Kolkata, West Bengal
St Paul's Cathedral in Kolkata, West Bengal, India, is a significant landmark and religious institution dedicated to St Paul the Apostle. Consecrated in 1847, the cathedral serves as the Mother Church of the Diocese of Calcutta under the Church of North India (CNI). Situated at 1A, Cathedral Road, near the Victoria Memorial and the Maidan, the cathedral is a central point in the city's "island of attractions." Designed in the Indo-Gothic style to suit India's climate, the cathedral features a 247-foot-long nave and a 201-foot-high spire. The interior boasts stained-glass windows, including works by Sir Edward Burne-Jones, and a reredos depicting scenes from St Paul's life, making it one of Kolkata's most significant Christian religious destinations and a must-visit for architecture and history enthusiasts.
St Paul's Cathedral holds immense religious significance as the Mother Church of the Diocese of Calcutta under the Church of North India (CNI). Consecrated in 1847, the cathedral has served as a center of Christian worship and community life in Kolkata for over 175 years. The cathedral is dedicated to St Paul the Apostle, one of the most important figures in early Christianity, and serves as a place of worship, prayer, and spiritual reflection for the Christian community in Kolkata. The cathedral hosts regular services including Sunday services (Morning Eucharist at 7:30 AM, Sung Eucharist at 8:30 AM, and Bengali Service at 10:30 AM) and weekday services (Mattins at 6:30 AM and Holy Communion at 7:00 AM), providing spiritual guidance and community fellowship. The cathedral has played a crucial role in the religious and cultural life of Kolkata, serving as a symbol of the city's diverse religious heritage and its history as a center of British colonial administration. The cathedral continues to serve as a vital center of Christian worship and community, welcoming visitors from all backgrounds to experience its spiritual atmosphere and architectural beauty.
Indo-Gothic Style: Designed in the Indo-Gothic style to suit India's climate, combining Gothic architectural elements with adaptations for the local environment
Nave: Features a 247-foot-long nave, providing a spacious interior for worship
Spire: A 201-foot-high spire, making it a prominent landmark in the Kolkata skyline
Stained-Glass Windows: The interior boasts stained-glass windows, including works by renowned artist Sir Edward Burne-Jones
Reredos: A reredos (altar screen) depicting scenes from St Paul's life
Gothic Architecture: Traditional Gothic architectural elements including pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and decorative details
Interior Design: Beautiful interior design with religious artwork and decorative elements
Historical Significance: The cathedral represents over 175 years of Christian worship and community in Kolkata
Visiting Hours: Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM; Sunday: 12:00 noon to 6:00 PM
Service Timings: Sunday services at 7:30 AM, 8:30 AM, and 10:30 AM (Bengali Service); Weekday services at 6:30 AM (Mattins) and 7:00 AM (Holy Communion)
Entry Fee: Free entry for visitors; donations are welcome
Dress Code: Visitors should dress modestly and respectfully as it is a place of worship
Photography: Check photography policies before taking pictures; some areas may have restrictions during services
Best Time to Visit: During visiting hours, preferably outside service times for a peaceful visit
Respectful Behavior: Visitors should maintain respectful behavior and silence during services
Attending Services: Visitors are welcome to attend services; check service timings before visiting
Location: 1A, Cathedral Road, Kolkata, West Bengal 700071, India
Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata – approx. 19 km
Major Railway Stations:
Sealdah Railway Station – approx. 4 km
Howrah Railway Station – approx. 6 km
Kolkata Railway Station – approx. 5 km
Metro Station: Maidan Metro Station or Park Street Metro Station – accessible via connecting transport
Nearby Attractions: Located near the Victoria Memorial and the Maidan, making it part of the city's "island of attractions"
The cathedral is strategically located on Cathedral Road, near the Victoria Memorial and the Maidan, making it easily accessible from various parts of Kolkata and well-connected to major transportation hubs.
St Paul's Cathedral is well connected by road, metro, and rail. The cathedral is located at Cathedral Road, near the Victoria Memorial and the Maidan, which provides excellent connectivity to Kolkata city center and surrounding areas. The area is served by metro stations including Maidan Metro Station and Park Street Metro Station, offering convenient access via the Kolkata Metro network. Public bus services operated by the West Bengal Transport Corporation and other operators provide regular connectivity to the area. Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cab services operate regularly in the area, offering convenient access for visitors. The cathedral is easily accessible from major railway stations including Sealdah, Howrah, and Kolkata stations, and the international airport, making it convenient for both local visitors and tourists. The cathedral's location near the Victoria Memorial and the Maidan makes it easily accessible and part of a popular tourist circuit, allowing visitors to explore multiple attractions in the area. The cathedral's central location and excellent connectivity make it easily accessible and a popular destination for worshippers, architecture enthusiasts, history buffs, and tourists exploring Kolkata's rich cultural and religious heritage.