Sunrise and Sunsetin Kolkata, India

Kolkata sits on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River, which runs along the city's western edge. The riverside ghats and parks facing west give clear views across the water toward Howrah, while the open grounds and lake parks in the city interior are the better options for sunrise.

Best sunrise spots in Kolkata

1. Victoria Memorial

   The broad eastern lawn of the Victoria Memorial faces east with minimal obstruction, and the white marble building adds a distinctive backdrop. Garden-only entry is 30 rupees; the grounds open at 5:30 AM.

2. Rabindra Sarobar

   The lake park in south Kolkata has open sky to the east and is already busy with walkers from 5 AM. Metro: Rabindra Sarobar station (Blue Line); park entry is free.

3. Howrah Bridge

   The pedestrian lane on the bridge's eastern side gives an elevated view toward the Kolkata skyline as the sun rises over the city. The bridge is open 24 hours and free to cross.

4. Eco Park

   The open grounds near the Biswa Bangla Gate on the eastern end of the park have clear sky to the east; the gates open at 6 AM. Entry is 30 rupees; the park is about 12 km northeast of central Kolkata.

Best sunset spots in Kolkata

1. Prinsep Ghat

   The 19th-century ghat faces directly west across the Hooghly with no buildings blocking the view toward Howrah. Free entry; about 10 minutes by Uber from Park Street or BBD Bagh.

2. Millennium Park

   This 1.5 km riverfront park along Strand Road has an open west-facing horizon over the Hooghly. Entry is 10 rupees; the nearest Metro stop is Mahatma Gandhi Road on Line 1, roughly 10 minutes on foot.

3. Howrah Bridge

   From the western side of the bridge, the sun sets behind Howrah Station and the far bank of the Hooghly. The Kolkata-side entrance is on Strand Road near Fairlie Place; no fee.

4. Eco Park

   The western shore of the main lake offers unobstructed sunset views across the open water. The park closes at 8 PM in summer, so plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before closing.