Kolkata (Calcutta) Overview

Recent archaeological findings suggest Kolkata's origins may date back more than 2,000 years. However, its recorded history has only been documented for about 300 years, making Kolkata one of India's youngest cities comparatively. more...

Kolkata (Calcutta) Activities

This wonderful institution offers a look at the best works of the city's contemporary artists, while the local theatre and dance companies provide traditional entertainment that is definitely worth a look. The Rabindra Gallery's tribute to Rabindranath Tagore includes collections of his personal belongings, paintings and manuscripts. The gallery is easily accessed via the city’s tram line. more...

Kolkata (Calcutta) Events and Festivals

New Year’s Day: Despite the fact that the people of Kolkata don’t necessarily follow the Christian calendar, they partake in this international holiday with great fervour. While most of the festivities from the night before leave people in a tired yet ecstatic state, a common New Year’s Day activity is horse racing. The city is abuzz with the sense of celebration and there will always be something to do or see. more...

Kolkata (Calcutta) Sightseeing

This is worth a visit for anyone who is interested in various styles of architecture. It is the biggest site of homage for the city’s Muslim community and its outstanding congregation hall, designed to hold up to 10,000 worshippers, is a wonderful sight to behold. more...

Kolkata (Calcutta) Transport

Car rental is probably one of the least appealing methods of travel in India. Unless you are really brave and willing to spend a lot of your holiday acclimatising to the Indian road system or lack thereof, while sitting for long periods in traffic, then driving should be left to a native expert. There are a number of both local and international companies that offer car rental services at the airport and in the city. Most car rentals include a driver in the price. more...

Kolkata (Calcutta) Travel Tips

Bengali and Hindi are the two most widely spoken languages in Kolkata. Most people, particularly in tourist areas, will have a fairly decent understanding of and capability to speak English. However, foreigners often find themselves having to compromise their English in order to communicate effectively. Speaking broken English may take some time getting used to but it is often the only way to make yourself understood. Using your hands and actions also help greatly in communication. more...