Top Attractions in Kolkata: What to See and Do

Once you arrive in Kolkata, explore these must-visit attractions that showcase the best of the city:

• Victoria Memorial

  ⏱ 2-3 hours • 💰 ₹30 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners) • 🕐 10:00-18:00 daily

  A grand marble building dedicated to Queen Victoria, showcasing a blend of British and Mughal architectural styles. It houses a museum with a vast collection of artifacts from the British Raj era.

  Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.

  💡 Insider Tip: Visit on a weekday to avoid large crowds, especially on weekends and public holidays.

• Howrah Bridge

  ⏱ 30 minutes • 💰 Free • 🕐 Open 24 hours

  An iconic cantilever bridge over the Hooghly River, connecting Kolkata and Howrah. It's one of the busiest bridges in the world, carrying immense vehicular and pedestrian traffic.

  Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late evening for stunning views of the river.

  💡 Insider Tip: Take a ferry ride on the Hooghly River for a different perspective of the bridge and the Kolkata skyline (₹20-50).

• Indian Museum

  ⏱ 3-4 hours • 💰 ₹75 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners) • 🕐 10:00-17:00 daily

  One of the oldest and largest museums in India, showcasing a vast collection of artifacts, including ancient sculptures, Mughal paintings, and Egyptian mummies.

  Best Time to Visit: Morning to avoid crowds.

  💡 Insider Tip: Consider hiring a guide (₹300-500) to enhance your understanding of the exhibits.

• Kalighat Kali Temple

  ⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 05:00-22:30 daily

  A famous Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Kali, attracting thousands of devotees daily. It's one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, considered sacred pilgrimage sites.

  Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid crowds.

  💡 Insider Tip: Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid the largest crowds.

• St. Paul's Cathedral

  ⏱ 1 hour • 💰 Free • 🕐 09:00-12:00, 15:00-17:00 daily

  An Anglican cathedral known for its Gothic architecture and stained-glass windows. It's a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.

  Best Time to Visit: Any time during opening hours.

  💡 Insider Tip: Check the schedule for special events and concerts.

• Science City

  ⏱ 3-4 hours • 💰 ₹80 (per complex) • 🕐 10:00-19:00 daily

  A science museum and entertainment complex, offering interactive exhibits and displays on various scientific principles.

  Best Time to Visit: Any time during opening hours.

  💡 Insider Tip: Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid long queues.

Where to Eat in Kolkata: Local Cuisine Guide

Must-Try Dishes in Kolkata

Don't leave Kolkata without tasting these local specialties:

• Rosogolla - A syrupy cheese-based dessert (try at KC Das)
• Macher Jhol - Fish curry (try at 6 Ballygunge Place)
• Biryani - Kolkata-style biryani with potatoes and eggs
• Phuchka - A type of street food similar to pani puri
• Kathi Roll - A wrap filled with meat or vegetables (try at Nizam's)

Recommended Restaurants in Kolkata

Where to Stay in Kolkata: Accommodation Options

Budget Hotels (₹500-1500/night)

Mid-Range Hotels (₹2000-5000/night)

Luxury Hotels (₹8000+/night)

Best Time to Travel from Haldia to Kolkata

Plan your trip according to the season for the best experience in Kolkata:

Practical Travel Tips for Kolkata

Related Routes from Haldia

Planning to explore more destinations? Check out these popular routes from Haldia:

Other Routes to Kolkata

Traveling to Kolkata from a different city? Explore these alternative routes: