South Park Street Cemetery

Overview

South Park Street Cemetery is a historic colonial-era burial ground dating to 1767, with elaborate Gothic and Indo-Saracenic tombs of early British residents of Calcutta.

Highlights

• Monumental Tombs: Ornate pyramids, obelisks, and pagoda-style mausoleums amidst tropical vegetation.
• Notable Burials: Resting place of Rose Aylmer (immortalized by Walter Savage Landor) and Henry Derozio.
• Atmospheric Setting: Ancient banyan trees create a hauntingly beautiful landscape.

History

Established in 1767, the cemetery served as the main European burial ground until 1830. Restored by ASI and INTACH as a protected monument.

Visitor Tips

• Morning Visit: Best in soft morning light for photography.
• Duration: 30–45 minutes.