About Kolkata
Upon arriving in Kolkata (also known as the ‘City of Joy’), you'll be immersed in its historical allure, including the serene riverside ghats and the iconic temples. This city is renowned for its grand festival celebrations and vibrant cultural scene with incredible art galleries, awesome theatres, and fascinating literary gatherings. Kolkata, the birthplace of arts, drama, and literature, is also famous for its delectable Bengali cuisine, particularly sweets. It boasts the unique distinction of having India's only tram system and the country's first underground metro. As eastern India’s largest urban centre, it thrives as a hub for transportation, manufacturing, and trade. The capital of West Bengal also proudly hosts globally recognised sports stadiums such as Eden Gardens and Salt Lake Stadium.
Places to visit in Kolkata
- Victoria Memorial Hall: Located at the heart of the city, this colossal white marble monument is a tribute to Queen Victoria, suggested by former Viceroy of India, Lord Curzon. Surrounded by lush gardens, it offers a serene setting for daytime strolls and flaunts mesmerising nighttime illumination. It is counted amongst the most famous historical monuments in Kolkata.
- St. Paul's Cathedral: Kolkata takes pride in having Asia’s first Anglican cathedral, the magnificent St. Paul's Cathedral. Its striking Gothic-style architecture includes a towering 200-ft spire, making it the city's largest church. Remarkably, it's also the first cathedral newly built in the overseas territories of the British Empire.
- Dakshineswar Temple: Constructed in 1855 by philanthropist Rani Rashmoni, Dakshineswar Temple is dedicated to the goddess Bhavatarini, an incarnation of the goddess Kali. This temple, built in traditional Bengali ‘Nava-Ratna’ style, sits peacefully on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River and was once home to the revered Hindu saint Ramakrishna Paramahansa.
- Indian Museum: Established in 1814, Kolkata’s Indian Museum holds the distinction of being India's largest and oldest museum. Its extensive collection includes fossils, art pieces, and ancient artefacts that vividly depict the country's diverse culture and rich history. It is home to collections of some of the rarest ornaments and mummies from Egypt. The museum is split into numerous sections, each offering a fascinating glimpse into various fields, from archaeology and art to geology and zoology.
- Marble Palace Mansion: Nestled in North Kolkata, Marble Palace Mansion is a remarkable 19th-century residence known for its opulent marble walls and floors. Beyond its architectural splendour, it houses an impressive array of antiques, a private zoo, and an eclectic art collection, seamlessly blending culture and luxury.
Kolkata Airport
Officially named Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata Airport (IATA code: CCU) serves as the primary aviation hub for the Kolkata metropolitan area as well as the rest of eastern and northeastern India. Situated in Dum Dum, it stands roughly 17 km away from the city centre. This modern and capacious airport offers a range of amenities, including lounges, diverse dining options, shopping facilities, currency exchange counters, and efficient express check-in services, all designed to ensure a comfortable and convenient travel experience.