The ‘City of Joy’ has a lot to offer to people with its touristy attractions and old-world charm. Whether you like to explore historical monuments or prefer a culinary walk through the streets, Kolkata has got you covered on every front. From exploring its beautiful libraries and bookstores to relishing the famous ‘Rasgullas’, there are plenty of things to do in Kolkata. And, to help you plan a detailed itinerary that has all the top things to do in Kolkata, we have this blog. Already excited? Let’s start on our trip to Kolkata, shall we?
Best Things to do in Kolkata:
1. Stop by the Famous Victoria Memorial Palace
#1 of 34 Things to do in Kolkata
No list of things to do in Kolkata would be complete without the mention of the beautiful Victoria Memorial Palace. Built of white makrana marble, this most photographed places in the entire city is designed in the Indo-Saracenic Revival Architectural style and is being transformed into a museum dedicated to Queen Victoria of England.
Upon entering the palace-cum-museum, you will feel like you’ve been transported to a monument in Europe. Though there are historic Indian design elements like paintings of Mughal emperors, the overall interior of the palace reveals a different vibe altogether.
P.S: Do take a stroll in the garden surrounding the palace.
- Location: Queen’s Valley
- Entry Fee: INR 30 (For Indians); INR 500 (For foreigners)
- Timings: 10 AM to 6 PM (Closed on Monday)
2. Get Acquainted with the Royal Bengal Tigers at Sundarbans
#2 of 34 Things to do in Kolkata
If wildlife safari is your thing, you just cannot afford to miss Sundarbans mangrove. One of the largest river deltas in India, this place is not just a haven for the Royal Bengal Tigers but also a UNESCO World Heritage site of Bangladesh. So, if you are keen to observe the mighty tigers, we recommend you take a trip to Sundarbans. You will need to have permits from the Office of the Field of Directors, Sundarbans Tiger Reserve to enter the estuary area.
- Location: Gosaba
- Entry Fee: INR 60 (For Indians); INR 200 (For foreigners)
- Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM
3. Visit Mother Teresa’s House
#3 of 34 Things to do in Kolkata
A humanitarian, missionary and above all, a woman of strength who devoted her life to serving those in need, Mother Teresa has amazed us with her generous work. If you have always been in awe of her (like me), visit her former home and charity in Kolkata, also known as the Motherhouse to take a closer look at how she lived and to know more about her ideologies. The place houses Mother Teresa’s tomb and a museum where all her personal belongings have been preserved.
- Location: Bose Road
- Entry Fee: INR 60 (For Indians); INR 200 (For foreigners)
- Timings: 10 AM to 9 PM
4. Try your Hand at Street Photography at New Market
#4 of 34 Things to do in Kolkata
Also known as the Sir Stuart Hogg Market, this place is an absolute shopper’s paradise. The market has different sections for every item and you can easily browse through it for some rare finds. The real beauty of the place is the chaotic action surrounding it with plenty of street vendors, food stalls, good restaurants and pushcart transporters hovering around the market. You can simply observe people all around you or click some amazing shots.
- Location: Taltala
- Timings: 10 AM to 9 PM
5. Explore the Myriad Temples of Kolkata
#5 of 34 Things to do in Kolkata
Home to the extravagant and eclectic Durga Pujo festival, going on a temple tour around the city is a definite thing to do. From the famous and often crowded Kalighat temple to the peaceful and calm Belur Nath Mandir, there are plenty of temples to visit in the city. You should also stop by the Dakshineshwar Kali temple, located opposite of Hoogly river. The temple is not only picturesque but also has a fair-like atmosphere with bustling street food vendors, stalls and other Hindu objects for sale.
6. Spend a Quiet Evening near Howrah Bridge
#6 of 34 Things to do in Kolkata
While there are plenty of things to do near Howrah Bridge, just spending a quiet evening at the bridge is an experience that is worth taking time out for. A symbol of Kolkata, the bridge is constructed without any nuts and bolts and is the third longest cantilever bridge in the world. With plenty of pedestrians crossing it every single day, we recommend you become a part of this crowd for one day and simply soak in the view of the beautiful Hoogly river and the flower market located below the bridge.
