Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is the capital and largest city of West Bengal, India. Located on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River, it is a major financial and commercial center in eastern India. The city has a rich history dating back to ancient times, with evidence of human habitation for over two millennia. The recorded history of Kolkata began in 1690 with the arrival of the English East India Company, and it has since grown into a bustling metropolis.
Kolkata is often regarded as the cultural capital of India. It has a vibrant cultural scene with numerous festivals, art galleries, and theaters. The city is home to several Nobel laureates and has a rich tradition of literature, music, and dance. Historical landmarks like the Kalighat Temple and various colonial-era buildings add to its cultural heritage. Kolkata is also known for its contributions to the Indian independence movement and its role as a hub for intellectual and artistic pursuits.
Situated in the lower Ganges Delta, Kolkata lies close to the border with Bangladesh. The city has a mix of elevations, from 1.5 to 9 meters above sea level. Originally a wetland area, much of Kolkata was reclaimed to accommodate its growing population. It experiences a tropical wet-and-dry climate, with hot and humid summers, a monsoon season, and mild winters. The East Kolkata Wetlands, a crucial ecological area, are internationally recognized for their importance. Kolkata is famous for its diverse and delicious cuisine, offering traditional Bengali dishes like fish curry, rice, and sweets such as rasgulla and sandesh. Street food is also very popular, with snacks like puchka (pani puri), jhal muri, and kati rolls being local favorites. The culinary scene in Kolkata reflects its rich cultural heritage, blending traditional recipes with influences from other parts of India and beyond.
Discover the beauty of Kolkata by visiting the magnificent Victoria Memorial, surrounded by lush gardens and stunning sculptures. Explore the historic Fort William, with its impressive architecture and fascinating past. Belur Math offers a peaceful and spiritual experience with its unique blend of architectural styles. The iconic Howrah Bridge provides breathtaking views, especially at night. The planetarium captivates with its engaging shows about the universe, while the Indian Museum, with its vast collection of artifacts, offers a deep dive into history and culture. Each of these attractions showcases the rich heritage and vibrant spirit of Kolkata.
Victoria Memorial is a grand white marble building in Kolkata, West Bengal, built in memory of Queen Victoria’s 25 years of rule over India. It resembles the Victoria Memorial in London and is surrounded by a lush green garden spread over 64 acres. The memorial features statues and sculptures, including a 16-foot tall bronze statue of victory atop the memorial. It looks stunning, especially when illuminated at night. The Sound and Light shows held in the evenings add to its charm, making it a must-visit to experience the Victorian era’s essence.
Fort William, located on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River in Kolkata, is a historic fortress built in 1696 during the British rule. Named after King William III, it covers 70.9 acres and boasts meticulous stonework and hundreds of arched windows overlooking beautiful gardens. Originally used as a prison (“the black hole of Calcutta”), it now serves as the headquarters for the Indian Army’s Eastern Command, accommodating up to 10,000 personnel. While interior access is restricted, visitors can appreciate its impressive architecture.
Belur Math, on the west bank of the Hooghly River, serves as the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission. Founded by Swami Vivekananda, it combines Hindu, Christian, and Islamic architectural styles symbolizing unity among religions. The temple complex, with its serene ambiance, includes a museum and educational institutions. The evening Aarti, held daily, is a quiet time for meditation, making it a unique spiritual experience.
Howrah Bridge, also known as Rabindra Setu, spans the Hooghly River and connects Kolkata and Howrah. It is one of the world’s longest cantilever bridges and is iconic for its grandeur, especially when illuminated at night. A ferry ride offers breathtaking views of the city skyline.
Indian Museum, established in 1814, is the oldest and largest museum in India, known locally as ‘Jadughar’. It houses a vast collection including paintings, Buddha relics, Egyptian mummies, and ancient sculptures. With 35 galleries covering Art, Archaeology, Anthropology, Geology, Zoology, and Economic Botany, the museum offers a fascinating journey through history and culture. A library and bookshop further enrich the visitor’s experience.
