A Memorable & Short Trip To Kolkata
Plan your “Short Trip” with your near and dear ones to visit the Historical places in Kolkata.
Victoria Memorial, Kolkata Overview
Another relic of the British Raj in India, the Victoria Memorial is located in the heart of Kolkata, in West Bengal. This white marbled opulent structure was built in memory of Queen Victoria to celebrate her 25 years of rule over India and is almost a replica of the Victoria Memorial in London. Victoria Memorial is an iconic structure that is synonymous with the city of joy!
The memorial is surrounded by a lush green and well-maintained garden, which spreads over 64 acres and has numerous statues and sculptures in it. A sixteen-foot tall bronze statue of victory, mounted on ball bearings at the top of the memorial, serves to heighten the overall appeal and grandeur of the entire complex. Victoria Memorial is breathtaking and marvellous, especially at night, when it is illuminated. The Sound and Light shows that take place in the evening are an added delight, and a must watch. All in all, the place is a must visit for people to wish to relive the essence of the Victorian era in the modern day world.
Fort William, Kolkata Overview
The mighty edifice of Fort William is situated in the city of Kolkata, on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River. Built in the year 1696, the fort is named after King William III and was the first stronghold of the British in the country. The magnificent structure is spread over 70.9 acres and is embellished with hundreds of arched windows that overlook lush green gardens. Meticulous stonework adorns the surface of the building and it took as long as took ten years to reach completion. However, it was soon realized that the building had a few loopholes, and a new octagonal building was constructed whose foundation was laid by Sir Robert Clive.
Over the course of its existence, Fort William has served a number of purposes, each of which was in stark contrast to the other. Initially, it comprised of wings and an inner bastion where prisoners were hauled which is why it was known as ‘the black hole of Calcutta’. Today, Fort William is the property of the Indian Army and has a capacity of accommodating up to 10,000 army personnel. It also serves as the headquarters of the Eastern Command. Due to its importance with respect to Indian intelligence, access to the interiors of the fort is limited to army personnel and their relatives. However, you can visit the palace for its stunning architecture.
Belur Math, Kolkata Overview
Belur Math in Kolkata is the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission. Sprawling over forty acres of land on the west bank of the Hooghly River, it is visited by people from all over the world, irrespective of their religious beliefs.
The temple is known for its distinctive architecture, which fuses Hindu, Christian and Islamic motifs as a symbol of unity of all religions. Founded by Swami Vivekananda, the chief disciple of Ramakrishna Paramahansa, the temple is at the heart of the Ramakrishna Movement. The temple complex also houses a museum and several other affiliated educational institutions. The evening Aarti takes place 5:30 PM, at which an evening bell is rung to indicate that visitors are not allowed to loiter on the Math grounds and are also not allowed to visit any temple other than Sri Ramakrishna temple. The Aarti songs sung are hymns of praise to Sri Ramakrishna and Sri Sarada Devi. The Aarti here is different from those at other places of worship since one is expected just to sit and meditate. There is no religious offering made. Flowers and sweets are not offered.
Howrah Bridge, Kolkata Overview
An iconic landmark of Kolkata, Howrah Bridge is a massive steel bridge constructed over the Hooghly River. It is considered to be among the longest cantilever bridges in the world. Also known as Rabindra Setu, it connects Howrah and Kolkata. It carries daily traffic of over 100,000 vehicles and countless pedestrians and is as historic as it is grand. The opulence of the bridge, however, comes alive in the night time as it is all lit up. You can also take a ferry ride as it runs between Kolkata and Howrah, from the launch ghat. The view of the city from the ferry, especially in the night, is priceless, to say the least.
Howrah Bridge was the third-longest cantilever bridge at the time of its construction, but now it is the sixth-longest one of its types. It was renamed as Rabindra Setu on June 14, 1965, after the name of Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore. It spreads about 1500 ft over the Hooghly River and is 71 ft wide. There is a total of 8 lanes of strand road, bicycles, and pedestrians. What makes this bridge unique is the fact that it was built without a single nut or bolt and is held together by rivets.
