Why visit Kolkata?
Kolkata is a historic cultural hub of eastern India, known for grand colonial architecture, leafy avenues, and a strong creative spirit. You will find bookshops, art galleries, and riverside promenades alongside lively neighbourhoods and street life.
What to expect
The city stretches along the banks of the Hooghly River, with districts that each have a distinct character, from the bustle of Esplanade and New Market to calmer residential areas. Vintage trams, yellow taxis, and street stalls give everyday journeys a sense of place.
Plan your trip
Kolkata is a natural starting point for exploring eastern India, from coastal getaways to the tea-covered hills of the region. Give yourself time to adjust to its rhythm, then use the city as a base for day trips and longer journeys further afield.