The city of Kolkata:

Formerly known as Calcutta, the cultural capital of India bustles with life and people and reveals its colors of love and bliss, brilliance and opulence. Situated on the banks of River Hooghly, this charming city exudes a rich cultural and religious heritage, an unforgettable flavor of affluence and togetherness. The country’s second-largest city, it is seen as the cultural and intellectual capital of India and a great place to try the fruity flavours of Bengali cuisine.

Kolkata Highlights:

• Victoria Memorial Hall: This well-preserved relic symbolizes the British Rule in India. This magnificent monument has an array of displays showcasing the renowned personalities who contributed immensely to the independence of the nation.

• Birla Planetarium: This is one of the largest museums in Asia and visitors can take in a number of astronomical presentations about our solar system, galaxies and other celestial bodies.

• Howrah Bridge: This is rightly called the ‘Symbol of Kolkata’ as it is believed to be the busiest bridge in the world, with approximately two million people crossing the bridge daily.

• Durga-Puja Festival: During the Durga-Puja Festival, the city celebrates by singing and dancing as they worship the Goddess Durga, Goddess of the Hindus. For the occasion, Kolkata is decorated in the color red which depicts an unforgettable beauty of pride and grace.

• Royal Calcutta Golf Club: Founded in 1829, this club is the oldest outside of the British Isles and is known simply as the “Royal” by golf connoisseurs. It also features a bowling green section which became popular with the locals starting in the 18th century.

• Indian Museum: A museum covering all that is Indian culture; it is the oldest and largest museum in India.

• Eden Garden: India’s largest cricket stadium with a capacity for 90 000 cricket enthusiasts.

• Botanical Gardens: Founded in 1786, the botanicals gardens are a calming oasis for those looking to get away from Kolkata’s noise and crowds. Extending along the west bank of the Hooghly River, these gardens are the place where India's black teas were first developed.