Discover the best things to do in Kolkata, a city rich in cultural heritage and vibrant experiences. From historical landmarks to delectable street food, immerse yourself in the heart of West Bengal's capital. Welcome to Kolkata, where history breathes and culture thrives. This enchanting city has a plethora of activities to offer, ensuring a memorable experience for every visitor. Let's delve into the vibrant tapestry of things to do in Kolkata.
Things To Do In Kolkata
Uncover the grandeur of Kolkata's history at the Victoria Memorial, a splendid architectural masterpiece that narrates tales of the British Raj. Stroll through lush gardens and admire the stunning white marble structure that stands as a testament to the city's regal past.
1. Sundarbans – Admire Wildlife In Their Natural Habitat
Sundarbans is the largest river delta and an estuarine mangrove in the world that gives one of the best wildlife experiences in India. One of the natural wonders of the world as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bangladesh, this is a pharaonic forest in the coastal region of Bay of Bengal and visiting this is surely one of those things that are a must do in Kolkata. Going for spotting distinguished varieties of Flora and Fauna here, especially the royal Bengal tigers, is one of the best things to do in Kolkata for the lovers of wildlife.
Location: Hoogly River, West Bengal, India
Timings: 7 AM to 5 PM
Entry Fees: INR 15/- (Indian)
2. Victoria Memorial Palace – Marvel At The Architecture
Established in the Indo-Saracenic Revival Architectural Style, Victoria Memorial is a large marble building being transformed to a museum in Kolkata. Built between 1906 and 1921, it’s 54 metres high and a perfect tourist destination to know the story behind its construction. Explore this place for an insightful trip down memory lane which is one of the most refreshing activities in Kolkata. This is amongst the most popular historical places in India.
Location: Queen’s Valley, Kolkata
Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM
Entry Fees: INR 10/-
3. Dakshineswar & Kalighat Temple – Take Blessings
Dakshineswar Temple and the Kalighat Temple are two prominent Hindu temples in Kolkata. While Dakshineswar is located on the eastern banks of Hooghly River, Kalighat adorns the suburbs of Anami Sangha. The deity of the both the temples is the Hindu goddess Kali. Pilgrims wondering what to do in Kolkata can pay a visit to these famous shrines and drown their body and soul into the holiness of these two pure sanctums. This is one of the most amazing activities in Kolkata for those who wish to lose themselves in the essence of spirituality.
Location:
Dakshineswar Temple: Dakshineshwar, Kolkata
Kalighat Temple: Anami Sangha, Kalighat, Kolkata
Timings: 5 AM to 8 PM
Entry Fees: No entry fee
4. Science City – Enhance Your Knowledge
The best place to visit for family and couples, the Science City in Kolkata is an eco-friendly and easily accessible place for people of all ages and walks of life. One of the best things to do in Kolkata in a day is to visit this epitome of knowledge and intellect, something that Kolkata is known for! It is the largest science center in the Indian subcontinent under the National Council of Science Museums, Ministry of Culture, Government of India
Location: J.B.S Haldane Avenue, Kolkata, West Bengal
Timings: 9 AM to 7 PM
Entry Fees: INR 50/- per person
5. Howrah Bridge – Capture The Beautiful Landscape
An archetype for the art of engineering, Howrah Bridge is the best place to get romantic with your better half while touring in Kolkata. The walk on the sixth-longest bridge is an unforgettable experience and simply one of the most fun things to do in Kolkata. Visiting the Howrah Bridge is one of the best things to do in Kolkata at night.
Location: Howrah, West Bengal
Timings: Throughout the day
Entry Fees: No entry fee
6. Nicco Park – Have Some Fun Time
This eco-friendly amusement park specially created to attract tourist from all over the country as well as the world is definitely worth to visit. Nicco Park provides a friendly environment and is suitable for people of all ages. A good sight for both entertainment as well as the educational buff, it is one of the most amazing places near Kolkata to spend time with your loved ones and indulge in adventurous rides. Don’t forget to explore the varieties of tasty food here which is anyway one of the top things to do in Kolkata. Spending some time at Nicco Park in one of the best things to do in Kolkata for youngsters.
Location: Jheel Meel, Sector IV, Salt Lake City, Kolkata, West Bengal
Timings: 10:30 AM to 7:30 PM
Entry Fees: INR 150/-
7. Park Street – Shop Your Heart Out
If you are looking for things to do in Kolkata for couples then shopping is one of them. Park Street is an infamous boulevard in the city of Kolkata that serves as a harbor for the shopping maniacs. Let your heavy pockets turn light while you run amok on a shopping spree till time unhinged. Some of the best things to buy in Kolkata include sweets, jute craft items, books, terracotta structures, traditional sarees, tea, paper mâché masks, Dokra, and more. Other than shopping, it’s a place where you can truly witness the grand Christmas celebrations.
