Kolkata (West Bengal) FAQs In 2024

10 FAQS on Kolkata

What is the best time to visit Kolkata for tourism?

The best time to visit Kolkata is between October and February, when the weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15Â°C to 29Â°C. This is the perfect time to explore the city comfortably, as well as to witness the famous Durga Puja festival, which usually takes place in October.

Some of the top attractions in Kolkata include the Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Indian Museum, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, Belur Math, Eden Gardens, Science City, Marble Palace, and the Kalighat Kali Temple. Donâ€™t miss a ride on the historic trams or a visit to the College Street Book Market if you're a book lover.

Kolkata is known for its rich cultural heritage. Visitors can experience this by attending the Durga Puja festival, visiting art galleries such as the Academy of Fine Arts, watching a Bengali play in theaters like Nandan, or enjoying the classical music and dance performances held throughout the year.

Tourists can find authentic Bengali cuisine in restaurants like Oh! Calcutta, Bhojohori Manna, and 6 Ballygunge Place. Street food delights such as Kathi Rolls, Puchkas (Pani Puri), and a variety of sweets like Rasgulla and Sandesh are a must-try as well.

Kolkata offers many shopping experiences, from high-end malls like South City Mall and Quest Mall to traditional markets like New Market and Gariahat Market, where you can buy everything from clothing to handicrafts. Burrabazar is another shopping hotspot for wholesale prices.

Yes, Kolkata has a vibrant nightlife scene with clubs, bars, and pubs. Some popular spots include Someplace Else Pub, Roxy, and Tantra. However, nightlife tends to wrap up earlier compared to other metropolitan cities in India, so it's wise to check closing hours beforehand.

Yes, tourists can enjoy a variety of historical and heritage tours in Kolkata. Companies and guides offer walking tours of colonial-era buildings, boat tours on the Hooghly River, and cultural tours that showcase the city's history and evolution.

Tourists in Kolkata can choose from various modes of transportation including taxis, app-based ride services like Ola and Uber, the city's public bus service, the Metro Railway, trams, and auto-rickshaws. For a more local experience, hand-pulled rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are also available in certain areas.

Yes, Kolkata has several green spaces such as the Maidan, which is the largest urban park in the city. Other notable spots include the Botanical Gardens, which house the famous Great Banyan Tree, and the Alipore Zoological Gardens. Eco Park is a newer attraction with themed gardens and water activities.

Kolkata is generally considered a safe city for tourists. However, as with any other travel destination, it's always advisable to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas, and take normal precautions to safeguard your belongings. Avoid isolated areas at night and always book transportation through reliable services.