Kolkata

About Kolkata

Kolkata (Calcutta) is the cultural capital of India — the City of Joy. Former capital of British India, it retains grand colonial architecture alongside a thriving arts scene, literary tradition, and intellectual culture. The Victoria MemorialVictoria Memorial — a stunning white marble hall — is Kolkata's crown jewel. The Howrah BridgeHowrah Bridge, one of the busiest cantilever bridges in the world, spans the Hooghly River. The Dakshineswar Kali Temple and Belur Math (headquarters of Ramakrishna Mission) are major pilgrimage sites. Kolkata is famous for its street food — Kathi Rolls from Nizam's, Phuchka (puri with spicy water), Mishti Doi, Roshogolla, and Kosha Mangsho define its culinary identity. The Durga Puja festival (UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage) transforms the city into the world's largest art festival. The Park Street nightlife, College Street book market, and the Kalighat Temple add unique layers.