The Victoria Memorial was built in dedication to Queen Victoria, and was constructed between 1906 and 1921. An architectural marvel, it was constructed out of the gorgeous Makrana marble, which gives this monument its glossy white sheen. The epitome of beauty, the Victoria Memorial was built in an Indo-Saracenic revivalist architectural style. What that means is that it fuses the trademarks of English, Mughal, Venetian, Egyptian, Deccani and Islamic elements. While it might sound overly complicated, the result is simply breathtaking, as the monument makes use of the best parts of these various architectural styles to create something truly memorable and unique.

But don’t just admire its façade. Look up at the dome and you’ll notice the fine sculpture of the Angel of Victory shining even brighter still, drawing your eyes away momentarily from the beauty of the memorial. What’s more, it houses 25 galleries that are absolutely brimming with the history of a long forgotten era, meaning that there is plenty to explore. If you head down to the Royal Gallery, you will be greeted by the sight of Queen Victoria’s childhood rosewood pianoforte, as well as antiquarian books including a copy of the Arabian Nights and the Rubaiyat. If you can just bring yourself to leave the gallery, then head on down to the garden, where all sorts of beautiful flowers will be blooming before your very eyes. Measuring 260,000 square metres, the garden is a joy to behold, what with all the colours and scents surrounding you. You could even have a picnic here, in the midst of the lush greenery. Don’t just visit in the day though. Visit at night as well and you will get to see it wondrously lit up as the waters of the Hooghly River reflects its elegance, making it a mesmerising sight for all.