Founded in 1864, Eden Gardens is often called the “Mecca of Indian cricket.” Even without a match, its legacy excites sports lovers.
How to reach: Metro—Esplanade
Opening hours: Match-dependent
Entry fee: Match-based
14) College Street
by Biswarup Ganguly, CC BY 3.0
Asia’s largest second-hand book market, College Street has been fueling minds since the 19th century. Add a coffee at the historic Indian Coffee House for the full experience.
How to reach: Metro—Central/College Street
Opening hours: Daytime
Entry fee: Free
15) New Town Eco Park
by Harishverma12, CC BY-SA 4.0
Opened in 2012, this modern urban park offers lakes, gardens, and cycling tracks. It shows the greener, contemporary face of Kolkata.
How to reach: New Town buses/cabs
Opening hours: 12:00–7:30 PM (Tue–Sun)
Entry fee: ₹30
Let Kolkata Stay With You
Calcutta_blue_trams, by Vyacheslav Argenberg, CC BY 4.0
These places to visit in Kolkata reveal why the city remains timeless—layered with history, emotion, and everyday charm. Whether you’re exploring classic Kolkata tourist attractions or hidden corners, each stop adds depth to your journey. Travel slowly, observe deeply, and be with Travelseek, where stories matter as much as destinations.
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Watch this related video on You tube – Kolkata Alipore Zoological Garden
