Victoria Memorial Kolkata Full Details

The Victoria Memorial is not just a monument, it is the pride of Kolkata, a symbol of immense beauty hidden in white marble. Standing right in the middle of the city, this majestic structure has been silently telling the story of our history for over a century, reminiscing about the British era and its stunning architecture. Whether you love history, love taking pictures or just want to explore – there is something for everyone here.

About Victoria Memorial Kolkata

Name of the monument-	Victoria Memorial
Situated in-	Kolkata
Built in between-	1906 – 1921
Built by-	Prince of Wales
Architects-	William Emerson, Vincent Esch
Address-	1 Queen’s Way, Victoria Memorial, Kolkata, India  Map

Victoria Memorial Kolkata, Overview

Another remembrance of the British Raj in India, the Victoria Memorial is located in the heart of Kolkata, in West Bengal, India. This white marbled opulent structure was built in memory of Queen Victoria to celebrate her 25 years of rule over India and is almost a  replica of the Victoria Memorial in London. Victoria Memorial is an iconic structure that is conterminous with the city of joy!

So apart from the magnificent edifice and the sprawling green lawns surrounding the memorial are an ideal place to hang out and go for morning walks in Kolkata. The gardens cover an area of about 57 acres and feature statues of Queen Victoria, Charles Cornwallis, Arthur Wellesley and Rajendra Nath Mukherjee, among others. The property is now under the control of the Ministry of Culture so it’s a very big travel places for visitors.

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This historical building is one of the top museums in Kolkata. There are 25 galleries inside the memorial, including the Calcutta Gallery, Portrait Gallery, Royal Gallery, Sculpture Gallery, and the National Leaders Gallery, to mention a few. The Victoria Memorial Museum is home to over 28,000 artefacts, including paintings, weapons, textiles, coins, and stamps among others and maintains few possessions of the Queen like her writing desk and chair and scrap books so this place is very much peerless.

Victoria Memorial holds a light and sound show called as SON-ET-LUMIERE from October to June. This interesting show does not showcase on Monday, Holly festival, national holidays and also remains closed from July to September.  

What’s Inside the Victoria Memorial?

Central Hall and Rotunda

As you step in, you’re greeted by the Rotunda – decorated with a massive marble statue of Queen Victoria. It sets the tone for the historical voyage that follows.

Royal Portrait Gallery

This gallery houses oil paintings of British royalty and viceroys. It’s like walking through a regal Instagram feed – only centuries old.

Historical Artifacts and Exhibitions

From ancient coins and rare books to weaponry and manuscripts, the museum holds over 28,000 artifacts that breathe history.

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Victoria Memorial Hall or Museum Galleries Timings

Every day except Mondays and national holidays –

10 AM – 6 PM

Victoria Memorial Museum Galleries Ticket

Ticket	Price
Indian Nationals-	Rs. 50/- (per head)
Foreign Nationals of SAARC countries-	Rs. 100/- (per head)
Foreign Nationals of all other countries-	Rs. 500/- (per head)

* School children up to Class XII in uniform with school ID and army personnel or WB Police in uniform:- Free of cost

* In this ticket you access both Gardens and Museum Galleries.

Victoria Memorial The Lush Gardens:

Layout and Design of the Gardens

Spread over 64 acres, these gardens are absolutely regal. Designed by Lord Redsdale and David Prain, they feature tranquil lakes, beautiful flowering plants, and relaxing walkways.

Statues and Sculptures Within

Keep an eye out for the angel on top of the dome—it’s not just a sculpture, it actually rotates with the wind!

Ideal Times for a Garden Stroll

Early mornings or evenings are perfect. Add a cup of tea and a camera—it’s Instagram heaven!

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Victoria Memorial Gardens Timings

Days	Timings
All Days	5.30 AM – 6 PM

Victoria Memorial Gardens Entry Fee

Ticket	Price
Daily Ticket	Rs. 30/- (Per Head)
The Reserved Annual Rate For Morning Walkers	Rs. 1000/- for Senior Citizens (above 60 yrs) And Rs. 2000/- for others.

* Garden Ticket does not entry to the museum.

Victoria Memorial Kolkata Light and Sound Show:

Show Timings and Language Options

Held every evening (except Mondays), the show is available in English and Bengali. Timings vary seasonally, usually post-sunset.

Themes Covered

It beautifully narrates Kolkata’s transformation—from a sleepy village to a bustling colonial capital.

Why Tourists Love It

The lighting effects on the marble façade during the narration are straight out of a movie scene. Don’t miss it!

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Light and Sound Show Timings, Entry Fee & Entry gate

Timings-	Show start 6.30 pm every Tuesday to Sunday except Mondays and designated holidays.
Entry Fee-	Rs. 100/- (From the east gate counter from 5.30 pm.)
Entry Gate-	East Gate of Cathedral road (Opposite St. Paul’s Cathedral).

Light and Sound Show Language:

Bengali Show-	Tues, Fri, Sun
Hindi Show-	Thurs, Sat
English Show-	Wed

* Free for children below 3 years (no separate seat).

How to Reach Victoria Memorial

By Air, Rail, and Road

• By Air: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport is about 20 km away.
• By Rail: Nearest station is Howrah, just 6 km away.
• By Road: Easily accessible via cabs, buses, or auto-rickshaws.

Nearest Metro Station

Maidan Metro Station is just a 10-minute walk from the memorial.

Local Transport Options

You can also take yellow taxis, app-based cabs, or a leisurely tram ride for a more vintage feel.

Best Time to Visit

Seasonal Guide

• Winter (Nov–Feb): Ideal weather and foggy mornings make for perfect photos.
• Spring (Mar–Apr): Blooming flowers in the gardens are a visual treat.
• Monsoon (Jul–Sep): The marble shines after the rain – but carry an umbrella!

Special Events and Festivals

Attend during Kolkata Literary Festival or Republic Day for special exhibitions.

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Travel Tips for Visitors

What to Carry

• Water bottle
• Sunglasses
• Camera or phone (for pictures!)
• Wheelchair is available.

Photography Rules

• Allowed in the gardens.
• Not permitted inside the museum halls.

Ideal Duration of Visit

• 1.5 hours for the museum.
• 1 hour for the gardens.

❓FAQs

1. Is photography allowed inside the Victoria Memorial Museum?
No, photography is not allowed inside the museum. You can, however, click pictures in the garden area.

2. What is the best time of day to visit?
Mornings and late afternoons are ideal for pleasant weather and better lighting for photos.

3. Can I buy tickets online?
Yes, you can purchase both garden and museum tickets from the official Victoria Memorial website.

4. Are guided tours available?
Yes, both audio and guided tours are available at the museum for deeper insights.

5. Is the Victoria Memorial accessible for differently-abled visitors?
Yes, ramps and basic facilities are available for ease of access.

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