Kolkata

Written by Finn Weber, Karen Price, Rahul Sharma
11/08/2025
Captivating view of Victoria Memorial with sunset reflection on tranquil water in Kolkata, India.
Monojit Dutta, Pexels

Kolkata offers a fascinating blend of historical grandeur and vibrant cultural life, showcasing colonial-era architecture, rich artistic traditions, and a legendary culinary scene. It is an ideal destination for those seeking immersive cultural experiences and a glimpse into India's past and present.

For those looking to socialise, Park Street is a dynamic area known for its restaurants and pubs. The historic Indian Coffee House on College Street serves as a popular intellectual hub. Additionally, Prinsep Ghat provides a picturesque riverside setting where both locals and visitors gather to enjoy boat rides, tea stalls, and scenic views.

Top 8 Things to do in Kolkata

Kolkata offers a range of activities, from exploring grand historical monuments and immersive cultural sites to experiencing bustling markets and serene riverside views.

1. Victoria Memorial Hall

This magnificent white marble structure serves as a museum, dedicated to the memory of Queen Victoria. Visitors can explore its numerous galleries showcasing artifacts, paintings, and sculptures from the British Raj era, and also enjoy the expansive, well-maintained gardens surrounding the monument. It offers a deep dive into colonial history and architectural grandeur.

Cost: Gallery Entry: INR 20 (Indians), INR 200 (Foreigners). Gardens Entry: INR 10 (per person, daily). Light and Sound Show: INR 20 (Adults).

Transport: The Victoria Memorial Hall is centrally located. From major areas in Kolkata, a taxi or ride-sharing service typically costs INR 130-180 and takes about 5-7 minutes. Public buses are also available, with fares around INR 17-25, taking approximately 11-18 minutes to nearby stops like Rabindra Sadan.

2. Indian Museum

As the oldest and largest museum in India and one of the oldest in the world, the Indian Museum houses an extensive collection across various categories like archaeology, art, and anthropology. Highlights include an Egyptian mummy, ancient Buddha relics, fossils, and Mughal paintings, offering a rich educational experience of India's diverse heritage.

Cost: Entry: INR 50 (Indian adults), INR 20 (Indian children below 18 years), INR 500 (Foreigners). Photography: INR 50 (smartphone), INR 100 (DSLR).

Transport: Located in the New Market area, the museum is easily accessible. Park Street Metro Station is the nearest, a short walk away. Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and buses frequently serve this area, with costs varying based on origin.

3. Mother House of the Missionaries of Charity

This is the humble home and final resting place of Mother Teresa, founder of the Missionaries of Charity. Visitors can experience a sense of peace, view her simple room, and see personal belongings and exhibits detailing her life's work and humanitarian efforts, reflecting her dedication to serving the poor.

Cost: No entry fee.

Transport: Located on Ripon Street, Mother House is accessible from most parts of the city. Park Street Metro Station is approximately 2 km away, reachable by walking or a short taxi/auto ride. Local buses also serve the vicinity. Taxi fares vary by distance, typically a short ride from central areas.

4. Howrah Bridge (Rabindra Setu)

An iconic symbol of Kolkata, the Howrah Bridge is a massive cantilever bridge spanning the Hooghly River. It connects Kolkata and Howrah and is renowned as one of the world's busiest cantilever bridges. Walking across the pedestrian pathways offers a dynamic view of city life and the river. A ferry ride on the Hooghly River provides a picturesque perspective of the bridge, especially at sunset.

Cost: Crossing the bridge is free. Ferry rides on the Hooghly River for scenic views or crossing typically cost a few INR.

Transport: The bridge is a major hub. Howrah Junction Railway Station is at one end, a short walk away. Buses (e.g., Line 24 from central Kolkata, INR 19-27) and taxis (INR 150-180 from central Kolkata) frequently ply this route.

5. Prinsep Ghat

This historical ghat on the banks of the Hooghly River features a Palladian porch with Greek and Gothic architecture, dedicated to James Prinsep. It is a popular spot for leisurely walks, enjoying sunsets over the river, and boat rides offering scenic views of the Vidyasagar Setu (second Hooghly Bridge) and the cityscape. Food stalls are also present for local snacks.

Cost: No entry fee for the ghat. Boat rides typically cost around INR 500 for one hour, negotiable with local boatmen.

Transport: Located near Strand Road. Prinsep Ghat Railway Station on the Kolkata Circular Rail line provides direct access. Alternatively, take the metro to Esplanade Station and then a bus or taxi. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available, with fares varying by distance.

6. Kumartuli

Step into the fascinating world of idol-making at Kumartuli, a traditional potters' quarter. This area is where skilled artisans meticulously craft clay idols of various Hindu deities, especially Goddess Durga, for festivals throughout the year. Visiting a few months before Durga Puja (August-October) provides an opportunity to witness the intricate process of idol creation and capture unique photographs.

Cost: No entry fee.

Transport: Kumartuli is located in North Kolkata. The nearest Metro Station is Shobhabazar-Sutanuti, about an 800-meter walk away. Bagbazar railway station is also nearby (approx. 10 minutes walk). Buses and taxis are common, with costs dependent on the starting location.

7. College Street (Boi Para) & Indian Coffee House

Known as 'Boi Para' or 'Book Colony,' College Street is India's largest book market and the world's largest repository of second-hand books. Enthusiasts can browse countless stalls offering diverse titles, often at bargain prices. The iconic Indian Coffee House, a historic intellectual hub, is located here, offering a glimpse into Kolkata's vibrant academic and literary past while enjoying a cup of coffee.

Cost: Book prices vary. Indian Coffee House items are affordably priced. No entry fee for the street or the coffee house.

Transport: College Street is in central Kolkata. Mahatma Gandhi Road Metro Station is the nearest. Trams (e.g., Line 5 from Hind Cinema, INR 6-7 for 7 minutes), buses, and taxis are easily available.

8. Dakshineswar Kali Temple

Situated on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River, the Dakshineswar Kali Temple is a significant Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Goddess Kali. Its majestic 'Nava-ratna' (nine peak) style architecture is striking. The temple complex offers a serene spiritual experience and is notably associated with Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. Visitors can witness daily prayers and explore the tranquil surroundings.

Cost: No entry fee.

Transport: Dakshineswar Kali Temple is about 13 km from Kolkata. It can be reached by local train from Sealdah Station to Dakshineswar Station (short walk). Ferries from various ghats on the Hooghly River also connect to Dakshineswar. Taxis and public buses are readily available from across Kolkata, with travel time around 30-40 minutes from central areas.

Check out our other pages on Kolkata

Getting There icon Getting There Restaurants icon Restaurants Bars and Entertainment icon Bars and Entertainment Hotels icon Hotels Budget Stays icon Budget Stays

Discover destinations in India

Central India
Eastern India
Islands
Northeastern India
Northern Himalayas
Northern Plains & Deserts
Southern India
Western India