Experience life in Kolkata’s farming hinterland, based at a wonderful heritage property the Rajbari Bawali, a couple of hours’ drive south down the Hooghly. Guided by a member of the hotel staff, you can walk around the neighbouring villages, pausing at tea shops, paan stalls, temples and farmstead for a closeup taste of the local culture. A real highlight here is the sunset boat ride on the river, which is accompanied by a troupe of Baul folk musicians. Photographers will relish the opportunity to capture the sublime colours that swirl in the water as people perform evening aarti in the riverside shrines.