KOLKATTA
PLACES TO VISIT
A mere village
in the 17th century, Calcutta (new name KOLKATTA) is today one of
the biggest cities in the world. The sightseeing includes visit to
Eden Gardens, The New Secretariat, High Court, Legislative Assembly,
Jain temple, Victoria Memorial and the Race Course.
Victoria
Memorial
The Victoria Memorial Hall was constructed
in 1921. It also act as a museum, where people could see before
them pictures and statues of men who played a prominent part in
the history of India. Presently it is the finest and most prominent
building and art museum of Calcutta, India, under the Department
of Culture, Govt. of India.
Indian Museum
The Kolkata Indian Museum established
long back in 1814 in the Asiatic Society Building was founded by
Dr. Nathaniel Wallich, a botanist from Denmark. It is one of the
earliest museums established in the world and considered the largest
in the country. Opened to public in 1878, the museum has over 60
galleries under six main sectors of Art, Anthropology, Archaeology,
Geology, Industry and Zoology.
Birla Planetarium
One the earliest and largest planetariums
in India, the Birla Planetarium was opened in 1961. The capacity
of the auditorium is 500 and there are daily film shows. The planetarium
gives complete information about the universe and our solar system.
The models kept here are a special attraction for the children.
Howrah Bridge
A marvel of British engineering, Howrah
Bridge is a suspended bridge on pillars. The bridge though very
old is still holding good to reduce the traffic across the river.
This Engineering marvel has been the firmest symbol of Calcutta.
The huge cantilever bridge, strung on 270 feet high pillars connects
Calcutta from Howrah.
Belur Math
On the west bank of the Hooghly river
stands Belur Math, headquarters of the Ramakrishna Mission. The
monastery is a haven of peace and religious harmony.
Dakshineshwar Kali Temple
The temple is dedicated to Goddess
Kali, the goddess of destruction. Built in 1847, on the banks of
the Hooghly, the temple is associated with Shri Ramakrishna. It
is surrounded by 12 other temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Botanical Garden
The largest and oldest of its kind
in India, it was laid out in 1787. It covers an area of 109.27 ha
and is famous for the over 250 years old Great Banyan tree which
covers 382 m in its circumference, with over 600 aerial roots. There
are more than 30,000 varieties of trees and plants. |
