Kolkata is the capital of West Bengal, India, and was formerly called Calcutta. At one time in history, it was a trading post for the East India Company.

It’s located along the Hooghly River in the Ganges Delta. If you are looking for a destination that has rich history and culture, exotic cuisine, iconic landmarks, stunning architecture and much more, you have to make time to visit Kolkata.

There is certainly no shortage of things to do in the bustling city of Kolkata. Here are just a few of the sights and experiences you can have.

• Take a ride in a hand-pulled rickshaw. Kolkata is one of the few places to continue this practice.
• Explore the neighborhoods. Many are dedicated to crafting and displaying wares from a certain profession. One may feature pottery, while the next is home to the cobblers.
• Attend a festival. The five-day Durga Puja Festival is one of the most popular. It usually happens in late summer to early fall. Participants in traditional costumes and dresses give gifts and visit shrines while honoring the Bengali Hindu goddess.
• Visit Victoria Memorial art and history museum.
• Go to Maidan Park.
• Take a pilgrimage to Mother House, headquarters of Mother Teresa’s Missionaries of Charity and the resting place of her tomb.
• Marvel at the Dakshineswar Kali Temple.

Since Kolkata is such a sprawling city, it’s best to get lodgings in the city center for easy access to the delights in all directions. The weather can be quite hot and humid in the summer months, so you may want to visit in the winter. The temperatures fall to around 70 degrees during the day, and it is much dryer.

No matter when you choose to go, Kolkata is truly a wonderful experience. With so much to see and do, you’ll find yourself longing to stay and continue your explorations.