Known for its rich culture and wit, Kolkata maintains a feast of its dramatic heritage with more than one architectural marvel. Although not all historical places are famous, they will transport you to the past and are a representation of the real India.
From historic palaces to monuments and museums, from memorials to churches, the city of joy has no dearth of remnants from the days of the British Raj.
What accentuates their majesty even more is the vaunted Victorian architecture. Authentic food and famous restaurant in Kolkata serving the same, is another attraction reflecting the legacy of the Raj era.
Here are some must-visit heritage places to experience the real India:
Metcalfe Hall
Aesthetically similar to the Greek temples of Athens, Metcalfe Hall is a heritage beauty located at the junction of Hare Street and Strand Road. The building was built between 1840-and-1844 to honor Sir Charles T. Metcalfe, then Governor General of India to honor his efforts towards freedom of the press.
Inspired by British imperial architecture, the building is divided into two segments – the ground floor which houses rare foreign manuscripts and journals of the Asiatic Society, and the floor above which houses the exhibition gallery, offices and sales counters of the Archaeological Survey of India.
Horah Bridge
The Howrah Bridge, which is an iconic landmark of the city of joy, is one of the best cantilever bridges in the world. Not a single nut or bolt was used in its construction, and the entire bridge is held together by rivets. Also known as Rabindra Setu, this bridge has eight cycle, road and pedestrian paths.
The massive steel structure is considered one of the world’s busiest and takes it to the famous Burra Bazaar.
Fort William
Built in 1781 on the banks of the beautiful river Hooghly, the majestic William Fort was built to honor King William III. The octagonal shaped fort stands as a testimony to all the defeats, victories and sufferings that occurred during the operations of the Indian Army.
It houses the Church of St. Peter’s which is very well known next to offices, army accommodation, and recreational facilities such as a cinema, swimming pool, shooting range, and boxing stadium.
Victorian Memorial
Located in the heart of Kolkata, the glittering Victoria Memorial was constructed to commemorate Queen Victoria’s diamond anniversary. The memorial features extensive use of white marble and has been constructed in the Indo-Saracenic architectural style.
What makes it mesmerizing are the colonial era paintings, artifacts and manuscripts etc., which give visitors an insight into India’s history. Nature here is at its best with 21 lush green gardens surrounding the memorial.
That hotels in Kolkata nor is it any less when it comes to transporting one to a golden age. With pinnacles of Victorian, Edwardian and Contemporary styles, The LaLiT Great Eastern Kolkata’s architecture is quite impressive and also features a special heritage block that exudes the timeless heritage and legacy of the hotel through restored furniture, antique iron pillars and bay windows.
