Do you know which Indian city is called the ‘Football Hub of India’? Also, do you know which Indian place is famous for a sweet dish called ‘Rosogolla’? The answer to both the questions is Kolkata.
This metropolis has the perfect blend of old world charm and modernity. Home to a number of tourist attractions, it is visited by millions of tourists every year. Take a look at some of the top landmarks of Kolkata.
Victoria Memorial Hall
The Victoria Memorial Hall is a large marble building dedicated to the memory of Queen Victoria. It’s a museum now! This iconic monument is home to collections in the categories of western painting, Indian painting, coins, rare photographs, arms and armory, and manuscripts etc. Focusing on the design, Victoria Memorial Hall appears somewhat similar to the Taj Mahal. Check it out to realize why people say this!
Howrah Bridge
This super-structure is just not to be missed! The Howrah Bridge is a cantilever bridge suspended over the Hooghly River. It is open to traffic, except for goods vehicles, Inter- State transport buses, and All-India Tourist buses. Nearly 1,00,000 vehicles cross it daily. Since inception, the Kolkata Port Trust has been the custodian of the bridge.
Birla Mandir
The Birla Mandir, standing at an elevation of 160 feet above ground, is one of the premium architectural beauties of the city. The interiors of the temple have marble carvings that illustrate shlokas and pictorial impressions from the Bhagavad Gita. The ceiling is adorned with lovely chandeliers and electric diyas that brighten the interiors. Standing at an elevation of 160 feet, the Birla Mandir was completed in a span of 26 years.
Eden Gardens
Eden Gardens is a cricket ground with seating capacity of 66,000. Established in 1864, it is the largest stadium of its kind in India and perhaps the third largest in the world. Eden Gardens is the home of the Bengal cricket team and the IPL’s Kolkata Knight Riders. It is a venue for Test, ODI, and T20I matches. If you are a lover of cricket, like most Indians, then do watch a match here!
New Market
Shopaholics, add New Market to your travel itinerary! This Victorian Gothic shopping arcade was established in 1874 for the British residents. Today, it is a hotspot for locals and others. Over 2000 shops sell a wide variety of products – clothes, jewellery, electronics, and luggage etc. Bargaining will prove helpful. New Market is open daily, except Sundays.