Kolkata, Calcutta Tourism

The erstwhile capital of British India till 1911, Kolkata or Calcutta as it was known earlier, is one of India's most intriguing cities with a rich past and a vibrant present. The 'City of Joy' as it's often referred to, is a fascinating blend of extremes, where traditional hand-drawn rickshaws coexist with the modern underground metro, not to forget the snake-like trams which have been plying since 1902, making Kolkata the only city in India to operate this mode of transport. Volatile yet vibrant, overcrowded yet exciting, Kolkata is a city of many charms. A distinct colonial flavour pervades its bustling streets; splendid Victorian buildings and mansions rub shoulders with new apartment blocks. A vibrant cultural, literary and intellectual scene is reflected in fine arts, dance, music and theatre. Home to eminent Noble laureates, Rabindranath Tagore and Satyajit Ray, it's easy to understand the cultural heritage which Bengalis boast of. The Howrah Bridge over the