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Victoria Memorial

Kolkata, West Bengal, India
The Victoria Memorial is one of Kolkata's most iconic and magnificent landmarks, a grand white marble building dedicated to the memory of Queen Victoria. It was built between 1906 and 1921. The memorial functions as a museum and a popular tourist destination. Its architecture is a stunning blend of British and Mughal styles, often referred to as Indo-Saracenic revivalist style. The lush green gardens and a serene lake surround the monument, providing a perfect escape from the city's hustle. Inside, the museum houses 25 galleries with a vast collection of artifacts, paintings, sculptures, and historical documents that chronicle the history of British India. The memorial is a symbol of Kolkata's colonial past and serves as a cultural hub, hosting sound and light shows in the evening that narrate the city's history. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, or simply looking for a beautiful and peaceful place to relax. The sheer grandeur of the building and its meticulously maintained grounds make it a photographer's paradise.

General information

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    Ideal Duration:
    2-3 hours for the museum and an additional 1-2 hours for the gardens.
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    Place Type:
    Monument, Museum, Garden, Historical Site.
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    Entry Fees:
    Indian Citizens: INR 30 per person for the museum.

    Foreign Nationals: INR 500 per person for the museum.

    Gardens Only: INR 20 per person for the gardens.

    Children: Free entr...
    Indian Citizens: INR 30 per person for the museum.

    Foreign Nationals: INR 500 per person for the museum.

    Gardens Only: INR 20 per person for the gardens.

    Children: Free entry for children up to the age of 15.

    Discounts: Group discounts may be available for schools and large tour groups. It is advisable to check the official website for the latest fee structure and any special offers.
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    Timing:
    Regular Timings:

    Museum: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Tuesday to Sunday). Closed on Mondays and public holidays.

    Gardens: 5:30 AM to 6:00 PM (Daily).

    Ideal Visit Time: The best time...
    Regular Timings:

    Museum: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Tuesday to Sunday). Closed on Mondays and public holidays.

    Gardens: 5:30 AM to 6:00 PM (Daily).

    Ideal Visit Time: The best time to visit is either in the early morning for a peaceful walk in the gardens or in the late afternoon to catch the sunset and stay for the sound and light show.
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    Special Events:
    The most notable special event at Victoria Memorial is the annual "Victoria Memorial Hall Festival," which features a series of cultural programs, including classical music concerts, dance performances, and art exhibitions. These events draw a large crowd and are a celebration of both the city's he...
    The most notable special event at Victoria Memorial is the annual "Victoria Memorial Hall Festival," which features a series of cultural programs, including classical music concerts, dance performances, and art exhibitions. These events draw a large crowd and are a celebration of both the city's heritage and contemporary artistic talent. Additionally, the sound and light show is a daily special event that adds a magical touch to the evenings. The memorial is also a key location for various commemorative events and national holidays, where the monument is specially decorated and illuminated.
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    Best Photo Spots:
    From the Front Lawn: The classic shot is from the main lawn in front of the memorial, capturing the entire structure with the reflection in the water. This angle provides a sense of the scale and grandeur of the building.

    The Gardens: The w...
    From the Front Lawn: The classic shot is from the main lawn in front of the memorial, capturing the entire structure with the reflection in the water. This angle provides a sense of the scale and grandeur of the building.

    The Gardens: The winding pathways, statues, and flower beds within the gardens offer numerous opportunities for beautiful photos. The statues, especially the one of Queen Victoria, are popular subjects.

    During Sunset/Sunrise: The golden hour is the best time for photography. The warm light on the white marble creates a stunning effect. The monument glows, and the sky often turns into a canvas of beautiful colors.

    From a Distance: For a different perspective, take a photo from the road outside the memorial, capturing it in the context of the city's skyline.

Photo Gallery

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Queen of Hills • Tea Gardens
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Queen of Hills • Tea Gardens
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Darjeeling
Queen of Hills • Tea Gardens

Things To Do

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    Explore the Museum Galleries: Spend time wandering through the 25 galleries, which house an extensive collection of artifacts. Don't miss the Queen's Hall, the Royal Gallery, and the Prince's Hall. The Calcutta Gallery is a must-see for a local perspective on the city's history.

    Enjoy the Sound and Light Show: Attend the evening sound and light show, "The Pride of Calcutta. " The show uses light projections and a detailed audio narrative to bring the history of the city to life on the monument's facade. It's a fantastic way to learn about Kolkata's past in an entertaining manner.

    Walk Through the Gardens: Take a leisurely stroll through the 64-acre gardens. The meticulously manicured lawns, vibrant flower beds, and serene ponds provide a tranquil atmosphere. It is a great spot for a morning ...

Hotels

● Hotel Casa Fortuna


Address: Minto Park, Kolkata

Distance: Approximately 2.6 km

Details: This boutique hotel provides a pleasant and comfortable stay with well-appointed rooms and friendly service. Located in a quieter part of the city, it...

● Hotel Hindustan International (HHI)


Address: Bhowanipore, Kolkata

Distance: Approximately 2.6 km

Details: A well-established hotel offering a blend of comfort and style, HHI is a popular choice for both tourists and business travelers. It features a spa, a...

● Polo Floatel Kolkata


Address: Esplanade, Kolkata

Distance: Approximately 2.1 km

Details: As India's first floating hotel, Polo Floatel offers a unique and memorable experience on the Hooghly River. With stunning views of the city's iconic ...

● Taj Bengal


Address: Alipore, Kolkata

Distance: Approximately 2 km

Details: A beacon of luxury in the city, Taj Bengal offers an opulent experience with its sophisticated rooms, world-class dining options, and a serene swimmin...

