Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability
CIMA Gallery is more than an exhibition hall—it’s a sensory explosion of contemporary Indian art. Bold, imaginative, and fiercely original, each piece dares you to see beauty differently. Whether you’re an art lover or a dreamer seeking inspiration, this gallery will ignite your inner spark.
Everything you need to know about CIMA Gallery
Near the CIMA Gallery in Kolkata, consider staying at Taj Bengal or The Oberoi, both offering luxurious accommodations with views of the Hooghly River and authentic Bengali design elements. These properties are just a 15-minute walk from the gallery and provide complimentary shuttles for easy access to exhibitions.
CIMA Gallery also hosts artist-in-residence programs, allowing visitors to join hands-on workshops in traditional Bengali textile weaving and pottery—a rare opportunity to engage directly with local artistic heritage. This cultural immersion makes your stay not just comfortable, but deeply meaningful.
The easiest way is by ride-hailing apps like Uber or Ola, taking about 15 minutes from central Kolkata for ₹200–300. Alternatively, take the Kolkata Metro to Esplanade Station, then transfer to a bus or auto-rickshaw—around 25 minutes total. The gallery offers free parking for drivers.
For optimal experience, arrive before 10 AM to avoid afternoon heat and crowds. This timing allows you to fully appreciate the contemporary Indian art and socially engaged installations featured in rotating exhibitions, often exploring identity, migration, and urban life in South Asia.
CIMA Gallery hosts community-led tours and artist talks led by local creators and scholars, exploring themes like environmental degradation, social mobility, and gender identity in contemporary India. The gallery features an interactive media space where visitors can use VR to experience rural Bengali life or participate in live digital painting workshops, turning personal narratives into digital artworks.
Each spring, it presents the Transmedia Festival, showcasing live performances and installations from artists across South Asia—a dynamic platform for cross-cultural exchange and avant-garde expression. Some events are free; others require registration. Check the official website in advance for schedules and availability.
Yes, Rabindra Sarobar Lake Park adjacent to CIMA Gallery is perfect for families. It features children’s play areas, shaded benches, and open-air cafés, plus regular outdoor art markets and musical performances.
Parents can stroll along the lakeside path while children enjoy views of Hindu temples and flocks of white herons. The gallery also offers family-friendly tour kits with child-sized guides and craft materials, helping kids engage with abstract and figurative artworks through drawing and collage.
Visit on weekends morning to enjoy quieter surroundings and create lasting memories in a peaceful, culturally rich setting.
Stay at Hauz Khas Hotel, a 10-minute walk from CIMA Gallery, blending modern art with traditional Indian architecture. The rooms feature murals by local artists, and the hotel offers complimentary shuttles to downtown Kolkata. Its rooftop restaurant overlooks a sculpture garden, while monthly contemporary Indian art exhibitions provide guests an immersive cultural experience right on-site.
Take the city tram (Line 9) or rent a taxi—both efficient options. From downtown, board Tram 9 to "South Park Station," then walk 8 minutes to CIMA Gallery. A taxi ride takes about 15 minutes and costs ₹200–300. The gallery has free parking nearby, ideal for self-drive visitors. The route passes historic neighborhoods, offering scenic views of Kolkata’s colonial-era streets and vibrant urban life.
Nearby, visit the Government College of Art & Craft for weekend live painting workshops led by established artists. Just steps away, the Bazaar Market opens daily at dawn, offering handwoven textiles, ceramics, and regional spices—perfect for authentic local immersion. CIMA Gallery also features an interactive digital exhibition space showcasing contemporary Southeast Asian art, with regular artist talks and live demonstrations, enabling visitors to engage directly with creative processes.
Yes, Central Park is just 500 meters away and perfect for families. It features a children’s playground, fountain plaza, shaded pavilions, and picnic areas. The park hosts regular community art festivals and outdoor movie screenings, especially lively on weekends. With accessible pathways and drinking fountains, it offers a safe, clean environment ideal for relaxing strolls or family gatherings.
