Must-visit landmark: General Post Office in Kolkata

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Retro lamp post in front of GPO colonial architectural Government building at Dalhousie area Kolkata.; Shutterstock ID 699556663; purchase_order: -; job: -; client: -; other: -

January

10.9 - 29.8 °C

February

12.4 - 33.9 °C

March

18.2 - 37.5 °C

April

21.1 - 38.8 °C

May

21.8 - 39.0 °C

June

23.9 - 37.8 °C

July

24.3 - 36.0 °C

August

24.6 - 35.3 °C

September

23.9 - 35.5 °C

October

20.9 - 35.2 °C

November

16.0 - 33.1 °C

December

11.9 - 30.0 °C

Major Airports :

Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Airport (CCU), Kolkata

Nearest Railway Station :

Howrah Railway Station (HWH)

Sealdah Railway Station (SDAH)

When a post wasn’t meant for the world to see

The General Post Office is located in the busiest corner of Kolkata known as BBD Bag or Dalhousie Square. It is not just a fully functional postal hub, but also an architectural edifice that commemorates the British colonial rule in the city. The building’s old and grand design seems caught in the hustle of modern times.

You might wonder, with a city full of revered attractions, why should you visit a post office. We understand your dilemma. The truth is GPO is not just any post office. It is a masterpiece of brick and mortar that portrays a union of the Indo-Saracenic and Neoclassical styles. The breathtaking facade, the glorious dome, and the delicate architectural designs make it a coveted attraction and not just a government office.

So next time, you visit Kolkata, make sure to include this unusual monument in your itinerary. After all, it isn’t every day that you find an opulent post office looming over a city, that has long forgotten its colonial past.

Threading connections across continents

Years ago, when the British were setting up their establishment in India, Kolkata served as the capital city because it was close to the sea. Communication mediums were not as advanced and progressive as it is today. One of the major forms of exchange of information was the post. That is why, the GPO had the utmost power and authority during those times. It helped the rulers stay connected to the rest of the world and so it suffices to say that this place witnessed impactful socio-political transformations that shaped India's destiny. Its presence is of such importance that many heritage walks are arranged with GPO as a prominent stop.

Preserving the beauty of a lost hobby

During the seventies and the eighties stamp collection was an extremely popular hobby. While people fancied their collection, GPO Kolkata had its exuberant philatelic heritage. Today, the Philatelic Bureau in GPO Kolkata has a treasure chest of a wide selection of commemorative stamps, first-day covers, and philatelic merchandise. The effort to keep the interest in philatelies is so pronounced that the place also hosts exhibitions, workshops, and educational programs.

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Timings

Opening time - 10:00 AM

Closing time - 06:00 PM

Colonial foundations are rooted forever

When the British ruled India from its capital city Kolkata, they built several buildings that would help them carry on their bureaucratic operations without challenges. GPO was one such project and that’s why its architecture demands your unequivocal attention. It has grand Corinthian pillars, intricate carvings, and a majestic dome, reminiscent of European architectural aesthetics. Inside, visitors are greeted by a spacious central hall adorned with elegant chandeliers, ornate ceilings, and marble floors, exuding an aura of grandeur and opulence.

Going beyond the legacy of letters

The GPO doesn’t just function like a government office. The grand space also hosts numerous literary works, films, and documentaries, symbolizing Kolkata's enduring spirit and historical continuity. The building is in one of the most important junctions of the city and is neighbours with landmarks such as the Writer's Building, St. John's Church, and the Raj Bhavan.

Small acts of innocent goodness

Commercial activities aside, the GPO Kolkata also involves itself in outreach programs and initiatives. It partners with institutions like schools, colleges, and civic organizations to promote literacy, environmental awareness, and social welfare initiatives.

Around the post of prominence

GPO is situated at the core of the most interesting tourist spots of Kolkata. Each of them reverberates lessons in history, culture, and architecture. The famed Writer's Building, which was once the administrative office of the British Raj is now a symbol of Bengal's political legacy. You can visit St. John's Church which is Kolkata’s oldest church and it flaunts its brilliant architecture and a tranquil atmosphere. The Hooghly River is close by and it takes you to the famed Howrah Bridge, an engineering marvel and Kolkata's lifeline. However, if you are looking for creative and artistic inspiration, you can visit the Indian Museum which is a melting pot of art, artifacts, and natural history exhibits.

So, whether it is GPO or the places of interest surrounding its premises, you will be fascinated by the beauty and the stories behind these edifices. Make sure you soak them in well because this treasure trove of knowledge is worth collecting on a trip.