26 Recommended Tourist Spots to Enjoy the Diverse City of Kolkata

India is known as a country with immense tourist appeal, as well as a distinctive character that offers intense and unforgettable experiences. Among its cities, Kolkata (Calcutta) stands out as one of the most quintessentially "Indian" cities.

Located in northeastern India, west of Bangladesh, Kolkata is one of India’s four major cities, alongside northern Delhi, western Mumbai, and southern Chennai. However, unlike the rapid modernization seen in other major cities, Kolkata retains much of its traditional lifestyle, and there isn’t an abundance of tourist-oriented information available. This, however, allows visitors to truly experience the raw vibrancy of the city, its people, and its culture.

Here, we introduce a list of attractions to help you enjoy the chaotic and diverse city of Kolkata.

1. Victoria Memorial

India was under British rule until the early 20th century. During this time, Bengal became the center of British administration, and Kolkata served as the capital of British India. As a result, the city is home to many European-style buildings constructed by the British.

One of the most iconic buildings in the city is the Victoria Memorial, located within Maidan Park in the center of Kolkata. Completed in 1921, it was built in honor of Queen Victoria, who also served as the Empress of India. The building, which is designed in Western architectural style, is said to be modeled after the Taj Mahal. It is a majestic and beautiful white marble monument, making it a major tourist attraction.

Today, the interior houses a museum displaying art and artifacts collected from across India during the Victorian era, as well as paintings and documents from the British colonial period. One of the main highlights is the life-size diorama of early 20th-century Kolkata, showcasing scenes such as spice shops, rickshaw pullers, and people carrying baskets on their heads. Visitors can enjoy comparing these scenes to the present-day city.

2. Dakshineswar Kali Temple

Kolkata also has another famous Kali temple called Dakshineswar Kali Temple. It is located about 15 km north of downtown Kolkata, along the Hooghly River, and is dedicated to the goddess Kali and her husband, Shiva.

The Dakshineswar Kali Temple is known for its striking white walls with red lines, and the main hall features a beautiful design with nine spires. Inside, there is an idol of Kali, beneath which is a marble representation of Shiva in a prostrate position, surrounded by 1,000 silver lotus flowers.

The temple grounds also feature many small shrines, and exploring these is another interesting aspect of the visit. The temple is associated with the 19th-century religious figure Ramakrishna, and you can visit the place where he lived.

Behind the temple is a bathing area that leads to the Hooghly River, where many people perform serious ritual baths, offering a different, more solemn atmosphere compared to the grandeur of the temple.

3. Birla Mandir

The Birla Mandir is a representative Hindu temple with a tall central tower. Its silhouette, often compared to a space shuttle or corn, is a standard design seen in Hindu temples throughout India and Southeast Asia, reflecting cultural influences across the region.

This traditional temple has been reimagined in a modern style. It was built by the Birla family, one of India's most prominent business families, and is one of many temples the Birlas have constructed across India. The temple was completed in 1996.

Tourists can visit and worship inside the temple. At night, the temple is beautifully lit up, and you can see the white, glowing structure along the main street. Located in a convenient area in central Kolkata, it’s worth visiting both during the day and at night.

4. Tipu Sultan Mosque

Although Hinduism is the dominant religion in India, Kolkata has a large Muslim population. Bangladesh, an Islamic country to the east, separated from India largely due to religious differences, and in Kolkata, both Hindu and Muslim communities coexist peacefully.

The Tipu Sultan Mosque, built in 1832, is one of the city's most historic mosques. Tipu Sultan was the ruler of the Kingdom of Mysore in southern India in the late 18th century and was known as the "Tiger of Mysore" for his fierce resistance to British colonial forces. After his death in the Fourth Anglo-Mysore War, his family was taken to Kolkata, where they spent the rest of their lives.

The mosque is located on Chowringhee Street, the main thoroughfare of Kolkata, making it easy to visit during your sightseeing. The distinctive dome-shaped roof adds to the mosque’s striking appearance. The mosque is open to all visitors, regardless of religion, though it’s best to avoid visiting during prayer times.

5. Nakhoda Mosque

Nakhoda Mosque is considered the largest mosque in Kolkata. It is located on a street just behind a main road, giving the area a typical local shopping street vibe. Walking through the bustling streets, you’ll suddenly be amazed by the mosque's massive size. It can accommodate up to 10,000 worshippers at once.

The mosque is made of red brick, with several distinctive green-domed structures on top, which creates a unique and somewhat whimsical impression. At first glance, it may even resemble a department store rather than a mosque.

Inside, the structure is designed like an open courtyard with marble flooring. The cool and quiet environment is perfect for relaxation, and though it’s a place of worship, Muslims can be seen chatting or reading the Quran. Tourists can also rest and take in the peaceful atmosphere.