Hotels in Kolkata Experience luxury and history at a charming hotel housed in a grand villa dating back to the 1880s, just a short walk from the Hooghly River. For a comfortable stay with great ratings, consider another option set in a modern interior from the 1840s, conveniently located near transportation links and major attractions like the Victoria Memorial.
Housed in a palatial villa dating from the 1880’s, this elegant hotel is an 11-minute walk from the Hooghly River and 3 km from the Victoria Memorial.
₹6,878
5 Star Hotel
Vinayak Guest House is a great choice for travellers looking for a star hotel in Kolkata. This Hotel stands out as one of the highly recommended hotel in Kolkata.
₹1,200
3 Star Hotel
This upmarket hotel in downtown area is a 3-minute walk from the nearest bus stop, and half a kilometer from the Alipore Zoological Gardens, India’s oldest zoo.
₹7,765
5 Star Hotel
Built in 1841, this high-end hotel with a posh, modern interior is set a 6-minute walk from a metro stop and 3 km from marble Victoria Memorial.
₹5,355
5 Star Hotel
Hotels in Kolkata near Railway Station Discover comfortable accommodations near Kolkata’s railway stations, providing convenient access to both local transport and prominent landmarks. These hotels offer proximity to historical sites like the Victoria Memorial and cultural venues such as St. Paul’s Cathedral, ensuring a convenient and enriching stay for travelers exploring the city’s heritage and charm.
Along a bustling street with casual eateries, this no-nonsense hotel is a 10-minute walk from the nearest metro station and 2 km from both the Victoria Memorial.
₹1,731
4 Star Hotel
A 6-minute walk from Park Street’s lively bars and eateries, this casual hotel is a minute’s walk from a tram stop and 7 km from the Indian Museum Kolkata.
₹1,329
3 Star Hotel
Set on a tree-lined street, this informal hotel is 3 km from Ballygunge Junction railway station, 6 km from hands-on exhibits at the Science City Kolkata.
₹1,329
4 Star Hotel
This unpretentious hotel is a 14-minute walk from Rabindra Sadan metro station and 2 km from history exhibitions at the Victoria Memorial museum.
₹2,398
3 Star Hotel
Restaurants in Kolkata Indulge in Kolkata’s diverse culinary scene with a range of dining options to suit every taste. From renowned eateries serving authentic Mughlai delicacies to cozy rooftop spots offering South Indian and fast food delights, these establishments ensure a flavorful experience at reasonable prices. Whether you’re exploring traditional dishes or modern twists on local cuisine, Kolkata’s restaurants promise a satisfying meal in a welcoming atmosphere.
Haji Syed Mohammad Kalim built a small eatery more than 40 years ago to provide lip-smacking Mughlai dishes at pocket-friendly prices. The place garnered immense popularity in no time because they delivered palatable delicacies consistently at a very reasonable range.
₹200–600
ARSALAN being incorporated in the year 2002, is serving the food loving people of Kolkata with a variety of Mughlai dishes starting from a range of Tandoor’s, Kabab’s, Biryani’s, Nan’s, etc.
₹200–600
Rooftop Top View is a quick serving restaurant known to serve delicious South Indian and Fast Food cuisine. It offers both indoor as well as outdoor seating. The delicacies are available at pocket friendly prices. Rooftop Top View is located at Elgin Road, South Kolkata. The outlet stands inside the Vaibhav Plaza.
₹200–400
Experience the flavors of Kolkata at Danish Restaurant. Established in 2019, our fine dining restaurant offers a modern take on traditional Danish cuisine, using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
₹200–400
Banaras, also known as Varanasi, is well-connected by air, rail, and road, making it easily accessible from all major Indian cities. The city’s vibrant streets lead to mesmerizing sites, from ancient temples to bustling markets. Whether you’re flying into the local airport, arriving by train, or driving on the expansive national highways, Banaras promises a journey filled with cultural richness and historical depth, ideal for explorers and spiritual seekers alike.
