Area: 87,853 sq. km
Population: 74.5 million
Capital: Kolkata
Main Language: Bengali
Best time to visit: October to March

The cradle of the Indian Renaissance and the National Freedom Movement, Bengal has long been considered as the cultural centre of India. The state is long and narrow, running from the Delta of the Ganges River system in the Bay of Bengal to the south, up through the Ganges plain to the heights of the Himalayas and Darjeeling in the north. South of Kolkata on the Bay of Bengal is the area known as Sunderbans, one of the largest deltas in the world and home to the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger. To the north lie the flourishing mango plantations and jute fields of the fertile river plains. Farther north again in the Himalayan foothills are the world famous Darjeeling tea plantations. West Bengal is strategically placed with three international frontiers - Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan.

Revered as 'Vanga' in the Mahabharata, this area has a long history that pre dates the Aryan invasions of India. It was part of the Mauryan Empire in the 3rd century BC before being overrun by the Guptas. For three centuries from around the 9th century AD, the Pala dynasty controlled a large area based in Bengal and including parts of Orissa, Bihar and modern Bangladesh. Bengal was brought under Muslim control by Qutb-ud-din, first of the Sultans of Delhi at the end of the 12th century AD. Following the death of Aurangzeb in 1707, Bengal became an independent Muslim state. Britain had established a trading post in Kolkata in 1698, which quickly prospered. After two battles with the Nawab of Bengal, the first at Plassey in 1756 and the second at Buxar in 1764, the British took full control of Bengal. After Independence the state was partitioned

Its main inhabitants are Bengalis who are emotional and artistic and have been sometimes called the Irish of India. They were also the first to react to the intellectual and political stimulus of the West. Some of Bengal's proud sons are the liberal thinker Raja Ram Mohan Roy, the saint Sri Ramakrishna, the renowned philosopher Swami Vivekananda, Nobel literature laureate Rabindranath Tagore and celebrated film maker Satyajit Ray. A land of aesthetes and political activists, West Bengal is famous for its many eminent writers, poets, artists, spiritualists, social reformers, freedom fighters and revolutionaries.

How to Reach -

The main entry point of West Bengal is Kolkata and this city is well connected by air to all the major cities of India as well as abroad. It is also well connected by rail and there are good motorable roads that connect it to all the major cities in India.

Bishnupur
Darjeeling
Kalimpong
Kolkata
Shantiniketan

BISHNUPUR

Also spelt as Vishnupur, this is an interesting town of terra cotta temples and is a famous cultural centre Bishnupur that lies about 151km from Kolkata. It flourished as the capital of the Malla kings from the 16th century to the early 19th century. Way back in the 14th century, Jagat Malla, the 19th king of the Malla dynasty, established his capital at Bishnupur. Temples and artificial lakes constructed by the Malla kings make it a charming spot. Under the reign of later kings like Vir Hambir, Vir Singh and Raghunath Singh, Bishnupur reached the zenith of its culture. In Hindustani classical music, the Bishnupur Gharana is very famous. The Mallas were great patrons of the arts and their legacy is evident throughout the town.

Since there is no stone found in the area, the traditional building material for important buildings was brick. The facades of he dozen or so temples here are covered with ornate terra cotta tiles depicting lively scenes from the Hindu epics. Bishnupur is in Bankura district, famous for its pottery (particularly the stylised Bankura horse) and silk saris, especially the baluchari and tussar silk varieties.

The Jhapan festival held here every August draws snake charmers to honour the Godess Manasa who is the central figure to the cult of snake worship. Snake shows and snake fights are the highlights of the festival.

Places to See -

Shyam Rai - constructed in 1643, has terracotta walls depicting Lord Krishna and his gopis (village belles) frolicking in the garden.

Jor Bangla - beside the Shyam Ray Temple are these highly decorated twin temples built in 1655. On the walls are scenes of battles fought long ago, hunting expeditions, and social life of the people, which give an idea of society during those times.

Raas Mancha - is a shrine built in the form of a stepped pyramid, dating back to the early 17th century when Bishnupur was steeped in Vaishnavism. During the Raas Festival, all the Vaishnavite deities of the other temples were carried in a grand procession and assembled here.

The Dol Madol Cannon - is another landmark that echoes history. In 1742, during the reign of Raja Gopal Singh, this cannon was used to repulse the troops of Maratha leader, Bhaskar Pundit. The 3.8m long cannon has a barrel with a diameter of 28.5cm. Built by experts, its exquisite engravings are clearly visible even today.

