Kolkata

Kolkata, the capital of the East Indian state of West Bengal is seen as the land of the intellectuals. It is also famous as the Land of Mother Teresa and Rabindra Nath Tagore. Communist in ideology and very politically aware, Kolkata was the capital of British India before Delhi assumed this position.

Kolkata developed from a fishermens' village to become one of the largest cities in the world. The city symbolises creativity and vibrance with all the modern amenities available. Kolkata has adapted to the modern trends and techniques of the world but has not shed the leisurely life style and the calm of its hey days.

Kolkata has the country's first Metro railway and some of its buildings are more than a hundred years old. While Kolkata is a city of enduring charm, it is also a city that evokes extreme emotions. So be ready to give in to it or hate it completely. Places to visit in Kolkata include the Victoria Memorial, the Eden Gardens, the Howrah Bridge and the Raj Bhawan. It is also possible, to take river cruises down the Hoogly river.

A city with strong cultural, literary and religious flavours, Kolkata acts as the gateway to the North-East.

Getting to Kolkata

• By Air – Kolkata is well connected by air to most major cities in India. Kolkata also serves as a international gateway and a number of international airlines like British Airways, Thai Airways, Singapore Airlines, Malaysian Airlines and Air India operate direct flights to and fro Kolkata.
• By Rail - Kolkata is the most important city in Eastern India on the Indian Railways map and is connected by Super fast trains to almost all parts of North, East and Southern India. The city has two major railway stations-one at Howrah and the other at Sealdah.