As the former capital of India, Kolkata holds a special place in Indian history. Its impact on the nation’s culture is evident in the many historical places to visit in Kolkata. Even the city’s name, which was formerly Calcutta, has a background rooted in culture and diversity. Kolkata earns its nickname of the “Cultural Capital of India” by maintaining the only port on the Hooghly River as well as dozens of museums, educational gardens, architectural landmarks and fine arts facilities. Travelers looking for a city bursting with cultural wonders like Fort William and dazzling architecture like the Marble Palace should definitely consider Kolkata!
There’s nothing more refreshing during a trip to Kolkata than a day at Aquatica, one of the city’s most popular theme parks. Aquatica is a perfect activity for families as the theme park provides all-day entertainment with rides appropriate for all ages. Kids have access to inside attractions like the Jungle Safari and Niagara Falls as well as thrilling water rides like the Black Hole and Pendulum. Activities like Aqua Dance, where children can do the disco on a water jet floor! Budget travelers should try to plan a trip to Aquatica during the week when tickets are cheapest. Guests also can stay onsite at the Aquatica hotel.
Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily
Entry fee: adults – 900 INR (12 USD) on weekdays, 1,000 INR (13.50 USD) on weekends; children – 450 INR (6 USD) on weekdays, 500 INR (6.70 USD) on weekends
The magnificent Fort William stands on the eastern banks of the Hooghly River just next to another popular Kolkata attraction, the Victoria Memorial. Visitors can admire the fort’s exquisite architecture as well as six ancient gates while strolling around paved pathways throughout the grounds. Fort William is famous in Kolkata for several reasons: a single shot was never fired from the fort; its “black hole” prison cell enjoyed a widespread reputation; and the grounds serve as a working military headquarters today.
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily
Entry fee: free
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Just 15 minutes north of Fort William is where sightseers can find Marble Palace. This decadent 19th-century mansion is the privately owned residence of the descendants of Rajendra Mullick, who commissioned the building of Marble Palace at age 16. The palace was completed in 1840 and later opened as a relief center during times of famine. Rajendra, who inherited his fortune from his father, was honored later for his service to India and given the monarchy title of Rajah. Even though the mansion houses Rejendra’s ancestors, visitors still can tour Marble Palace, as well as the palace’s onsite gardens and private zoo.
Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily (closed Monday and Thursday)
Entry fee: free, but visitors need to obtain a permit 24 hours in advance from the West Bengal Tourism Information Bureau.
Kalighat (Kali) Temple is an ornate and colorful Hindu temple that was built in the 1800s but has roots that date to the 15th century. The historic religious site is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali and is considered one of the holiest of 51 Shakti Peethas, or temples honoring Kali, in the world. Kalighat Temple sits on the edge of Adi Ganga (Tolly Canal), which connects to Hooghly River and is just a 15-minute ride from Victoria Memorial and Alipore Zoological Garden.
Hours: 5 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. daily
Entry fee: free
One of Kolkata’s most popular attractions and best places to visit is Victoria Memorial. The grand marble building was built to honor Queen Victoria, former Empress of India, and now functions as a museum. The lush grounds on the banks of the Hooghly River feature Victoria Memorial Garden and sit next to Fort William on a green space known as the Maiden. After touring Victoria Memorial, visitors also can see nearby Musical Fountain, M.P. Birla Planetarium and St. Paul’s Cathedral.
Hours: 5:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily
Entry fee: tickets to the museum are 500 INR (6.70 USD) for foreigners; tickets for the gardens are 20 INR (.25 USD) for foreigners.
Regenta Orkos By Royal Orchid Kolkata
Hyogo Prefecture, bordered by both sea and mountains and adjacent to the cities of Osaka and Kyoto, offers striking natural scenery. A route that takes you from the historic port city of Kobe to Awaji Island in the Seto Inland Sea invites travelers to embrace “wellness tourism,” engaging with nature while reconnecting with body and mind.
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