Birla Planetarium, Kolkata Overview
Situated at the famous Chowringhee Road right in the proximity of Victoria Memorial and St. Paul’s Cathedral Birla planetarium is the largest planetarium in Asia and the second largest in the world! Situated in the city of joy – Kolkata, Birla Planetarium is a magnificent edifice set up by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru on 2nd July 1963. It is one of the three planetariums present in India. Also known as Taramandal, the Birla Planetarium regularly holds many shows and programs are in various languages including Hindi, English, Bengali, and other regional languages. In addition to being a planetarium, Birla Planetarium also has an electronics laboratory and an astronomy gallery that has a collection of paintings and astronomical models.
A visit to the Birla Planetarium is an exciting way to ignite your interest in science and the motion of planets. People, especially astronomy lovers, arrive from all over the world to experience the amazing shows organized here. A trip here includes a tour of the planets, where interesting details about them and the other fascinating celestial bodies present in our universe are discussed. Silence rings loud while the show goes on, which in itself is a testament to the mesmerising effect of the shows here. Pictures of famous astronauts and other celestial bodies are put on display in the hallway. One can have a look at them after attending the show.
Indian Museum, Kolkata Overview
The ninth oldest museum of the world and largest in India, the Indian Museum is located in the city of joy – Kolkata. The foundation stone of the Indian Museum was laid down in the year 1814 and has been a centre of multidisciplinary activities ever since. Popularly known as ‘Jadughar’, it has the finest collection of contemporary paintings, sacred relics of Buddha, Egyptian mummies and ancient sculptures. In addition to these, the Indian Museum boasts of some of the most exquisite collections of ornaments, fossils, skeletons, antiques, armours, and stunning Mughal paintings.
Presently, the museum has 35 galleries which have been divided into six categories namely Art, Archaeology, Anthropology, Geology, Zoology and Economic Botany. For those inquisitive about history, there is also a library and bookshop present within the museum premises. Indian Museum recently celebrated its bicentennial anniversary with great fervour in February 2014. With its splendid collection, the museum takes you back in time to witness our fascinating past.
Marble Palace Mansion, Kolkata Overview
The Marble palace near the Chorbagan in North Kolkata built in 1835 by Rajendra Mallick is famed for its art collection of masterpieces by Reuben and paintings by various renowned international artists such as Reynolds, Van Gogh and Rembrandt.
The Palace also boasts of a Zoo with different rare birds and animals.
Mother House, Kolkata Overview
Mother House or Missionaries of Charity is a religious congregation that was established by Mother Teresa in 1950. It is a Latin Church or a Roman Catholic religious congregation known as Saint Teresa of Kolkata. The members of the Mother House provide free services to the ones stricken by poverty. The house has about 4,500 members of the congregation, commonly known as Sisters who have selflessly devoted their lives to serve the poor and the needy ones. They adhere to the vows of obedience, poverty, chastity and to selflessly and wholeheartedly help to the ones who have been affected by poverty. Their service and kindness have won many a hearts, and today several branches are running all over the world serving the ones who are in need.
The missionaries provide free services to people in need regardless of their religion. They help the sick, the poor, the disabled, the mentally challenged, the ones who are dying, former prostitutes, the addicts, the homeless, the victims of natural disasters and epidemics, orphans and street children. They also run soup kitchens and schools to educate poor street children.
An area of the house is reserved for followers to pay their respect to Mother Teresa. Here, one can find Mother Teresa’s Tomb and an exhibition that displays her work through photographs, awards and articles. Some of her belongings like her sarees, her sandals and her bag are also displayed. This is where Mother Teresa began her service to mankind, and this is where it ended. In her lifetime, she created a community that continues to serve the needy ones selflessly. One visit here to pay respects to Mother Teresa is a must.