Jogesh Chandra Archaeological Centre - houses artifacts of the Malla kings. Items collected through periodic excavations are kept here.

Some other noteworthy temples are - the large Madan Mohan, the Radhey Shyam built out of laterite rocks, the Sarbamangla and the Chhinnamasta temples

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DARJEELING

Darjeeling is situated on the foothills of the Himalayas, at an altitude of 2134m. It stands on a long, narrow mountain ridge of the Sikkim Himalayas. It has Sikkim in the north and Bangladesh in the south, while Bhutan and Nepal flank it on the east and west, respectively.

The Darjeeling area was wrested from the Rajas of Sikkim by the Gurkhas who invaded Sikkim in 1780. The annexations of the Gurkhas brought them into conflict with the British East India Company. One such dispute in 1828 led to the dispatch of two British officials to this area and it was during their fact-finding tour that came upon Darjeeling. Darjeeling was then called 'Dorje Ling', the Place of the Thunderbolt, after the Lama who founded the monastery, which once stood on Observatory Hill. The officers were quick to appreciate Darjeeling's value as a site for a sanatorium and hill station and as a key to a pass into Nepal and Tibet. Eventually the British found a pretext to pressure the Raja of Sikkim into granting the site to them at an annual stipend. When the British arrived in Darjeeling, it was completely forested and virtually uninhabited, though before the wars with Bhutan and Nepal it had been a sizeable village. Development was rapid and by 1840 Darjeeling grew into a full-fledged hill resort under British patronage. The British also established the famous tea plantations.

Like many places in the Himalayas, getting there can be half the fun. For generations Darjeeling's famous Toy Train has been looping its way up the steep mountainsides from the plains. Included in the World Heritage Sites list, this famous Train is one of the first Indian trains driven by a chugging stream locomotive, having made its maiden trip in the September of 1881. The Toy Train journey from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling takes about six hours. For the first few miles the train winds its way through dense jungle with solid walls of vegetation hemming in the track. Soon the palm trees and jungles are replaced by a deep green landscape of tea plantations clinging to the steep mountain sides in narrow terraces like hundreds of giant steps. The Toy Train is not only a product of engineering ingenuity, but also a part of history, a living reminder of 19th century Darjeeling.

Kanchenjunga Views - at 8598m Mount Kanchenjunga is the world's third highest peak and an inseparable part of the awesome mystique of the Eastern Himalayas. The name Kanchenjunga is derived from the Tibetan khang (snow), chen (big), dzong (fortress or treasury), nga (five) - big five-peaked snow fortress or big five peaked treasury of snow. A formidable peak for mountaineers, its climb is considered more hazardous than the Everest. Viewing the sunrise over the Kanchenjunga from Tiger Hill is a primary item on the itinerary of every Darjeeling visitor. From Darjeeling town the Mall is an ideal place for gazing at the splendour of Kanchenjunga. The honour of the best viewing spot, however, goes to the summit of Phalut, which is the culminating point of most of the trekking routes. From here, Kanchenjunga is only 48km away.

Darjeeling, is an ideal place for a holiday offering a breathtaking sight of the numerous peaks of the majestic Himalayas. The views of Mount Kanchenjunga and the Everest are particularly awe- inspiring. The luxuriant vegetation is a plant lover's paradise. The Himalayan physiography of lofty mountainous terrain and cascading rivers offers adventure sports trekking, mountaineering and river rafting. The finest blend of Tea comes from the various tea gardens of this region.

Places to See -

Chowrasta - meaning crossroad, is a hive of commercial activity. The Mall Road originates and culminates at the Chowrasta. This is the heart of Victorian Darjeeling. Here hotels, restaurants and shops brush against each other. The shops and stalls are a veritable paradise for souvenir collectors. The Bhutanese sellers display their wares. Woolen garments, tribal ornaments, thangkas, rosaries, brass statuettes and Gurkha daggers vie with each other for attention.

The Mall - is an attractive promenade on the ridge of Darjeeling town and a good place to sit and relax. Frequented as much by locals as by tourists, there is always a scramble for the best seats. Horses trot along the mall and can be hired for a leisurely ride. Ideal for an unhurried walk, it originates and culminates at the Chowrasta, which is the commercial hub of the town. A little way off the Mall is Sir Jadunath Sarkar's house, famous for being Tenzing Norgay's residence when he became the first person to scale Mount Everest. It has now been converted into a museum.

