Now known as Kolkata, Calcutta is one of India's most striking cities, located on the East bank of the Hooghly River.
The capital of West Bengal has a proud history and cultural tradition, producing many famous figures in the arts, science and culture.
At the same time the city still struggles with horrendous levels of poverty, despite India's steady growth in wealth and the city having the 3rd highest GDP in India.
Reminders of British colonial presence abound and these form the basis for most visitor's explorations of the city. Calcutta is also the departure point for some great river cruises in India.