P.S: Don’t forget to take your camera along with you if you want to take some amazing shots.
7. Educate Yourself on Different Topics at the Indian Museum
#7 of 34 Things to do in Kolkata
One of the oldest and the most prominent multipurpose museums in India, this one is a treasure trove of knowledge in the form of manuscripts, journals and archaeology of archaic artefacts that will definitely make your inner nerd happy. Case in point would be an ancient relic of Egyptian mummies, Lord Buddha and various contemporary paintings. Plus, it has a library with big and informative books. Do you need any more reason to visit the place?
- Entry Fee: INR 20 (For Indians); INR 500 (For foreigners)
- Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM (Tuesday to Sunday)
8. Indulge your Inner Shopaholic at Park Street
#8 of 34 Things to do in Kolkata
A beautiful boulevard lined with all kinds of shops, this place is perfect for splurging on everything from unique paper mache products to beautiful cotton sarees. Some of the things which you definitely need to check out when shopping in Kolkata are jute items, books, terracotta statues, tea and dokra.
To witness the Park Street come alive with colours and light, visit the place during Christmas celebrations. It is a sight worth taking a trip to this city.
9. Visit the Iconic Eden Garden Stadium
#9 of 34 Things to do in Kolkata
Being India’s largest cricket stadium, we suggest you to snap a panoramic shot of Eden Gardens and post it on the gram because this is where some of the most iconic Test Series have taken place. Almost resembling the Colosseum of Rome, the stadium is a kind of a pilgrimage site for all international cricketers. Why you ask? Because the cheering crowd and all their frenzy gives a sportsperson the much-needed zeal they require to excel at the game. So, treat your inner sports nerd to a time that will forever be remembered fondly.
- Location: BBD Bagh
- Entry Fee: Varies with the matches
- Timings: 5 AM to 11 PM
10. Visit the Largest Science Museum in the Indian Subcontinent
#10 of 34 Things to do in Kolkata
Opened to the public in the year 1997, the Science City is one of the major tourist attractions of Kolkata. After all, it is one of the biggest and most diverse science museums in the entire Indian subcontinent. Built with the aim of the popularisation of science in a fun and interesting manner, it has different sections dedicated to some amazing genres. An instance would be the optical illusion section on the ground floor. If you are interested in the underwater species, the aquatic world has detailed representations and aquariums to help you bolster your knowledge about it.
- Timings: 9 AM to 8 PM
- Entry Fee: INR 50
11. Get Awestruck at the Famous Marble Palace
#11 of 34 Things to do in Kolkata
Whether you are a history connoisseur, lover of all things artistic or simply like to click pictures of palaces and monuments, this place is perfect for you. Built in the Neoclassical style of architecture, Marble Palace is one of the most beautiful tourist attractions of Kolkata. From paintings by international artists to exquisite chandeliers and grand statues, there are plenty of things here to ogle at.
P.S: It is said that the palace closely resembles the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus which is one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
- Timings: 10 AM to 4 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
12. Commute Through a Tram for a day
#12 of 34 Things to do in Kolkata
India has a diverse mode of transportation throughout the country. Be it the cycle rickshaws in North India or the meter taxis in South, travelling through these is another experience altogether. And when you are in Kolkata, ditch the convenience of Uber and Ola for a tram ride.
Still not convinced? This is the only tram network in India so you might as well experience it before it is gone, no?
13. Visit the Haunted South Park Street Cemetery
#13 of 34 Things to do in Kolkata
Fan of all things spooky, the cemetery on South Park Street should be on your itinerary. This was one of the first non-church Christian cemeteries to be built out of Europe and America. Built in the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture, the cemetery is serene and beautiful in its own right.
However, a lot of people who have visited the cemetery have complained of eerie feelings, breathlessness and haunted incidents. Some people have also recorded apparitions on their camera. All this makes this one of the most haunted places in Kolkata.
If all this intrigue you, do visit the place on your trip to the city.
To know about more such places in Kolkata, read our blog on Haunted Places in Kolkata.
