Kolkata travel guide: expert tips for a smooth trip
Nicknamed the cultural capital of India, the bustling metropolis of Kolkata offers an evocative immersion in history, art, literature and delectable food.
As a prominent port city on the Ganges Delta overlooking the Bay of Bengal, Kolkata was the prosperous capital of British India for more than a century until 1911, fostering iconic institutions, architecture and even a unique dialect of the Bengali language that is used today is widespread. Although it suffered from the post-independence economic downturn and the social challenges of overpopulation, Kolkata still retains an old-world romantic charm that juxtaposes beautifully with vibrant pockets of cosmopolitan modernity.
Understanding the city’s key facets before you arrive will help you better navigate and appreciate your journey through Kolkata’s chaotic canvas, bringing nostalgic stories of the past to life as you look optimistically to the future.
The tropical climate of Calcutta
Stretching across the Tropic of Cancer, Calcutta experiences a hot tropical wet and dry climate with seasonal variations throughout the year.
Summers see rising temperatures and humidity, while strong monsoon rains provide plenty of respite before the crisp, cool winters begin.
Patterns again
Summer (March – June)
Hot and humid weather with temperatures rising above 40 degrees Celsius in May. Tropical thunderstorms in the afternoon, accompanied by strong hot winds.
Monsoon (June – September) Heavy rainfall from June with high humidity of about 80%. Umbrellas and raincoats are a must during the wet months!
Winter (November – February)
Pleasantly cool with temperatures dropping below 15 C. Light woolen clothing, jackets needed, especially near the breezy riverbank of the Hooghly.
Post-monsoon autumn in October and pre-monsoon spring in March are wonderful weather for exploring Kolkata in a leisurely manner.
Iconic transport of Kolkata
As the first city in Asia to operate a metro line, an underground public transport system and electric trams, Kolkata still retains many of its vintage transport mainstays with trams and iconic yellow Ambassador taxis, although new routes are expanding.
Typical Kolkata rides
Yellow Ambassadors Sleek Hindustan Motors manufactured taxis made iconic by Bollywood legends
Metro Rapid transit route under construction to cover major parts of the city
Hand-pulled rickshaws Human-powered tricycle moves through thinner lanes
Ferries Scenic Hooghly River crossings to reach Howrah district
Tram Slow rides along selected fixed routes since 1902
Immersive cultural panorama
A pioneering crucible for the 19th-century Bengal Renaissance movement spanning literary, social and artistic genres, Kolkata strongly reflects a cultural shift from stagnant ideas to progressive intellectual philosophies relevant today.
Literary identity
Home to the first Nobel Laureate in Literature, Rabindranath Tagore
Schools attract celebrities Kalighat Painters, Satyajit Ray
Thriving book publishers along College Street ‘Boipara’
Food and party
Street food mecca aromatic phuchkas, sweet rasgullas
Vibrant ghats along the river Spiritually palpable, especially Durga Puja
Pioneer of Indian cinema Legendary actors taking to theaters in South Kolkata
Architectural allure
The buildings of Kolkata offer exemplary expressions of imperial grandeur, social reconstruction and religious harmony that proudly endure decades of history.
Best Historical Sites
- Victoria Memorial Large white marble tribute to the British Queen
- Howrah Bridge Architectural cantilever wonder over the Hooghly River
- Marble Palace Opulent Victorian mansion with priceless art
- Nakhoda Mosque Captivating beauty of red brick indoors
- College Street Educational bookstores along the Presidential University
Culinary temptations
Food is an integral part of the neighborhood’s identity, with small streets known for specialized dishes that can be enjoyed at your leisure under twinkling lights.
Bengali signature dishes
- Mishti Doi – Sweetened yogurt tempered with cardamom
- Kosha Mangsho – Slow cooked mutton curry
- Chingri Malai Curry – Juicy shrimp in creamy coconut gravy
- Bhapa Ilish – Steamed Hilsa wrapped in banana leaves
- Sandesh – Fluffy delicacy of milk curd, shaped into a sweet dessert
Where to party
Tea Shops Strong aromatic brews with fried fritters
Candy shops Rosogolla, Misti doi, curd stacks and more!
Restaurants Continental, Mughlai cuisine with meat and vegetable dishes
Street buns, phuchka, jhalmuri stalls filled with mixtures
Best time for Kolkata trip
Visit Bengal’s epicurean gem during the winter months between November and March, when balmy sunshine and open azure skies make exploring pleasant along sidewalks dotted with vibrant orange shimul flowers.
The holiday spirit is also palpable with ornate idols under pandals, cultural performances and mouth-watering specialties. However, expect crowds and hotel costs to spike accordingly.
I hope this introduction helps you discover and immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the City of Joy, intertwined with modern landscapes, for an excellent journey through dynamic, dreamy and delightful Calcutta.