Location: Park Street, Kolkata
Timings: Throughout the day
Entry Fees: No entry fee
8. Eden Garden – Take A Plunge Into History
One of the top things to do in Kolkata is to visit the Eden Garden. Snapshot the panorama of the place and acknowledge the most iconic cricket stadium in the world. Eden Garden was established in 1864 in Kolkata and is one of the famous tourist spots in Kolkata. Although a cricket stadium, it has occasionally hosted football matches too.
Location: BBD Bagh, Kolkata, West Bengal
Timings: 5 AM to 11 PM
Entry Fees: Ticket prices vary depending on the match scheduled
9. St. Paul Cathedral – Treat The History Buff In You
One of the oldest cathedrals in Kolkata known for its beautiful views as well as its peaceful, spiritual ambiance is the St. Paul Cathedral. It also exhibits a classical European architecture. Come here and lose yourself in an amazing world resting inside the cathedral. The grand white building also features a classic clock tower. Come here to make a wish or simply get spellbound by this Gothic-styled beauty as it is counted among the top activities to do in Kolkata.
Location: 1A, Cathedral Road, Kolkata
Timings: 10 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fees: NA
10. State Archaeological Gallery – Gaze At The Artifacts
Do you crave to know about the historic and prehistoric times of this part of the world? Well, get to the State Archaeological Gallery which is another cross-out in the list of the best things to do in Kolkata. The Gallery was established in 1962 and has a collection of rare artifacts, early stone tools, and antiques from many Palaeolithic, Mesolithic and Neolithic sites. Come and learn all about our evolution from an early man to the modern man. Visiting the gallery is also one of the free things to do in Kolkata for children.
Location: 1, Satyen Roy Rd, Auddy Bagan Basti, Behala, Kolkata
Timings: 11 AM to 4:30 PM
Entry Fees: INR 2/- (adult) and free for children up to 15 years
11. Princep Ghat – Watch The Sun Go Down
Situated near the banks of Hooghly River, Princep Ghat is one of the oldest ghats built under the British Raj and now one of the most romantic places in Kolkata. This place offers the best views of River Ganges and lets one enjoy the innumerable food varieties in the vicinity. There is also an availability of various things to buy in Kolkata right here. Enjoy your evening while riding a boat in the river and sipping on your favourite cup of coffee while the views of the place enthrall you. This is one of the things that are a must do in Kolkata to experience this city to the fullest!
Location: Fort William, Hastings, Kolkata
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fees: No entry fee
12. Birla Planetarium – Treat Your Adventurous Soul
The Birla Planetarium is a single-storeyed observatory built in the Indian architectural style that features daily astronomy shows in multiple languages. It offers the most wonderful visual experience of the universe inside a room. It’s counted among the best adventure activities in Kolkata for kids and adults alike who are fascinated by the heavenly bodies up above.
Location: Cathedral Road, near Victoria Memorial, Kolkata
Timings: 12:30 AM to 6:30 PM
Entry Fees: INR 40/-
13. The Marble Palace – Peep Into The 19th Century
The Marble Palace is one of the oldest and well-preserved 19th-century Neoclassical mansion in North Kolkata and speaks volumes about Kolkata is the City Of Palaces. Spend a time with your family or friends here and enjoy the simplicity of the day as well as the complicated architecture of this beauty. Dispel another agenda from your list of the best things to do in Kolkata. Don’t forget to interact with the many animals that Marble Palace is home to.
Location: 46, Opp Ram Mandir, Muktaram Babu Street, Jorasanko, Kolkata
Timings: 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Entry Fees: Free
14. The Indian Museum – Glance At Antiques
The largest and oldest museum of India is situated right here in Kolkata. Intriguing, isn’t it? Behold the rare collection of antiques, armour and ornaments, fossils, skeletons, mummies, and Mughal paintings on your visit to this grand marvel. It’s yet another treat to the lovers of historic times who wish to learn more about the past of not just Kolkata, but of human evolution itself.
