Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (VYBK) - Stadium in Kolkata - Presidency, India

Went there for the 2023 Durand Cup finals between EB and MB. It was an electrifying atmosphere with the ground being jam packed. However we were late getting in there and didn't get a seat until some football enthusiasts, not impressed with the quality of play, decided to leave after the first half. The group has been renovated of late and looks beautiful. The well maintained and wonderfully decorated surroundings will surely make you appreciate the efforts put in by the ground authorities. There were lots of security personnel and various levels of checking but that was managed very well by the administration for a mega event hosting more than 70-80k people attending the match. Some of the points worth mentioning - Plan to get in the ground atleast two hours before a high voltage match. Else the traffic can surely catch you off guard. - Some of roads could be blocked by the police hence availing public transport will be better. - Won't recommend taking younger kids to the ground as things could get heated up quickly with people using fowl languages, lewd gestures and sometimes resorting to fist fights during the matches. - Getting out of the ground and getting a proper means of commuting back would be a problem as the traffic would get very slow and the public buses wil be full to capacity. Also, one thing that I felt pretty bad about the groud and the hosting organisation is the seating arrangements. They have some plastic chairs and the number tickets sold or people attending the event are probably more than capacity. Something that they should look to address. A few things to note,

I had the privilege of visiting Salt Lake Stadium in both 2019 and this year for the Durand Cup, and each time it has been an unforgettable experience. As a broadcaster, I have witnessed the stadium's vibrant transformation over the years. The architecture seamlessly blends modern facilities with the rich history of the Durand Cup, creating an atmosphere that is both electric and nostalgic. The sprawling seating accommodates a large number of passionate fans while offering excellent views of the action-packed matches. Beyond its impressive structure, the stadium's maintenance and cleanliness are commendable, contributing to a pleasant overall visit. As I shared some pictures, it's evident that the Salt Lake Stadium's allure extends beyond the pitch, with its well-maintained grounds and facilities. Whether you're a die-hard football aficionado or a casual spectator, this stadium has something for everyone. It's been an honor to start my journey with the Durand Cup at this iconic venue, and I look forward to returning in the future for more exhilarating matches and cherished memories.

*****don't forget to check the amazing pictures attached...clicked at 4 am in the morning***** Also known as the salt lake stadium. I stayed here for 4 days during the National Kickboxing championship. Greenery is everywhere that was like a cherry on the cake. Loved the place. Hostel was well maintained with separate space for men/women. You can see hundreds of police vehicles inside the stadium. There are few restaurants like the stadel inside the stadium but the food is heavily priced. For ex: Mojito or dosa in the south indian restaurant would cost between 150-200 inr. Morning buffet in stadel is priced at inr 499. You can often see kids, grown ups, adults practicing football at a mini court. There is a small lake inside the stadium. Commute is a problem near gate 3. you won't find autos at a very high frequency outside. Sometimes it even takes 20-30 mins. Buses are regular but make sure to wait after the red light because driver will not stop otherwise. To certain places, you need to do a break journey. For example, if you want to go to sealdah then first get an auto for beliaghata then sealdah and will cost you around inr 27 as of august 2023. Ola/uber bike would cost you around 80-100 inr depending on frequency at that in the area. Stadium staff is very friendly and understand hindi/bengali. Either of them were not a problem for me because i can understand/speak both.

Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, commonly known as Salt Lake Stadium, is located in Kolkata, West Bengal, India. It is the largest stadium in India by seating capacity, accommodating over 85,000 spectators. The stadium is primarily used for football matches and has been a significant venue for both domestic and international competitions.

This is the Mecca of Indian football. The Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, commonly known as the Salt Lake Stadium, is an all-seated multi-purpose stadium located in Salt Lake City, with current capacity of 85,000 spectators. Named after Swami Vivekananda, the stadium is the home ground for multiple football clubs, most notably East Bengal, Mohun Bagan SG, and Mohammedan. It is the fifth largest sports stadium in Asia by seating capacity. Prior to undergoing renovations in 2011, it had a seating capacity of 120,000. Prior to the construction and opening of Rungrado May Day Stadium in 1989, it was the largest football stadium in the world. The stadium hosted the final match of the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup, alongside hosting other matches of the tournament. As part of security measures for the 2017 U-17 World Cup, the stadium was only open for 66,687 viewers. The stadium's record attendance was recorded in 1997 when 131,781 spectators watched the Federation Cup semifinal between East Bengal and Mohun Bagan, the match won by East Bengal 4-1. The stadium switched back to natural grass from artificial turf as part of the preparations for hosting the U-17 World Cup in 2017. The stadium is located in the satellite township of Salt Lake in North 24 Parganas and it also lies beside the Eastern Metropolitan Bypass which makes it easily accessible by road.

Salt Lake Stadium which is known by the name Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan, is one of the largest football stadium in India. Many international matched were played in this stadium along with various national level matches. Seats are very good and this is well maintained. Massive seating capacity.

Loved it. It is situated in between of Beliagahata bus stop and Kadapara bus stop. It's a beautiful football ground in Kolkata,westbengal. You will love to see a football match between Eastbengal and Mohonbagan with a packed stadium of supporters from both the clubs. These are the top football clubs of Kolkata.

One of the biggest football stadiums in Asia with a capacity of 80k or 90k easily if allowed in full capacity.. The new renovated stadium has all amenities but yet many resources are not properly managed in the stadium likes of drinking water and washroom facilities... there must be some arrangements regarding these facilities and management must look into availability of some arrangements for keeping bags and umbrella during matches