General Post Office, Kolkata: Explore the City's Heritage

The General Post Office in Kolkata is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the city's rich heritage. This iconic building has stood the test of time since its construction in 1864.

Located on the Strand Road, the GPO is a stunning example of neoclassical architecture. The building's imposing structure and intricate details make it a photographer's paradise.

As you step inside, you'll be struck by the grandeur of the building's interior. The GPO is a treasure trove of history, with its walls bearing witness to the city's transformation over the years.

The General Post Office in Kolkata has a rich history dating back to the 18th century. The site where the GPO is located was actually the site of the first Fort William.

The General Post Office was designed in 1864 by Walter B. Grenville, who acted as consulting architect to the government of India from 1863 to 1868. Grenville's design was a significant milestone in the city's architectural landscape.

Curious to learn more? Check out: General Post Office (Washington, D.C.)

The staircase at the eastern side of the GPO features a brass plate, which marks the eastern end of the Old Fort William. This is a fascinating piece of history that provides a glimpse into the city's past.

To the north of the GPO is the Kolkata Collectorate, which was once the office of the regional 'Collector', a designation invented by the British Government after 1857 to replace the traditional Zamindars.

If you're visiting the General Post Office in Kolkata, you should definitely check out the nearby Victoria Memorial Hall, a stunning white marble building that's a short walk away.

The General Post Office itself is a beautiful example of colonial architecture, with a stunning clock tower that's a great spot for photos.

You can also take a stroll along the nearby Strand Road, which offers great views of the Hooghly River and the city skyline.

The General Post Office in Kolkata is a must-visit spot, especially if you're interested in exploring the city's rich history and colonial architecture.

You can find the General Post Office right in the heart of the city, surrounded by several tourist attractions. Fort William, a royal fort, is just a short walk away, making it an ideal place to visit if you're interested in the city's historical significance.

The grandeur of Kolkata's cityscape can be observed in the buildings surrounding the General Post Office, including the Victoria Memorial and Fort William.

The General Post Office itself is a beautiful structure that showcases the city's colonial influence. You could even send yourself a postcard from the General Post Office!

The Postal Museum and Siuli are open to the public during scheduled working hours, and the public sections of the GPO are easily accessible to everyone.

If you're looking for a place to grab a bite to eat, you're in luck because there are plenty of nearby restaurants to choose from. Anand Veg Restaurant is one option, known for its delicious Indian cuisine.

Broadway Bar & Restaurant is another great choice, offering a wide range of international dishes to suit every taste.

The Kolkata GPO is a bustling hub of activity, offering a wide range of services despite its relatively small size.

You can find the Director General of The Post Office of India's building on the southwestern corner, which now houses the Postal Museum and Philatelic Library.

The GPO also has a Dead Letter Office, which is a functioning sorting branch that's part of the postal services.

The Philatelic Store is located within the GPO, making it easy to browse and purchase stamps and other philatelic items.

The Siuli – The Parcel Café is a newly inaugurated addition to the GPO, offering a unique experience for visitors.

Throughout the day, you'll see various postal-related activities taking place across the different rooms in the main building.

You can easily walk to the nearby Fort William from the General Post Office in Kolkata. It's a must-visit if you're interested in learning about the historical significance of the city.

The grandeur of Kolkata is reflected in its massive structures, including the Victoria Memorial, which is also located near the post office.

Just a short stroll away from the General Post Office, you can observe the colonial influence on the city's design and architecture.

You can also send yourself a postcard from the General Post Office, making it a great spot to take a moment and reflect on your visit to the area.

The Calcutta GPO has a rich history, with its current location just one of several spots across the city where it's been situated over the years. The GPO was originally designed by Matthew Digby Wyatt in 1857, but his design wasn't selected as it wasn't deemed classical enough.

The responsibility of designing the GPO was given to Walter Long Bozzi Granville, who created a beautiful classical masterpiece. The construction of the building started in 1864 and was completed within two years in 1868.

The GPO's eye-catching structure is its large dome at the corner, which rises to a height of 220 feet and houses a two-faced clock on the front side. The dome is supported by 28 large Corinthian Order pillars between Schinkelesque pylons on either side.

The building has a floor area of 48,184 square feet and partly sits on the original location of the Old Fort William. A link to this past is still visible with the Brass Lines and the marble plaque located on the outer side as well as from the inner side.

Here are the various locations where the GPO had existed in Calcutta:

The main clock with three faces placed in front of the dome was installed later in the year 1896 and was manufactured by the same company that made Big Ben in London.

The General Post Office in Kolkata is a stunning structure with an imposing high domed roof that rises over 220 feet into the air. This impressive design element is a notable feature of the building.

The GPO's exterior is complemented by tall Ionic-Corinthian pillars, adding to its grandeur. These pillars are a classic architectural feature that adds to the building's timeless appeal.

A postal museum is located within the GPO, showcasing a collection of artefacts and stamps. This museum is a treasure trove for anyone interested in the history of postal services.

The Philatelic Bureau is situated on the southwestern end of the building, making it easily accessible to visitors.