St.Paul's Cathedral is one of the 'first Episcopal Church of the Orient' in Kolkata. Bishop Daniel Wilson initiated the construction of the cathedral in 1839 and it was completed in 1847. Designed by Major William Nairn Forbes, it is similar to the Bell Harry Tower in Canterbury Cathedral in Kent. The pristine white walls, the stained glass windows, carved wooden pieces and frescoes remind you of the Renaissance period. Though the church was completely destroyed twice, it was eventually restored and regained it's original grandeur. While you are visiting St.Paul's Cathedral, you can also check-out the nearby attractions like Victoria Memorial, Nandan, Mahanagar Peace Park and the Birla Planetarium.
Situated Near Hati Bagan Crossing, Star Theatre has rich history behind it. Along with the Minerva Theatre, Star Theatre is a pioneer in commercial Bengali Theatre. It is also one the first theaters, where the first Bengali motion picture was screened. Now over a hundred years old, Start Theatre is synonymous with culture in the city. Besides hosting plays, concerts and a variety of cultural events, this 514-seat theater also screens the latest Bengali films and other exponents of world cinema. Treat your taste-buds at 'Sandhya Tara', the delightful rooftop restaurant at Star. When in Kolkata this is place is a must visit! Call ahead for reservations.
The roots of Alipore Zoological Gardens lie in a private menagerie once owned by Governor General Lord Wellesley in the 1800s. However, it was only many years after he returned to England, that a formal 'Zoological Gardens' was established in Alipore. Inaugurated in 1876 by Sir Edward VII, the Alipore Zoological Gardens was the first of its kind in the country; African Buffalo, Zanzibar Ram, Four-horned sheep, Hybrid Kashmiri Goat, Indian Antelope, Indian Gazelle and Sambar Deer were among the first breeds held here. The zoo was famous for housing the Aldabra Giant Tortoise 'Adwaita' which died in 2006, after 250 years! In the 1900s, the zoo was reputed as a pioneer in captive breeding processes; the Sumatran Rhinoceros was one of the successful breeding projects. However, over the years, it received a lot of criticism for its poor maintenance of animals and the 'Panthera Hybrid Program' (lion and tiger hybrids). Today, Alipore Zoo or Zoological Gardens remains a major attraction of the city, and houses species like Royal Bengal Tiger, African Lion, Great Indian One-horned Rhinoceros, Reticulated Giraffe, Dromedary Camel and Indian Elephant. Spread across 45 acres of land, the zoo also features a Reptile House, Primate House, Panther House and Elephant House. It may take you anywhere between an hour to a day to tour the zoo in its entirety; National Library, Agri Horticultural Gardens and Alipore Jail are in close vicinity. Photography is allowed after a charge of INR 250.
The Basement is the place to be when you're looking to spend an enjoyable drinking session with friends. Hidden beneath the Samilton hotel, this is where, entertainment, arts and spirits get together to provide patrons with a memorable experience. Never short of energy, this bar keeps the mood alive with great music and occasional live bands, comedy shows and stage plays. Its well-stocked bar boasts of some of the finest local and imported spirits, along with an impressive collection of beers and wines. Walk in during happy for some added bonuses, special drinks and discounted prices.