14. Spend a Day in Kumortuli – Biggest Cultural Precincts of Kolkata
#14 of 34 Things to do in Kolkata
While the festival of Durga Pujo is one of the most exciting events of the city if you want to marvel at how these colourful and beautiful idols are made, visit Kumortuli. The quarters of potters who have been at the art of clay making and moulding big (and beautiful) idols of the goddess is sure to awestruck you.
15. Relish the Street Food of the City of Joy
#15 of 34 Things to do in Kolkata
Any trip to Kolkata would be incomplete without trying their delectable and sinfully good delicacies (read Rasgullas). While you can easily find some of the most high-end restaurants here, the real joy is devouring the street food of Kolkata.
Start with Puchkas, the savoury has been an integral part of everyone’s childhood (and adult life). Of course, there are other tantalizing dishes like Churmur, Ghugni Chaat, Jhalmuri and the famous Kathi Rolls. For your sweet cravings, there is the quintessential Rasgullas but if you are looking for something new and unique, try Chanar Jilipi – a twist to the classic jalebi.
Read our detailed blog on Street foods of Kolkata.
16. Enjoy the Rush of Adrenaline at Nicco Park
#16 of 34 Things to do in Kolkata
The perfect blend of adventure and entertainment, Nicco Park is sure to delight both kids and grown-ups. So, if you are looking for activities to do in Kolkata that offer sheer thrill, go for Pirate Ship, Cyclone Flying Saucer, Sky Diver and Water Chute. Children can have innocent and safe fun on the Merry Go Round. If family time is on your mind, check out Cable Car, Lazy River Ride, Toy Train, Paddle Boat or Mirror Maze. Don’t forget to click some awesome pictures near the Eiffel Tower and MIG 21. The bowling alley is apt for those who want to create lasting memories with friends.
- Location: Jheel Meel, on Salt Lake Bypass
- Timings: 10 am to 5 pm (Gate) and 10:15 am to 6 pm (Rides)
- Entry Fee: INR 300 per person (covers 13 rides and attractions)
- INR 850 per person (covers all attractions and rides in the Main Park plus Water Park)
- INR 2500 per person for Annual Fun Ticket (covers entry, rides in the Main Park and Water Park facilities round the year, once per day)
- INR 1500 per person for Nicco Park Passport (covers entry to the Main Park and all rides round the year, except Game Zone, Bull, Games and Shows)
- INR 1500 per person for Wet-o-Wild Passport (covers entry, 13 rides or attractions in the Main Park and all Water Park rides round the year, except Game Zone, Bull, Games and Shows)
Also Read: Water Parks in Kolkata
17. Admire the Architecture of St. Paul’s Cathedral
#17 of 34 Things to do in Kolkata
The sharp Gothic architecture (Indo-Gothic to be more precise) and the sprawling nature of the building will take your breath away when you first set your eyes on St. Paul’s Cathedral. Dedicated to Paul the Apostle, it is considered to be the first Anglican cathedral in the whole of Asia and the biggest church in the City of Joy. It is here that notable personalities like Bishop Daniel Wilson, Sir John Paxton Norman and Arthur William Garnett were buried. Gorgeous stained glass windows, lofty spires and a lush manicured garden make this cathedral extremely popular among photography enthusiasts as well as religious tourists. It boasts a large library too.
- Location: Cathedral Road, Maidan
- Timings: 9 am to 12 pm and 3 pm to 6 pm (Monday to Saturday), 7:30 am to 6 pm (Sunday)
- Entry Fee: Free
Also Check: Churches in Kolkata
18. Date the Stars at M. P. Birla Planetarium
#18 of 34 Things to do in Kolkata
Looking for things to do in Kolkata on Sundays? How about a cosmic affair at M. P. Birla Planetarium? Inspired by the Sanchi Stupa, it is an impressive circular structure that was inaugurated by Jawaharlal Nehru. It uses one of the latest hybrid projection systems by Carl Zeiss to make sure that people from all walks of life can fall in love with the mysterious space, bold sun, twinkling stars and enigmatic planets. The dome, which is 23 m in diameter, coupled with progressively reclining seats, makes your star-gazing experience a surreal one. Shows are conducted in English, Bengali and Hindi, to cater to a large audience. There is a library, exhibition gallery and seminar hall on the premises too.
