From tram rides in the city to boat rides in the Hooghly River, there are numerous experiences in Kolkata that have stood the test of time. Play a match of football like the locals at the 18th century Maidan, marvel at the numerous species of birds and animals at the almost 140 year old Alipore Zoological Gardens or get an insight into the world of stars and galaxies at the 50 year old Birla Planetarium. Follow our guide for the top things to do in Kolkata that have historical significance.

STAR GAZING AT THE BIRLA PLANETARIUM

The largest and the oldest planetarium in Asia, the Birla Planetarium is one of the most popular crowd pullers of Kolkata. The single storey circular structure is inspired by the Great Stupa at Sanchi.

TRAM RIDE IN KOLKATA

Kolkata, the City of Joy is known for its old world charm and one of the best ways to experience this, is to opt for a tram ride through the city. A legacy of the British, the tram service in Kolkata was launched in 1873 and is operational till date.

BOATING AT HOOGHLY RIVER

One of the major landmarks of Kolkata, the Hooghly River pulls a lot of crowd to its banks every day. While a flurry of typical activities begins at the river at the crack of dawn, boating on the country boats at the Hooghly River is definitely a fascinating experience.

BIRDWATCHING AT THE ALIPORE ZOOLOGICAL GARDENS

Built on the lines of the London Zoo, the Alipore Zoological Gardens is the oldest zoo in the country, opened for public viewing way back in the May of 1876. It goes without saying that the zoological garden is a major tourist attraction of Kolkata and draws tourists in thousands almost every day.

PLAY FOOTBALL AT THE MAIDAN

If you are a lover of outdoor activities, then you must include Maidan—the largest urban parkin the city, in your itinerary. Developed in the 18th century by the British as their parade ground, today Maidan is one of the most prominent landmarks of Kolkata and is often referred to as the city’s respiratory system.