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VICTORIA MEMORIAL
In memory of Queen Victoria and was formally inaugurated by the Prince of Wales in 1921 who later became King Edward VIII of England. The stately bronze statue of the queen near the entrance, the brass canons, wrought iron street lamps, manicured lawns, gardens and pathways, the magical lighting effect in the evening and a fairy tale ‘Fountain of Joy’ facing the memorial building create an atmosphere of unforgettable charm. It is also a museum where people could see before them pictures and statues of men who played a prominent part in the history of India and develop a pride in their past especially in relation to the history of Calcutta . Lord Curzon conceived it. Presently it is the finest and most prominent building and art museum of Calcutta, India, under the Department of Culture, Government of India.
The Memorial consists of numerous hybrid features: it has Italian-style statues over its entrances, Mughal domes in its corners and tall elegant open colonnades along its sides. The building was designed by Sir William Emerson and its construction was completed in 1921. The main attraction at the memorial is the huge somber statue of the Queen, which is flanked by two ornamental tanks. Made of Makrana marble from Jodhpur, the Memorial is capped by a dome bearing a revolving bronze figurine symbolizing victory.
There are 25 galleries in a chamber beneath the dome. These house several mementos of British Imperialism - statues and busts of Queen Mary, George V and Queen Victoria; paintings of Robert Clive and the Queen, French Guns captured at the Battle of Plassey in 1757 and a black marble throne of a Nawab defeated by Clive.
Two regular sound and light shows are held in the evening. Closed on Mondays

INDIAN MUSEUM
Originally established in 1814, and moved to its present site in 1878, Calcutta’s Indian Museum is the largest and best museum in the country. Founded by Dr Nathaniel Wallich and housed in a magnificent Italian-style building, designed by W L Granvil, the museum has over 60 galleries and is divided into six different sections: archaeology, art, anthropology, geology, zoology and industry. The art section contains a picture gallery, with Persian- and Indian-style drawings and paintings, and also contains other artefacts and textiles, including silk-woven Tibetan temple banners. Other sections of the museum contain diverse treasures, such as an Egyptian mummy, the skeleton of a whale, rare statues and a collection of meteorites.

Address : Indian Museum, 27 Jawaharlal Nehru Road, Calcutta 700016, India

EDEN GARDEN
In the North-West corner of the Maidan are small & pleasantly laid out Eden Gardens. The gardens were created in 1840 and named after the sister of Lord Auckland, the former governor general. The idea was to make a Biblical - style garden of Eden in India. The expanse dotted with beautiful trees and shrubs is intersected by winding paths, and there is a large artificial lake. Alongside the gardens, is the world famous Eden Gardens cricket stadium. The stadium is supposed to be the largest in Asia with a seating capacity of more than a lakh spectators. The Kolkata cricket ground, where International test & one day matches are held, is also with in the gardens. Near the gardens you can take a pleasant walk along the bank of hoogly river.

SAHEED MINAR
It was earlier known as the ‘Octarloni Monument’ or in short ‘monument’. This was erected in 1828 to commemorate the victory of British army under David Octarloni over the Nepal army in 1814. Charles Nolis had made the blueprint of this monument. Its builder was J.P. Parker. A fund was collected to erect this monument. Its cost was Rs. 35,000 in those days.
The construction of the monument encompasses an architectural variety. The foundation followed an Egyptian style whereas the body of the Minar and the dome resembled Syrian and Turkish designs respectively. The Minar is 158 ft. high. It has two balconies at the top. One can reach the balcony by using the serpentile staircase. 198 stairs lead from the bottom to the first balcony. From here 25 more stairs lead to the second balcony.
In 1969, the Monument was rechristened as the ‘Shahid Minar’ to commemorate the Indian freedom fighters. Different political parties convene meetings, rallies and seminars behind the Shahid Minar at present.
The custom of convening political seminars started in 1931 when a historical convocation took place here which was presided by Rabindranath Tagore. The humanitarian poet had severely condemned the vandalism of the imperialist British Government which had shot a youth dead in the Calabooze in Hizli. Few years ago, the dome of the ‘Minar’ was coloured which kicked off a storm of protest.
One can have a panoramic view of Calcutta from the top of Shahid Minar. From there, the much-known Calcutta is transformed into an enigmatic fantasy land. But one can not get at the top of the Minar at one’s sweet will. For that, one has to secure permission from the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Lal Bazar (Enquiry) by signing a bond that the venture is undertaken at one’s own risk.