- Location: Jawaharlal Nehru Road, Maidan
- Timings: 12:30 pm to 6:30 pm (Monday to Saturday) and 10:30 am to 6:30 pm (Sunday)
- Show timings vary. Please check the website for the latest information.
- Entry Fee: INR 100 per person in general, INR 40 per student when in a group of 25 or more
Also read about the 30 best places to visit in Kolkata
19. Appreciate Finer Things at The Academy of Fine Arts
#19 of 34 Things to do in Kolkata
The fact that The Academy of Fine Arts is among the oldest Indian fine art societies goes to show how creatively inclined Kolkata is. Established by Lady Ranu Mukherjee in 1933, it is home to some celebrated artworks, including Jamini Roy’s Shiva with Ganesh and Gaganendranath Tagore’s Saat Bhai Champa. The museum on the first floor is a treasure trove of Rabindranath Tagore’s paintings and personal effects, miniature Mughal and Rajasthani paintings, and contemporary artworks, to name a few. Do pay a visit to the textile and carpet galleries as well, to admire intricate patterns, beautiful colours and unique ideas. Art classes are held at this academy too, for those who are not just satisfied with being connoisseurs.
- Location: Cathedral Road, Maidan
- Timings: 3 pm to 9 pm (Monday closed)
- Exhibition timings vary. Please check the website for the latest information.
- Entry Fee: Free
20. Break Your Fast at Tiretti Bazaar
#20 of 34 Things to do in Kolkata
Famously known as Mini Chinatown or Old China Market, Tiretti Bazaar is where you can give your same old breakfast routine a break and experiment with something special. Thronged by Chinese Indians and Indians, this place sells everything from vibrant vegetables and a variety of fish to fresh pork. And once you land up on Sunyet Sen Street, numerous stalls selling aromatic and yummy street food will make your mouth water. It’s no wonder that having a Chinese breakfast here is among the top things to do in Kolkata with family. From piping hot soups made with fish meat balls and congee (rice porridge of sorts) to deep fried and steamed dumplings or momos, you will get it all here. If you are up for it, do give the pork sausages, stuffed buns and rolls a try.
- Location: Sunyet Sen Street, Behind LalBazar Police Headquarters
- Timings: 10 am to 8:30 pm (Monday to Saturday) and 2 pm to 8:30 pm (Sunday)
- Entry Fee: Free
21. Head to Rabindra Sarobar for a Refreshing Walk
#21 of 34 Things to do in Kolkata
If the hustle-bustle of Kolkata seems tiring at times, you can enjoy a lush green escape at Rabindra Sarobar. It is one of the healthiest things to do in Kolkata for couples, solo tourists or even families. Locally acclaimed as the Lungs of South Kolkata, this massive artificial lake is surrounded by beautiful trees and well-maintained paths for leisurely strolls or jogging. Apart from breathing in some fresh air or finding a quiet spot to meditate, you can indulge in nature photography here. Watch exotic migratory birds like the blue-throated blue catcher, brown-breasted fly catcher and brahminy starling as you take a walk or relax. You can also sign up for swimming lessons here and relish a cup of tea or some street snacks on your way out.
- Location: Dhakuria
- Timings: 6 am to 6 pm
- Entry Fee: Free
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22. Smell and Shop Flowers at Mallick Ghat Flower Market
A fast-paced life hardly gives you enough time to stop and smell the roses, right? So, why not pay a visit to the Mallick Ghat Flower Market for a one-of-a-kind experience? One of the oldest flower markets in India and among the largest in Asia, this place is around 130 years old. Wholesalers (over 2000) pepper the market with a dizzying variety of fresh, colourful and fragrant blooms, which are exported to Dubai, Amsterdam and even New Zealand. If you reach the market right after sunrise, you will get the best picks at great prices (flowers are sold in kilos though). Soak in the sights and scents of blossoms like marigold, rose, jasmine, hibiscus and so many more, to start your day the right way. Remember to sip on a hot cup of chai for an authentic feel and click away to your heart’s content.