6. Muslim Quarter (around Park Circus)

Kolkata is a city where about 20% of the population is Muslim, and the Islamic influence is particularly strong in the Park Circus area in the southeastern part of the city. It’s about a 10-minute walk east from Sudder Street, where many tourist accommodations are located. Visiting this area will provide you with a different perspective of Kolkata.

As you walk through the area, you’ll notice a change in the atmosphere. Small mosques appear, more men wearing Islamic headwear, and shop signs with Arabic lettering. Additionally, in this area, beef dishes, which are generally taboo in other parts of India, are commonly eaten. You can even try beef curry here, which is rare in most of India.

However, this district is more of a regular local neighborhood rather than a tourist area, so it’s not as commercialized. Be aware that English menus are not commonly available in restaurants.

7. Pareshnath Temple

Kolkata is home to temples of not only Hinduism and Islam but also Jainism, an important religion in India. Jainism is a faith that blends aspects of Hinduism and Buddhism, emphasizing strict asceticism and prohibiting meat-eating and alcohol consumption. While Jainism’s roots are in the western state of Gujarat, Kolkata has one of its prominent temples.

Pareshnath Temple is located in the northern suburbs of Kolkata, near Kolkata Station, although it may be a bit tricky to find, so it’s recommended to take a taxi if you're unsure.

The temple’s design is quite extravagant and luxurious, almost resembling a palace rather than a traditional temple. It features golden spires and a beautiful fountain in the front yard. Inside, bright greens and yellows dominate the decor, with marble and stained glass creating a sparkling atmosphere. Tourists are welcome to visit freely, making it a must-see spot.

https://maps.google.com/maps?ll=22.591776,88.37785&z=18&t=m&hl=ja&gl=JP&mapclient=embed&cid=5642240207241273036

Name: Pareshnath Temple
Address: Jessore Rd., Kolkata
Official Website: https://goo.gl/5duRa

8. St. Paul's Cathedral

St. Paul's Cathedral is the oldest cathedral in India, located about 300 meters east of the Victoria Memorial. It was built by the Church of England in 1847 during the British colonial period. It was later damaged in the 1934 Kolkata earthquake and rebuilt. It is a powerful cathedral with a 60-meter tower and luxurious decorations in the Gothic style, which was a typical architectural style during the British colonial period.

The stained glass in the chapel is impressive and beautiful, and the frescoes depicting the life of St. Paul, as the name suggests, and the luxurious decorations on the walls are also worth seeing. Of course, it is famous as a tourist spot, but even today it plays a major role as a church, and tourists are not allowed on Sundays. Please note that there are time limits for visiting on other days of the week as well.

9. Indian Museum

The Indian Museum is located at the intersection of Choringhee Street, the main street of Kolkata, and Sudder Street, which is famous for its many accommodations for tourists, making it a convenient location for sightseeing. It is the oldest museum in India and is so large that one day is not enough to see all the exhibits. Recommended for tourists are the history zone, which covers India's ancient Indus civilization to modern times, and the religion zone, which features Buddhist and Hindu statues. In the history zone, you can understand the flow of history from the pottery and animal statues of the Indus civilization, which developed in western India around 2000 BC, to the subsequent Maharaja Kingdom period and the British colonial period. In the religion zone, many statues of Hindu gods and Buddhas are on display.

10. Tagore House

The birthplace of Rabindranath Tagore, India's most famous poet and the first Asian to win a Nobel Prize, is now a tourist attraction known as Tagore House.

It is located on the north side of the city center, and is about a 15-minute walk from the Girish Park subway station. There are trams running around the area. It has the atmosphere of a typical residential area with few tourists, but there are signs to Tagore House here and there, so it is not that difficult to find. If you think it is an ordinary private house, you will be surprised by its size. It is a three-story brick building with a stylish colonial atmosphere. It is a tourist spot where you can get a glimpse of life at that time, such as the buildings, furnishings, and the car Tagore rode in.

11. Mother House

Mother House in Kolkata is where the world-famous Mother Teresa spent her later years and was buried after her death. The first floor is her grave, and the second floor is the room where she once lived. Inside the small building, records of her activities for the poor and sick are also on display. There are

currently 10 facilities in Kolkata that carry on Mother Teresa's legacy, providing support to the sick, elderly, orphans, and disabled. At Mother House, you can not only sightsee, but also participate in activities. The facility is always looking for volunteers, so even tourists can participate.

Registration and orientation are held at Mother House, so many people looking to volunteer gather during the reception hours. You can participate even for just one day, so if you're interested, be sure to visit.