VIDYASAGAR SETU
Vidyasagar Setu is a modern day engineering marvel. It is situated near the race course. This is the imposing and ultra-modern second Hooghly Bridge. Vidyasagar Setu a golden Gate Bridge look alike, 2kms downriver, was completed in 1994. It is a modern day engineering marvel and is the largest cable stayed bridge in Asia. The bridge connects the twin cities of Calcutta and Howrah. It was built at a cost of Rs. 388 crores. Unfortunately it is not making the big difference that was envisaged, as the approaches are too narrow to to handle the amount of traffic that use bridge, and plans for widening the road are slow in implementation. It was inaugurated in the year 1992. It was built at a cost of Rs. 388 crores. It is capable of holding around 85,000 vehicles every day. This beautiful bridge spans the Hooghly and has been built to ease the load of the existing Howrah Bridge. It offers a panoramic view of Calcutta and its vicinity.

HOWRAH BRIDGE
It is one of three bridges on the river Hooghly and is the most famous symbol of not only Kolkata but also West Bengal.
Until 1943, the Hooghly River was crossed by a pontoon bridge which had to be opened to let river traffic through. There was considerable opposition to construction of a bridge due to fears that it would affect the river currents and cause silting problems. This problem was eventually avoided by building a bridge that crosses the river in a single 450m span - there are no pylons at all within the river.
The cantilevered bridge, also known as Rabindra Setu, is similar in size to the Sydney Harbour Bridge but carries a flow of traffic which Sydney could never dream of .It is the busiest bridge in the world. It’s intriguing to stand at one end of the bridge at morning rush hour and watch the procession of double-decker buses come across. They heel over like yachts in a heavy wind due to the weight of passengers hanging onto the sides. In between are lumbering bullock carts, hordes of bicycles and even the odd car. The ferries running from below Howrah Station are a more convenient way to cross the river and give you a good view of the bridge.
  
BIRLA  PLANETARIUM
This is the largest planetarium in the World near the Government of India tourist office providing a view of the stars and the solar system. For enthusiasts of Astronomy this is a place not to be missed. One of the largest in Asia, close to the crossing of Theatre Road and Chowringhee Road, the Birla planetarium is adjacent to the Maidan. The planetarium is a single storeyed, circular structure constructed in pure Indian architectural style. The central dome has a diameter of 27m. shaped in imitation of the Buddhist Stupa at Sanchi. The central hall can accommodate 500 persons. Interesting exhibits are the fine collections of paintings, celestial models and busts of famous astronomers that line the corridors. The gigantic planetarium projector accessories comprise of 29000 parts and combine to portray on the inner ceiling of the planetarium, the naked face of space, Stars, planets and heavenly bodies.

SCIENCE CITY
Located on the Eastern Metropolitan Bypass, this is newest addition to Kolkata’s long list of tourist attractions. This architectural showpiece has more than just its external grandeur. A showcase of scientific applications, this is the first and the only institution of its kind in India. The different sections

of the complex include the Space odyssey, Dynamotion, Life Science Corners, Science Park, Toy Train & Ropeway , the Dinosaurs Complex and others.

A visit to the Space Theatre is an experience that one would cherish for a long time. It generally runs shows on the animal world , or some astronomical events and at other times , on Kolkata. Yet another breathtaking experience is the ride on the Time Machine which sends you to a world of suspended disbelief, by generating artificial movements and sounds, while taking you on a jaunt to the ancient Egypt or the wilds of Africa. Then, there are the almost real size versions of the dinosaurs that gnarls and sways it body parts much to the delight of the kids hanging around. A ride of the Ropeway helps you get a clear view of the Science City as well as the outer skirts of the metropolis.

The main auditorium of the Convention Centre complex can accommodate over 2000 people, while the mini auditorium has a capacity of about 400. There are 8 seminar halls complete with latest audio-visual systems.

ZOOLOGICAL GARDEN
The Nawab of Lucknow, Wozid-Ali-Shah might have founded the zoo in Calcutta during his exile in MetiaBruz. The British took the initiative for this purpose in 1867.

