Kolkata

Calcutta (as it used to be called) was India’s capital during the Raj and is now West Bengal’s state capital and a much-maligned city – although spend a little time here and you will discover a fascinating city with more than 13 million people – rich and poor, educated and illiterate – all rubbing along together in a way not seen in other big cities. Bengalis are proud of their city and its contribution to the arts, medicine and social reform. Places to see in Kolkata include the Hooghly River and the Howrah Bridge spanning it, the Maidan (the heart of the city), Victoria Memorial, the Indian Museum, Dalhousie Square, Mother Teresa’s home, Jain Temples and a number of churches and markets.