​​Call Us @

9038055530

9830366923

Alipore Jail Independence Museum History and Background
Conception and Purpose

Alipore Jail, established in 1906, was one of the most notorious colonial prisons in India. It was used by the British to detain Indian freedom fighters, political activists, and revolutionaries who were part of the Indian independence movement.
The jail has a dark history of housing several prominent leaders and freedom fighters, including Subhas Chandra Bose, Jawaharlal Nehru, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Chittaranjan Das, and Aurobindo Ghosh. It was also where many of these leaders were subjected to harsh treatment and solitary confinement.

Foundation and Construction

The foundation stone of the Victoria Memorial was laid on January 4, 1906, by the Prince of Wales, who later became King George V. The construction was funded by voluntary contributions from British and Indian residents of the British Raj. It was supported by both the British government and several princely states of India. The Memorial was designed by Sir William Emerson, the President of the Royal Institute of British Architects. The architecture blends classical European elements with Mughal influences, particularly in the domes and towers, resulting in an Indo-Saracenic style. The construction took about 15 years, with the Memorial being formally inaugurated on December 28, 1921.

Map Of Victoria Memorial In Kolkata

Victoria Memorial Museum Entry Charges

Indian Nationals: ₹30 per person
Foreign Nationals: ₹500 per person
Children below 10 years: Free

Garden Entry Charges

Indian Nationals: ₹10 per person
Foreign Nationals: ₹100 per person
Children below 3 years: Free

Alipore Jail Independence Museum Kolkata

Send Your Inquiry Here

Victoria Memorial Museum Timings

Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Closed on Mondays and on national holidays such as Republic Day (January 26), Independence Day (August 15), and Gandhi Jayanti (October 2).

Victoria Memorial Garden Timings

Monday to Sunday: 5:30 AM to 6:15 PM

Victoria Memorial Light & Sound Show

Show Timings:
First Show: 6:15 PM to 7:00 PM (English)
Second Show: 7:15 PM to 8:00 PM (Bengali)

Days of Operation:
Tuesday to Sunday: The show is usually held on these days.
Closed on Mondays and on certain national holidays.

Entry Tickets for the Light & Sound Show:
Indian Nationals: ₹100 per person
Foreign Nationals: ₹500 per person.

Architecture and Design Of Victoria Memorial

The Victoria Memorial is built of white Makrana marble, similar to the material used for the Taj Mahal, giving it a strikingly elegant appearance. The structure features a large central dome surrounded by four smaller domes, high portals, terraces, and domed corner towers. The central dome is topped with a bronze statue of the Angel of Victory. The design includes a large central hall, which houses statues and portraits of Queen Victoria and other British dignitaries. The Memorial also contains galleries dedicated to the history of Kolkata, the British colonial era, and various artifacts, including paintings, sculptures, manuscripts, and relics from the British period.

Gardens and Surroundings

The Victoria Memorial is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens spread over 64 acres, designed by Lord Redesdale and Sir David Prain. The gardens feature a mix of English and Mughal styles, with well-manicured lawns, fountains, and a wide variety of trees and plants. The grounds also have several sculptures and statues, including notable figures like Queen Victoria, King Edward VII, Lord Curzon, and others.

​Significance and Legacy

The Victoria Memorial serves as a prominent reminder of Kolkata’s colonial past and is a symbol of British architectural and cultural influence in India. It has been a significant tourist attraction and a cultural hub, hosting various exhibitions and events. The Memorial also houses a library and a collection of books, rare documents, and archives that provide insights into India's colonial history.

Modern-Day Importance Of Victoria Memorial

Today, the Victoria Memorial is managed by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. It remains a major tourist attraction in Kolkata, drawing millions of visitors each year. The Memorial continues to host art exhibitions, cultural programs, and light and sound shows that narrate the history of Kolkata and the British Raj.

Cultural Impact

The Victoria Memorial stands as a symbol of Kolkata's historical evolution from a colonial city to a bustling modern metropolis. It reflects the city’s complex past, blending Indian and British influences. Today, it is not only a reminder of India's colonial history but also a part of its national heritage, representing a blend of cultures, architectural brilliance, and a deep historical narrative.

Frequently Asked Questions - Victoria Memorial

Kolkata Registered Office
54 Ho Chi Minh Sarani (56/2/D, Biren Roy Road, West), Behala Chowrasta, Kolkata 700008,
+91-9038055530
+91- 9830366923
email: tabkolkata@gmail.com

Alipore Jail Museum, also known as Alipore Independence Museum, is a historic site in Kolkata, West Bengal, that has been transformed into a museum to commemorate India’s freedom struggle. Originally an infamous colonial-era jail, the museum now serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by Indian freedom fighters during British rule. The Alipore Jail Museum is a poignant reminder of India’s struggle for freedom and the sacrifices made by countless individuals in the fight against colonial rule. It offers a profound and educational experience for visitors interested in the history of India’s independence movement and is a must-visit for anyone in Kolkata.

Q: What Is the opening and closing time of Victoria Memorial?

A: Victoria is open on Tuesday to Sunday 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Monday It remains closed.

Q: What are the entry charges?

A: Entry Charges Indians are ₹30 per person &
Foreign Nationals ₹500 per person.

Q: Is Victoria Memorial worth visiting?

​A: It is the most famous landmarks in Kolkata and serves as a museum and tourist attraction with its beautiful marble architecture and wide beautifully maintained gardens.