Kolkata - Discovering India

Travelling to Kolkata

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kolkata, a pretty good destination in India (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kolkata and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Kolkata, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through India, here's everything to know about Kolkata for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kolkata

Kolkata, also known as Calcutta, is a city located in eastern India, in the state of West Bengal. It is the capital of the state and the third most populous city in the country, with a population of over 14 million people.
Kolkata is famous for its rich history, cultural diversity, and colonial architecture, as it was the center of British colonial rule in India until 1911. It is also known for its literary and artistic heritage, with many famous poets, writers, and filmmakers emerging from the city.
Some of the popular tourist attractions in Kolkata include Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the Indian Museum. It is also a food lover's paradise, with a wide variety of traditional Bengali dishes as well as street food to savor.
Overall, Kolkata is a vibrant, bustling city with a unique mix of ancient culture and modern development that has a lot to offer to visitors.

What to visit in Kolkata

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions of Kolkata, India and some information about each of them: 1. Victoria Memorial: This stunning white marble monument was built to commemorate Queen Victoria's 25-year reign in India. The memorial houses a museum with a collection of paintings, artifacts, and photographs from the colonial era.
2. Howrah Bridge: This iconic steel bridge, also known as the Rabindra Setu, spans the Hooghly River and connects Kolkata to the nearby city of Howrah. It is one of the busiest bridges in the world, with over 100,000 vehicles crossing it every day.
3. Dakshineswar Kali Temple: This Hindu temple is dedicated to the goddess Kali and is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Kolkata. The temple is famous for its striking architecture and beautiful gardens.
4. St. Paul's Cathedral: This Anglican cathedral, built in Gothic Revival style, is one of Kolkata's most impressive buildings. It is known for its striking stained glass windows, intricate carvings, and peaceful atmosphere.
5. Indian Museum: This is the oldest and largest museum in India, with a vast collection of rare artifacts, fossils, and paintings. The museum houses a range of exhibits, including ancient sculptures, meteorites, and an Egyptian mummy.
6. Mother House: This is the headquarters of the Missionaries of Charity, the religious congregation founded by Mother Teresa. Visitors can visit the chapel and see her tomb.
7. Science City: This popular attraction is a science museum and exhibition center that features a range of interactive exhibits and activities for people of all ages. It also has an underwater aquarium, an earth exploration gallery, and a space theater.
8. Marble Palace: This is a stunning 19th-century mansion that showcases a collection of beautiful sculptures, paintings, and antiques. It is a stunning example of neoclassical architecture and is a must-see for any lover of art.
9. Eco Park: This huge urban park is a popular spot for picnics, leisure activities, and eco-tourism. It boasts a large lake, play areas for kids, and a butterfly garden, among other attractions.
10. Birla Mandir: This is a modern Hindu temple that features intricate carvings, sculptures, and stunning architecture. It is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is a must-visit for anyone curious about Hinduism.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in India, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Kolkata.

When to go on holiday to Kolkata

The best time to travel to Kolkata (India) is from October to March when the weather is cooler and drier, making it more pleasant for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The temperatures during this time range from around 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. It is advisable to avoid the monsoon season from June to September as it can be hot, humid, and rainy, which might make it uncomfortable to travel and explore the city.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Kolkata

There are several ways to get to Kolkata, India. Here are some options: 1. By Air: The most convenient way to get to Kolkata is by air. The Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata is well-connected to major cities around the world. You can fly direct to Kolkata from international destinations like Bangkok, Dubai, Hong Kong, Kathmandu, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore, among others.
2. By Train: Kolkata is well-connected by rail to major cities in India. There are several trains that run daily to and from Kolkata.
3. By Road: Kolkata is well-connected by road to major cities in India. You can either take a bus or drive down to Kolkata from nearby cities like Bhubaneswar, Jamshedpur, and Varanasi.
4. By Water: Kolkata is a major port city and you can also reach Kolkata by waterways. There are regular ferry services from cities like Patna, Varanasi, and Guwahati to Kolkata.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kolkata, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kolkata

Sure, here are some typical foods of Kolkata, India, along with a short description: 1. Luchi-Alu Dom: Luchis are small, fluffy deep-fried breads, and Alu Dom is a spicy vegetarian curry made with potatoes and a blend of spices.
2. Kolkata-style Biriyani: Kolkata-style biriyani is a spicier and more fragrant version of the traditional Indian biriyani. It is made with flavoured basmati rice, juicy meat (chicken or mutton), and a mix of delicious spices and herbs.
3. Chom Chom: Chom Chom is a popular sweet in Kolkata. It is made from chenna, a kind of cheese, and is shaped like small, cylindrical balls. The balls are cooked in sugar syrup and then coated with coconut flakes.
4. Rosogolla: Rosogolla is a Bengali delicacy and is made from chenna cheese. The cheese balls are boiled in sugar syrup until they are perfectly cooked. The result is a sweet, juicy, and spongy dessert.
5. Fish fry: Kolkata is known for its fish fry, which is usually made with Rohu or Katla fish. It is seasoned with traditional Bengali spices, coated in breadcrumbs and then shallow fried to make a crispy exterior.
6. Phuchka: Phuchka is a popular street food snack in Kolkata. It consists of crispy, puffed balls filled with mashed potatoes and a tangy tamarind sauce.
7. Aloo Kabli: Aloo Kabli is a popular tea-time snack in Kolkata. It is made of boiled and diced potatoes, mixed with a blend of roasted spices, onions, and green chilies.
8. Mishti Doi: Mishti Doi is a traditional Bengali sweet. It is a sweetened yogurt dessert that has a thick, creamy texture. The yogurt is hardened in clay pots, which gives it a unique flavour and texture.
You can find general info about typical foods in India here.

Is Kolkata an expensive destination for tourists?

Kolkata can be a relatively affordable destination compared to other major Indian cities, but the cost of your trip depends on a few factors such as your travel style, accommodations, and activities. Here are some estimated costs: - Accommodations: You can find budget guesthouses and hostels for around INR 500-1000 ($7-14 USD) per night, while mid-range hotels will be around INR 2000-4000 ($28-56 USD) per night.
- Food: Street food in Kolkata is very affordable, with snacks and small meals starting at INR 10-20 ($0.14-0.28 USD). Dining in restaurants varies in price, with local eateries charging around INR 200-400 ($2.8-5.6 USD) for a meal, while upscale restaurants can cost around INR 1000 ($14 USD) per person.
- Transportation: The cost of transportation in Kolkata is relatively low, with a metro ticket costing around INR 5-25 depending on the distance. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are also inexpensive.
- Activities: Most of the major sights in Kolkata are free or have a nominal entrance fee. Some of the popular attractions like Victoria Memorial, St. Paul's Cathedral, and Indian Museum charge an entrance fee of around INR 10-400 ($0.14-5.6 USD) per person.
Overall, Kolkata can be an affordable destination for budget travelers, but luxury accommodations and upscale dining options can be pricey. It is a good idea to plan your trip budget in advance and research options to find the best deals.

Where to find accomodation in Kolkata

Some of the best areas to find accommodation in Kolkata for tourists include Park Street, Ballygunge, Salt Lake City, and the historic area of North Kolkata (close to places like Victoria Memorial, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the Indian Museum). These areas offer a range of hotels, guesthouses, and homestays to suit all budgets. The Park Street area is particularly popular for its central location and proximity to popular tourist attractions, while Ballygunge is known for its upscale neighbourhood and top-rated restaurants.
You can check hotel prices at Kolkata here:
Booking.com

Is Kolkata a safe destination for tourists?

Kolkata is generally considered a safe place for tourists with friendly locals. However, as with any other city, some precautions should be taken. It's best to avoid isolated areas late at night, including parks, and to be mindful of your surroundings. It's also advisable to keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas such as markets and tourist spots. As a general rule, it's always best to be aware and cautious, especially when traveling in an unfamiliar place.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in India here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kolkata.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kolkata the most?

Kolkata is a vibrant and diverse city that caters to various types of travelers. Here are some types of travelers who will enjoy Kolkata the most: 1. History and culture lovers: Kolkata has a rich history and culture, and there are plenty of museums, monuments, and historic buildings that can be explored. From the Victoria Memorial to the Indian Museum, there's a lot for history and culture enthusiasts to enjoy.
2. Foodies: Kolkata is known for its delicious street food, from puchkas and jhal muri to kathi rolls and pitha. The city also has a number of restaurants serving traditional Bengali cuisine, as well as international food.
3. Couples: Kolkata has a romantic side with beautiful gardens, parks and lakes to stroll around. The evenings are equally magical. There are rooftop restaurants, bistros, cafes, and innumerable hangout places where couples can spend some quality time together.
4. Families: Kolkata has a lot of family-friendly activities, such as the Science City and the Eco Park. The city also has a number of amusement parks and water parks that are perfect for family outings.
5. Solo travelers: Kolkata has a friendly and welcoming vibe and can be easily explored on foot. Solo travelers enjoy exploring Kolkata's vibrant streets, trying out local cuisine, and interacting with the locals.
Overall, Kolkata has something to offer to every type of traveler and is a must-visit destination in India.

How to get around Kolkata

In Kolkata, there are various modes of transportation to move around the city. The most common form of transportation is the yellow taxi that can be hailed from the street. There are also auto-rickshaws, private buses, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Ola. The city also has its own metro rail system that serves some parts of the city. Additionally, one can use the traditional hand-pulled rickshaws or bicycles for short distances.

What to see around Kolkata

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Kolkata: 1. Sundarbans National Park 2. Shantiniketan 3. Bishnupur 4. Diamond Harbour 5. Chandannagar 6. Dakshineswar Kali Temple 7. Belur Math 8. Chinsurah 9. Joypur Forest 10. Raichak These places are easily accessible from Kolkata by car or public transport, and offer diverse experiences ranging from wildlife safaris, art and culture, historical architecture, religious shrines, and scenic landscapes.
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