Les meilleurs hôtels à Calcutta

It's hard to imagine that modern-day Calcutta was once a sleepy settlement nestled along the eastern bank of the Hooghly River. Founded in the late 17th century, the capital of West Bengal is regarded as one of the most fascinating cities in the country despite enduring poverty and famine. With thriving political and arts scenes, India's intellectual capital is curious and chaotic -- worthy of its title as the City of Joy. Calcutta's must-sees include the Botanical Gardens, home to a 200-year-old banyan tree, reported to have the second-largest canopy in the world; the Kali Temple, an important place of pilgrimage for Hindus; India's largest and oldest museum, the Indian Museum, with its huge spectrum of exhibits ranging from ancient Buddhist sculpture to natural history wonders; and the cantilevered Howrah Bridge, the world's busiest bridge. Cheap eateries and bars abound in Chowringhee, south of the Howrah Bridge, as do cinemas screening new release Hollywood movies, arthouse shows and India's own "Bollywood" fare. For the world's most frenetic shopping experience, check out the Sir Stuart Hogg Market (also known as the New Market) with its array of curios, clothing, jewelry, household goods, produce stalls and bookstores. For respite from the streets, Calcuttans from all walks of life go to the Maidan, one of the world's largest city parks, to stroll, play cricket and football, practice yoga, hold political rallies, picnic and even graze their flocks. At the southern end of the Maidan stands the Victoria Memorial. With its imposing white marble statue of Queen Victoria and an extensive collection of British-Indian historical objects, the museum is probably the most solid reminder of British imperialism to be found in India.