Observatory Hill - is the place from which the town of Darjeeling derives its name. According to legend, the hill was struck by a thunderbolt and, consequently, a Buddhist Lama named the town Darjeeling, which means Place of the Thunderbolt. This place is sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists. There is a Mahakaal Temple of Lord Shiva, built in the 19th century on the ruins of a Buddhist Monastery. There is also a Buddhist Shrine, where prayer flags can be seen flying throughout the year. Though the observatory that was once here is no more, the fine view of Kanchenjunga is a major attraction.

Victoria Falls - are located only a short distance from the heart of the town, south of the railway station. The stunningly beautiful waterfalls originate from a small stream, the Kalijhora. Cascading down a sheer drop of 30.5m the water rushes through deep ravines to the valley below. There is a Ferro-concrete bridge over the stream. The water of the Falls is harnessed for generating electrical power and the Sidrapong Power Station here was the first Hydel Project in India.

Bhutia Basti Monastery - is the focus of Darjeeling's community of Bhutias, a people of Tibetan origin. Amidst a warren of lanes, stands the monastery, with its beautifully painted façade. This small Gompa was founded at the end of the 19th century, but is now almost empty.

Dhirdham Temple - is the most conspicuous Hindu temple in Darjeeling. Located just below the train station, it is modelled on the famous Pashupatinath temple of Kathmandu.

Tenzing Norgay Mountaineering Institute - formerly known as the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI), this is the country's first mountaineering training centre. Located on Jawahar Parbat, the institute was established in 1954 to commemorate the first conquest of Mount Everest in 1953 by Tenzing Norgay, a Sherpa from Darjeeling and Sir Edmund Hillary. The Institute was formed with the aim of imparting the requisite skills to all mountaineering enthusiasts. It has two interesting museums.

The HMI Museum is dedicated to the history of mountaineering, with old and new equipment, a relief map of the Himalayas and a collection of costumes of different hill people. The Everest Museum displays memorabilia of the 1953 Everest expedition by Tenzing and Hillary. It also contains a rare collection of mementos from the various Himalayan expeditions since 1957. The most notable feature here is the huge telescope pointing at the Kanchenjunga. It provides a remarkable view on a clear day. It is known as Hitler's Telescope because it was presented by Hitler to a Nepalese general.

Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Garden -is the Town Zoo. It is a high-altitude wildlife park and home to some rare Himalayan fauna. It was established in 1958 with the objective of study, conservation and preservation of Himalayan fauna. The zoo houses India's only collection of Siberian tigers and some rare species such as the red panda, Tibetan wolf and the endangered snow leopard. Other fauna includes the yak, Himalayan black bear, Himalayan pheasant, barking deer and a variety of birds. The zoo is also a successful breeding centre for snow leopards and red pandas.

Lloyd Botanical Garden - in 1878, 40 acres of rolling hillside land was gifted to Lt. Governor Sir Ashley Eden by Mr. W. Lloyd, proprietor of the famous bank of the same name, who wanted it turned into one of the best gardens in Asia. Sir Ashley started the Lloyd Botanical Garden to study living specimens from the sub-temperate and temperate Himalayas. Over the years, exotic plants from other parts of the world have also been included. The garden has charmingly laid-out terraces containing alpine plants, arum lilies, geraniums, azaleas, tree ferns and conifers.

Bengal Natural History Museum - established in 1903, a comprehensive fauna from different altitudes of the Eastern Himalayas has been preserved here. More than 4,000 specimens have been classified and there are sections for birds, butterflies and beetles, reptiles and mammals.

Tibetan Refugee Centre - located just 20min from the Mall, this centre was built in 1959 to provide rehabilitation to more than 700 Tibetan refugees who had come with the Dalai Lama after China's capture of Tibet. The centre comprises a home for the aged, an orphanage, school, hospital, Gompa and crafts workshops. Tibetan handicrafts on display include carpets, woolen garments, wooden and leather goods, thangkas, Tibetan coins, jewellery and various other curios. Visitors are welcome to observe the activity in the workshops.