Location: 27, Jawaharlal Nehru Rd, Colootola, New Market Area, Dharmatala, Taltala, Kolkata
Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM
Entry Fees: INR 20/-
15. Mother’s Wax Museum – Meet Realistic Wax Figures
One of the most visited tourist attractions in Kolkata is the Mother’s Wax Museum. Established in 2014, it has a spectacular collection of wax figures of many great people. The best place to visit in Kolkata with kids as well as friends, this place has some of the most realistic wax figures that are bound to catch anyone’s attention.
Location: No. 69 -1111, HIDCO Tower, CBD-1, New Town, Kolkata
Timings: 12 noon to 7:30 PM
Entry Fees: INR 200/-
16. Salt Lake – Enjoy A Boat Ride
Serene, green, and spacious – the Salt Lake is a satellite town in Kolkata that offers myriad opportunities and activities for relaxation and fun. For relaxing, one can always take a morning or evening walk in this lush abode, while for shopping in Kolkata they can head to any of the innumerable places around. Make sure that you indulge in boating in this lake as it is one of the best things to do in Salt Lake, Kolkata. Don’t forget to enjoy the delicious street food of Kolkata while you’re here.
Location: Kolkata, North 24 Parganas District
Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fees: NA
17. The Academy Of Fine Arts – Appreciate The Art
The perfect place to visit for an artist, the Academy of Fine Arts is one of the oldest in Kolkata is the center for many cultural programmes that are conducted in Kolkata. It also houses mesmerizing gallery displays and art exhibitions that can immediately instill the feeling of true love for arts and crafts in a person. Exploring the artsy galleries and suburbs of Kolkata is surely one of the best things to do in Kolkata for budding artists and painters. And if you are just an admirer of, this is one of the offbeat things to do in Kolkata.
Location: 2, Cathedral Road, Maidan, Kolkata
Timings: 3 PM to 9 PM
Entry Fees: NA
18. Tram Ride – Explore The City Like Bengalis Do
Kolkata is one those few places where trams still function and enjoying a tram ride is one of the best things to do in Kolkata, India. Get a taste of old Kolkata with a fun tram ride. One of the most charming aspects of Kolkata, these trams are the lifeline of the city that help millions of its office goers commute daily. With a capacity of 24 passengers and equipped with a television and FM radio, these AC tram run four rides daily to the north and south of the city. A ride over one will definitely give you the time of your life!
Location: Kalighat, Kolkata
Timings: 7 AM to 8 PM
Entry Fees: INR 260/- per person (including snacks)
19. Vidyasagar Setu – Gape At The Panoramic View
Wondering what to do in Kolkata? Head to the toll bridge over Hooghly River, the Vidyasagar Setu which is yet another marvel dotting the landscape of Kolkata. The Vidyasagar Setu is also known as the second Hooghly Bridge. Famous for the panoramas it offers, this bridge has a lovely ambiance and offers amazing clarity, unlike the old Howrah Bridge located next to it. Give a visit to the Vidyasagar Setu and find a wonderful experience to write about in your travel diary.
Location: Hooghly River, Kolkata
Timings: Throughout the day
Entry Fees: NA
20. The New Town Eco Park – Relax At This Picnic Spot
If you are looking for things to do in Kolkata in evening then this biggest urban park in India is another tourist spot that people like to flock to on their Kolkata trip. Set amidst verdant green landscapes, it is an eco friendly hub and serves as one of the best picnic spots near Kolkata for recreational activities. The park is suitable for people of all ages, be a kid playing boomerang, a couple out on a picnic, or an elderly woman taking a morning walk. It is one of the best places in Kolkata serving peace and serenity to travelers. Enjoy the tranquility while savoring delicious food around and engaging in the most fun activities.
Location: Major Arterial Road (South-East) Action Area II, New Town Kolkata
Timings: 12 noon to 8 PM
Entry Fees: INR 20/-
21. Kolkata Restaurants – Relish Bengali Dishes
Kolkata is a gastronomical delight for all foodies, especially those with a sweet tooth. Equipped with all types of cuisines, the kitchens and street carts of Kolkata are known to offer marvels like the telebhaja, kathi rolls, churmur, and luchi aloor dum which are the unbeatable specialities. Other than these, sweets like rasgulla, sandesh, and mishti dohi find a place on the menus of almost all authentic Kolkata restaurants. Those delicious dishes from Kolkata cuisine like fried seafood dipped in mustard gravy that is prepared in almost every household will have you coming back for more!
