Victoria Memorial, West Bengal

The memorial was constructed by architect William Emerson by the banks of the famous Hooghly River. Emerson was the President of the Royal Institute of British Architects, therefore the design portrays a mix of British and Mughal style with Venetian, Deccani and some Islamic influences. The monument is made out of pure white Makrana Marble in remembrance of the empress. Similar to the beauty and grandeur of the Taj Mahal, the memorial has a central dome, an octagonal elevated canopy, terrace and gardens. The memorial is open on all 7 days of the week from 10 am to 5 pm.

At the entrance of the Victoria memorial is a statue of the Queen seated on a bronze throne. There are several other statues in the building including that of Hastings, Curzon and Dalhousie. The royal gallery contains various oil paintings of Queen Victoria and her husband. The monument captures the British aura beautifully and has the Angel of Victory in black bronze atop the dome which rotates as the wind blows.

Over the years this stunning memorial has emerged as a favourite place for families as well as lovebirds. As the night falls, lighting of the Victoria Memorial looks breathtakingly beautiful and can leave anyone mesmerized. Regular light and sound shows are held in the evenings that tell the history behind the memorial and also the Queen.