● The Elgin Fairlawn Kolkata


Address: Dharmatala, Kolkata

Distance: Approximately 2.2 km

Details: This hotel is a living piece of history, offering a unique and nostalgic stay in a colonial-era bungalow. With its charming garden and vintage decor, ...

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Restaurants

● Aminia


Address: 121, S.N. Banerjee Road, New Market Area, Kolkata, West Bengal 700013

Distance: ~2.5 km

Details: Aminia is a historic restaurant and a household name in Kolkata for its delicious Mughlai food. It is famous for its Biryani, which is known for its f...

Food List: Aminia Special Biryani, Mutton Biryani, Chicken Ch...

● Arsalan Restaurant & Caterer


Address: 28, Syed Amir Ali Avenue, Park Circus, Kolkata, West Bengal 700017

Distance: ~2.4 km

Details: Arsalan is a legendary name in Kolkata for its Mughlai cuisine, and a must-visit for anyone craving authentic flavours. The restaurant's popularity ha...

Food List: Arsalan Special Biryani, Mutton Biryani, Chicken B...

● Balwant Singh's Eating House


Address: 10/1, Harish Mukherjee Road, Bhawanipur, Kolkata, West Bengal 700025

Distance: ~1.1 km

Details: Balwant Singh's Eating House is a popular eatery, especially known for its street food and Chai. It is a favourite spot for a quick snack, with its fa...

Food List: Doodh Cola, Samosa, Kachori, Aloo Puri....

● Bombay Shiv Sagar


Address: 151, Shakespeare Sarani, Park Street, Kolkata, West Bengal 700017

Distance: ~1.5 km

Details: Bombay Shiv Sagar is a vegetarian restaurant that offers a wide range of North Indian, South Indian, and Chinese dishes. It is a popular spot for fami...

Food List: Pav Bhaji, Chole Bhature, Masala Dosa, Paneer Tikk...

● Denzong Kitchen


Address: 58, Harish Mukherjee Road, Bhawanipur, Kolkata, West Bengal 700025

Distance: ~1.8 km

Details: Denzong Kitchen is a popular spot for Tibetan and Chinese food, particularly for its delicious Momos. The steamed and fried Momos are filled with vari...

Food List: Momos, Thukpa, Chow Mein, Fried Rice....

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Resturants

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Information

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    Why Famous:
    Historical Significance: The Victoria Memorial is famous for its historical importance. It was built to honor Queen Victoria, who was the Empress of India. It serves as a reminder of the British Raj and its impact on the city. The museum inside tells the story of this per...
    Historical Significance: The Victoria Memorial is famous for its historical importance. It was built to honor Queen Victoria, who was the Empress of India. It serves as a reminder of the British Raj and its impact on the city. The museum inside tells the story of this period, making it an essential educational site.

    Architectural Grandeur: The monument is renowned for its stunning architecture. The use of white marble gives it a magnificent appearance, especially when it glimmers under the sun or is lit up at night. The blend of British and Mughal styles is a unique feature that attracts architects and art lovers.

    Cultural Hub: Beyond its historical and architectural value, the Victoria Memorial is a cultural hub. It hosts various events, including a popular sound and light show that vividly narrates the city's history. The spacious gardens are a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to relax, picnic, or enjoy an evening stroll.
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    Architecture:
    The Victoria Memorial is a prime example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, an architectural style popular in British India that fused elements of Indian, Islamic, and European architecture. The building is constructed with pristine white Makrana marble, the same marble used for the Taj Mahal.
    <...
    The Victoria Memorial is a prime example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, an architectural style popular in British India that fused elements of Indian, Islamic, and European architecture. The building is constructed with pristine white Makrana marble, the same marble used for the Taj Mahal.

    Dome and Minarets: The central dome of the memorial is an architectural marvel. It is crowned by a bronze statue of Victory, holding a trumpet in her hand. The main dome is surrounded by smaller domes and minarets at the corners, which are inspired by Mughal architecture.

    Facade and Portico: The facade features a grand portico with Corinthian columns and a classical-style front. The use of intricate carvings and designs on the marble walls adds a layer of artistic sophistication.

    Dimensions: The memorial building is 338 feet by 228 feet and rises to a height of 184 feet. The surrounding garden covers an area of 64 acres. The colossal dimensions of the structure, combined with its elegant design, create a sense of awe and grandeur. The layout of the garden, with its pathways, statues, and water bodies, is also a part of the overall architectural plan, designed to enhance the beauty of the central monument.
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    How To Reach:
    By Air: The nearest airport is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU). From the airport, you can hire a prepaid taxi or an app-based cab to reach the Victoria Memorial, which is approximately 19-20 km away. The journey takes about 45 minutes to an hour, dep...
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    Near Tourist Places:
    1. St.

    Paul's Cathedral: Approximately 1 KM. 2.

    Maidan: Approximately 0. 5 KM. 3.

    Indian Museum: Approximately 2 KM. 4.

    Nandan & Rabindra Sadan: Approximately 1. 5 KM. 5.

    Birla Planetarium: Approximately 1 KM. 6.

    Prinsep Ghat: Approximately 3. 5 KM. 7.

    Eden Gardens: Approximately 2. 5 KM. 8.

    Park Street: Approximately 2. 5 KM. 9.

    Alipore Zoological Gardens: Approximately 3 KM. 10.

    Kalighat Kali Temple: Approximately 4 KM.

Tourism Tips

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    Health & Safety: Wear comfortable shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking. Carry a water bottle, especially during the summer. Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.

    Packing: Pack light and c...

Reviews

Note:-

Information provided here in good Faith and for reference only.

All information and pictures will be updated soon, please keep visiting.

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