South Park Street Cemetery Kolkata
A sprawling 18th-century Christian graveyard in Kolkata, featuring grand colonial tombs and a poignant connection to the city's British past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Atmospheric light, fewer crowds
South Park Street Cemetery Kolkata
Best Time
Atmospheric light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling 18th-century Christian graveyard in Kolkata, featuring grand colonial tombs and a poignant connection to the city's British past.
"A hauntingly poetic escape in the heart of Kolkata, where history peeks through layers of moss and mist."
🎟️ Entry Fee & Rules
Entry is ₹50 with camera, ₹20 without. Read the rules carefully before entering .
🚶 Getting There
Walk from Park Street Metro or take a bus to Neuroscience and walk from there .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grand Colonial Tombs
Throughout the cemetery
Marvel at the impressive obelisks, pyramid-like tombs, and intricate carvings from the British Raj era.
Epitaphs of the Past
Individual graves
Read inscriptions detailing the lives and untimely deaths of British settlers, soldiers, and officials.
Sir William Jones' Tomb
Central area
Visit the resting place of the founder of the Asiatic Society, a significant figure in colonial India.
Rose Aylmer's Grave
Specific section
Find the tomb of Rose Aylmer, the muse of poet Walter Savage Landor, a poignant literary connection.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Respectful Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Entry Fee & Rules
Entry is ₹50 with camera, ₹20 without. Read the rules carefully before entering.
🚶 Getting There
Walk from Park Street Metro or take a bus to Neuroscience and walk from there.
📸 Photography Tips
DSLR photography costs extra. Videography and model photography are strictly prohibited.
🕰️ Opening Hours
Open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, with last ticket sales at 4:45 PM.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Entry Fee & Rules
Entry is ₹50 with camera, ₹20 without. Read the rules carefully before entering.
🚶 Getting There
Walk from Park Street Metro or take a bus to Neuroscience and walk from there.
📸 Photography Tips
DSLR photography costs extra. Videography and model photography are strictly prohibited.
🕰️ Opening Hours
Open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, with last ticket sales at 4:45 PM.
🤫 Maintain Silence
Respect the solemnity of the place; silence is mandatory.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
South Park Street Cemetery is a fascinating historical site offering a glimpse into Kolkata's colonial past with its impressive 18th-century tombs and architecture. While some find it eerie, most describe it as a peaceful and beautiful place for historical exploration. Visitors appreciate the detailed inscriptions and the unique atmosphere, though strict photography rules and the need for respectful conduct are noted.
"One of the must visit place in Kolkata belonging to the colonial period. It's a nice place to visit to know your history regarding the British empire and British Raj. You can get the tickets in front of the door which costs Rs 25 (normal) and Rs 50 (DSLR + Person). No separates student discount is given by the authority. Videography strictly prohibited inside the premises, even model photography is also prohibited. There are authorised person who will be checking your phone or camera just to check if any video clipping or any model photography is there. There are lists of rules and regulation which are written behind the ticket please read it before entering. Overall the experience was good, but according to me some more care is needed.
Following are the rules and regulations which is to be followed inside the premises:
♦️ Silence to be maintained.
♦️ The ticket is valid for 2 hours only.
♦️ One should keep the ticket unless you get outside the ground.
♦️ Alcohol or other narcotics are strictly prohibited.
♦️ No split or litre.
♦️♦️ Violation of any of these is a punishable offence by law and a spot fine of Rs 500 with legal steps.
The timing of the Cemetery is from 10:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m. and is open all days."
Nishan Dutta
"South Park Street Cemetery is a fascinating historical site in Kolkata with beautifully designed cemeteries dating back over 200 years. The entry fee is ₹25 which is well worth it for the experience.
Located beside St. Xavier’s College on Park Street, this place is a hidden gem for history and architecture enthusiasts. The grand tombs and serene atmosphere make it a fascinating spot to explore. Definitely worth a visit!"
Vijender Singh
"South Park Street Cemetery (a.k.a. Park Street Cemetery) — where Kolkata’s colonial past rests in peace (literally) and history peeks through layers of moss and mist. Established in 1767, this is one of the oldest non-church cemeteries in the world, a silent witness to the city’s British-era grandeur. Forget horror movies — this place is less "The Conjuring" and more "Downton Abbey meets The Jungle Book", with gothic tombs draped in banyan roots and squirrels darting between centuries-old epitaphs.
Among the notable “residents” here are Sir William Jones, the founder of the Asiatic Society, and Rose Aylmer, the muse of poet Walter Savage Landor (whose love for her was so deep, he wrote a poem that outlived empires). Many tombstones tell tales of lives cut short by tropical diseases, duels, and sometimes, just bad luck in 18th-century Kolkata.
The architecture is stunning — grand obelisks, pyramid-like tombs, and intricate carvings that scream Raj-era drama. And if you think cemeteries are spooky, try visiting on a foggy winter morning when the light filters through the trees — it’s eerily beautiful.
Verdict: A hauntingly poetic escape in the heart of Kolkata.