CIMA Gallery is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, closed Mondays. Admission is ₹100 for adults, ₹50 for students and seniors. Indian nationals receive free entry with valid ID. Guided tours (max 30 people) cost ₹200 per person and require advance HopeGoo. We recommend purchasing tickets via the official website or mobile app to avoid queues and ensure entry during peak times.
Yes, the University of Calcutta Campus (1.2 km away) offers iconic colonial-era architecture surrounded by lush greenery—ideal for photography. The marble steps in front of the main auditorium and the ancient banyan tree are frequently photographed as "India's Harvard" landmarks. Outside CIMA Gallery, the glass sculpture corridor transforms into a light installation at night, creating stunning opportunities for long-exposure shots. Use a tripod and slow shutter speed to capture dynamic light effects.
CIMA Gallery specializes in contemporary Indian art and cross-cultural visual narratives, focusing on post-colonial artists who blend traditional techniques with modern media. Exhibits often include mixed-media installations, video art, digital paintings, and sculptures addressing social issues. Recent series like "Visual Futures of South Asia" explore themes such as climate change, identity, and urban memory. The modular gallery design allows flexible layouts, enhancing viewers' multi-angle engagement and emotional depth in experiencing each artwork.
See what other travelers say about CIMA Gallery
We had an absolutely wonderful stay at Treebo Orion Sapphire, Beck Bagan! From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere was calm and welcoming. The location is peaceful yet well-connected—just a short walk to local attractions and public transport. Our room was cozy and beautifully designed, with a stunning view that made every morning feel like a little escape. The amenities were top-notch, from the clean bathrooms to the reliable free Wi-Fi and thoughtful touches throughout. The staff went above and beyond—always polite, helpful, and genuinely warm. They made us feel right at home. Overall, this was more than just a place to sleep—it was a relaxing retreat in the heart of Kolkata. We’ll definitely be back, and I’d highly recommend this gem to any traveler looking for comfort, charm, and great value.
I had a wonderfully comfortable stay at Treebo Vedanta, Metropolitan, and I must give a special shout-out to the friendly staff—especially Ambreen. Her warm hospitality made a big difference. The hotel is perfectly located in the heart of Kolkata, just a short walk from major attractions and public transit. Clean rooms, great service, and excellent value for money. I’d absolutely recommend this place and will definitely be back.
The stay at Treebo Pawan Putra in Kankurgachi was absolutely outstanding. Every staff member I interacted with showed exceptional kindness and a genuine willingness to help—whether it was assistance with luggage, local recommendations, or any other request, they were always prompt and attentive. The food was fresh, hygienic, and served on time, which made mealtime a pleasant experience. The front desk team was particularly thoughtful, checking in regularly to ensure our comfort and addressing every need without hesitation. From cleanliness to hospitality, everything exceeded expectations. This is one of those rare stays where you feel truly valued as a guest. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Kolkata—great value, warm service, and a memorable experience.
The hotel's location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the metro, making it super easy to explore Kolkata. It’s perfectly situated near top attractions like Victoria Memorial and the Indian Museum, plus there are great street vibes and shopping options nearby. The tram stop is just steps away, offering a charming way to travel around the city. The staff were incredibly courteous and always ready to help with anything we needed. Room service was prompt and excellent. Every detail made our stay memorable. Truly a standout experience—I’d happily return in a heartbeat.
Staying at Treebo Glassotel near Ruby Hospital in Kolkata was an absolutely delightful experience. The location is incredibly convenient—just a short walk from the hospital and well-connected to public transit, making it easy to get around the city. The room was clean, spacious, and well-maintained with all the essentials you’d expect from a modern hotel. What stood out most was the value for money—affordable rates without compromising comfort or quality. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout my stay, adding a personal touch that made me feel welcome. I had zero issues during my visit and truly enjoyed every moment. If I ever return to Kolkata, this will be my first choice again. Highly recommend for travelers looking for a reliable, budget-friendly, and comfortable stay.
