Eden Gardens
The basics
As well as hosting national and international test and 1-day matches, Eden Gardens is home to the Bengal Cricket Team and the Kolkata Knight Riders. Although this is a very old stadium, it underwent extensive renovation and modernization in 2011, when India hosted the Cricket World Cup. The stadium got its name from the nearby park, built for the Governor-General of India, Lord Auckland Eden, which can also be visited. Eden Gardens features on many sightseeing tours of Kolkata, although it’s generally only possible to go inside to watch a match or other concert or event. It’s a good idea to buy match tickets in advance because cricket is very popular in Kolkata and matches frequently sell out.
Things to know before you go
- Security checks at the stadium are tight, so only bring the most necessary items, and be sure not to bring anything that might be confiscated, such as a pocket knife.
- If you want to visit the stadium on a non-match day, you’ll need permission from the Cricket Association of Bengal.
- When a match is being played, the crowds at the stadium can get famously loud. Bring some earplugs if you have sensitive hearing.
How to get there
Eden Gardens is in the central B.B.D. Bagh area of Kolkata, on the banks of the Hooghly River and in the northern end of Kolkata’s large central park, the Maidan. The nearest metro station is Park Street, from which the stadium is about a 20-minute walk. All taxi drivers will know where the stadium is, so it’s easy to reach if you’re traveling independently in Kolkata.
Trip ideas
When to get there
You can take a look at the stadium from the outside at any time. For the most immersive experience, visit Eden Gardens by watching a match there. One-day matches are ideal for travelers short on time, as test matches last for several days.
The Maidan
Eden Gardens is located in the northern part of the Maidan, Kolkata’s large park and recreational space. There are many other things to see and do in the huge area, including the grand Victoria Memorial, the race course, and the statue of Mahatma Gandhi. At weekends (and other times, too!) young Indians play cricket at the Maidan, so check this out if you’re unable to attend a professional game in the stadium.
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