Science city, Kolkata Overview
One of its kind in India, the Science city was inaugurated on 1st July 1997. It is a major attraction for the residents of Kolkata as well as for the people visiting Kolkata. It is one of the finest and the largest science museums in the world and provides a fun way of learning science. Under the National Council of Science Museums, the Science City in Kolkata is the largest science centre in the entire Indian Subcontinent. It is a governmental organisation under the Ministry of Culture and the main motto of the Science City was the popularisation of science. It is located at the crossing of the EM Bypass and the JBS Halder Avenue in Kolkata. The science city is a perfect blend of education with fun. There is a special section dedicated to the aquatic world wherein you can learn every minute detail about the various fishes and insects in the aquatic world. Some of the most exotic fishes can be seen in these aquariums. All in all, science city is going to offer you a phenomenal experience with your friends and family and totally make your holiday worth it.
The ground floor of the science city comprises of some optical illusions which are very interesting to look at. It is always so much fun to watch yourself taking a variety of shapes in front of the optical mirrors. The city is located on the crossing of Eastern Bypass and Park Circus at Kolkata and should be a sure shot stop on your trip to Kolkata. It is a favourite amongst kids as well as adults. Tornado, the energy ball, ocean waves and quicksand are a must watch. Time Machine is a common favourite amongst all the visitors. It gives one the opportunity to travel to outer space from where you can travel back in time and enter the age of dinosaurs by being a part of the artificial Jurassic Park. You can try the ropeway as well and get a bird’s eye view of the city.
St. Paul’s Cathedral, Kolkata Overview
Located in the heart of the City of Joy – Kolkata, St Paul’s is an Anglican cathedral that operates under CNI – Church of North India. It is a must-visit for those who seek enriching historical and architectural pleasure on their vacation trips. In the heart of the city, this colossal structure reminds you of the colonial times and takes you down the memory lane. Travellers keep this among the top few must-visit places when they come to Kolkata. It looks most beautiful during the Christmas holidays, when the cathedral, the garden around it as well as the surrounding streets are all bathed in light and festivities.
Primarily built to accommodate the ever-increasing Christian community in Calcutta, it is the first Episcopalian church in Asia. The building follows Indo-Gothic style and its structure is complete with a cascading white edifice, towering spire and colourful tinted windows. Inside, it has a huge nave, majestic altar and chancel, along with carvings and paintings depicting great moments and events of Christian history. The cathedral complex also houses several memorabilia of past congregants and a library where books as old as the church’s foundation time still exist donated by founding member Bishop Wilson.
Birla Mandir, Kolkata Overview
Birla Mandir is a stunning structure that adorns the streets of Ballygunge, Kolkata dedicated to Lord Krishna and Goddess Radha. An imposing structure amalgamating traditional style of architecture with modern reflections, the temple is the perfect specimen of craftsmanship and engineering genius. The construction of this splendid edifice began in the year 1970 and after meticulous work spanning over 26 years, it reached its completion on 21st February 1996. The unique patterns on the wall of the temple are sculpted by the artisans specially called from Agra, Mirzapur and Muzaffarpur. Although the chief deities of the temple is Krishna and Radha, other Gods revered here are Lord Ganesha, Lord Hanuman, Lord Shiva, ten avatars of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Durga.
The magnificent structure of the Birla Temple is hard to miss once you reach its vicinity. Towering domes covered in intricate stonework and design adorn the main facade of the temple, while the complex itself is a pearl white marble marvel. In addition to these, some artefacts in the temple are made up of silver and Belgian glass which impart a unique divinity to the shrine. As the dusk approaches, the beautiful Birla Mandir sight to behold adorned with electric diyas and gleaming chandeliers. The continuous chanting and soft music only add to its spiritual charm. With spectacular architecture, devotees and visitors come here from all around the globe, especially during Janmashtami which is celebrated here with great vigour.
