Eden Garden, Kolkata
Eden Gardens is a cricket stadium located in Kolkata, West Bengal, India. It is one of the most iconic and historic cricket grounds in the world and is known for its passionate cricket fans. Here are some key details about Eden Gardens:
History
Eden Gardens was established in 1864 and is the oldest cricket stadium in India. It is named after the nearby Eden Gardens, a famous park in Kolkata.
Capacity
The stadium has a seating capacity of around 68,000 spectators, making it the second-largest cricket stadium in India after the newly built Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad.
Hosting International Matches
Eden Gardens has been a prominent venue for international cricket matches. It has hosted several high-profile matches, including test matches, one-day internationals, and Twenty20 internationals. The stadium has witnessed numerous historic moments and has been a witness to some memorable matches.
Home Ground
Eden Gardens is the home ground of the Bengal cricket team and the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The Kolkata Knight Riders have won the IPL title multiple times, including in 2012 and 2014.
Renovation
The stadium has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years to meet modern standards and accommodate larger crowds. In 2011, it underwent significant redevelopment for the ICC Cricket World Cup, including the addition of new stands, improved facilities, and a revamped playing surface.
Iconic Features
The stadium is renowned for its distinctive architectural features, such as the red brick facade of the stands and the iconic giant scoreboard called the “Victoria Memorial.” The scoreboard manually displays the score and is operated by hand.
Atmosphere
The cricket fans in Kolkata are known for their passion and love for the sport. Eden Gardens is known for its electrifying atmosphere during matches, with enthusiastic spectators creating a vibrant and energetic environment.
Historic Matches
Eden Gardens has witnessed some historic cricket matches, including the tied Test match between India and Australia in 1986, where Dean Jones scored a double century. It has also hosted the final of the 1987 Cricket World Cup, won by Australia.
Other Events
In addition to cricket matches, Eden Gardens has hosted various non-cricket events, such as concerts, cultural performances, and political rallies.
Eden Gardens holds a special place in the hearts of cricket enthusiasts, and its rich history and unique atmosphere contribute to its status as a cricketing institution in India.
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Information about Eden Garden
Location: Maidan, B.B.D. Bagh, Kolkata, West Bengal 700021
Entry fee: Depending on match
Best Time to Visit: International Match Time
Things to do at Eden Garden
Here are some things you can do at Eden Gardens:
Watch a Cricket Match: Eden Gardens is primarily known for hosting cricket matches. If there’s a game scheduled, make sure to grab a ticket and experience the electric atmosphere of a live cricket match. The stadium can hold over 60,000 spectators, so you’re bound to have an exciting time cheering for your favorite team.
Take a Stadium Tour: Even when there isn’t a match, you can still explore the stadium on a guided tour. The tour takes you behind the scenes, giving you a chance to visit the players’ dressing rooms, the media center, and even step onto the hallowed field. It’s a great way to learn about the stadium’s history and soak in its cricketing heritage.
Visit the Cricket Museum: Eden Gardens houses a cricket museum that showcases the rich history of Indian cricket. The museum displays memorabilia, photographs, and various artifacts related to the sport, including iconic moments from matches played at Eden Gardens. It’s a must-visit for cricket enthusiasts and history buffs.
Enjoy the Landscaped Gardens: Eden Gardens isn’t just about cricket. It features beautifully landscaped gardens where you can take a leisurely stroll, relax on benches, and enjoy the green surroundings. The gardens provide a serene escape from the bustling city, making it a peaceful spot for nature lovers.
Attend Events and Concerts: Apart from cricket matches, Eden Gardens occasionally hosts other events and concerts. Keep an eye out for cultural performances, music concerts, or any other special events happening at the stadium. Attending one of these events can be a unique experience.
Try Local Street Food: Kolkata is famous for its street food, and you’ll find numerous stalls and food vendors near Eden Gardens. After a game or during a break, indulge in some delicious local snacks like puchka (pani puri), kathi rolls, or jhal muri (spicy puffed rice). It’s a great way to satisfy your taste buds and immerse yourself in the local culinary scene.
Remember to check the stadium’s schedule and opening hours before planning your visit to ensure you make the most of your time at Eden Gardens.
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FAQs on Eden Garden
Eden Garden is a phrase that is often used to refer to the Eden Gardens cricket stadium located in Kolkata, India. It is one of the oldest and most iconic cricket stadiums in the world.
Eden Garden is situated in Kolkata, the capital city of the Indian state of West Bengal. The stadium is located near the banks of the Hooghly River.
The official seating capacity of Eden Garden is around 66,000 spectators, making it the largest cricket stadium in India and the third-largest cricket stadium in the world.
Eden Garden was established in 1864, which makes it one of the oldest cricket stadiums in India and the world. It has a rich history and has hosted numerous international cricket matches over the years.
Eden Garden has hosted a wide range of cricket matches, including international Test matches, One-Day Internationals (ODIs), and Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is). It has also been a venue for domestic cricket matches, including Indian Premier League (IPL) games.
Eden Garden has witnessed several historic and memorable cricket matches. One of the most famous matches was the 2001 Test match between India and Australia, where India staged a remarkable comeback to win after following on. It has also hosted World Cup matches, IPL finals, and other significant encounters.
Eden Garden is known for its vast seating capacity, lush green outfield, and a unique feature called “D Block,” which is a section of the stadium reserved for the most passionate and vocal supporters of the home team. It also houses the Cricket Association of Bengal headquarters.
Yes, Eden Garden offers guided tours to the public, allowing visitors to explore the stadium, learn about its history, and see the facilities. These tours often include visits to the players’ dressing rooms, pavilions, and other areas of interest.
Yes, tickets for cricket matches at Eden Garden are usually available for purchase. You can check the official website or authorized ticketing platforms to buy tickets for upcoming matches or events at the stadium.
Yes, there are several hotels and accommodations available near Eden Garden in Kolkata. Being located in the heart of the city, there are numerous options ranging from budget to luxury hotels, allowing visitors to find suitable places to stay during their visit.
While the stadium may not be open for public visits on non-match days, the adjacent Eden Gardens complex has a beautiful park named “Millennium Park” that is open to the public and offers a pleasant environment for leisurely walks and relaxation.