Many travelers flying into Kolkata for the first time tend to believe that they are entering a crumbling city plagued by poverty. Much to their surprise, they discover Kolkata to be both a charming old city and a thriving metropolis at the same time, with a distinctive character and vibe.
Situated on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River, Kolkata is known for its colonial past, rich cultural heritage, impressive art scene, Bengali food, and active nightlife. The first British capital, Kolkata (or Calcutta) preserves much of the grand colonial-era architecture, and these British Raj buildings are some of the best attractions in the ‘City of Palaces’. The city is also the proud home of eminent freedom fighters, cultural luminaries, artists, poets, writers, social reformists, scholars, sportspersons, and many other intellectuals who left their mark in their respective fields. No wonder Kolkata is referred to as the Cultural Capital of India!
Also Read: 10 Best Street Foods in Kolkata Your Dare not Miss Out
As a famous journalist, Vir Sanghvi, noted, “If you want a city with a soul, come to Calcutta.” It’s one of those Indian cities you’ll be able to truly appreciate when you actually feel its vibe. So, book your international flight tickets and visit Kolkata. Here’s an all-inclusive Kolkata travel guide for your quick reference.