- Location: Under Howrah Bridge, by River Hooghly
- Timings: Around 5 am to 7 am (for the best view and bargain)
- Entry Fee: Free
23. Let College Street Ignite Your Love for Books
True friends are hard to find…but not when you have a world of books to help you sail the stormy seas of life. That is exactly the reason why College Street is so famous. 900m in length, this street boasts premier institutions like Presidency University, Calcutta Medical College and City College of Commerce & Business Administration. Lovingly called “Boi Para”, this street is also the largest book market in India, with stalls selling all possible genres of books under the sun. From educational books and paperbacks to first editions and rare books that are no longer in print, you can find a mind-boggling variety here. Since you can bargain all you want, the prices will make you truly happy.
- Location: From B. B. Ganguly Street crossing in Bowbazar to MG Road crossing
- Timings: Book stalls are open from 11 am to 7 pm (Sunday closed)
- Entry Fee: Free
24. Laze around at Maidan
#24 of 34 Things to do in Kolkata
Lying spread-eagled on lush green grass and doing nothing is probably one of the best things in life! And Maidan or Brigade Parade Ground promises just that. Kolkata’s vastest urban park, Maidan boasts plenty of playgrounds, football stadiums, the Race Course and the well-known Eden Gardens, in case you are a sports enthusiast and want to stretch your limbs. Apart from the Kolkata skyline, you can photograph some beautiful monuments from this verdant expanse, like Victoria Memorial, Shaheed Minar, and Raj Bhavan. Make sure you enjoy a leisurely ride in a horse-drawn carriage around Maidan to create unique memories with loved ones.
- Location: Maidan spans the distance between Raj Bhavan at Esplanade (North) and National Library in Alipore (South). It stretches from Victoria Memorial (East) to River Hooghly (West)
- Timings: 24×7
- Entry Fee: Free
25. Spend a Poetic Day at Jorasanko Thakur Bari
#25 of 34 Things to do in Kolkata
A poet, novelist, artist and Nobel laureate, Rabindranath Tagore has always been and will continue to be Kolkata’s pride. So, if you are looking for unique activities to do in Kolkata, a visit to Jorasanko Thakur Bari (the poet’s birthplace) is heartily recommended. This sprawling mansion, a beautiful red affair with bright green windows, serves as a museum where the milestones and works of the poet have been preserved and displayed beautifully. It is a great opportunity to find out about Tagore family’s contribution to the Bengal Renaissance as well. On Panchise Baisakh, which marks Tagore’s birthday, and Baishe Shravan, his death anniversary, Jorasanko Thakur Bari sees many visitors.
- Location: Rabindra Sarani, Singhi Bagan, Jorasanko
- Timings: 10:30 am to 5 pm (Monday closed)
- Light and Sound show timings:
- 6 pm to 6:40 pm (Bengali, November to January)
- 7 pm to 7:40 pm (English, November to January)
- 7 pm to 7:40 pm (Bengali, February to June)
- 8 pm to 8:40 pm (English, February to June)
- Entry Fee:
- Free for physically challenged people, students up to 5th standard and street children
- INR 10 for Indian students
- INR 20 for Indian adults
- INR 30 for SAARC adults
- INR 20 for SAARC students
- INR 150 for foreign adults
- INR 100 for foreign students
- INR 50 for camera
- INR 50 for Light and Sound show
Find out about 7 unique places to visit in Kolkata for youngsters
26. Connect with Nature at Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden
Spread over 270 acres, this garden is home to more than 12,000 species of plants and is the perfect place to become one with nature. Named after Jagadish Chandra Bose, a natural scientist and the famed Bengali polymath, this garden is where you can admire The Great Banyan, which has a circumference of 330m. As it occupies an area of about 1.89 hectares, this mammoth tree is more like a mini forest. You will also come across a wide variety of roses, orchids, palms, and bamboos in this garden. Animals like the Indian fox, Indian mongoose, jackal and various snakes have made this verdant place their home too.