Darjeeling's Ropeways - Darjeeling has two Ropeway systems. The main Darjeeling Ropeway connects Darjeeling with the town Bijanbari, down in the little Rangit Valley. The 1408m span covered by the Ropeway, is the longest in Asia. A mono-cable Ropeway in which a single rope acts as both tractor and carrier, it moves at a speed of 6.5km per hour.

The other is a Bi-cable Passenger Ropeway that plies between Darjeeling's North Point and Singla. It descends from an elevation of 2134m to 244m. This is the first Bi-cable passenger carrying Ropeway in India and the longest of its kind in Asia. The Ropeway covers an aerial distance of 8km to Singla Bazaar, situated 1828.8m below. The 45-minute ride stretches above yawning gaps filled with dense forests, silvery rivers, mountain ridges, green valleys, tea gardens and waterfalls.

Tea Plantations (a background) - Darjeeling Tea is the world's most exotically flavoured tea. Connoisseurs over the world have fancied and valued Darjeeling Tea and have endearingly termed it the Champagne of Tea. Grown in century old tea gardens, at an elevation of 750-2000m, Darjeeling Tea is still manufactured through the original method known as Orthodox Tea Manufacture, as against the CTC or Cut-Tear-Curl type of manufacture adopted in the plains. The tea pickers, well aware of the status their produce enjoys, pick only the finest two-leaves-and-a-bud. This ensures the best flavour, described as Muscatel. The tourist can actually visit a nearby tea garden to watch the manufacturing process of Darjeeling Tea.

Other Gompas -

Near Darjeeling on the Tenzing Norgay road is the Aloobari Monastery. The monks here often sell Tibetan and Sikkimese handicrafts and religious objects. Halfway between Darjeeling and Ghoom is the Thupten Sangachoeling Gompa. Westerners interested in Tibetan Buddhism often study here. A little closer to Darjeeling on the same road is he opulent Sonada Gompa.

Ghoom Monastery - located about 8km south of the town and near Ghoom Railway station (the highest railway station in the world) this is one of the most

Around Darjeeling -

Batasia Loop - is the name given to a portion of the Toy Train tracks just below the Ghoom Monastery. It is about 5km from Darjeeling. The Loop is an engineering marvel where the railway line negotiates a graceful circle and descends 1000ft almost imperceptibly. Whether riding aboard the Toy Train, or just watching it navigate the loop, the Batasia Loop is a memorable experience. Literally meaning Windy Place, Batasia offers a grand view of the town of Darjeeling, with the magnificent Kanchenjunga in the background. A War Memorial has been constructed here, in memory of the brave sons of Darjeeling who gave their lives in the struggle for India's Independence.

important monasteries of the region. More correctly known as Yogachoeling Gompa, it enshrines an image of the Maitreya Buddha (the coming Buddha). This shrine is beautifully painted in blue and red colours. As Ghoom is frequently swathed in mists and the monastery is old and dark, it is often affectionately called the Gloom Monastery.

Tiger Hill - the road that leads to this famous Hill runs up a steep gradient through colourful forests of oak, magnolia and beautiful ferns. 11km from Darjeeling and at an elevation of 2590m, the summit of this hill is very special. A viewing tower provides an unparalleled 360° Himalayan panorama. The top of the tower is an incredible viewpoint, and is universally acclaimed as the best place to view the Kanchenjunga, especially at sunrise. One can also see over 200km distant Mount Everest from here. Even if, you do have to rise at 4 am and be driven by Jeep to Tiger Hill, the panorama is worth it.

Senchal - located about 10km southeast of Darjeeling, has three artificial lakes on top of a 2487m high hill. The lakes are a reservoir of Darjeeling's water supply. It is also a popular picnic spot. The golf course at the summit is the highest in the world. There is also the Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary, set up in 1915. Here, high altitude game such as the barking deer, wild boar and black bear, have found refuge in their natural habitats.

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KALIMPONG

Cradled between the Deolo and Durpin Dara Hills, at an altitude of 1250m and about 51km from Darjeeling, Kalimpong is a remote and pretty hill station, which has been a meeting point of the once 'three closed lands' on the trade route to Tibet, Nepal and Bhutan. A beautiful town with majestic Himalayas in the background and gently rolling hills around, it offers excellent and quiet holiday opportunities. It has a relaxed and unhurried air about it. The trip to Kalimpong passes through forests, crosses the Teesta River Bridge and affords fabulous views of the confluence of the Teesta and Rangit rivers.

