Birla Planetarium stands at the junction of Chowringhee and Theatre Road (the present Shakespeare Sarani). This is a spectacular asset of modern Calcutta. This is the 2^nd largest planetarium in the world. It was constructed at a cost of a whopping two million rupees. This Planetarium was opened for the spectators on 29^th September 1962.
This is an architectural marvel. The spherical one-storeyed Planetarium was tremendously influenced by the Buddhist architectural remnants at Sanchi. Its circumference is 82 ft. This wonderful house exhibits the universe and the solar system with all their enigmas. The instrument for projection was brought from East Germany. The planetarium has a capacity of 500 spectators. The shows are held regularly. The solar system is introduced to the spectators in English, Bengali and Hindi. Extra shows are arranged on holidays.

Nearby Tourist Attractions

Victoria Memorial, Maidan, Fort William.

Nearby places to eat

The Chowringhee-Park Street-Esplanade stretch is by far the most happening place in Kolkata and a wide variety of restaurants are located here where you can truly indulge in mouthwatering Bengali, Mughlai, Chineese, Italian and continental spread. A visit to Tangra, Kolkata's version of Chinatown is especially recommended which is an exclusive Chinese bastion in Kolkata and lots of authentic Chinese restaurants are available here.The Chineese delicacies available at Tangra are lip smacking good.
As far as traditional Bengali dishes are concerned, Peerless Inn and Oh! Calcutta are great options. Aminia, Rahmania and Shiraz are fabled for their Mughlai spread. Mainland China, Marco Polo, Chung Wah and Golden Dragon offer delicious Chineese cuisine. Drop in at Domino's at Russel Street and Pizza Hut at Camac Street for Italian delicacies.Celebrity restaurants like Indian Cricket icon Saurav Ganguly's signature restaurant-Saurav's- The Food Pavilion is a top draw.
Barista, Café Coffee Day and Flury's are irresistible as far as beverages are concerned. A visit to Flury's is highly recommended which is one of Kolkata's most enduring Raj era restaurant. The ambience is very British and the service is of a very high standard.

You could also explore New Market, Vardaan Market at Camac Street, Central Cottage Industries Emporium at 7, J. L. Nehru Road, Khadi Gramodyog Bhavan at 24, Chittaranjan Avenue, Priyadarshini at 14/C, Lindsay Street and Manjusha at 8/2 Jagamohan Mullick Lane, Barabazar. All of them offer a fabulous shopping experience.