One of my favourite museums in Kolkata. Great place to visit with friends/family, and you’ll get beautiful photographs here.
In the center of Old Kolkata, Metcalfe Hall is a two-story structure that is a tribute to British colonial architecture. This structure, which was designed by city magistrate C.K. Robinson between 1840 and 1844, was erected in honor of Charles Metcalfe, who served as Governor General of India from 1835 to 1838 and is sometimes referred to as the “Liberator of the Press.”
It was initially intended to be a public library, but the Imperial Library eventually moved in.
The Imperial Library eventually moved in, although it was initially intended to be a public library.
The structure is a representation of 19th-century colonial architecture, facing westward toward the Ganges. It has a sturdy basement on which to stand, and colonnades and columns around it on all four sides. Ancient Greek temple architecture served as the model for the building’s design. To support a massive entablature are thirty enormous Corinthian Columns, similar to those in the Towers of the Winds of Athens. Subsequent structures in Bengal were influenced by Metcalfe Hall’s architectural style.
Picture - Metcalfe Hall in the 1960s, with its majestic neoclassical architecture and a glimpse of Kolkata’s urban landscape. (Courtesy: National Library)
Overview: An iconic example of British colonial architecture, Metcalfe Hall now hosts exhibitions on Kolkata’s cultural and historical evolution. Its Greek revival style stands out in the city’s landscape.
Address: 12, Strand Rd, B.B.D. Bagh, Kolkata, West Bengal 700001
Google Map-
https://maps.app.goo.gl/EAaX5YgSkPuqdo7g6
How to Reach Metcalfe Hall
Metcalfe Hall is located near Strand Road in central Kolkata. It is easily accessible by metro, bus, taxi, and ferry. Below are the best ways to reach it.
By Metro (Best Option)
-
The nearest metro station is Mahakaran Metro Station (East-West Metro Line). It is just a 5-minute walk from Metcalfe Hall.
-
Another option is Esplanade Metro Station (North-South Metro Line), which is 1.5 km away. From there, take a taxi or walk through BBD Bagh.
By Bus
-
Many government and private buses pass near Metcalfe Hall.
-
The closest bus stops are Strand Road and BBD Bagh, both just a short walk away.
-
Dalhousieis easily accesible from anywhere from kolkata
Go By Train
-
From Howrah Railway Station (4 km away)
-
Take a taxi (15 minutes) or a ferry to Babu Ghat, which is near Metcalfe Hall.
-
Walking from Babu Ghat takes around 10 minutes.
-
From Sealdah Railway Station (5 km away)
-
The best option is to take a taxi (20 minutes).
-
You can also take a bus to Esplanade, then walk or take a short taxi ride.
By Ferry (Scenic Option)
-
You can take a ferry from Howrah to Babu Ghat.
-
The ferry ride takes 10 minutes and gives a beautiful view of the Hooghly River.
-
From Babu Ghat, Metcalfe Hall is a 10-minute walk.
By Car (Parking Info)
-
No dedicated parking is available at Metcalfe Hall.
-
You can find paid parking near BBD Bagh or Esplanade.
-
Walking is the best way to explore this heritage area.
Things to Do Near Metcalfe Hall
Metcalfe Hall is in one of the most historic areas of Kolkata. After exploring the hall, you can visit nearby attractions, enjoy street food, or take a scenic walk along the Hooghly River. Here are the best things to do nearby:
1. Visit the Iconic Howrah Bridge (2 km)
2. Explore the Indian Museum (1.2 km)
3. Take a Stroll at Millennium Park (700 m)
4. Experience the Buzz of BBD Bagh (500 m)
5. Enjoy Kolkata’s Famous Street Food at Dacres Lane (1 km)
6. Visit Prinsep Ghat(2.5 km)
Pros:
- Architectural beauty with historical exhibits.
- Located near other attractions like the Ganges.
- Free entry to exhibitions.
Cons:
- Limited interactive displays.
- May not appeal to those less interested in history.
- Facilities like restrooms may be basic.
Ticket Prices
There are four ticket categories based on nationality:
-
Indian Visitors: ₹20
-
Foreigners: ₹250
-
SAARC (South Asian) Visitors: ₹20
-
BIMSTEC Visitors: ₹20
Metcalfe Hall - Rating at a glance
-
Reference Link (Wiki) = Here
-
Reference Link (ASI) = Here
-
Heritage Importance = 9/10
-
Photographic Importance = 9/10
-
Visit Priority = Most Important 9/10
-
Visit Priority = Very Important 9/10
-
The Duration to see = 60 minutes
MORE KOLKATA HERITAGE SERIES -
****Cover pic used from wiki
…….
