One such beautiful monument is the Victoria Memorial in Kolkata, symbolic of India's rich colonial heritage and architectural grandeur. Built-in memory of Queen Victoria, this magnificent white marble monument has been a beautiful combination of the British and Mughal styles of architecture and, therefore, is a must-see landmark for many travellers visiting West Bengal. Located among sprawling luscious gardens, the Victoria Memorial Kolkata is much more than just a monument is a treasure, outlining the story of British India and the after-effect impact on Bengal's culture.
Sir William Emerson designed Victoria Memorial Kolkata in such a fashion that the classical European input combined with the elements of Mughal motifs turned out to be an awe-inspiring masterpiece. The shining dome of this memorial slightly resembles the Taj Mahal, so tall under the sun, one of the more recognizable attractions in West Bengal tourism. Beautiful gardens cover 56 acres which encircle this memorial, providing tourists with a feeling of serene escape amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.
Inside Victoria Memorial itself, there is a very interesting museum with above 25 galleries where artefacts are on display that happened during the British period. Besides this memorial house portrays the portraits of Queen Victoria, rarest manuscripts, weaponry, sculptures, and all kinds of historical relics. The collection of this museum vividly dramatizes every political, social as well as cultural trend of the 19th and 20th century. A history lover must go to this place along with any tour of Kolkata packages.
The evening Light and Sound Show is the best tourist attraction of the Victoria Memorial Kolkata, as the monument assumes a magical look. The show, "Pride and Glory – The Story of Calcutta," narrates the story of the city, right from its history to its colonial past and the part played by the city in India's movement towards independence. It is a spectacle set against the majestic façade of the illuminated memorial is an experience not to be forgotten and provides the visitor with an insight into the deep past of Kolkata.
Beautiful gardens around Victoria Memorial are a favourite to locals as well as tourists. These provide a wide, serene atmosphere to relax, stroll, or just sit there for a quiet picnic amidst the awesome statues of British royals and Indian figures. Such a soothing ambience makes it the top list for unwinding tourists on their Kolkata Tour Packages.
Victoria Memorial Kolkata is a must-visit for all who wish to discover the fantastic amalgamation of British colonial and Indian history. It's a memoir of the grandeur and complexity of the British era and a monument to India's struggle for independence. This Victoria Memorial caters to everyone, from history lovers to architecture lovers.
A visit to this heritage site is always recommended during Kolkata tours. Whether visiting to step into the city's rich past, attend the dazzling light and sound show, or simply bask in the beauty of the gardens, Victoria Memorial leaves an indelible mark on every visitor.
How to Reach
Take the metro to Maidan or Park Street stations, which are both within walking distance, to go to the Victoria Memorial in Kolkata. Additionally, you can utilize the regular buses and taxis that travel from different sections of the city to this site. The most practical choices for people arriving from the Howrah or Sealdah railway stations are taxis or app-based transportation. Driving time by auto or cab from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport is approximately 45 minutes. Trams and autorickshaws are also accessible from neighbouring locations. The memorial is easily accessible from several Kolkata transportation hubs thanks to its prominent location close to the Maidan.