Today, Kolkata is a blend of tradition and modernity. Cynics regard the city as a crowded and noisy place but optimists consider it a real ‘city of joy’. Victoria Memorial: is a massive white-marble structure and the most enduring remainder of the British Raj in India. It has been converted into a museum that houses the most impressive collection of memorabilia’s from the days of Raj. There are 25 galleries in the central hall and about 3,500 items relating to the Raj on display. The Indian Museum: built in 1874, is housed in a beautiful structure. It is the oldest museum in India and contains rare archaeological collections. An original Lion Capitol, the national symbol of India, is next to the museum entrance. Belur Math: the headquarters of Ramakrishna Mission, was founded in 1897 and houses a structure that was designed to be a church, temple, and mosque all in one. The ashes of Sri Ramakrishna are kept here. The beautiful location has smaller shrines lining the riverbank and devotees and seekers of spiritual peace wandering the grounds. Howrah Bridge: is the third largest bridge in the world and is 450 metres long. The bridge also has the distinction of being the busiest bridge in the world with two million people passing over it daily. | 
