Kolkata

Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, sits on the east bank of the Hooghly River and is often called India's cultural capital. Formerly Calcutta, it blends colonial-era architecture, strong Bengali literary and artistic traditions and the lively street culture that earned it the nickname City of Joy.

Its past as the capital of British India until 1911 remains visible in landmarks such as the Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, St. Paul's Cathedral, the Indian Museum and the grand colonial buildings around BBD Bagh. These heritage sites stand beside temples including Kalighat, Dakshineswar and Belur Math, which reflect the city's deep religious and spiritual roots.

Districts give Kolkata its layered character. Park Street is known for dining and nightlife, College Street for its historic book market and coffee house, and Kumartuli for the artisans who craft Durga Puja idols. To the east, Salt Lake and New Town form a growing business, technology and convention zone with modern hotels and green spaces such as Eco Park.

Kolkata is also a major commercial and creative centre. The annual Durga Puja, recognised by UNESCO, transforms the city with pandals, art and processions, while Tollywood, the Bengali film industry, and institutions such as the University of Calcutta and the National Library underline its intellectual heritage. The food scene ranges from street favourites like phuchka, kathi rolls and jhalmuri to Bengali fish curries, kosha mangsho and sweets such as rasgulla, sandesh and mishti doi.

For both leisure and business travellers, Kolkata offers a distinctive mix of history, festivals, arts, food and a fast-growing eastern business corridor, all connected through Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport and a dense urban transport network.