As the former capital of British India, Kolkata - formerly 'Calcutta' - presents us with a different blend of the orient and the occident.

The ‘City of Joy’ was established in the year 1686, as a result of the expansion plans of the British Raj. Kolkata is known for its literary, artistic and revolutionary heritage, and is often called the birthplace of modern Indian literary and artistic thought.

The city also has the country’s oldest museum – Indian Museum – which is home to large collection of Indian natural history and Indian art.

The football capital of India, Kolkata is a city that is known for its love of sport - the beautiful game in particular. One of Asia’s most fiercely contested football derbies - Mohun Bagan versus East Bengal - takes place in the city.

Kolkata was also among the host cities when India played host to the FIFA U-17 World Cup in 2017.