Eden Gardens, Kolkata Overview
Home of cricket in Kolkata, The Eden Gardens is a beautiful, well-maintained cricket stadium located in Kolkata’s B. B. D. Bagh area, near State Secretariat and Calcutta High Court. It was established in the year 1864 and was laid by Governor- General Auckland, who named the gardens and the cricket ground after his sisters Emily and Fanny Eden. Stretched over 50 acres, this cricket stadium has the capacity to seat about 66,349 people and is the second largest stadiums in the world. When it is not hosting some of the most nail-biting sporting events, Eden Gardens also doubles up as a quaint destination for nature lovers.
The verdant pathways of Eden Gardens are shaded by huge mahogany, mango and banyan trees that make it a peaceful place to sit and enjoy the marvels of nature. There is also a three-storeyed Burmese Pagoda in red and golden yellow that was brought here by Lord Dalhousie. Eden Gardens Stadium plays host to many sports, most importantly cricket, which takes place lies right across the garden. Extremely popular as a sporting destination, it regularly hosts one day, test and T20 matches. Presently it is the home turf of IPL Team Kolkata Knight Riders and the regional Bengal Cricket Team. Eden Garden is also known to host several Association Matches. You can visit the stadium when no matches are being held. In order to do so, you need permission from CAB or Cricket Association of Bengal.
Jorasanko Thakur Bari, Kolkata Overview
The Bengali name for the House of the Thakurs, the Jorasanko Thakur Bari is the ancestral home of the Tagore family that is located in Jorasanko, in the north of Kolkata in West Bengal in India. This is an enjoyable and exciting place to visit, especially for lovers of history and Bengali literature. The 700 paintings that are exhibited in this ancestral home especially capture the attention of the visitors. What enthrals them, even more, is the self-composed invite of Rabindranath Tagore’s wedding. The museum also houses three different galleries, manuscripts, books and other antique items.
All know the contributions of Rabindranath Tagore to the world of literature, and it is in this house that this exceptional poet was born and where he spent most of his life and then left for his heavenly abode. This ancestral home was built in the year 1784, and now houses the Rabindra Bharati Museum, which is commonly known as Jorasankho Thakurbari in the local language. The Rabindra Bharti University is also located in proximity to the Jorasanko Thakur Bari, and the university was started with the purpose of imparting quality education to the students.
Detailed knowledge about the first Non-European Nobel Laureate, Rabindranath Tagore, can be obtained when one decides to visit the Jorasanko Thakur Bari. And then, of course, the chance to explore the history and lifestyle of such an eminent personality who has greatly shaped the literature that we know today is indeed unparalleled. This is precisely why the Jorasanko Thakur Bari should be on the top of your list of places to visit while in Kolkata!
Birla Industrial & Technological Museum, Kolkata Overview
Being the first scientific and industrial museum in India, Birla Industrial and Technological Museum (BITM) is one of the prime attractions of Kolkata and is located on the Gurusaday Road. The museum was set up on 2nd May 1959 and opened to the general public. It was initially known as Birla Park and within three years of its opening was converted into a museum. The palatial structure of museum has led to it becoming a famous tourist attraction famous for its galleries and 3D shows organized in the premises.
Birla Park was transformed into BITM under the influence of Dr B.C. Roy, who in the year 1956 felt that a developing nation like India needed museums in its vicinity. Therefore, the property was handed over to Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru by G.D. Birla to set up the museum which took nearly three years to complete. BITM is also the pioneer of the Mobile Science Exhibition which was the first exhibition on wheels. With its galleries, diverse activities and the growing chains of the satellite centres, this museum is now the place where science manifests itself through means of interactive and animated models. It is an amazing place and a must-visit for all the science lovers out there!
Rabindra Sarobar, Kolkata Overview
The erstwhile Dhakuria Lake is an artificial tank in South Kolkata. Spread over 75 acres, it is home to varied migratory birds from Siberia and Russia. The lake is home to many fish. Surrounded by gardens, children’s park and auditorium, this location has been developed over the years to encourage community and welfare. It is a popular recreational spot for idyllic picnics.
