Kolkata
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Overview
Explore modern-day Kolkata's bustling streets or discover the fading colonial charm of this dynamic Indian city. On a first visit to Kolkata, view Raj-era relics at Victoria Memorial and ancient statues at the Indian Museum. Make a return visit to join locals as they worship Hindu goddess Kali at colourful Dakshineshwar Temple.
Background
Former capital of the British Raj, Kolkata is set right in the eastern corner of India, with the Hooghly River cutting across its north-west corner. It's hard not to be stunned by this vast, frantic city, previously known as Calcutta and famous for its literary heritage. See Kolkata's faded colonial decadence around BBD Bagh, once known as Dalhousie Square, and on the large grassy Maidan. Here you'll also find 18th-century Fort William and the white marble Victoria Memorial. South of the centre, pilgrims flock to Kalighat Temple. A boat ride away on Hooghly River's northern banks, visit Belur Math monastery and the nine spires of Hindu Dakshineshwar Temple.
First-time visit
Tour the Indian Museum to see Buddhist sculptures and a huge collection of miniature Ganesh icons. You'll find it hard to miss the landmark Victoria Memorial, built by the royal Viceroy of India in 1901. View its large collection of photographs and paintings from the Raj era and look out for the decorative stone entrance. Then join locals at the world-famous Eden Gardens cricket ground or stroll around the Maidan park area to watch budding cricketers playing chaotic games. Head to Kalighat Temple to worship Kolkata's patron goddess Kali in a busy temple complex.
Return visit
On a return visit to Kolkata, take a short boat ride to the Belur Math monastery where Christian, Hindu and Muslim architecture mix together to create a peaceful shrine and gardens. Dakshineshwar Temple on the opposite side of Hooghly River brims with colour and locals making puja offerings to statues of Hindu gods. Once you've browsed the bookshops on busy Park Street, peer at the gravestones inside peaceful South Park Street Cemetery, overgrown and charming in its semi-derelict state.
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