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What to see in Kolkata
Kolkata Attractions
This city is associated powerfully in the global imagination with the inspiring figure of Mother Teresa, and Mother House (which her order still uses as a headquarters and where you can see her tomb and a small museum) is one of the top attractions in Kolkata. It is also a city of scholars though, with many cultural attractions and some impressive colonial architecture. The India Museum, India's oldest, largest and arguably best museum, is a must for those interested in the history of the country; and the lovely Victoria Memorial is celebrated as one of the architectural gems of the colonial period. The Marble Palace, an eccentric, privately-owned mansion with some intriguing features is also very popular.
A deeply religious city representing several faiths, some striking temples often top the list of things to see in Kolkata: the Kalighat Temple is the city's holiest site and if you are willing to brave the hordes of worshippers and pilgrims a visit to this attraction can be profound; the Sri Mayapur Chandrodaya Temple, where you will encounter devotees of Lord Krishna, is popular with tourists; and the Dakshineshwar Kali Temple, stunning architecturally, is another favorite.
For a break from sightseeing, wander through the spooky 18th-century South Park Street Cemetery, or visit the Great Banyan Tree in the Indian Botanical Garden.
Great Banyan Tree
The Indian Botanical Garden in Kolkata has many floral treasures, but none as impressive as the 250-year-old Great Banyan…
Indian Museum
With 60 galleries of art, archaeology and anthropology, this is India's largest museum, India's oldest museum, and quite…
Kalighat Temple
This 350-year-old temple dedicated to Kali is Kolkata's holiest site, attracting a throng of excited pilgrims every day.…
Marble Palace
One of Kolkata's most unusual sites, this palace was built by a local member of the 19th century gentry in a marvelous…
Mother House
This humble and touching temple to Mother Teresa's life and work in downtown Kolkata is well worth a visit. Upstairs…
Victoria Memorial
This astounding marble building is probably the most impressive colonial structure in India; in a city known for several…
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