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Calcutta (Kolkata) holidays

Now officially renamed Kolkata, following the independence of India from British rule, Calcutta is the country's second largest city and is renowned as the culture capital. It's also known as the 'city of joy'. Declared as the first capital of British India, Calcutta is filled with buildings that echo its past, including the grand Victoria Memorial.

See Calcutta's iconic landmark, Howrah Bridge (officially named Rabindra Setu)
Visit the Mother Teresa Motherhouse to discover where she lived and where her tomb lies
Explore the fascinating history, art and architecture of the Victoria Memorial

Top hotels in Calcutta (Kolkata)

The Oberoi Grand, Calcutta

Calcutta (Kolkata) holiday highlights

Think art, culture and colonial architecture. Calcutta has a captivating heritage, and is often considered the friendliest city in India. You’ll find the dazzling platinum-white Victoria Memorial amid 64 acres of emerald gardens. Built in memory of Queen Victoria, the city’s famous monument is home to an incredible collection of paintings and historical gems. It’s a wonderful place to learn about India’s history and uncover more about the era of the British Empire. For a truly memorable experience, visit the home of Mother Teresa. Mother Teresa's Motherhouse now houses her tomb, and you’ll also be able to see the modest room where she slept and worked.

If you want to get stuck into the culture, we recommend trying Bengali street food. One of Calcutta’s most popular snacks is Jhal Muri – a combination of peanuts and puffed rice with a peppering of coriander and spices. And a trip to Calcutta wouldn’t be complete without seeing the iconic Howrah Bridge (officially named Rabindra Setu) – an impressive masterpiece which hovers prettily over the River Ganges.

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