12. Sudder Street

Sudder Street is well-known among backpackers due to the abundance of budget accommodations, making it a popular area for travelers who prefer affordable stays. Many tourists, particularly long-term travelers, flock to Sudder Street in search of inexpensive lodging.

In addition to accommodations, the street is filled with shops offering everything tourists might need, including souvenir shops, internet cafes, mobile phone stores, and second-hand bookstores. The unique hotels and shops maintain a vibe reminiscent of the former hippie culture, providing a distinctive atmosphere that is very much a part of the Indian travel experience.

Located just behind the Indian Museum, Sudder Street also has many restaurants and cafes catering to tourists, making it a convenient and easy place to explore.

13. New Market

Located across from Maidan Park, on the opposite side of Chowringhee Street, is the New Market area. The large building, with orange brickwork and a clock tower, gives off an impression reminiscent of Tokyo Station, creating an attractive atmosphere.

However, once inside, the ambiance completely changes. The market is filled with small shops selling a wide variety of items. You’ll find clothing, photo books, pouches, and many other souvenirs. However, New Market is primarily a local market catering to the everyday lives of Kolkata's residents, with most shops selling items that are not particularly targeted toward tourists.

The market is huge, and with so many similar-sized stores, it’s easy to get lost. Be sure to allow extra time to explore at a leisurely pace.

14. Dakshinapan Shopping Centre

Located about 10 kilometers south of central Kolkata, Dakshinapan Shopping Centre is a small, traditional shopping mall.

It is known for offering handicrafts from the ethnic minorities around Kolkata, including woodwork, furniture, textiles, and jewelry. If you enjoy shopping for souvenirs, this place will keep you entertained for hours. While furniture can be difficult to transport, fabrics and small items make great souvenirs.

Because it’s not a large shopping mall, taxi drivers might not be familiar with it. If you’re taking a taxi, it’s helpful to use Dakuria Station as a landmark.

15. Quest Mall

As a city with a population of 4.5 million, Kolkata has seen the rise of several large shopping malls in recent years. These malls reflect the economic growth and modernity of India. Quest Mall is one of the most luxurious malls in the city.

Inside, the mall is spacious and clean, with high-end brands like Armani, Gucci, and Burberry. It’s not overly crowded, and with air-conditioning, you can enjoy a relaxing window shopping experience.

The mall has a food court and familiar fast-food options from international chains. The variety of goods available, including higher-quality snacks and items suitable for souvenirs, makes this a great spot for shopping.

16. Durga Puja Festival

India has many festivals, and if your schedule allows, it’s worth including a festival in your travel plans. The most famous festival in Kolkata is Durga Puja, celebrated in the Bengal region every year in early October. Schools and offices are closed, and many people return to their hometowns, turning the city into a festive atmosphere.

During Durga Puja, large statues of the goddess Durga, often 2–3 meters tall, are displayed throughout the city. These statues are decorated with fabric, bells, and offerings such as flowers and rice. Stalls are set up around the statues, and families gather to pray and enjoy meals, creating a lively, festive atmosphere. At the end of the festival, the Durga statues are immersed in the river. Large crowds can be seen carrying or wheeling the statues to the river, similar to a procession, and this is a popular tourist attraction. The cycle continues with new statues made each year.

17. Diwali Festival

Durga Puja is a popular festival in the Bengal region, but Diwali is a festival celebrated throughout India. It celebrates the new year according to the Indian calendar and takes place over five days around the end of October every year. In Kolkata, there are two major festivals in October, so it feels like there are festivals going on all through that time.

The city is lit up with electric lights everywhere, families dress up and go out to see the sights, and prayers and dancing are held all over the city. You can enjoy a very fun atmosphere.

However, there is also a custom of exploding gunpowder like a large firecracker, so be careful as there may be sudden loud explosions.

18. Holi Festival

Holi is one of the largest festivals in northern India, held on the first full moon day of March. The festival involves throwing colored water at each other, and it is believed to have originated as a way of praying for good rainfall and harvests during the rainy season. Holi has become widely recognized internationally.

On this day, the streets literally become a riot of color, as everyone participates in throwing colored water. While it’s a joyful and fun celebration, the colors used can be very strong, and once they soak into clothes, they are hard to remove. The color can also stay on your skin for days, so travelers should be cautious. Cameras and smartphones could also be damaged by the colored water, so take care when observing the festivities.

In Kolkata, the atmosphere is relatively relaxed, but in some places like Varanasi, people tend to get carried away, and tourists are sometimes advised to stay indoors. It’s important to do thorough research if you plan to participate.

19. Howrah Bridge

The Howrah Bridge spans the Hooghly River on the western side of Kolkata and was built in 1943. With a length of 705 meters and a height of 97 meters, it is an impressive structure, showcasing a rugged truss design made of steel that is visible in its entirety. The bridge gives off a strong and powerful impression. One of its unique features is that it is supported only from both banks of the river, with no supports in the water.