Kalighat Temple, Kolkata Overview
Kalighat Temple is located in Kolkata, West Bengal. One of the 51 Shakti Sthals of India, it is one of the most visited Kali temples in India. The spot is where the toes of Sati’s right foot fell during Shiva’s Tandava dance. It is said that Kalighat was where Chowranga Giri, a Dasanami monk, worshipped Ma Kali with great austerity and has thus been known as a religious centre for Ma Kali worship for centuries. This 200-year-old temple embodies the principle that only divine knowledge can subsume sodomized ego, akin to an Asura. This transcendence will lead to moksha, as Ma Kali guides all through their devoted worship of her.
Botanical Gardens in Kolkata, Kolkata Overview
The Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden, better known as the Botanical Garden, is a sprawling garden spanning a total area of 273 acres that is located in Shibpur, Howrah, near Kolkata. The gardens were established in the year 1787 and were commonly known as the Company Garden in that time. It is presently under the Botanical Survey of India (BSI) of Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India. Today, the vibrant garden is considered to be one of the most stunning landscaped gardens in the entire country with undulating land topography and astonishing artificial lakes. It is a pure delight for nature lovers to visit this area and to spend some quiet and peaceful time in the lap of nature at the gardens.
The Botanical Garden boasts of being home to 12,000 living perennial plants as well as thousands of dried out plants which have been collected from all across the globe. Thousands of astounding orchids and multicoloured flowers can also be found in the garden. The major attraction of the garden, however, is the vast and widespread Banyan tree, which is popularly known as the Great Banyan Tree. This enormous tree is reputed for forming the second most extensive canopy in the entire world. The Botanical Gardens were originally founded in 1786 by Colonel Kyd, and are the oldest botanical garden that can be found in the whole country. In fact, the tea that now grows in Assam and Darjeeling was first developed in these gardens.
Alipore Zoo, Kolkata Overview
The Alipore Zoo, also known as the Calcutta Zoo or the Zoological Garden of Alipore, is the oldest zoological park to have been established in India and is a major tourist attraction in Kolkata, West Bengal. The Alipore Zoo attracts tourists from all across the nation who visit the zoo to explore the wildlife that thrives here.
The Alipore Zoo is perhaps the most known for being the home of the expired Aldabra giant tortoise ‘Adwaita’, a tortoise who had lived for over 250 years before he died in the year 2006. The place is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts, or for families with children, to explore the abundant and plentiful wildlife of the country at its best. Spread over an area of 46.5 acres, the zoo has been operating since 1876, when it was first opened to the general public.
The Alipore Zoo becomes especially crowded during the winter seasons when tourists flock to this popular destination in Kolkata in huge numbers. Modernisation of the zoo, including the addition of new glass-walled enclosures and building of aviaries, has further led to an increase in the popularity of this zoo.
Eco Tourism Park, Kolkata Overview
Eco-Tourism Park in Kolkata is an expansive urban park designed to promote eco-tourism in the city. It is the biggest urban park in India and occupies over 475 acres of land. The beauty of the location increases ten folds because of a water body that surrounds the park and forms an island in the middle. It is often visited by picnickers or those who want a quick escape from mundane lives. The beautiful and well-maintained landscape is a perfect retreat for nature lovers. All the facilities provided inside the park are designed to decrease the adverse effects on nature through non-pollution and preservation of the natural landscape.
The idea of an Eco-Tourism Park in Kolkata was proposed by Mamata Banerjee, the Chief Minister of the state of West Bengal. HIDCO – Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation of West Bengal coordinated with several departments and brought about the construction of the Eco-Tourism Park in Kolkata. It has three major parts – the ecological zones, the gardens and the recreational zones making it a perfect getaway to relax and unwind. They have some activities that visitors can choose from to suit their requirement. They also have cottages and conference halls that can be rented for personal or business needs. The Eco Park is a beautiful respite from the developing concrete jungle in the city.
