Resting along the edges of the Hooghly River, Kolkata (once called Calcutta) blends colonial architecture and Bengali culture seamlessly. As the capital of West Bengal, it experiences sweltering summers and mild winters, with the monsoon period from June through September bringing heavy rainfall. The city's tropical condition dictates its daily rhythm, making early mornings and evenings the busiest times during the hot season.

The true essence of Kolkata lies in its intellectual lineage and spirited art scene. Known as India's cultural heart, the city vibrates with intellectual exchange in coffee shops, fervent football discussions, and spontaneous adda (casual intellectual conversations). The local community, recognized for their inviting warmth and profound love for art, hold immense pride in the city's contribution to India's freedom struggle and cultural resurgence.

The city's cuisine is an adventure in itself, as Bengali dishes promise unique tastes not found anywhere else in India. Specialties to try include Park Street's famous kathi rolls, phuchka (spicy street-side water balls), and the much-loved mishti doi (sweetened yogurt). The city's emblematic yellow taxis, manually-operated rickshaws, and trams lend Kolkata a nostalgic touch.

Among the city's highlights are the Victoria Memorial, an awe-inspiring marble structure that exhibits Indo-British architectural designs, and the bustling flower market at Mullick Ghat, which comes to life before sunrise. Just a short journey away is the Sundarbans, the largest mangrove forest globally, offering a unique opportunity for an unforgettable day trip, and home to Bengal tigers.