While the bridge offers a beautiful view of the river, traffic congestion can make crossing it by car very difficult. It may take up to 1-2 hours to cross during peak times, which can cause delays for travelers heading to the terminal station on the west side of the river. If you're a tourist, walking across the bridge might be a good option to avoid the traffic.

20. Howrah Station

Howrah Station is the primary train station in Kolkata, serving as the departure point for trains heading to various parts of India. If you're traveling from Kolkata to cities like Varanasi or Delhi, you will likely depart from here. Likewise, trains from these cities will bring passengers to Howrah Station.

The station building has a grand and heavy exterior, reminiscent of Tokyo Station, but with many arch windows giving it a more charming appearance. Despite the large number of passengers, the station is relatively orderly. It offers spacious waiting rooms, dining options, and great views of the Howrah Bridge and Hooghly River. Additionally, the nearby Railway Museum displays old trains, including steam locomotives, making it a great place to visit even if you arrive early.

21. Eden Gardens

Eden Gardens is one of Kolkata’s most iconic cricket stadiums. It was named after George Eden, the Earl of Auckland, the Governor-General of India at the time of its construction in 1864. Known as the "Colosseum of Cricket," it is the home ground of the Kolkata Knight Riders, an Indian Premier League (IPL) team. The stadium also hosts matches for the Indian national cricket team, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Cricket is the most popular sport in India, and while matches can last for several days, on match days, it’s common to see locals watching the live broadcast in hotels and restaurants. Even if you're unfamiliar with the game’s rules, experiencing a match with local fans is an enjoyable and authentic way to connect with Indian culture.

22. Marble Palace

The Marble Palace, built in 1835, is an example of new colonial-style architecture and is considered one of the most beautiful 19th-century buildings in Kolkata. The palace is famous for its marble exterior and floors. It was built by Rajendra Mullick, a wealthy businessman, to house his art collection, which includes works by Rubens and many other pieces of art. The palace is still privately run as a museum, and tourists can visit it, although photo-taking is prohibited.

Entry is free, but visitors must obtain a pass from the India Tourism Center near the Victoria Memorial. The museum is not in a typical tourist area, so it is recommended to check the opening hours before visiting. It is about a 10-minute walk from the Mahatma Gandhi Road Metro Station.

23. Racecourse "Royal Calcutta Turf Club"

Located on the southern side of Maidan Park, near the Victoria Memorial and St. Paul's Cathedral, the Royal Calcutta Turf Club is easily accessible from the city center. It's about a 15-minute walk from Rabindra Sadan Metro Station.

The club holds races during two main seasons: the Monsoon Meeting (July–October) with about 20 races, and the Cold Weather Meeting (October–March) with about 30 races. Races take place twice a week, so it's important to check the schedule in advance. Even if you don’t place a bet, the energy of the crowd and the experience are worth it.

24. Alipore Zoological Gardens (Kolkata Zoo)

Opened in 1876, the Alipore Zoo is the oldest zoo in West Bengal and a popular destination for families in Kolkata. The zoo features a variety of animals, including giraffes, zebras, gorillas, Indian elephants, and numerous bird species.

It also houses some unique animals that are rare in other parts of the world, such as the Indian Antelope (a species of deer with long horns) and the Nilgai, a hybrid animal resembling a cross between a cow and a horse, native to India. The zoo's most famous resident is the White Bengal Tiger, the symbol of West Bengal.

Visitors can reach the zoo within about 30 minutes by bus and spend a relaxed half-day exploring. It’s a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, offering a change of pace before returning to sightseeing in Kolkata.

25. Central Park

Located in the northeastern part of Kolkata, about 30 minutes by subway from the city center, Central Park is situated in the Salt Lake City area. This district is well-organized, with radiating roads and a calm atmosphere, providing a stark contrast to the bustling streets of the city.

Kolkata is known for its crowded and chaotic urban environment, but Central Park offers a peaceful retreat. It is a well-maintained park with lush greenery, fresh air, and a large lake where visitors can enjoy the sounds of birds and even take a boat ride. The park is easily accessible from Central Park Metro Station, making it a great spot to visit in the mornings or evenings. It provides a different side of Kolkata and is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy nature.

◎ Summary of recommended sightseeing spots in Kolkata

Kolkata is a city that embodies the essence of India, known for its chaotic yet vibrant atmosphere. It is often described as a microcosm of the country. Recently, budget airlines flying through Bangkok have made it more affordable for tourists.

For those who want to experience India but have limited time or a tighter budget, Kolkata is a great option for sightseeing and exploration.