The location couldn't be better—super convenient for getting around Kolkata, with easy access to metro stations and plenty of local eateries and shops nearby. The hotel itself is clean, well-maintained, and staff are friendly and helpful. It's a fantastic value for the quality and comfort offered. I’ll definitely be coming back and highly recommend it to anyone visiting the city.
Staying at this hotel puts you right in the heart of Gariahat, one of Kolkata’s most vibrant shopping hubs where you can find great deals and still have room to haggle for even better prices. The Ballygunj Junction Railway Station is just a 5-minute walk away—super convenient for local travel. Kalighat Metro Station is about a 20-minute walk from Gariahat Crossing, making it easy to explore other parts of the city via metro. Plus, several major banks including IndusInd, HDFC, Axis, and Kotak are literally within stone’s throw—perfect for cash withdrawals or quick banking needs. Whether you're here for shopping, sightseeing, or business, the location offers unbeatable accessibility and convenience.
I had a great stay at this hotel in Kolkata! The location is excellent—very convenient for getting around the city, just a short walk from metro stations and local eateries. While the building itself feels a bit dated, the rooms and bathrooms were clean, well-maintained, and surprisingly spacious. The bed was comfortable, which made for a restful night’s sleep. One small suggestion: adding a bit more ambiance with better lighting or some plants could really elevate the atmosphere. Overall, it's a solid choice for travelers looking for value without compromising on basic comfort. I’d definitely consider staying here again on my next visit to Kolkata.
Staying at Treebo Globe International near Kalighat Mandir was a wonderful experience. The staff were incredibly friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely caring—always ready to help with local recommendations or travel tips. Their warm hospitality made the whole stay feel personal and comfortable. The hotel’s location is perfect for exploring the temple and surrounding areas, and the room was clean, well-maintained, and offered great value for money. It’s an ideal choice for travelers who want authenticity without compromising on comfort. I’d highly recommend this place to anyone visiting Kolkata.
Staying at Treebo Premium Tahoora International in Kolkata was an absolutely delightful experience. I especially want to highlight Mr. Subojeet, who went above and beyond as our trip advisor. From the moment we arrived, he made us feel completely at ease, anticipating our needs before we even asked. He handled every arrangement with precision and timeliness, ensuring everything ran smoothly throughout our journey. His professionalism, attentiveness, and genuine care truly made our trip memorable and stress-free. The hotel itself is clean, well-maintained, and conveniently located near public transit, making it easy to explore the city. Rooms are comfortable, modern, and well-equipped. If you're visiting Kolkata, this is definitely a top choice. Highly recommended for both business and leisure travelers.
Staying at Itsy Hotels Reotel Near Rabindra Sarobar was an absolutely delightful experience. The room was clean, well-maintained, and comfortably furnished—just right for a short or extended stay. What truly stood out was the location: everything you need is within walking distance—metro stations, buses, train access, and even major attractions like Kalighat Temple and Rabindra Sarobar Lake are just a few minutes away. The staff were incredibly helpful, friendly, and always ready to assist with local tips or travel advice. Breakfast was fresh and satisfying, offering a good mix of local and continental options. The overall atmosphere felt safe, quiet, and welcoming. From convenience to service quality, this hotel delivers excellence in every aspect. Highly recommend it to any traveler visiting Kolkata—this is a gem hidden in plain sight!
Staying at Treebo Mira Inn was a perfect choice for my trip to Kolkata. The hotel is incredibly close to the visa consulate, making it super convenient for travelers needing to handle visa-related matters. The location is central and easy to navigate, with public transport just a short walk away. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained—exactly what you'd want after a long day of travel or appointments. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout my stay. Overall, it's a great value-for-money option with excellent location and reliable service. I’d definitely recommend this place to anyone visiting Kolkata.
Explore more amazing destinations