Kolkata is the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal. Located on the east bank of the Hooghly River, it is the principal commercial, cultural, and educational centre of East India, while the Port of Kolkata is India’s oldest operating port and its sole major riverine port. In 2011, the city had population of 4.5 million, while the population of the city and its suburbs was 14.1 million, making it the third-most populous metropolitan area in India. In 2008 its gross domestic product was estimated to be US$104 billion, which was the third highest among Indian cities, behind Mumbai and Delhi. If Bangalore is the Seattle of India, then Kolkata is the sub-contintent’s London. It is an in your face city that shocks and charms the unsuspecting visitor. Abject poverty mixes inexplicably with crumbling British Raj-era gems, sprawling gardens and historical colleges. Long known as the cultural capital of India, Kolkata continues to spawn generations of poets, writers, film producers and Nobel Prize winners. If your trip only allows for a visit of one or two of India’s metropolitan cities, than definitely consider placing Kolkata on your itinerary. Love it or hate it, you definitely won’t forget the city on the Hooghly. Points of interest in kolkata. Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Indian Museum, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, Science City, Kalighat Kali Temple, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Marble Palace, Birla Mandir, Fort William etc.