Earlier, some doctor had made an attempt in this regard but it was not materialized. In 1873, the then Governor Sir Richard Temple proposed the formation of a zoo in Calcutta. Sir C.L. Lendal corroborated it. Finally, the Government allotted 45 acres of land for this purpose responding to the joint petition of The Asiatic Society and Agri-Horticultural Society. On 1st January, 1876, king Edward VII inaugurated the Alipur Zoo.

This is the largest zoo in India. It comprises several animals, birds and even creatures of rare species. The ‘White Tiger’, an almost extinct race, is the chief attraction of the zoo.

During the winter season, the migratory birds flock in the zoo for its artificial lake and vegetation. But in recent times the birds do not flock so much as the yester years due to ecological imbalances.

There are some ‘Bhawans’ or buildings inside the premises of the zoo such as the Reptile-House. Different creatures dwell in these buildings as well.

RABINDRA SADAN
Situated on the southeast corner of the Maidan, the Rabindra Sadan is the seat of Bengali culture where cultural programmes & exhibitions are held regularly. The Nandan theatre hall behind Rabindra Sadan, is Calcutta’s prime place for cine culture. It is a cultural centre for film enthusiasts and professionals. It was largely patronized by the late Satyajit Ray who inaugurated Nandan and designed its emblem. Its three motion picture theatres have the best screening facilities in Calcutta. One of the halls is used largely by film clubs to screen art films and parallel movies for their members. It is situated adjacent to the Academy of Fine Arts Complex.

BOTANICAL GARDEN
This is situated at Shibpur area of Howrah District. It was laid out in 1786 and administered by Colonel Kyd. This is the oldest of all the Botanical Gardens in India. Its cover area is 270 acres. Inside is an incredible variety of about 50,000 trees. The pivotal attraction here is the giant banyan tree which covers about 404 metres of land. It has 157 offshoots hanging down from the original tree. Au reste, there are innumerable orchids and colourful flowers. Boating takes place regularly on the lake. There is a precious library in the garden which comprises a rare collection of books on Botany. It remains opened from sunrise to sunset. This ethereal ambience is ideal for fun, fiesta and frolics. It was from these gardens that the tea now grown in Assam and Darjeeling was first developed. Trees of the rarest kinds, from Nepal, Brazil, Penang, Java and Sumatra can be found here. There are towering Mahogany trees, an avenue of Cuban Palms and an Orchid House. Mango and Tamarind trees shade the grassy lawns. But the main attraction of the garden is the 200 year old Banyan Tree, claimed to have the second largest canopy in the world. It is the world’s largest, having a circumference of 330m.
  
NICCO PARK
Located at Salt Lake, this amusement park can be called The Disney land of West Bengal. There is no bar for any age group in this park. The various rides are enthralling. Food is not allowed to be carried inside but there are many food stalls to cater to all kinds of tastes. The park is opened to the public from 10.00 A.M. to 8.00 P.M. everyday during the winter and 11.00 A.M. to 9.00 P.M. everyday during the rest of the year.
  
BIRLA MANDIR
Located on Ashutosh Chowdhury Avenue, it is the latest addition to the places of visit in Calcutta. It took twenty-two years of sedulous work to build this all-marble structure. The temple has very high quality Rajasthani engravings. This splendid and imposing structure in white, attracts huge crowds everyday.

NALBAN BOATING COMPLEX
Located at the heart of Salt Lake City, just 12 Kms. away from Central Calcutta. Nalban Boating Complex is a beautiful picnic spot for families, who would like to spend few hours in the lush greenery and placid lake. It is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Its unpolluted environment offers a respite and soothes the visitors. The main attraction of this place is the four hundred acre picturesque lake with various kinds of boating facilities like paddle boats, shikaras etc.

ACADEMY OF FINE ARTS
Established in 1933. Exhibits works of contemporary artists throughout the year. Group theatres and dance programs are performed in a hall inside. The Rabindra gallery exhibits manuscripts, paintings and personal belongings of Tagore. Open 3-8 p.m. All tram, buses going to Rabindra Sadan can bring you here. The nearest Metro station "Rabindra Station" is 3/4 minutes walk.