The origin of the name Kalimpong has been traced to various sources. In Tibetan, Kalim means 'King's Minister' and Pong means 'Stronghold'. It is also called Kalibong or Black Spur by the hill people. The most likely one, however, is the Lepcha meaning, 'ridge where we play'. It is said that the local tribesmen used to organise field sports in the area, when not engaged in agricultural pursuits. Until the beginning of the 18th century it was part of the lands belonging to the Rajas of Sikkim, when it was taken from them by the Bhutanese. It became the headquarters of the Bhutanese Governor. In 1865, after the Anglo-Bhutanese War, it was merged with Darjeeling. It became a sub-division of Darjeeling in 1916. Under British administration, Kalimpong developed into a centre of wool trade with Tibet. It also became s centre for Scottish missionary activity in the late 19th century.

Kalimpong's houses a population comprising of the tribal communities of Bhutias and Lepchas, apart from the Nepalese. Here, Buddhism rubs shoulders with Hinduism and Christianity. Gompas, unusual churches, temples, monks and missionaries coexist in a genial society. The quaint bustling bazaar is a shopper's delight. A Kalimpong-based trip offers a true town-and-country holiday, combining the pleasures of Kalimpong town with walks and treks, forest and flora exploration, bird and butterfly watching, Buddhist tours, river rafting, mountain biking and nature and culture tours are also arranged from Kalimpong

Places to See -

Gompas (Monasteries) - the oldest monastery in the area is Tongsa Gompa or the Bhutanese monastery. Founded in 1692, the original building was destroyed by the Gurkhas in their rampage across Sikkim before the arrival of the British.

The Tharpa Choeling Gompa, established in 1922 belongs to the Yellow Hat Gelukpa order sect of Tibetan Buddhism. It has a library of Tibetan manuscripts and thangkas (religious painting on cloth).

The Zong Dog Palri Fo-Brang Gompa, located 5km south of the town centre was built in mid 1970's at Durpin Dara Hill and was consecrated by the Dalai Lama. There are impressive wall paintings and a large three-dimensional mandala. Mountain views are good from here.

Dr. Graham's Homes - founded in by the Scottish missionary Rev. Dr. John Anderson Graham in 1900 on the lower slopes of Deolo Hill. The school was established to educate children of tea garden workers who are trained in various handicrafts and professions. The enrolment is now open to all but there is a reserve quota for children of economically deprived backgrounds. This extraordinary educational institute has a campus of 500 acres, with its own farm, bakery, dairy, poultry, clothing department, hospital and chapel. The chapel above the school features stained glass windows.

Gouripur House - located about 2km from the town, this place redolent with the memories of Rabindranath Tagore. A marvelous view of the Himalayas from Doorbindra and Jhandibra can be enjoyed.

Deolo View Point & Lake - located atop the 1914m high Deola Hill, offers an excellent view of snow peaks, Kalimpong town and the confluence of the Rangit and Teesta rivers. The Deolo Lake is Kalimpong town's water reservoir.

Durpin Dara - located about 2km from the town this hill looms above the town to the southwest. This is an observation point from where one can have a breathtaking view of the Himalayan ranges and the valleys, the rivers and the plains. It was once a survey point, and hence the name, which means Binocular Ridge.

Flower Nurseries - Kalimpong is famous for its nurseries. Gladioli, orchids, cacti, amaryllis, anthuriums, roses, gerberas, dahlias and other exotic plants and orchids are grown in a number of flower nurseries, mainly for export. The Sri Ganesh Moni Pradhan nursery and the Udai Mani Pradhan nursery are among the most important in the area.

Kalimpong Bazaar - best explored walking, this famous bazaar is also known as the Tenth Mile. This is virtually a Pandora's box of surprises, where one can shop for Buddhist thangkas, Bhutanese weaves, Chinese lanterns, hand-stitched clothing, copperware, hand-beaten silver, local cheddar-type cheese and lollypops, Lepcha daggers, masks and a lot more. There is a bi-weekly haat (fair) where the villagers gather to sell their wares. Knitted garments, carpets, stone-studded metal curios and masks are additionally available on haat days.

Mangal Dhaam - a recently constructed place of worship, is a marvellous piece of architecture. The temple has been built in the memory of late Guru Sri 108 Mangal Dasji. The samadhi of the Guruji is located within the temple.

