Known for its rich culture and intellect, Kolkata retains its feast of dramatic heritage with more than one architectural wonder. Although not all heritage places are famous, they will teleport you back in time and are a representation of the real India.
From historical palaces to monuments and museums, from memorials to churches, the city of joy has no dearth of remnants from the time of the British Raj.
What accentuates their grandeur even further is the Victorian-style architecture that these boast. Authentic food and famous restaurants in Kolkata serving the same, are yet another attraction that reflects the legacy of the days of the Raj.
Here are some of the heritage places to head to in order to experience the real India:
Metcalfe Hall
Aesthetically similar to the Greek temples of Athens, Metcalfe Hall is a heritage beauty that’s situated at the Hare Street and Strand Road junction. The building was constructed between 1840-and-1844 to honour Sir Charles T. Metcalfe, the-then Governor General of India to appreciate his efforts towards a free press.
Taking inspiration from the British imperial architecture, the building is divided into two segments – a ground floor that houses rare foreign manuscripts and journals of Asiatic Society, and the floor above that houses exhibition galleries, offices and sales counter of the Archaeological Survey of India.
Howrah Bridge
Howrah Bridge that forms the iconic landmark of the city of joy, is one of the finest cantilever bridges in the world. Not a single nut or bolt is used in its construction, and the entire bridge is being held together by rivets. Also known as Rabindra Setu, the bridge has eight lanes of bicycles, roads, and pedestrians.
The massive steel structure is considered one of the busiest in the world and takes one to the famous Burra Bazaar.
Fort William
Constructed in 1781 on the picturesque banks of the Hooghly, the majestic William Fort was built to honour King William III. The octagonal shaped fort stands as a testimony to all the defeats, victories and sufferings that took place during the Indian Army operations.
It houses the very famous St. Peter’s Church in addition to offices, army accommodation and recreation facilities such as a movie hall, a swimming pool, a firing range, and a boxing stadium.
Victoria Memorial
Located in the heart of Kolkata, the gleaming Victoria Memorial was built to commemorate the diamond jubilee of Queen Victoria. The memorial features an extensive use of white marble and has been constructed in the Indo-Saracenic architectural style.
What makes it mesmerising are the colonial-era paintings, artefacts, and manuscripts, etc., that gives its visitors an insight into the Indian history. Nature here is at its best with 21 lush green gardens surrounding the memorial.
The hotels in Kolkata are also no less in terms of transporting one to the golden era. With a culmination of Victorian, Edwardian and Contemporary style, the architecture of The LaLiT Great Eastern Kolkata is quite impressive and also features special heritage blocks that exude the timeless legacy and heritage of the hotel via restored furniture, vintage iron pillars, and bay windows.
Anjali Dixit
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I have spent four years of my life in Kolkata as a student and for sure I have visited all these place not once but so many times. It really represent the old India.
Thanks for sharing such an informative Post.i enjoy a lot while reading. Keep sharing your best posts. Cheers
Thanks for sharing such an informative Post.i enjoy a lot while reading. Keep sharing your best posts. Cheers
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