AGRI HORTICULTURAL GARDEN Agri-Horticultural Gardens are situated in Alipore and was founded by William Carey in 1820. This garden has a significant collection of botanical varieties with facilities for gardeners and plant/flower lovers. This garden is adjacent to the Calcutta’s Zoological Garden. Open: 07:00-11:00 and 15:00-17:00

ASIATIC SOCIETY
The institution is located at 1 , Park Street ( in the junction of Park Street and J.L.Nehru Road ). Was founded by Sir William Jones in 1784 with Warren Hastings as its first patron. The library inside has approximately 20000 volumes inclusive of 8000 rare Sanskrit, Arabic, Persian and Hindi manuscripts. It is also rich with archaeological relics, geological and ethnological specimens.

ASUTOSH MUSEUM OF INDIAN ART
Located at Centenary building of University of Calcutta. This museum has rare and valuable collections including Bengal patachitra paintings, ‘katha shilpo’ art etc.

BELUR MATH
6 kms from Howrah station on the bank of the river Hooghly. Provides a picturesque view of Belur math and Ramakrishna temple. Was built in 1899. The Ramakrishna mission runs among other things, an art college, an industrial school and charitable dispensary. From Howrah station bus 51,54, 56.

BIRLA ACADEMY OF FINE ART AND CULTURE
Located at Rabindra Sarobar at south Calcutta. Has good collections of paintings and sculptures. Has regular exhibitions of art and sculpture. 108 Southern Avenue. 16:00-20:00. Tuesdays closed.

BIRLA INDUSTRIAL AND TECHNOLOGICAL MUSEUM
Established in 1966 at 19A, Gurusaday Road ( at the junction of Gurusaday Rd and Syed Amir Ali Avenue ) at south Calcutta. Displays industrial and technological models.

CALCUTTA MUSEUM - TOWN HALL
Calcutta Museum is a hi-tech story-telling museum in Asia, based on recreated events of historic importance, animated with sound and light, so as to leave a lasting impression on the minds of the visitors. Town Hall is located near High Court and is open to all everyday from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. except second and fourth Saturday of a month, Sundays and other official holidays.

CENTRE OF INTERNATIONAL MODERN ART (CIMA)
Centre of International Modern Art (CIMA) is situated near the Birla Temple, at Ballygunge Phari.  The gallery is closed on Mondays and daily opens from 2pm to 8pm.

DAKSHINESWAR TEMPLE
On the bank of the Ganges near Bally bridge. One temple of goddess Kali & 12 temples of God Shiva. Full of memories of saint Ramakrishna and Sarada Debi.

FORT WILLIAM
Situated on the bank of river Hooghly and named after king William III. The fort occupies five square kilometers and has six gates. The Arsenal inside is worth visiting for which a prior permission is required from the Commanding Officer.

HIGH COURT
A panoramic view of the city can be obtained from the corner turrets of the building of Judicature with a tower 54 meter high, taller than the Octerlony Monument ( Saheed Minar). Was built on 1872 in Gothic Style.

JORASANKO THAKURBARI & RABINDRA BHARATI MUSEUM
The place where Rabindranath Tagore was born and breathed last.

KALIGHAT KALI TEMPLE
Famous Hindu pilgrimage situated at Kalighat beside Tolly’s Nullah.

MISSIONARIES OF CHARITY (NIRMAL HRIDAY)
Mother Teresa’s center for the dying and destitute. Address: 251, Kalighat Road, Calcutta 700026. You may visit Mother Teresa’s home at 54A, A.J.C.Bose Rd, Calcutta 700016

NEHRU CHILDREN MUSEUM
Exhibits a good collection of dolls from all over the world. Displays the epics of Ramayana and Mahabharata in dolls. Open all days except Monday from 12-00 noon to 8-00 PM.

NAKHODA MOSQUE
At the junction of Rabindra Sarani and Zakaria Street, is the biggest Muslim Mosque in Calcutta. Made after the tomb of Mughal emperor Akbar at Sekendra. 10,000 people can pray at one point of time.
 

NATIONAL LIBRARY
Biggest library in India. Located at Belvedere House in Alipore. Previuosly Emperial Library. It consists of around 1800000 books and documents in all different languages.

RABINDRA SAROVAR
Also known as Dhakuria Lake. This artificial lake at South Calcutta occupies an area of 76 hector. Has some swimming clubs, rowing clubs. A stadium is also present adjacent to the lake.