- Location: Shibpur, Howrah
- Timings: 10 am to 5 pm (Monday closed)
- Entry Fee: INR 10 per person for Indians, INR 100 per person for foreigners, INR 20 per camera
27. Meet Wild Souls at Alipore Zoological Garden
Whether you are searching for fun things to do in Kolkata for couples, have kids in tow, or are a wildlife enthusiast caught in an urban life, Alipore Zoological Garden is a must-visit. With an area of 46.5 acres, it is the oldest formally-recognised zoological park in India. It once housed Adwaita, the Aldabra giant tortoise, who was believed to be more than 250 years old at the time of death. Today, apart from the celebrated royal Bengal tiger, you can catch sight of animals like the jaguar, hippo, Asiatic and African lions, giraffe, deer, Indian elephant, langur, bear, and one-horned rhino. Birds like lories, hornbills, lorikeets, touracos, pheasants, emus, and cassowaries can be spotted here as well. A variety of reptiles are also housed by the zoo, ranging from saltwater crocodiles and marsh crocodiles to Indian pythons, yellow anacondas and king cobras.
- Location: Alipore Road
- Timings: 9 am to 4: 30 pm (Thursday closed)
- Entry Fee: INR 25 (for weekdays) and INR 30 (for weekends and government holidays) per person for adults, INR 10 per person for kids under 5 years
28. Plan a Rendezvous with Kolkata’s Colonial Past at Fort William
#28 of 34 Things to do in Kolkata
Named after King William III and built between 1696 and 1702, Fort William stands testimony to the British rule in Bengal. Spread over 70.9 hectares, it is situated on River Hooghly’s eastern bank and resembles an irregular octagon. This brick and mortar fort is surrounded by a now-dry moat and has 6 gates. Owned by the Indian Army currently, this magnificent fort features a war memorial at its entrance as well as an artefact museum dedicated to the 1971 Indo-Pakistani war. It is spacious enough to house around 10,000 army personnel as well. The fort is surrounded by manicured gardens and has numerous arched windows, which attracts architecture and photography buffs.
- Location: Maidan, Hastings
- Timings: 10 am to 5:30 pm (a special permit from the commanding officer is required to visit it)
- Entry Fee: Free
29. Enjoy the Typical Kolkata Bustle at Gariahat Market
#29 of 34 Things to do in Kolkata
If you wish to feel the real pulse of warm and friendly Kolkata, explore Gariahat Market, its colours, flavours and bustle. There are many affordable hotels in Kolkata that can make travelling to this place a breeze. Countless shops (both big and small) dot the length and breadth of this market, whether you want clothes, shoes, handicrafts, jewellery, electronics, household items or anything else. This is also the place where you can find all things authentically Bengali. The street food stalls selling phuchka, bhelpuri, ice cream, kulfi and delectable Bengali sweets are sure to attract foodies or even tired shoppers. The lively chatter all around, the frenzied bargaining, and the narrow serpentine streets will put a smile on your face.
- Location: Gariahat
- Timings: 10 am to 8 pm (Sunday closed)
- Entry Fee: Free
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30. Brainstorm over Coffee at Indian Coffee House
#30 of 34 Things to do in Kolkata
A visit to Indian Coffee House is undoubtedly among the timeless activities to do in Kolkata. Also known as College Street Coffee House, it has always been a much-loved place for adda (or hangout) for Bengali students, intellectuals, artists, writers and poets. High ceilings, thick walls and a warm atmosphere make your coffee-drinking experience a cosy one. Many a heated yet thoughtful debates have been held here, making the coffee house what it is today. An undying part of Kolkata’s heritage, Indian Coffee House was once frequented by notable personalities like Amartya Sen, Satyajit Ray, Ritwik Ghatak, Sunil Gangopadhyay, and Shakti Chattopadhyay. Numerous political movements as well as ideas for literary magazines were born from the adda sessions at this place. And of course, Manna Dey’s song, “Coffee House er shei adda ta aaj aar nei”, has practically immortalised it.
- Location: Bankim Chatterjee Street, College Square
- Timings: 9 am to 9 pm
- Cost for two: INR 300 (approx.)
