S1 E23 | Exploring Kolkata: Victoria Memorial and St. Paul’s Cathedral

After settling into Kolkata, we finally ventured out to explore the city’s historic and iconic landmarks. Kolkata is a bustling metropolis, full of noise, traffic, and endless energy, but it’s also home to some of India’s most beautiful architectural gems.

Our first stop was the Victoria Memorial, arguably the most iconic monument in Kolkata. Built over 20 years from 1906 in honor of Queen Victoria, this marble marvel blends architectural influences from Europe, Egypt, the Mughal dynasty, and Deccan monarchies.

The memorial sits in the center of a 64-acre garden with four scenic ponds and well-maintained green spaces—perfect for a peaceful walk amidst the city chaos. The lower level houses a high-ceiling museum dedicated to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and other freedom fighters, while the upper level features exhibits on India’s struggle for independence.

Ticket Price: ₹30 per person, including access to both the museum and gardens.

Spending an hour here gave us a glimpse into Kolkata’s rich history and allowed us to appreciate the stunning marble architecture and detailed paintings circling the dome.

Next, we visited St. Paul’s Cathedral, built in 1847. This beautiful church has a calm, serene atmosphere, complete with intricate glass windows and old wooden seating. Photography and videography weren’t allowed inside, but the peaceful ambience was worth lingering for almost an hour. We even found ourselves dozing off in the calm stillness—a rare moment of respite in the busy city.

The combination of Victoria Memorial and St. Paul’s Cathedral gave us a perfect mix of grandeur, history, and tranquility in Kolkata.

Kolkata continues to surprise us with its charm, and we’re excited to explore more of the city in the coming days. Stay tuned for more adventures in India’s cultural capital!