Millennium Park, Kolkata
Millennium Park is a well-known urban park located in Kolkata, the capital city of the Indian state of West Bengal. Situated along the eastern bank of the Hooghly River, it is one of the major tourist attractions in the city.
Here are some key details about Millennium Park:
Inauguration
Millennium Park was inaugurated on December 25, 1999, to commemorate the turn of the millennium. It was developed as part of the beautification and urban renewal projects undertaken by the Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA).
Location
The park is situated on Strand Road, near the famous Howrah Bridge. It offers a picturesque view of the Hooghly River, with the iconic bridge and the city skyline as a backdrop.
Area and Features
Millennium Park spans an area of around 2.5 hectares (6.2 acres). The park is divided into different sections, each offering unique attractions and amenities.
- Riverfront Promenade: The park features a beautiful riverside promenade, offering a serene atmosphere and a great view of the river. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, relax on benches, and take in the scenic beauty.
- Floral Clock: One of the main attractions in the park is a giant floral clock. It is adorned with colorful flowers and plants and is a popular spot for photography.
- Fountains and Water Features: Millennium Park has several fountains and water features, adding to its aesthetic appeal. The dancing fountain, in particular, is a major highlight, featuring choreographed water jets and musical accompaniments.
- Amusement Rides: The park also houses a small amusement area with rides for children, including a toy train, merry-go-round, and other attractions.
Musical Evenings
Millennium Park often hosts musical evenings and cultural events, especially during festive seasons. These events showcase local artists and performers and draw a large crowd.
Boating Facilities
Visitors can enjoy boating on the river, as the park offers paddleboat and rowboat services. It provides an opportunity to experience the river up close and enjoy a leisurely ride.
Millennium Park is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city life. Its strategic location, beautiful riverfront setting, and various attractions make it a must-visit place for anyone exploring Kolkata.
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Information about Millennium Park
Location: 12, Strand Rd, Bara Bazar, B.B.D. Bagh, Kolkata, West Bengal 700001
Price: INR 10/-
Timing: 10 am to 8 pm
Things to do at Millennium Park
Here are some things you can do at Millennium Park:
Enjoy the Riverfront: Take a leisurely stroll along the riverside promenade and enjoy the scenic views of the Hooghly River. You can also sit on the benches or the grassy areas and relax while taking in the refreshing breeze.
Musical Fountain: Witness the mesmerizing musical fountain show in the evening. The fountain dances to the rhythm of music, creating a magical atmosphere. The synchronized water jets and colorful lights make it a captivating experience.
Boat Ride: Take a boat ride on the Hooghly River and explore the surroundings from a different perspective. There are paddle boats and motorized boats available for rent. Enjoy the tranquil ride and soak in the beauty of the river and its surroundings.
Eco-Tourism: Millennium Park is known for its eco-tourism initiatives. Visit the ecological zones within the park, which showcase different ecosystems and plant species. You can learn about the importance of preserving the environment and the significance of sustainable practices.
Play Area: If you’re visiting with children, there is a dedicated play area with swings, slides, and other recreational equipment. Kids can have a great time playing and enjoying themselves in a safe environment.
Food Stalls: Explore the various food stalls and enjoy local street food delicacies. From puchka (pani puri) to jhal muri (spicy puffed rice), you can indulge in a variety of tasty snacks. There are also small eateries that serve refreshments and beverages.
Photography: Millennium Park offers several picturesque spots for photography enthusiasts. Capture the beautiful views of the river, the park’s landscape, and the surrounding architecture. The park’s vibrant atmosphere provides ample opportunities for stunning photographs.
Cultural Events: Millennium Park occasionally hosts cultural events, concerts, and festivals. Keep an eye out for any upcoming events during your visit, as they can add a unique flavor to your experience.
Remember to check the park’s timings and any entry fees or restrictions that may be in place. Enjoy your time at Millennium Park and make the most of the beautiful surroundings and recreational activities it has to offer.
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FAQs on Millennium Park, Kolkata
Millennium Park is located in the city of Kolkata, West Bengal, India. It is situated along the banks of the Hooghly River, near Strand Road and Howrah Bridge.
Millennium Park is a popular recreational park in Kolkata. It was developed to commemorate the arrival of the new millennium (year 2000). The park offers a serene environment for visitors to relax and enjoy scenic views of the Hooghly River and the iconic Howrah Bridge.
Millennium Park offers several attractions for visitors. Some of the main attractions include a beautifully landscaped garden, a musical fountain, a floating restaurant, and a children’s play area. The park also has a pathway along the riverfront, which is ideal for leisurely walks and enjoying the views.
Yes, Millennium Park offers boating facilities for visitors. There are pedal boats and rowing boats available for rent, allowing visitors to enjoy a peaceful ride on the Hooghly River.
Yes, Millennium Park is open to the public every day of the week, including weekends and holidays. The park usually operates during daylight hours, from morning until evening.
Yes, Millennium Park has a floating restaurant where visitors can enjoy a meal with views of the river. Additionally, there are several food stalls and vendors offering snacks and refreshments within the park premises.
Yes, Millennium Park is a great place for picnics and family outings. The park offers ample green spaces, benches, and a children’s play area, making it ideal for spending quality time with family and friends in a scenic setting.
Yes, Millennium Park is easily accessible by public transportation. Visitors can reach the park by buses, taxis, and the Kolkata Metro. The nearest metro station to Millennium Park is Howrah Station.
Yes, there are several nearby attractions and landmarks close to Millennium Park. Some notable ones include the Howrah Bridge, Princep Ghat, Indian Botanical Gardens, and the Kolkata Port Trust. These attractions can be easily visited in combination with a trip to Millennium Park.