Locations: Kewpie’s, Flurys, Mocambo, Oh! Calcutta, Aaheli, and Yauatcha Kolkata
Timings: Depends upon the restaurant you are planning to visit
Entry Fees: Depends upon the restaurant you are planning to visit
22. Mallick Ghat Flower Market – Flower Shopping
If you are in Kolkata then you cannot miss out on exploring the famous flower market which goes by the name Mallick Ghat Flower Market. Visit this ghat near the southeast end of Howrah Bridge at daybreak when wholesalers come with fresh-picked flowers. The street is lit with several colors which makes it the perfect spot for photography. Do not forget to buy a bouquet of flowers before leaving the market as it is one of the fun things to do in Kolkata.
Location: p222, 1, Strand Bank Rd, Fairley Place, B.B.D. Bagh, Kolkata, West Bengal 700001
Timings: 3 am – 8 pm
Entry Fees: Free
23. Mother Teresa House – Explore The Place
One of the top tourist attractions in Kolkata, Mother Terese House is found in every traveler’s list traveling to Kolkata. This place gives deep insight into the lifestyle of Mother Teresa and tells us about her ideologies and about the simple life she led. There is a room that displays where she slept and in which bowl she used to eat. With her love and works, Mother Teresa has always inspired people to do something good for people and be selfless in life. If you have been following the teachings of Mother Teresa then this is your chance to explore her abode.
Location: 54A, Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Rd, Ripon Street, Kolkata, West Bengal 700016
Timings: 8 am – 12 pm, 3 pm – 6 pm (Wed-Sun, Closed on Thursday), 8 am – 12 pm (Tue), 3 pm – 6 pm (Mon)
Entry Fees: Free
24. Belur Math – Calm Your Senses
Positioned amidst manicured lawns and blanketed with palm trees, Belur Math is one of the most peaceful places to resort to and is counted among the top Kolkata attractions. If you are tired of visiting all the crowded places in Kolkata then Belur Math is the next place that you should explore on your trip. Founded by Swami Vivekanand, this place is now a headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math organization. The architecture of Belur Math has been inspired by Christianity, Islam, and Hinduism.
Location: Belur, Howrah, West Bengal 711202
Timings: 6:30 am–12 pm, 3:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Entry Fees: Free
25. Terreti Morning Market – Gorge On Tasty Dishes
Are you a breakfast person and loves to explore new places early in the morning then we have just the right place for you in Kolkata. Get ready by 6 in the morning and head to Sun Yat-Sen Street where both Indian and Chinese vendors install their stalls and sell freshly-cooked noodle soup, momos, and baozi. You will get to meet many locals and breakfast people relishing mouthwatering and steaming momos on a corner of the street. If you were looking for offbeat things to do in Kolkata then your search is over. You can head to this market and start your day early.
Location: Terita Bazar, Tangra, Kolkata, West Bengal 700015
Timings: 10 am – 8:30 pm (Mon-Sat), 2 pm – 8:30 pm (Sunday)
Entry Fees: Open Market, Free Entry
26. Fort William – Spectate The British-Inspired Structure
One of the ancient things to see in Kolkata, Fort William is sitting on the eastern shore of the famous Hooghly River. This fort that was built in the year 1696 was the first ever stronghold of the British in our country which makes it a historically important structure. This structure is spread over ample acres of land and adorns hundreds of arched windows that exhibits the views of stunning gardens. The stonework on the octagonal structure of the building looks magnificent. In the present days, it is used as a property of the Indian army personnel.
Location: Maidan, Fort William, Hastings, Kolkata, West Bengal 700021
Timings: 10 am – 5:30 pm
Entry Fees: Free
27. Birla Temple – Pay Homage To Lord Krishna
Oozing the essence of spirituality from every nook, Birla Temple is one of the most magnificent things to see in Kolkata. Sitting on the streets of Ballygunge, the temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and Goddess Radha and witnesses an extensive number of pilgrims visiting the temple to pay their homage and seek blessings of the Lord. The temple adorns traditional style of architecture with a hint of modern touch. This is a perfect example of the finest craftsmanship and engineering!
Location: 29, Ashutosh Chowdary Ave, Ballygunge, Kolkata, West Bengal 700019
Timings: 5:30 am – 11 am; 4:30 am – 9 pm
Entry Fees: Free
28. Chowringhee – For All The Recreational Activities
One of the must do things in Kolkata is definitely visit Chowringhee which is known as a great place for shopping and other recreational activities. Officially termed as the Jawaharlal Nehru Road, Chowringhee is a crowd-pleaser amidst locals and tourists alike. This is the stop where one gets to witness all the top end hotels, malls, and boutiques. Chowringhee blankets some of the best romantic restaurants in Kolkata that serves delicious delicacies. This location is also home to an extensive number of heritage buildings that have been famous for its architectural and historical importance.
