Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is the capital of West Bengal and is located on the east bank of the River Hooghly. Kolkata was the capital of the British Indian Empire until 1911 which grew rapidly in the 19th century and was accompanied by the development of a culture that fused European philosophies with Indian tradition.
The area where the city is now located was originally inhabited by the people of three villages: Kolikata (Burra Baazar / BBD Bagh area), Sutanuti (Jorasanko/Sovbaazar area) and Gobindapur (Fort William area). Kolkata is a multicultural and multi-ethnic city.
Though the city is lively throughout the year but the best time for visiting is autumn and winter. During these two seasons various festivals (including the two biggest of Bengal) and fairs are held. And winter is the time to taste some exclusive bengali sweets.
Notable places to visit in the city are