Calcutta Jain Temple, Kolkata Overview
Pareshnath Jain Temple is a temple complex dedicated to four Jain Teerthankaras. The complex is a beautiful arrangement of these shrines and draws tourists from all over the world. The architecture of the temples consists of intricately carved marbles and glass work and is indeed one of the few temples that have a charismatic vibe. The complex expands over a vast piece of land and is mostly visited by followers of Jainism. The temple complex also houses extremely well-maintained gardens and fountains. Many visitors claim it is not just a religious retreat but also a recreational one because of its architecture. Pareshwanath Temple complex houses a shop where tourists can purchase souvenirs and gifts. One may choose to offer prayers or pay respect to the Tirthankaras in all the temples. Devotees and the temple management ensure complete silence is maintained and that helps devotees enter a quiet and peaceful zone to meditate. The temples are often crowded in the evenings when visitors come to enjoy the vibe, offer their prayers and feed the birds in the garden area. This is one of the attractions that must not be missed when exploring Kolkata.
Nicco Park, Kolkata Overview
Nicco Park is an amusement park frequently visited for entertainment and recreational purposes. It is also called the “Disney Land of West Bengal” and attracts visitors in large numbers throughout the year. The park functions efficiently on solar energy that causes no pollution. Every aspect of the rides here is appropriately explained at the beginning for the visitors to learn. So, one will find charts and boards displayed at the entrance of every ride illustrating the principles used to ensure a safe and fun ride. The park has numerous amusement rides and shows which are not just recreational but educational also. It is, therefore, a favourite amongst parent and youngsters who often prefer the attraction as a picnic spot.
Nicco Park has been functioning as an amusement park for the past 20 years. It is the first amusement park in India that has obtained recognition from Quality Management System, Safety Management System and Environment Management System. Nicco Park is also the first amusement park in the world to have obtained a ‘Social Accountability’ certificate. Those looking for an entertaining, educational and a recreational escape must head to the Nicco Park.
Prinsep Ghat, Kolkata Overview
Prinsep Ghat, located on the banks of River Hooghly, is a majestic structure famous for its Greek/ Gothic inlays. The beauty of Princep Ghat draws architecture and history buffs in large numbers, but even locals visit to absorb the regal vibe of the attraction. With the magnificent Howrah Bridge in the background, watching the sunrise or sunset and taking a long walk in the cool air on the banks of the river are some of the preferred recreational activities here.
During the British Rule, it was used by the staff of the British Royals as a jetty for loading and unloading passengers and essential items. The ghat is located between Fort William and the Water Gate and is often visited by tourists exploring these attractions. Prinsep Ghat is one of the few locations that have been restored to maintain the pre-independence aura. It is, therefore, a favourite amongst photographers especially for pre-wedding shoots. In between exploring the attraction, if one feels like grabbing a bite, there are several food kiosks to choose from that serve scrumptious local snacks. Prinsep Ghat is sure to be the highlight of one’s trip to Kolkata.
Aquatica, Kolkata Overview
Aquatica is a water theme park and resort in Kolkata having many exciting themed rides, slides, entertainment and recreational activities for all their guests. The water park occupies over 75000 square feet of area and provides for a pleasant respite from the scorching summer heat. They provide lockers for the visitors to keep their belongings securely. With many rides one can choose from, the young and the old, both are bound to find something to suit their requirement. Whether one wants to laze around in the pool or go for a thrilling water slide, there’s something for everyone here. In between the ride, if one feels a need for a snack they can head to the restaurant that serves a variety of local and international cuisine.
The Aquatica Resort has all facilities and amenities to make their guests’ stay comfortable and memorable. They have luxurious rooms to accommodate solo travellers and families. 24×7 room service, parking services, free Wi-Fi etc. are some of the facilities they provide. Aquatica is also a favourite venue for events like birthdays, weddings, engagement parties, anniversary parties, team outings and award ceremonies. They also arrange for live shows and corporate events on a grand level to ensure the guests have a fabulous time. It is a perfect picnic attraction to spend a day having fun with the family.
