Welcome to South Park Street Cemetery – Kolkata’s Silent Heritage Walk

Tucked away on a busy lane off Park Street lies one of Kolkata’s most quietly haunting and historic landmarks—the South Park Street Cemetery. It’s not just a graveyard; it’s a walk through time, art, and stories carved in stone. Opened in 1767, this cemetery is one of the oldest non-church Christian cemeteries in the world.

Whether you’re a history lover, architecture enthusiast, or just enjoy quiet, offbeat spots, this place is a must-visit on your Kolkata City Tour.

South Park Street Cemetery Timings & Entry Fee

Before you enter this world of colonial whispers, here’s what you need to know:

  • Timings:
    Open Daily – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (some sources also mention 9 AM opening)

  • Entry Fee:

    • Indian Citizens: ₹20–₹25

    • Foreign Visitors: ₹50

    • Children (under 3): Free

    • Photography (with camera): Additional ₹50–₹100

💡 Tip: Visit during weekday afternoons for a peaceful and atmospheric experience.


How to Reach – Location & Metro

  • Location: Mother Teresa Sarani (Park Street), opposite Assembly of God Church, beside St. Xavier’s College

  • Nearest Metro Station:

    • Park Street Metro (5 mins walk)

    • Maidan Metro (8–10 mins walk)

You can also reach by taxi, auto, or even walk from nearby attractions like Victoria Memorial or Indian Museum.


A Brief History of the Cemetery

Established by the British East India Company in 1767, the cemetery was the final resting place for European settlers, military officers, scholars, and artists who once called colonial Calcutta home. Though it closed for burials in the early 1800s, it still holds nearly 1,600 tombs, each with a unique story.

From the grand to the forgotten, these tombs reveal a part of Kolkata’s colonial soul.

A Unique Blend of Architecture

One of the most fascinating aspects of the South Park Street Cemetery is its architectural diversity. This is no ordinary graveyard—it’s a sculpture garden of sorts.

You’ll find:

  • Gothic spires

  • Greek urns

  • Roman domes

  • Egyptian-style pyramids

  • And touches of Indo-Saracenic design

Each tomb is different, made of sandstone, marble, or brick, and many are beautifully carved with epitaphs, angels, and symbolism.


Notable Graves to Look For

As you wander, keep an eye out for the resting places of some historic figures:

  • Sir William Jones – Founder of the Asiatic Society

  • Henry Louis Vivian Derozio – Poet, rebel, and youth icon of the Bengal Renaissance

  • Walter Landor Dickens – Son of legendary novelist Charles Dickens

Many of the tombstones here are overgrown with moss, giving the place a mysterious, almost cinematic feel.


Tips for Visitors

✅ Wear walking shoes – gravel paths and overgrown trails abound
✅ Respect the silence – this is still a cemetery
✅ Photography is allowed – but avoid intrusive flash or loud equipment
✅ Guided tours or audio guides are available – enhance the experience with stories and trivia
✅ Allocate at least 1 hour – but you might linger longer if you enjoy calm and quiet


Add It to Your Kolkata City Tour

At KolkataCityTour.com, we love showcasing heritage sites that offer a different perspective of the city. South Park Street Cemetery is a wonderful addition to:

  • Park Street colonial walk

  • Nearby visits to St. Paul’s Cathedral, Victoria Memorial, and Indian Museum

  • A photo walk for architecture or history enthusiasts

Book a curated tour with us and we’ll take care of permits, narration, and even guide you to the best tombstones and hidden symbols inside the cemetery.


Final Thoughts

South Park Street Cemetery Kolkata isn’t just a place of rest—it’s a space where history, art, and emotion come together. Every cracked tombstone, creeping vine, and chiseled name tells a story of a different time. In a city so alive and vibrant, this quiet corner reminds us to pause, reflect, and remember.

So if you’re planning your Kolkata itinerary, don’t miss this hauntingly beautiful spot. Add it to your custom heritage tour with KolkataCityTour.com and discover a side of the city few travelers get to see.