Netaji Bhawan Kolkata – A Journey Through the Life of a Legend

If you’ve ever wondered what it would feel like to walk through India’s freedom struggle, Netaji Bhawan in Kolkata is the perfect place to start. This iconic house isn’t just made of bricks and memories—it was once the home and secret base of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, one of India’s boldest freedom fighters.

About Netaji Bhawan

Netaji Bhawan (or Netaji Bhavan) is a heritage building located in Bhowanipore, Kolkata. Built in 1909 by Netaji’s father, Janakinath Bose, the house became the center of many historical events—most notably, Netaji’s daring escape in 1941 while under British surveillance.

In 1961, it was transformed into a museum and research center by the Netaji Research Bureau, managed by members of his family including Sugata Bose and Krishna Bose.

Today, it stands tall not only as a museum but also as a living archive of India’s fight for independence.


Netaji Bhawan Timings

Here are the official visiting hours:

  • Open: Tuesday to Sunday

  • Timings: 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM

  • Ticket Counter Closes: 4:15 PM

  • Closed on Mondays

🛑 Avoid visiting on national holidays like Republic Day, Independence Day, or Gandhi Jayanti—when the museum may remain closed.


Entry Fee

  • Indian Adults: ₹10

  • Children: ₹5

  • Foreign Nationals: ₹50 (approx.)

It’s budget-friendly and educational—perfect for students, families, and history enthusiasts.


What You’ll See Inside

Once you step inside, history literally surrounds you:

  • The Famous Escape Route: You’ll see the secret staircase from where Netaji made his legendary 1941 escape.

  • Wanderer Car: A restored German sedan used during the escape. Yes, it’s still there!

  • Personal Belongings: Netaji’s original furniture, clothes, boots, spectacles, pens, and even handwritten letters.

  • INA Memorabilia: Uniforms, documents, journals, and flags from the Indian National Army (INA).

  • Library & Archives: The Krishna Bose Freedom Library is a treasure trove for researchers.

  • Sarat Bose Hall: A modern auditorium used for film screenings, seminars, and lectures.


📍 Location and How to Reach

  • Address: 38/2, Lala Lajpat Rai Sarani (formerly Elgin Road), Bhowanipore, Kolkata – 700020

  • Nearest Metro: Netaji Bhavan Metro Station (Blue Line) – just a 2-minute walk

  • By Bus/Taxi: Easily accessible via local buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis

  • Distance from Howrah/Sealdah Station: ~6–7 km (approx. 20–30 minutes by cab)


🤔 Why Visit Netaji Bhawan?

Here’s why this place should be on your Kolkata bucket list:

  • 🕵️‍♂️ It’s the site of Netaji’s escape from British surveillance.

  • 🧳 You get to see his real living quarters—frozen in time.

  • 📚 It’s a living research center for scholars and students.

  • 🇮🇳 INA history comes alive through real objects, not just textbooks.

  • 🎥 Documentaries and exhibitions run regularly at the auditorium.


💡 Visitor Tips

  • 🎟️ Buy your ticket before 4:15 PM.

  • 🤫 Maintain silence—especially in the preserved rooms.

  • 🚫 Photography is restricted in many areas. Always ask before clicking.

  • 🕰️ Spend at least 1 to 2 hours for a proper visit.


🗺️ Places Nearby to Explore

After your visit, consider exploring these nearby attractions:

  • Victoria Memorial – A 10-minute drive

  • St. Paul’s Cathedral – 5–7 minutes away

  • Indian Museum – 15 minutes by cab

  • Kalighat Temple – Just 3 km away


📝 Final Thoughts

Netaji Bhawan isn’t just a museum—it’s a time capsule. Every room, every staircase, and every exhibit tells the story of a man who dared to challenge the British Empire with unmatched courage.

Whether you’re a student of history, a patriotic soul, or just someone looking to understand India’s past in a deeper way, Netaji Bhawan will inspire you.