Kolkata is well-connected by two main railway stations: Howrah and Sealdah. These stations link Kolkata to major cities across India, making travel convenient.
Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata is one of the busiest airports in India, handling a large number of passengers.
You can also reach Kolkata via well-maintained national highways and roads. State-run and private buses operate regularly, connecting Kolkata with cities like Puri.
Kolkata, often called the ‘City of Joy,’ boasts an extensive and affordable bus network that reaches every corner of the city and even the outskirts. There are various types of buses, including private buses, air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned government buses, and deluxe buses. These buses connect not only the city itself but also the surrounding areas of West Bengal.
Starting at Only 3₹/KM
Navigating the vibrant city of Kolkata has never been easier. Whether you’re a resident, a student, or a tourist, TransRentals cab services provide the perfect solution for all your local transportation needs.
Starting at only 9₹/KM
Auto-rickshaws are easy to find all over Kolkata. They usually have fixed charges for specific routes, but sometimes drivers might not use the meter. In such cases, it’s a good idea to ask a local about the usual fare for your route.
Auto-rikshaw is starting From 10.Rs
You can easily rent cars and bikes in Kolkata. Various options are available, from budget-friendly vehicles to luxury ones. If you love biking, you can rent your favorite motorbike model to explore the city at your own pace.
Starting at only ₹1499.
Kolkata, known as the cultural capital of India, is a famous city in the eastern part of the country. With its vibrant atmosphere, it offers a wide range of experiences for visitors. Like most parts of India, Kolkata has three main seasons: hot summers, a wet monsoon, and pleasant winters. Due to its coastal location and tropical climate, the best time to visit Kolkata is during the winter months, from October to February. During this period, the weather is perfect, and the city is alive with festivals and celebrations. The markets are full of fresh fruits and vegetables, and the overall atmosphere is welcoming and lively.
Summers in Kolkata, from April to May, are hot and humid, making it uncomfortable to explore the city. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings heavy rains that can disrupt travel plans, although the cooler temperatures can be enjoyable if you love the rain. However, winter is the ideal time for a visit, as the weather is pleasant, and the city hosts many cultural events, including the famous Durga Puja. So, plan your trip to Kolkata in winter and get ready for an unforgettable experience in a city rich with tradition and charm.
The Distance of Kolkata to Mumbai is (1,883.6 km) via ME-2
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The Distance of Kolkata to Delhi is (1,561.2 km) via NH 19.
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The Distance of Kolkata To Bangalore is (1,874.8 km) via NH16.
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The Distance of Kolkata to Chennai is (1,666.2 km) via NH16.
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When planning your trip to Kolkata, it’s essential to book your tickets and accommodations in advance, especially during the peak tourist season. This ensures you have a comfortable stay and can enjoy the city’s vibrant festivals without any last-minute hassles. Keep in mind that Kolkata is known for its rich cultural heritage, so it’s important to respect the local customs and traditions. Avoid disturbing heritage sites and monuments, as such actions are not only unethical but also punishable by law.
For a safe and enjoyable trip, be mindful of your health and food choices. Kolkata offers a variety of delicious street food and traditional dishes, but it’s wise to choose hygienic places to eat. Avoid consuming raw or uncooked food to prevent any stomach issues that might ruin your trip. While there are no strict dress codes, it’s best to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious or historical sites. This shows respect for the local culture and ensures you have a pleasant experience.
Safety is another key aspect to consider when exploring Kolkata. It’s advisable to walk in groups rather than alone, particularly in unfamiliar areas. Many tourist attractions require entry tickets, so make sure to purchase them from authorized sources. Attempting to enter without a ticket can lead to severe penalties. By following these simple tips, you can have a memorable and trouble-free visit to Kolkata, enjoying all that this culturally rich city has to offer.
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