Movie & TV Filming Locations in Kolkāta, West Bengal, India

Kolkāta, India, Kolkāta, Unique & Fun, Movie & TV Filming Locations

Movie & TV Filming Locations in Kolkāta, West Bengal, India

Victoria Memorial

1. Victoria Memorial

This iconic white marble building is a favorite filming location due to its grand architecture and manicured gardens. It was featured in films due to its historical significance, reflecting the British Raj era. The location helps filmmakers capture a slice of colonial heritage.
  • Photography Friendly: The beautiful architecture makes for stunning visuals.
  • Crowds: Popular tourist spot, can be crowded.
  • Accessibility: Easily reachable from central Kolkata.
Howrah Bridge

2. Howrah Bridge

Known for its impressive engineering and breathtaking views, this location is often used in films to portray the bustling life of Kolkata. As an emblem of the city, it often appears in establishing shots. This location solves the need for an iconic backdrop.
  • Scenic View: Offers panoramic views of the Hooghly River.
  • Traffic: Busy location with constant vehicle flow.
  • Night Views: Illuminated beautifully at night.
Park Street

3. Park Street

As a lively area full of cafes, restaurants, and colonial-era buildings, it provides filmmakers with a vibrant urban setting. It captures the modern yet historical vibe of Kolkata. Here, filmmakers tackle the challenge of showing contemporary city life.
  • Energy: Offers a bustling atmosphere.
  • Noise: Can be noisy during peak hours.
  • Dining Options: Plenty of food choices nearby.
South Park Street Cemetery

4. South Park Street Cemetery

This ancient cemetery with weathered tombs provides an evocative atmosphere often used in thrillers and period films. It allows filmmakers to create a mysterious or melancholic setting. Unique historical gravestones solve the need for authentic vintage backdrops.
  • Atmosphere: Offers a mysterious and serene setting.
  • Entry Fees: Has a nominal entry charge for visitors.
  • Photography: Restrictions might apply, best to check in advance.
Indian Museum

5. Indian Museum

As India’s largest and oldest museum, it offers eclectic collections that can support historical and educational narratives. The grand architecture also provides a stately backdrop. Filmmakers use this to depict intellectual and cultural richness.
  • Interior: Offers diverse exhibits.
  • Timing: It has specific visiting hours.
  • Filming Permits: Special permission required for shooting.
Princep Ghat

6. Princep Ghat

This picturesque location with Greek and Gothic-inspired architecture under the backdrop of the Hooghly River is a favorite for romantic scenes. It is ideal for capturing serene waterfront views. It helps filmmakers set a nostalgic yet scenic frame.
  • River Setting: Provides a peaceful waterfront location.
  • Sunset View: Best experienced during evening hours.
  • Crowd Levels: Gets busy in the evenings and weekends.
Kumartuli

7. Kumartuli

Known for its traditional potter’s quarter, the vibrant lanes showcase artisans crafting idols, making for rich cultural depictions in films. It captures the artistic soul of the city. It's perfect for movies focusing on heritage and craftsmanship.
  • Cultural Insight: Offers a glimpse into local art.
  • Timing: Best visited during the daytime.
  • Local Interaction: Opportunity to meet artisans.
Marble Palace

8. Marble Palace

This 19th-century mansion is known for its opulent décor and grand interiors. It serves as a perfect location for films requiring lavish set designs or periodical themes. Filmmakers find it useful for capturing opulence and historic luxury.
  • Architecture: Offers a glimpse into regal lifestyle.
  • Restrictions: Photography is generally not allowed inside.
  • Location: Set in a bustling part of the city.
College Street

9. College Street

Renowned for its bookstores and intellectual atmosphere, it provides a scholarly charm to movies. It is often featured in films that focus on education or revolutions of thought. It solves the need for an intellectual yet vibrant location.
  • Bookshops: Home to numerous historic book stalls.
  • Crowd: Can be densely crowded, especially during festivals.
  • Atmosphere: Reflects Kolkata's literary culture.
Rabindra Sarobar