31. Visit St. John’s Church for its Quiet Charm and Job Charnock’s Mausoleum
#31 of 34 Things to do in Kolkata
Right after Kolkata became British India’s effective capital, the East India Company erected St. John’s Church. It is not just the third oldest church in Kolkata, but also renowned for its neoclassical architecture. The 174 feet tall stone spire makes for amazing photos. You can’t help admiring the stained glass windows and the grand pipe organ inside. But what makes this church extra special is the mausoleum for Job Charnock, the man responsible for establishing Calcutta by combining Kolikata, Sutanuti and Govindopur. The tomb impresses with its typical Moorish style and octagonal structure. You will also come across the Second Rohilla War Memorial, Lady Canning’s Memorial, and the painting of Last Supper by Johann Zoffany.
- Location: Lal Dighi, B. B. D. Bagh
- Timings: 8 am to 5 pm
- Entry Fee: Free
32. Admire Innovation at Birla Industrial & Technological Museum
Driven by the thirst for scientific knowledge? Quench it at Birla Industrial & Technological Museum (BITM), a striking colonial-style building surrounded by a well-kept lawn. It is a wonderful place for students of all ages to hone their concepts in physics, mathematics, biotechnology, astronomy, electronics, chemistry and more. Different galleries are dedicated to different areas of science, with one of them mimicking a real coal mine! Exciting science shows (both free and paid) are held here regularly, including Sky Observation, High Voltage Show, Super Cool Bodies, Bubble Show and Taramandal Show. Facilities include an auditorium, innovation hub, library and a biotech lab as well. Many educational activities, seminars, festivals, online workshops and virtual tours are conducted to make your scientific journey as easy as it gets.
- Location: Gurusaday Dutta Road, Beck Bagan, Ballygunge
- Timings: 9:30 am to 6 pm
- Entry Fee: INR 50 per person for general visitors
- INR 40 per person for a group of 25 or more
- INR 20 per person for an organised school group
- INR 10 per person for government or municipal school
- Ticket rates for shows and package rates vary. Please check the website.
33. Discover the Grand Past of Bengalis at Shobhabazar Rajbari
#33 of 34 Things to do in Kolkata
As the name indicates, Shobhabazar Rajbari once belonged to the royal family of Shobhabazar, and was founded by Maharaja Nabakrishna Deb. The maharaja helped the British to overthrow Siraj ud-Daulah, accruing immense wealth in the process. After Siraj ud-Daulah’s defeat, Durga Puja was celebrated at the Shobhabazar Rajbari with great pomp, and the guest list featured names like Warren Hastings and Lord Clive. The Rajbari also acted as the venue for Swami Vivekananda’s civic reception after he came back from Chicago Parliament of Religions. Today, those looking for interesting things to do in Kolkata on Sundays, flock to this heritage property to reminisce about its bygone grandeur and admire the beautiful courtyard, multi-folate arches and elegant Tuscan columns. Every year, during Durga Puja, Shobhabazar Rajbari welcomes countless Bengalis and people from other communities who wish to enjoy the festivities.
- Location: Raja Nabakrishna Street, Sovabazar, Shyam Bazar
- Timings: 8 am to 8 pm
- Entry Fee: Free
34. Soak in Spirituality and Brotherhood at Nakhoda Masjid
#34 of 34 Things to do in Kolkata
A fine blend of Islamic and Mughal architectural styles, Nakhoda Masjid is the principal mosque in the City of Joy. It is modelled on Emperor Akbar’s mausoleum located in Sikandra, Agra, and the gateway is inspired by Fatehpur Sikri’s Buland Darwaza. Architecture and photography connoisseurs might be interested to know that the mosque has 3 domes and a pair of 151 feet high minarets. The smaller minarets, 25 in number, are 100 to 117 feet in height. Naturally, the overall look is impressive and regal. Especially after sunset, when it’s lit up, Nakhoda Masjid looks magical. The prayer hall, which can accommodate 10,000 devotees at once, is perfect for experiencing spiritual bliss and togetherness. The feeling of brotherhood also permeates the lanes and alleys surrounding the mosque, where people dig into delicious biriyani, kebabs, or enjoy hot tea with loved ones.
- Location: Raja Chowringhee North, Bow Barracks
- Timings: 6 am to 8 pm
- Entry Fee: Free
Of course, the city has plenty of other things to surprise you. If you have visited Kolkata before, do tell us what is your favourite thing to do in the city.
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