Kolkata formerly known as Calcutta, is the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal and was capital of British India until 1912 .More than 300 years ago, Job Charnock, an English tradesman set up a trading post on the banks of the Ganga along the three-village nucleus. Gradually Europeans started setting up business and trade establishments . A grip which loosened only 250 years later when power was transferred from the British Empire to the Indians.Calcutta has grown, remains a city of contrasts, a mix-up of light and shade.
Climate
Kolkata has a subtropical climate, with summer monsoons. The annual mean temperature is 26.8 °C and monthly mean temperatures range from 20°C to 31°C and maximum temperatures in Kolkata often exceed 40°C during May-June.The lowest temperature hovers around 12°C - 14°C in the winter months of December and January.Winter is short- lasting - about 2 and a half months.
Places to visitVictoria Memorial
The Victoria Memorial, located in Kolkata is a memorial of Queen Victoria of the United who also carried the title of Empress of India .The structure was designed by Sir William Emerson in an architectural style similar to Taj Mahal . It was built between 1906 and 1921. It is a majestic white marble building surrounded by a sprawling garden.
Indian MuseumThe Indian Museum is a multi-disciplinary institution of national standing and is one of oldest museums in the world. This was the first museum of its kind in Asia. It exhibits among others: an Egyptian mummy, the Buddhist stupa , the Buddha' ashes, the Ashoka pillar, fossils, skeletons, mummies, Mughal paintings etc.
Marble Palace
Marble Palace is in North Kolkata and is still residence to a family. The entrance is free, but a ticket must be purchased in South Kolkata .
Howrah Bridge
Howrah Bridge, also known as the Rabindra Setu, is a bridge over the Hoogli River .The bridge was built between 1937 and 1943 to replace a bridge from 1874 ,and is said to be the busiest bridge in the world. It is 97 metres high and 705 metres long .
Other placesThe Maidan , Indian Botanical Garden ,Central Park ,Rabindra Sarobar , and Millennium Park are some of the large parks. The Esplanade adjacent to the Maidan is an inland esplanade .
Dakshineswar Kali Temple ,Kalighat , Birla Temple, Belur Math , Tipu Sultan Mosque , Nakhoda Masjid , St. Paul's Cathedral are some of the notable religious centers of the city.