10. Rabindra Sarobar

Covered in lush greenery, this artificial lake offers a peaceful retreat making it perfect for romantic or introspective scenes. It provides a needed contrast to the city’s hustle. Its natural beauty solves the problem of finding serene surroundings in an urban area.
  • Peacefulness: Ideal for serene shoots.
  • Wildlife: Offers sightings of local birds.
  • Accessibility: Well connected through public transport.
Esplanade

11. Esplanade

Known for its old-world charm with tramlines and colonial architecture, it's perfect for films that depict the colonial era or classic city life. The bustling atmosphere adds vibrance to films. It helps capture the hustle and character of old Kolkata.
  • Historic Setting: Offers rich colonial history.
  • Commerce: Busy shopping area.
  • Public Transport: Availability of trams and metro.
Ratan Babu Ghat

12. Ratan Babu Ghat

This less frequented ghat offers panoramic river views and peaceful vibes, ideal for intimate and personal storytelling. It helps showcase the natural beauty of Kolkata by the river. Beneficial for filmmakers needing less crowded outdoor locations.
  • Quiet: Lesser crowds compared to other ghats.
  • Views: Offers beautiful riverbank scenes.
  • Access: Somewhat off the usual tourist path.
Eden Gardens

13. Eden Gardens

As one of the most iconic cricket stadiums in India, it’s a great place for sports-based narratives. It helps capture the zeal of sports culture in the city. Filmmakers solve the need for authentic sports settings.
  • Sports Culture: Represents the cricket passion of Kolkata.
  • Size: Vast area suitable for large setups.
  • Events: Availability depends on match schedules.
Writers' Building

14. Writers' Building

Known as a symbol of governance since the British period, its grand façade makes it suitable for films depicting political or historical themes. It's a key landmark showcasing colonial state architecture. Best used for narratives involving governance.
  • Historical: Symbolic of political history.
  • Architecture: Offers a grand and formal appearance.
  • Restrictions: Filming might require governmental permission.
Jadavpur University Campus

15. Jadavpur University Campus

The green campus and unique architecture make it a favorite for youth-centric or campus-based stories. It reflects the educational essence and youthful spirit of Kolkata. Capturing student life is made poignant here.
  • Youthful Vibe: Depicts lively student atmosphere.
  • Architecture: Modern and vintage blend.
  • Permissions: Necessary approvals required for filming.
Nicco Park

16. Nicco Park

Known as the Disneyland of West Bengal, it's suitable for family or fun-centric film sequences. The amusement rides and bright colors provide a cheerful backdrop. Ideal for filmmakers showing leisure and amusement.
  • Family Friendly: Offers vibrant visuals.
  • Entry Fees: Nominal charge for entering.
  • Dynamic Shots: Wide variety of rides and attractions for visuals.
Ballygunge Circular Road

17. Ballygunge Circular Road

Known for its upscale neighborhoods and classy homes, it's used in films to portray affluence. It’s ideal for narratives relating to upper-class living. A great location to capture the modern elite lifestyle.
  • Upscale Area: Reflects luxury and affluence.
  • Noise Levels: Residential and quieter than city center.
  • Architecture: Offers diverse styles of upscale homes.
Shobhabazar Rajbari

18. Shobhabazar Rajbari

This grand old mansion is often the centerpiece for period dramas and traditional narratives. It provides an authentic set for historic and cultural tales. Filmmakers seek it for its cultural richness and historic gravitas.
  • Cultural Heritage: Represents traditional Bengali architecture.
  • Ceremonial: Often used for film sequences involving festivals.
  • Private Property: Permission required for entry.
Science City

19. Science City

As one of the largest science centers on the Indian subcontinent, it's ideal for educational and futuristic film settings. The interactive exhibits and modern design make it unique. Great for filmmakers showcasing scientific or tech themes.
  • Modern Design: Futuristic architectural style.
  • Features: Interactive and visually interesting exhibits.
  • Filming Permissions: Necessary due to public nature.
Nandan

20. Nandan

This film center is iconic in the Bengali film industry and often features in films about film-making. It represents Kolkata’s deep connection with cinema. Filmmakers use it to portray the art and passion for film.
  • Cultural Hub: Hosts film festivals and screenings.
  • Ambience: Represents the artistic community.
  • Availability: Check schedule for events and filming permissions.