Sitting on the banks of the Hooghly is Kolkata, the cultural center of India thanks to its long history and numerous contributions to the arts. Here are five sites to see when you’re in the former capital of the British Raj.
Howrah Bridge
Its official name is Rabindranath Setu, after the Bengali Nobel laureate, though it is still called by Howrah Bridge. This famous symbol of Kolkata was a pioneering project in bridge construction for India, costing a total of $3.5 million.
Kumortuli
In the old days, families would commission a religious idol by inviting an artist into their home for weeks at a time. Nowadays, you can find most of them in Kumortuli, the historic potters corridor lined by the city’s famous clay artisans and their mesmerizing creations.
Victoria Memorial
George Curzon the Viceroy of India proposed the creation of a museum and garden in memory of Queen Victoria, who had just died in January 1901. Its design is in the Indo-Saracenic Revival style, blending Mughal and British architecture with influences from Venice, Egypt and the Deccan Plateau.
Dakshineswar Kali Temple
This 19th-century temple was built for Bhavatarini, an incarnation of Kali. Dakshineswar is known for once being the home of Ramakrishna, whose religious mission operates a wide network of health care services, disaster relief, education and tribal welfare, garnering the praise of Mahatma Gandhi and Leo Tolstoy.
Eden Gardens
Eden Gardens has been called “cricket’s answer to the Colosseum,” seating 66,000 in the world’s second-largest stadium built for the sport. The iconic grounds are now home to the Kolkata Knight Riders, co-owned by the famous Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan.
Read This Next
Getting Around in Kolkata
Tips / Destination
Mar 8, 2016#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedHotel
Nov 1, 2024The Bloomsbury Partners with West End Production of “The Devil Wears Prada” Musical
London’s The Bloomsbury hotel recently announced a partnership with the new production of The Devil Wears Prada musical, set to arrive in the West End this winter. On Nov. 5, The Bloomsbury will launch The Devil Wears Prada-themed cocktails, a themed afternoon tea and an overnight stay package. The musical will star Vanessa Williams as Miranda Priestley and feature music by Elton John.
Sponsored Content
Seoul: Your Favorite Worldwide City
Seoul is the place for your next bleisure destination.
Hotel
Nov 1, 2024Holiday Happenings at Ocean Casino Resort
Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City is ready to transform into a seaside winter wonderland filled with seasonal offerings, holiday décor and fun.
Destinations / North America
Oct 31, 2024Panama City Beach Grows Accessible Travel Initiative
Panama City Beach has been making a name for itself for a while as an accessible travel destination thanks to its Fun. For. All. initiative. Now, that initiative is growing further with new offerings and developments.
Sponsored Content
Discover Greece’s Tower Towns: A Journey Through History
Greece's tower towns offer a captivating blend of history, architecture and stunning landscapes that make them perfect for curious travelers. These towns, particularly found in the Mani region of the Peloponnese, are defined by stone towers built during the medieval period. Constructed for both defense and as symbols of family pride, the towers stand as a testament to the region's turbulent history and its residents’ resilience.
Hotel
Oct 31, 2024Make for These 3 Lesser-Known, All-Inclusive Escapes in Spain, Mexico and United States
Looking for a luxurious, worry-free getaway? The all-inclusive vacation is expanding to unexpected destinations, offering a mix of exclusivity, luxury and fun. For your next getaway, consider one of these lesser-known all-inclusive hotels and resorts.
ShareThis