Location: Central Kolkata
Timings: 24 hours
Entry Fees: Free
29. South Park Street Cemetery – For Haunted Escapades
For all the daredevils out there who get fascinated by horror stories and haunted spots, visiting South Park Street Cemetery is one of the must do things in Kolkata. This 18th century, non-church cemetery is one of those cemeteries that was built in the early stages of the world. Now a heritage site in Kolkata, this aesthetically beautiful spot is home to some of the most mysterious tombs that oozes of soothing vibes. This is one of those haunted places to visit in Kolkata that sends chills down the spine. There is one oldest tomb that adorns a mix of Gothic and indo-saracenic structure and belongs to a woman who didn’t wish to reveal her name!
Location: 52, Park Street, Opp Assembly Of God Church, Kolkata, West Bengal 700017
Timings: 10 am – 5 pm
Entry Fees: Free
30. Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden – To Get Closer To Nature
Strolling around and soaking in the serenity of the Botanical Garden is definitely one of the fun activities in Kolkata for those who are seeking to get closer to mother nature. Spread across 273 acres of land, this Botanical Garden has its floors covered with lush greens and the most picturesque landscaped gardens which never fails to impress travelers. From artificial lakes to the unspoiled topography, the Botanical Garden has plenty to offer for those who are on a lookout to get revitalised!
Location: Shibpur, Howrah, West Bengal 711103
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fees: INR 10for Indians; INR 100 for Foreigners
31. Ferry Ride – Enjoy A Night At The Waters
Surely, a visit to Kolkata remains incomplete without heading to the iconic Howrah Bridge. But heading to this place at night is altogether different. If you wish to witness it in a different way then visit the bridge at night when it is lit up with lights and you can opt for a ferry ride. This service is offered at the Launch Ghat. Needless to say, the view of the city at night is totally different and mesmerizing from what you see in the daylight which is why it is one of the top things to do in Calcutta at night.
Location: Howrah, West Bengal 700001
Timings: At nigh
Entry Fee: NA
32. Rabindra Sarobar – A Paradise For Birdwatchers
Earlier known as Dhakuria Lake, Rabindra Sarobar is an artificial tank located on the south side of Kolkata. The Sarobar covers an area of about 75 acres which is now flooded with birds every day. The best time to witness the true beauty of this place is in the migratory season. Moreover, the lake is home to several fishes that serve as the food for birds. It is now a popular picnic spot for the locals and is teeming with children and families. You can also find a children’s park, auditorium, and gardens nearby to relax.
Location: Dhakuria, Rabindra Sarobar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700029
Timings: 6 am – 6 pm
Entry Fee: Free
33. Nightlife – Call It A Day With Some Fun
If you are wondering what to do in Kolkata at night then you must head to one of the bars where you can enjoy yourself with your friends. Like any other place, Kolkata is also loaded with several pubs and bars where you can have a great nightlife in Kolkata. Some of these places are Backstage, Perfect Place In Town, The Junction, Aqua, Shisha, and more. You can enjoy a game of pool or splash into the swimming pool with your friends and call it a day as it is one of the best things to do in Calcutta.
Location: Kolkata
Timings: Different for respective locations
Entry Fee: NA
FAQs
Q: Is Kolkata safe for tourists?
Kolkata is generally considered safe for tourists. Like any other city, it's advisable to stay vigilant and follow basic safety precautions.
Q: What is the best time to visit Kolkata?
The ideal time to visit Kolkata is during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant for exploring the city.
Q: Are there vegetarian food options in Kolkata?
Absolutely! Kolkata offers a plethora of vegetarian options, from traditional Bengali cuisine to global vegetarian delicacies.
Q: How can I explore Kolkata on a budget?
Opt for public transportation, explore street food, and visit free-entry attractions like Victoria Memorial gardens for a budget-friendly experience.
Q: Are credit cards widely accepted in Kolkata?
While credit cards are accepted in many establishments, it's advisable to carry some cash, especially in local markets and street vendors.
Q: What unique souvenirs can I buy in Kolkata?
Kolkata is known for its handcrafted items, including terracotta artifacts, sarees, and tea. These make for unique and authentic souvenirs.
Conclusion
Embark on a journey through the heart of West Bengal with these enticing things to do in Kolkata. The city's rich history, cultural diversity, and delectable cuisine promise an experience that lingers in your memories. Indulge in the charm of Kolkata, where every corner tells a story.