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Major Tourist Attractions in Kolkata

Every year Kolkata attracts a huge number of tourists from all over the world. People from different parts of India and tourists from other countries love to visit this beautiful city that is popularly known as the ''City of Joy''. Now lets check out some of the tourist attractions that one should not miss on his tour to Kolkata city:

Howrah Bridge

This bridge connects Kolkata city with Howrah. It is built over the Hoogli river and is one of the busiest bridges in the world. It was constructed in 1874 and is also known as Rabindra Setu. It serves as a road bridge between the two adjacent cities. Vivekananda Setu and Vidyasagar Setu are two sister bridges to Howrah Bridge that are also built over the Hoogli river.

Victoria Memorial

A trip to Kolkata seems incomplete without visiting Victoria Memorial. This memorial was constructed in the year 1921. Sir William Emerson, the then President of the British Institute of Architects has planned and designed this wonderful structure. Victoria Memorial is one of the marvelous art museums in Kolkata that houses fine paintings, photographs and sculptures.

Saheed Minar

Previously Saheed Minar was known as the Octerloney Monument. In 1848 this monument was founded by Sir David Octerloney. The monument was erected to mark the occasion of victory in Nepal War. The monument got its present name of Saheed Minar in 1969. It was so named remembering the martyrs who fought for the freedom of our country. Saheed Minar is located near Esplanade at Kolkata Maidan.

Eden Gardens

One of the major tourist attractions in Kolkata is Eden Gardens. It is one of the popular cricket stadiums in India. This playground has witnessed some of the glorious moments of Indian cricket. Eden Gardens Club was founded in 1864.

Marble Palace

Marble Palace is situated at C.R. Avenue in North Kolkata. The palace was constructed by Rajendra Mallick in 1835. This is an art gallery that houses exquisite collection of oil paintings, objects of art, pictures and sculptures. The Marble Palace also houses a small zoo which keeps different small animals and birds.

Birla Planetarium

Birla Planetarium was established by Birla Education Trust in 1962. This is a center of communication and science. Visitors can gather information on heavenly bodies and astronomy from the daily shows arranged at the planetarium. These interactive shows are presented in English and different Indian languages.

Nicco Park

Nicco Park is situated in Saltlake. This amusement park of Kolkata has a number of rides for children and it is also a nice place to hang out with family on winter afternoons. Nicco Park is a spacious ground covering an area of about 40 acre of land. This is one of the popular tourist destination for fun and entertainment. Cable Car, Water Chute, Water Coaster, Pirate Ship, Cave Ride and Toy Train are some of the attractions of this park.

Botanical Garden

The Botanical Garden is located in Shibpur by the river Hoogli. It was built in 1786 by Colonel Alexander Kyd. An area of about 110 hectares is occupied by this ecological garden. One will find numerous species of foliage in this garden. There are a number of plant species that are brought from different parts of the world. Botanical Garden remains open from 10 am to 6 pm.

Kalighat Temple

The temple of goddess Kali is situated by river Hoogli. Everyday huge numbers of devotees visit this temple. It is a Hindu pilgrimage and also one of the major attractions to the tourists. According to the Hindu myth it is believed that the right toe of goddess Kali fell at this place after Lord Shiva's spinning wheel sliced her body to pieces.

Shopping in Kolkata

Kolkata is a haven for shoppers. Shoppers can strike good bargains at the local markets in the city. Handicrafts, show pieces, hand weaved fabrics are available at the government emporiums in the city. Some of the favorite shopping destinations in Kolkata are: