Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is the vibrant capital of West Bengal and one of India’s most culturally and historically rich cities, blending colonial heritage with modern dynamism. Founded as an East India Company trading post in 1690 and later serving as the capital of British India until 1911, Kolkata is steeped in history, evident in its iconic colonial-era architecture such as the Victoria Memorial, Writers’ Building, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Located on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River, the city is known for its bustling streets, historic trams, the famous Howrah Bridge, and a deeply rooted intellectual and artistic legacy that produced luminaries like Rabindranath Tagore, Satyajit Ray, and Swami Vivekananda. A hub of literature, cinema, and political thought, Kolkata thrives on its love for “adda” (casual intellectual conversation), its passion for football and cricket, and its unmatched cultural fervor, particularly during the grand celebration of Durga Puja. With a population exceeding 14 million in the metropolitan area, the city is a melting pot of communities and languages, though Bengali remains predominant. Kolkata also boasts a rich culinary landscape, from street-side phuchkas and kathi rolls to iconic Bengali sweets like rasgulla and sandesh. Despite facing challenges such as urban congestion, poverty, and pollution, the city continues to evolve with expanding metro lines, a growing IT sector in Salt Lake and New Town, and renewed infrastructure projects. Rooted in tradition yet resiliently modern, Kolkata remains a city of contrasts—where the past and present coexist vibrantly, earning it the nickname “The City of Joy.”
The best time to visit Kolkata is from October to March when the weather is pleasant. October is especially popular for the grand Durga Puja celebrations.
Key attractions include Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Indian Museum, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, Kalighat Temple, Marble Palace, and the Science City.
You can explore colonial architecture, enjoy tram rides, walk through College Street’s book market, try Bengali sweets, and attend cultural shows or art festivals.
Kolkata is accessible by air via Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport, and by train and road from all major Indian cities.
From luxury hotels and heritage properties to mid-range hotels and budget guesthouses, Kolkata offers a wide range of accommodations across the city.
No permits are needed to visit Kolkata for both Indian and foreign tourists.
Kolkata cuisine features Bengali dishes like fish curry (maachher jhol), shorshe ilish, mishti doi, rasgulla, kathi rolls, and street snacks like puchka (pani puri).
Drink bottled water, avoid raw street food from unknown vendors, and carry basic medications for digestion or seasonal changes.
Yes, Kolkata is generally safe. Like any large city, stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night. Use trusted transport services.
The currency is Indian Rupee (INR). Digital payments are widely accepted, but carry cash for local markets and small eateries.
You can use the metro, trams, taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber. The metro is efficient for avoiding traffic in busy areas.
Pack light cotton clothes for summer, an umbrella or raincoat during monsoon, and a light jacket for winter. Comfortable footwear is recommended for walking tours.
