Pay your respects to Mother Teresa, the venerated saint who dedicated her life to the poor and destitute in Kolkata. The Mother House is where the Catholic nun lived and worked until her death in 1997. Today, it’s a top Kolkata attraction where visitors can look upon her final resting place, explore her humble accommodations, or join a mass service.

The British Raj left a lasting architectural legacy in Kolkata, with numerous buildings and monuments to admire. The Marble Palace is famed for its grand neoclassical facade featuring 100 kinds of marble, while inside you can explore artworks, sculptures, Victorian furnishings and eclectic decor. The Victoria Memorial is another grand marble-fronted edifice, which now houses a cultural museum.

The 200-year-old Kalighat Kali Temple, dedicated to the Goddess Kali, is one of the most revered Hindu temples in India and is often busy with pilgrims seeking blessings. Devotees of architecture may also want to visit the Dakshineswar Kali Temple further up the Hooghly River and the gorgeous white marble Birla Mandir temple.

Inspire budding young minds with a trip to Science City – the largest science museum in India and a top Kolkata attraction. Experiences range from the Earth Exploration Hall to a butterfly nursery and an outdoor science park. Explore interactive exhibits, optical illusions, live scientific demonstrations, and a 3D digital theatre show which traces the journey of an asteroid.

Next time you travel to Kolkata, head a little further out to The Sundarbans National Park. The Unesco-listed biosphere reserve is home to endangered species such as Bengal tigers, saltwater crocodiles, Ganges River dolphins and hawksbill turtles. Hop on a boat ride through the park’s dense mangrove forests and enjoy its amazing wildlife-spotting opportunities.

Sport fans travelling to Kolkata won’t want to miss a trip to the hallowed Eden Gardens. Sometimes referred to as the ‘home of Indian cricket’, it is the oldest cricket ground in India and was opened in 1864. The enormous 68,000-person stadium is the home ground for the Kolkata Knight Riders and hosts regular matches for the India Premier League.

From the latest designer goods at shopping centres like Quest Mall to second-hand bookshops, Kolkata has something for every retail pursuit. Hunt for popular souvenirs such as saris, terracotta figurines, conch shell bracelets and Kalighat paintings at the sprawling New Market, one of the oldest shopping venues in the city with 2,000 stores.

Gastronomes will find plenty of temptation in the kitchens and street stalls of Kolkata. Try the deep-fried delights of telebhaja, satisfying kathi roll kebabs and the crunchy tanginess of churmur. Those with a sweet tooth should leave room for the quintessential rasogalla, sandesh and mishti doi snacks, which are all variations of sugary milk-based desserts.

This family-friendly green spot next to a large lake is packed with recreational activities and facilities, making it a pleasant outdoor Kolkata attraction. Hire a bike, Segway, or rollerblades to navigate the park trails, or explore the lake in a kayak or floating pontoon. Up the ante with water zorbing, archery or rifle practice.

The Hooghly River runs through the heart of Kolkata, and its banks offer numerous beauty spots to soak in the city’s charms. Get Howrah Bridge in your sight: the stunning cantilevered bridge is particularly lovely when illuminated at night. Alternatively, head to Prinsep Ghat, a popular recreation spot and Raj-era memorial, with views of the Vidyasagar Setu bridge.