Kolkata, erstwhile Calcutta bears the distinguished mantle of the literary and intellectual capital of India. Established as a conduit for the opium trade by the East India Company in the 1700s, the educated middle class of this city ironically provided the first stirrings of independence with the first meeting of the Indian National Congress held here. The city still reflects glimpses of its glorious heritage amidst the chaos of the modern day city that it is today.
Take the ferry across the majestic Ganges River to Belur Math, home to many Temples and facilities dedicated to the teachings of Sri Ramakrishna, Swami Vivekananda and their disciples. Spend a few moments of prayer at The Mother Theresa of Calcutta Centre or meander through the magnificent gardens of the statuesque Victoria Memorial, her white marble exterior a testament to the British legacy. Your Calcutta travel guide will help you navigate your way through the southern neighbourhood to the Kalighat Kali Temple or the phonetic chaos of New Market, a maze of stalls selling anything and everything in upbeat sounds of bargaining amidst sweet aromas of spices and sweet meats. Tap into this city’s cultural channels through the melodious strains of Rabindra Sangeet or catching a screening of one of Satyajit Ray’s epic cine works, truly timeless works of art.