Nature Interpretation Centre - operated by the Forest Department, the centre focuses on flora, and fauna and how local people interact with ecology. There are a number of well-organised dioramas, which depict the effects of human activity on the environment.

St. Theresa's Church - built by local craftsmen to resemble a Gompa, has woodcarvings adorning the walls, depicting Biblical scenes, in which the personalities resemble Buddhist monks. This is an interesting example of Tibetan influences.

Around Kalimpong -

Teesta Bazaar - located about 16km away where the road divides for Darjeeling and Siliguri, this bazaar is becoming a centre for white water rafting. It's possible to tackle the rapids between 15 November and 15 February.

Lava - located at 2353m and about 30km east of Kalimpong, is a small village with a Kagyupa Gompa. Tuesday is a market day and a good time to visit. It is also a favourite with trekkers.

Samco Ropeway - thrill seekers should head for this chair lift installed by the Swedish as part of an aid program to help villagers cross the Teesta River. The idea of dangling from a piece of wire 30m above the water is definitely not for vertigo sufferers! The Ropeway is located on the main Siliguri-Gangtok road at a place locally known as 27th Mile. From Kalimpong it is about an hour and a half's drive.

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KOLKATA

The Capital of India till 1911 and till recently called Calcutta, the city is still one of India's commercial and cultural centers. The city with all its problems of overcrowding and poverty is a dynamo and this vibrancy makes it one of the world's most fascinating cities. Grown from mangrove swamps, Kolkata is the largest metropolis in India. Kolkata's role in the national economy is of crucial importance as the Gateway to Eastern India. Ships were the beginning of Kolkata's history & the river Hooghly was the key to the city's fortunes.

What began as a trading outpost more than 300 years ago has grown into a thriving metropolis - the melting pot that is Kolkata. It has often been said that one has to live in the city in order to feel its pulse. It is chaotic, volatile, noisy and decaying. On the other hand it is vibrant, warm, indestructible, dynamic, alive and friendly. It is one of the greatest metropolitan cities in the world, India's largest city and the gateway to the great natural and industrial wealth of Eastern India. Kolkata has grown into a universal city, a sprawling city that has absorbed people from all over India and many parts of the world as well.

Kolkata was the first headquarters of the East India Company, and some of its best-known monuments were built by this British trading house. However, the city has, within its 300 years' history, hosted other communities both from other parts of India as well as abroad - Chinese, Armenians, Jews - all of whom have left their imprint in pockets of Kolkata.

If Delhi is the elegant capital of the nation and Bombay its major industrial city, then Kolkata ranks as the intellectual capital. Poets, thinkers and film directors of international renown hail from this city where avant- plays and art exhibitions go on show practically every day of the year.

Places to See -

Victoria Memorial - built as a tribute to Queen Victoria in 1921, it was conceived by the Viceroy Curzon in 1905, four years after the Queen's death. The Prince of Wales (later King George V) laid the foundation stone in January 1906 and the memorial was officially inaugurated in December 1921 by the Duke of Windsor. Designed by Sir William Emerson, this 61m high structure of white marble stands on 26 hectares of land. Inspired by the Taj Mahal, its splendid form combines British architecture and Mughal artistry and exemplifies the grandeur of imperialism. The sprawling grounds, with their lakes, trees and flowering plants have a grand statue of Queen Victoria in her full regalia, seated on a throne. Several other elegant statues also dot the ground.

Inside the hall there are several galleries containing articles of the Queen, her letters and manuscripts, portraits of the Royal family and of several early British administrators. There is also an exhibition of military uniforms, arms and armours. One room contains a 6m by 3m painting of a royal procession in Jaipur, which is possibly the largest painting in Asia. One gallery also contains sketches, photographs, paintings and an illustrated history of the city's growth and development

Marble Palace - built in 1835, is one of the well-maintained buildings of 19th century colonial Kolkata. It is a fine example of Gothic architecture. The 3-storey building has tall Corinthian pillars and Chinese pavilion type verandas. There is a large circular lawn, which has an aviary and an intricately carved marble fountain at the centre. Beyond are a rock garden and a statue of the Buddha. There is marble everywhere - of about 90 different varieties transported across the seas to provide floors, wall panels and tabletops. Inside are displays of beautiful paintings, sculpture, furniture and antique urns, a collection, garnered from 90 countries around the world.