Pro tip — Carry a camera, read the inscriptions, and remember, in a city that never sleeps, even the departed have fascinating stories to tell. 🪦🌿📜"
Rajdeep Dutta
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way is to walk from Park Street Metro station, though it's a bit of a distance. Alternatively, you can take a bus and get off at the Neuroscience stop, which significantly shortens the walk to the cemetery.
The nearest metro station is Park Street Metro. From there, it's a walk or a short bus ride to the cemetery.
While there might not be a direct bus to the cemetery entrance, several buses stop near the Park Street area. Getting off at Neuroscience is a good option for a shorter walk.
Yes, it's located on Mother Teresa Sarani (formerly Park Street) in Central Kolkata, opposite The Assembly of God Church School.
Yes, ride-sharing apps like Uber and Ola are readily available in Kolkata and can take you directly to the cemetery's entrance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee is ₹25 for general admission and ₹50 if you plan to use a DSLR camera. Videography and model photography are strictly prohibited.
The cemetery is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The last ticket is sold at 4:45 PM.
Yes, your ticket is valid for 2 hours. You must keep your ticket with you throughout your visit.
According to reviews, no separate student discounts are given by the authority.
Photography with a DSLR camera incurs an additional fee. However, videography and model photography are strictly prohibited.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It's described as a fascinating, eerie, and hauntingly poetic escape. Despite its spooky reputation, many find it peaceful and beautiful, with grand tombs and a serene atmosphere.
While some visitors report hearing footsteps or whispers, many reviewers state there are no ghosts and it's a peaceful place.
You'll find stunning examples of colonial architecture, including grand obelisks, pyramid-like tombs, and intricate carvings, many draped in banyan roots.
Notable figures include Sir William Jones, founder of the Asiatic Society, and Rose Aylmer, the muse of poet Walter Savage Landor.
Yes, it's a great place for a leisurely stroll, offering a unique glimpse into Kolkata's colonial past and a quiet escape from the city bustle.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no food or dining facilities within the cemetery premises. You'll need to explore the surrounding Park Street area for dining options.
The Park Street area is famous for its numerous restaurants, cafes, and eateries, offering a wide range of cuisines. You can find everything from local Bengali food to international dishes.
While not explicitly mentioned in the rules, it's best to avoid bringing outside food and drinks to maintain the sanctity of the historical site. Alcohol and narcotics are strictly prohibited.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography with a DSLR camera is allowed but costs an extra ₹30. Videography and model photography are strictly prohibited. Authorized personnel check phones and cameras for violations.
Morning hours, especially on a foggy day, offer a very atmospheric and eerie beauty. The light filtering through the trees can create dramatic shots.
You can capture stunning images of colonial architecture, moss-covered tombstones, intricate carvings, and the interplay of light and shadow amidst the greenery.
The grand obelisks, pyramid-like tombs, and graves of notable figures like Sir William Jones and Rose Aylmer are popular subjects for photography.
Be very careful not to record any videos or engage in model photography, as this is strictly forbidden and can lead to fines.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep the visit concise, focusing on the most visually striking tombs and perhaps the graves of notable figures like Sir William Jones. The entry fee is nominal, making it an affordable historical excursion. Pack water and snacks, as there are no facilities within the cemetery, and be prepared for a walk from public transport stops.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Remember that DSLR photography incurs an additional fee, and videography is strictly prohibited. Focus on capturing the details of the epitaphs, the scale of the tombs, and the interplay of light and shadow. The cemetery is a testament to a bygone era, and its visual narrative is rich with historical depth, making it a rewarding location for those seeking unique and atmospheric photography subjects.
🏛️ History Buffs
The detailed inscriptions on the tombstones offer primary source material for understanding demographics, mortality rates, and the social strata of the time.Exploring the cemetery allows for a deeper appreciation of the architectural styles prevalent during the British Raj and the stories of individuals like Sir William Jones and Rose Aylmer. It's a place that prompts reflection on the legacy of colonialism and the passage of time, offering a quiet yet profound historical experience in the heart of a bustling metropolis.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Colonial Kolkata
+1 It served as the final resting place for over 1,600 British settlers, soldiers, and administrators during the 18th and 19th centuries.The architecture within the cemetery is a highlight, featuring grand obelisks, pyramid-like tombs, and elaborate carvings that reflect the grandeur and drama of the Raj era.
Notable figures interred here include Sir William Jones, the esteemed founder of the Asiatic Society, and Rose Aylmer, the muse of the poet Walter Savage Landor.
Navigating the Cemetery and Its Rules
It's important to note that videography and model photography are strictly prohibited, and authorized personnel may check your devices.Visitors are expected to maintain silence within the premises and avoid littering. The ticket is valid for a 2-hour duration, and you must keep it with you. Violations of any rules can lead to spot fines and legal action.
While the cemetery is often associated with spooky tales and paranormal activities,
+1 many visitors describe it as a peaceful and beautiful place. The atmosphere can be particularly evocative on a foggy morning when the light filters through the trees, creating an eerily beautiful ambiance.
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