Located on the Jawaharlal Nehru Road, Indian Museum holds the distinction of being one of the first museums of its kind in the world. Founded by Dr. Nathaniel Wallich in 1814, the museum was first located within the Asiatic Society. However, the ever-growing repertoire of artifacts made its shift to the current location necessary. The pristine white edifice that houses the Indian Museum today was built by architect W.L. Granvil, which is also the name behind important landmarks like Calcutta High Court and the G.P.O. Inside, the museum has three floors with sixty different galleries that explore areas like Anthropology, Archaeology, Art, Geology, Zoology, Botany and Technology. The museum's collection has over 1 million exhibits today, and you can find anything from Egyptian mummies to meteorites during your visit. The Painting Gallery is of particular importance, as it holds some rare insights into ancient Indian art. Students and researchers of different faculties find the museum extremely resourceful: apart from the vast display of artifacts, the space also includes a library and a bookshop. Indian Museum organizes a number of interesting events throughout the year and also occasionally conducts short courses and seminars on various subjects. With over 10000 square feet of area to explore, it is best to spend an entire day at this museum.
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.
After the Nawab of Bengal Siraj Ud Daulah conquered the first Fort William in 1756, the British East India Company planned to build a second invulnerable fort. Spearheaded by Robert Clive, the Company reconquered the Fort. Later in 1780, the New Fort was constructed on its current site and the surrounding green space came to be known as Maidan. Named after King William III, the Fort stretches across a total area of 532 bighas and has six different gates. Today, the massive construction remains largely unchanged and is used as the military headquarters for the Eastern Command. Situated close to the banks of the Hooghly, the main structure has an irregular octagonal shape and is surrounded by a 9 meter deep and 15 meter wide moat. Inside, the fort is equipped with its own golf course, post office, auditorium, stadium, swimming pool and gym. It also houses the Command Museum and Library. Civilians are only allowed inside the premises on presenting an official approval from the Commanding Officer. On the eastern end of the Fort William are monuments like Victoria Memorial and St. Paul's Cathedral Church.
Situated next to the Nalban Boating Complex in Salt Lake City or Bidhannagar, Nicco Park happens to be one of the biggest amusement parks in India and the first of its kind in Eastern India. Colloquially known as Jheel Meel, Nicco Park opened in 1991 and has a number of superlatives to its credit: Asia's largest wooden roller coaster, India's first 4D cinema experience and the first in the world to acquire the ISO 9002 certification. Apart from adventure rides like Flying Saucer, Cave Ride and Moonraker, the 40 acre establishment also includes a beautiful rose garden and an open Food Court serving a variety of cuisines. 'Wet-O-Wild Beach Tropicana', the water park within Nicco Park, comes with a huge artifical beach, waterfall, wave runners, play pool and a number of interesting rides. With all this action to partake in, there is no room for a dull moment at this dedicated fun zone. To keep the energy flowing, visit one of the strategically scattered food kiosks. The Nicco Super Bowl is right next door, but maybe you should plan that for another day!
East Bengal Ground is one of the popular stadiums in West Bengal and the home ground of Kingfisher's East Bengal Football Club. The stadium was built to serve as a ground for hosting football tournaments but is now a multipurpose stadium. The home team uses the stadium as a practice ground. Well equipped with modern amenities, the stadium features a commentary box area, a special section for press members, a gym and Jacuzzi. The ground has historical and cultural significance and is of great importance to the AIFF.
The Indian Mime Theatre is a training center as well as a theater for the Indian version of Pantomime. The theater started in 1976 and has focused on the promotion and development of Mukabhinaya (Silent Acting) which is now recognized by the Government of India as a separate art form. The Indian Mime Theatre holds workshops and training courses for those who want to learn the art form. The theater also holds women's empowerment and awareness camps, seminars on social issues, training for unemployed youth and women, development programs for children and health camps, among other programs. Do contact them for information about their courses, shows and artists.