Kalighat Temple - built in 1809, on the banks of the River Ganga as it flowed then, the Kali Temple here is one of the most important Hindu pilgrimages in India. The shrine is dedicated to Kali, a form of Goddess Parvati the consort of Lord Shiva. The idol of the goddess is made of black stone and decorated with gold and silver. The City takes its name after Kali, the patron deity of the city. Apart from the divine power of the residing deity, the temple has long been famous for its fine examples of terracotta art, though a lot of it has been ravaged by time. The original building was renovated in 1971.

St. Paul's Cathedral - The foundation for St. Paul's Cathedral was laid in 1839 largely due to the efforts of Bishop Wilson. In 1847 it was consecrated as the first Episcopal Church of the Orient. An example of Indo-Gothic architecture, the Cathedral is set within huge grounds with several ancient trees. An earthquake had destroyed the original 61m high tower in 1897. After restoration, it was again destroyed by another earthquake in 1934. Finally, it was rebuilt in 1938 as a replica of the Bell Harry Tower of Canterbury Cathedral. The main cathedral hall has beautifully carved wooden pews and chairs, stained glass windows, intricate coloured artwork and marvellous Florentine frescoes. Queen Victoria's communion plate presented to Bishop Wilson is preserved here.

Mother Teresa's Home - 'Nirmal Hriday' or Soft Heart is one of the first foundations of Mother Teresa's Home for the Dying Destitute in Kolkata. It is located in a 'dharamsala' in the premises of the Kali temple. Men, women and children who were dying on the streets were brought to this home. In their last hours the Missionaries of Charity gave them human and divine love. For those who didn't die the sisters tried to find a job or they were sent to homes where they could live happily some more years in homely surrounding.

Other Places of Interest -

Indian Museum - is the ninth oldest museum of the world, the oldest institution of its kind in Asia Pacific region and repository of the largest museum objects in India. Founded in 1814. The colonnaded Italian-style building has an excellent collection. It has over sixty galleries of Art, Archaeology, Anthropology, Geology, Zoology and Botany sections. Many rare specimens both Indian and Trans-Indian origin relating to Humanities and Natural Science are preserved and displayed in the galleries of these sections. More than 1 million exhibits are presently exhibited that include: Shivalik fossils, outstanding exhibits from the Harappa and Mohenjodaro periods, prized collection of Buddhist Art, Miniature Paintings, 'Art and Textile' with Ivory, Glass and Silverware, 200-year-old Hand-Drawn Maps and many more

Zoological Gardens - spread over nearly 100 acres was established in 1878 as a private, voluntary society. It has a large collection of birds and mammals and an enclosure for reptiles. It is famous for its tigers especially the white tiger. There is a serpentine lake winding through the gardens, which has long been a favourite haunt for a large number of migratory birds during winter. An added attraction is the aquarium with its collection of over 1200 fish.

St. John's Church - was built by the grave of Job Charnock, the founder of Kolkata. Set up in 1820, the church building has an imposing bearing, styled on Gothic lines. The graceful church is made entirely of stone and is the earliest example of British masonry in India. Inside the church there are, among other things, the famous painting of The Last Supper by John Zoffany, a marvellous stained glass window, the paintings of the Passion of Christ and memorial tablets of prominent citizens through the ages.

Botanical Gardens - stands on the West Bank of River Hooghly. It is the oldest in the country and was established in 1786. It started as a pleasure retreat for Colonel Kyd of the East India Company. Today the garden, spread across a sprawling 272 acres, is home to 35,000 types of fruits and flowers, besides 15,000 other botanical specimens, including medicinal plants of India and from around the world. It also houses a library containing an invaluable collection of rare books on botany and allied subjects. The star attraction is the 250-year old Banyan tree with nearly 2,000 aerial roots, making it the largest tree of its kind in the world.

Birla Planetarium - The second largest of its kind in the world, this planetarium was set up in 1962. It has a circular structure, and is built on the lines of the Buddhist stupa at Sanchi. The viewing hall, with a diameter of 23 m., has a capacity of 500 seats. Here, visitors are introduced to the wonders of the solar system through projections cast on the domed ceiling. Interesting exhibits are the fine collections of paintings, celestial models and busts of famous astronomers that line the corridors. Shows are held daily in three languages - English, Hindi and Bengali.

