Victoria Memorial

The Victoria Memorial is situated in Kolkata, West Bengal, India, which was built between 1906 and 1921. It is dedicated to the memory of Queen Victoria, then Empress of India, and is now a museum and tourist destination under the auspices of the Ministry of Culture. The memorial lies on the Maidan (grounds) by the bank of the Hooghly River, near Jawaharlal Nehru Road (better known as Chowringhee Road).

Victoria Memorial History

In January 1901, on the death of Queen Victoria, the 1st Baron Curzon of Kedleston, the then Viceroy of India, suggested the creation of a fitting memorial. Lord Curzon proposed the construction of a grand building with a museum and gardens.

The Prince of Wales, later King George V, laid the foundation stone on 4 January 1906, and it was formally opened to the public in 1921. In 1912, before the construction of the Victoria Memorial was finished, King George V announced the transfer of the capital of India from Calcutta to New Delhi. Thus, the Victoria Memorial was built in what would be a provincial city rather than a capital.

The Victoria Memorial was funded by Indian states, individuals of the British Raj, and the British government in London. The princes and people of India responded generously to Lord Curzon's appeal for funds, and the total cost of construction of the monument, amounting to one crore, five lakhs of rupees, was entirely derived from their voluntary subscriptions.

Places To Visit In and Around Victoria Memorial

Victoria Memorial is one of the most popular places to visit in Kolkata. Here's the list of the best tourist places near Victoria Memorial.

1. Angel of Victory

The figure of Angel of Victory is situated on the center dome of Victoria Memorial in West Bengal. It is mounted on a large ball bearing. The best thing about the figure is that it rotates with the wind.

2. Dome Bordered with Sculptures

Another attraction that strikes the most is the fine allegorical sculptures that consist of art, architecture, charity, justice, motherhood, learning, and prudence.

3. Galleries at Victoria Memorial

The Victoria Memorial consists of 25 galleries that include the sculpture gallery, the royal gallery, the central hall, the portrait gallery, and more. Also, the other exhibits of the museum involve coins, stamps, and maps. The cost of visiting the museum is INR 20 for Indians and INR 200 for foreigners.  

Things to Do in Victoria Memorial

1. Garden of Victoria Memorial

You can also have a walk around the Garden of Victoria Memorial and sense a glimpse of royalty.

2. Shopping

Shopaholics can have a great experience of shopping nearby Victoria Memorial. Some of the nearby shopping spots are Swar Sangam, AC market, Metro Plaza, etc.

Best Time to Visit Victoria Memorial

It is opened from 5:30 AM-6:15 PM.

The entry ticket to the light and sound show is  INR 10 for children and INR 20 for Adults.

Hotels Near Victoria Memorial – Adotrip

Major Attractions Near Victoria Memorial

Discover the soul of Victoria Memorial through these iconic landmarks

10 Minutes

Approximately 2 km

Indian Museum

Established in 1814, the Indian Museum is the oldest and largest museum in India, showcasing priceless archaeological finds, fossils, sculptures, paintings, and rare historical artifacts.

5 Minutes

Approximately 500 m

Birla Planetarium

One of the largest planetariums in Asia, the Birla Planetarium offers fascinating astronomy shows, space exhibits, and immersive experiences for visitors of all ages.

2–5 Minutes

Approximately 350 m

St. Paul's Cathedral

One of India's finest Anglican churches, St. Paul's Cathedral is renowned for its Gothic Revival architecture, beautiful stained-glass windows, and tranquil surroundings, making it a must-visit heritage landmark.

How to Reach Victoria Memorial

To reach Victoria Memorial, you'll need to cover significant distances from major cities. Here are the most convenient ways to travel to Victoria Memorial.

By Air

The nearest airport to Victoria Memorial is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, which offers excellent connectivity with major Indian and international cities. Travelers can also book Delhi to Kolkata Flights for a convenient journey. Taxis, app-based cabs, and metro services are easily available from the airport.

Nearest Airport to Victoria Memorial: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport – Approximately 22 km

By Train

Howrah Junction is the nearest major railway station, while Sealdah Railway Station and Kolkata Railway Station (Chitpur) also provide excellent connectivity with major Indian cities.

Nearest Railway Station to Victoria Memorial: Howrah Junction – Approximately 6 km

Second Nearest Railway Station: Sealdah Railway Station – Approximately 5 km

Third Nearest Railway Station: Kolkata Railway Station (Chitpur) – Approximately 8 km

By Road

Victoria Memorial is centrally located and well-connected through Kolkata's extensive road network. Buses, taxis, app-based cabs, and trams provide convenient access throughout the day.

Esplanade to Victoria Memorial: Approximately 3 km

Park Street to Victoria Memorial: Approximately 2 km

Howrah to Victoria Memorial: Approximately 6 km

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