Park Street, Kolkata Overview
Park Street is a major access route in Kolkata, also officially known as Mother Teresa Sarani. The street begins at Chowringhee Road or JL Nehru road and stretches till Park Circus crossing. It is said that Park Street never sleeps and is always bustling with activities. Being a major hangout spot in the city, it has many pubs and restaurants. Several important routes intersect or originate from Park Street. The street has been a crowd puller since the reign of the British Kingdom and undergone modifications that make it a fashionable hangout spot.
Park Street is one area in the city where one will find 5-Star restaurant and hotels, nightclubs/pubs, malls and several eateries. The street draws locals in large numbers on the occasions of Diwali, Christmas and New Year’s Eve. The entire street is decorated with bright and colourful lights celebrating the festivals with great enthusiasm. A number of prominent landmarks are also located in or near Park Street. Some of them are Asiatic Society, St. Xavier’s College, South Park Street Cemetery and The Park Hotel. It is one of the prime entertainment and recreational zone in Kolkata.
Chowringhee, Kolkata Overview
Chowringhee, officially known as Jawaharlal Nehru Road, is a happening hub and frequently visited by locals for recreational activities and shopping. It is one of the few localities in the city with top end boutiques, hotels, malls, shops and restaurants. The region also has several heritage buildings nearby that tourists can explore. These buildings were built during the British era and are famous for their architecture and historical importance that photographers shouldn’t miss at all.
Chowringhee was the inspiration of a novelist from Bengal, Sankar which was also featured in a movie made in 1968. It is one of the places for the night owls searching for nightclubs/ pubs. With the Chowringhee Market nearby, the area is a paradise for shopaholics. It also houses some main metro stations in the city. Due to its accessibility, locals visit the area often to explore on foot or window shop or indulge in some delicious street feed. It does get very crowded during peak hours, but there’s something for everyone here at Chowringhee.
ISKCON Kolkata, Kolkata Overview
ISKCON Radha Krishna Temple is a highly spiritual place for the devotees. The temple is also called Sri Sri Radha Govind Mandir and mainly focuses on spreading the teachings of Lord Krishna. It is not restricted to any one particular religion as such and welcomes enthusiasts or people interested in learning about these teachings with open arms. The temple is a serene complex that houses beautifully ornamented idols of Goddess Radha and Lord Krishna. The complex is very well maintained and provides for a serene atmosphere for devotees to soak in the heavenly vibes of the deities.
ISKCON was founded by A.C.Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada in 1966 in New York to open up the world to the valuable teachings of Lord Krishna based on the sacred Hindu scriptures of Bhagwad Geeta and Bhagwad Purana. This spiritual path introduces people to the Sanatana Dharma and Vedic Culture and helps them live a stress-free life. Visitors can also enjoy a 100% vegetarian sattvic meal that is prepared by the volunteers in clean and hygienic conditions. Most of the devotees visit the temple to clear their minds of endless chatter and to purify their souls through the chanting of the ‘Hare Rama’ mantra. To witness the vibe when the mantra is chanted by all the devotees is a surreal experience.
Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata Overview
Known as Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan, Salt Lake Stadium is an international multi-purpose stadium in Bidhannagar, Kolkata. The stadium takes pride in being the largest stadium of the country, it can accommodate upto 1,20,000 people.
Dakshineswar Kali, Kolkata Overview
Flanked by River Hooghly on the Eastern bank, Dakshineswar Kali is a revered Hindu navratna temple which is presided by Bhavatarini – a form of Goddess Kali. Built in Rani Rashmoni in 1855 who was a devotee of Goddess Kali, the Bhavatarini form means ‘she, who liberates her devotees from the ocean of existence.’ Aside from the main shrine, there are also several rooms built along the complex surrounding the boundary walls.
In these rooms, there are shrines dedicated to several gods. 12 of these are dedicated to Lord Shiva, 1 to Radha Krishna, and 1 to Rani Rashmoni. In addition to that, there is also a bathing ghat on the river. Besides, the temple is also known for its famous association with Sri Ramakrishna who was a yogi, mystic and a revered person of the 19th century Bengal. Other than paying your respect to the gods and goddesses, you can also admire the gorgeous architectural designs and beautiful scenic beauty.