Eden Gardens - this stretch of greenery that comprises the gardens was named after Emily and Fanny Eden, sisters of the erstwhile Governor General, Lord Auckland. Covering nearly 50 acres, the garden features many local species of trees. It also features a serpentine lake and a pagoda-like Burmese pavilion that was built in 1854. There is also the Band Stand where military bands used to play till the 1960s.

Just next to the garden is the Ranji Stadium, which has been the site of many famous cricket matches. In fact, with its lush green look and enthusiastic crowds, it is the favourite playing ground of many leading cricketers.

Academy of Fine Arts - set up at the initiative of Lady Ranu Mukherjee in 1933, the Academy is a favourite rendezvous of Kolkata's cultural intelligentsia. On entering through the front portico, one comes across several interesting sculptures. It houses several galleries - like Rabindra Gallery that contains a collection of paintings and sketches by Rabindranath Tagore, Textile Gallery, Miniatures Gallery and Carpets Gallery. Bengali plays and exhibitions by contemporary artists are regularly held here throughout the year and it is also a focal point of the arts, be it sculpture, drama, painting or photography.

Shahid Minar - Originally called the Ochterlony Monument, the Minar (column) was built in 1828 to commemorate the British East India Company's victory in the Nepal Campaign of 1814-16. It was named in honour of Sir David Ochterlony, the hero of the war. In 1968, however, it was renamed Shahid Minar or Martyrs' Column in memory of the Indian freedom fighters. It is of a mixed architectural style - a Syrian column, an Egyptian plinth slightly tapering towards the top, and a Turkish cupola.

Around Kolkata -

Belur Math - located 16km from the city centre is the headquarters of international Rama Krishna Mission. The Rama Krishna temple looks like a church, mosque or temple depending upon from where it is viewed. The building's unique architecture symbolizes the universal faith of its congregation.

Dakshineshwar Temple - located about 20km north of the city and across the River Hooghly is a temple dedicated to goddess Kali, a form of Goddess Parvati the consort of Lord Shiva. Built in 1855 by Rani Rashmoni, this temple complex was the place where the saint Sri Ramakrishna attained his enlightenment. The main temple is called the Navaratna Temple. There is a silver lotus with a thousand petals here on which stands the idol of the Goddess. Within the complex are 12 mini temples of Shiva. A temple dedicated to Rani Rashmoni has later been added near the entrance. The Panchavati, a congregation of five ancient trees, in the temple premises, is a spot for peaceful meditation.

Sunderbans - or 'Beautiful Forests' is a green-shaded island territory. The mangrove swamps are said to be the largest estuarine forests in the world. Part of this vast mangrove swamp is a 2585 sq. km wildlife reserve that extends into Bangladesh. It has been designated as a World Heritage Site and as part of Project Tiger still preserves the natural habitat of about 300 Royal Bengal Tigers. Spotted dear, wild boar, monkeys, snakes, fishing cats, water monitors, olive ridley sea turtles and a few large estuarine crocodiles are the other wildlife here. The whole area teems with bird life and is wonderfully peaceful. Winter and spring are the best times to visit the sanctuary.

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SHANTINIKETAN

The town of Shantiniketan is located about 213km from Kolkata and it derives its name from two Bengali words shanti meaning peace and niketan meaning abode. The brilliant and prolific Bengali poet, writer, artist, nationalist and Nobel literature laureate, Rabindranath Tagore (1861-1941) founded a school here in 1901 where the cultures of the East and the West could meet and mingle. It later developed into the Visvabharati University with an emphasis on humanity's relationship with nature - many classes were conducted in the open air.

There are colleges of science, teacher training, Sanskrit, Sino-Indian studies, philosophy, arts and crafts and music and dance. There is a Museum and Art Gallery within the Uttarayan complex where Tagore lived. The university also runs community based programs for the advancement of agriculture, cottage industries and historic reconstruction. An interesting feature about the place is that splendid sculptures, frescoes, murals and paintings of Rabindranath and other eminent artists like Nandlal Bose, Ramkinkar, Bindobehari Mukhopadhyaya and others adorn the campus.

The annual Paush Mela (fair) that is held here in December, is an event where students and teachers of the school took an active part and it become a meeting ground for urban people and rural folk. Rural artisans bring their wares to the fair while urban relatives set up stalls so that rural people could buy the new industrially produced goods that was revolutionising life in the cities.

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