Kolkata Sightseeing

Overview

Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal and a city of profound historical, cultural and economic importance. Founded in 1690 by the British East India Company, Kolkata was once the heart of British colonial administration and trade in India. Today, it is a vibrant metropolis that offers a fascinating contrast between glamorous heritage and modern urban life.

Kolkata is known for its iconic landmarks, including the magnificent Howrah Bridge, considered to be one of the longest cantilever bridges in the world, connecting the two banks of the Hooghly River. Another highlight is the Victoria Memorial, an impressive white marble building that was erected in memory of Queen Victoria and now houses a museum. The city is also the spiritual home of Mother Teresa and her Mother Teresa House, which serves as the Missionaries of Charity and is a place of charity and devotion.

The Kalighat Temple, one of the most important Hindu temples in Kolkata, attracts pilgrims from all over India who worship the goddess Kali. Just a few kilometers away is Kumartuli, a historic quarter known for the production of elaborate clay idols used in religious ceremonies. The flower market below Howrah Bridge is the largest of its kind in Asia and offers a colorful spectacle of blossoms in every imaginable color and shape.

Kolkata’s streetcar network, the oldest in Asia, adds a nostalgic touch to the city’s urban charm while complementing the modern urban transportation network. The streets of the city are alive with typical street food such as kathi rolls and puchkas, and the famous Bengali sweets such as rasgulla and sandesh delight the palate and heart alike.

But Kolkata is also a city of contrasts: alongside the magnificent colonial buildings and modern skyscrapers, there are slums and poverty, which are a stark contrast to the wealth of the elite. This tension between rich and poor, coupled with the incessant rhythm of daily life, gives Kolkata an incomparable energy and pulse that makes it one of India’s most dynamic and fascinating metropolises.