Kolkata Tourism & Travel Guide - A Complete Information

Kolkata is a culturally rich city in eastern India, blending tradition with modernity. It offers a vibrant literary and artistic heritage, diverse culinary delights, and warm hospitality. Explore its colonial architecture, festivals, and spiritual sites for an enchanting travel experience.

Kolkata, also known as the “City of Joy,” is a culturally rich and vibrant city located in eastern India. The city is renowned for its literary and artistic heritage, with many famous poets, writers, and filmmakers hailing from Kolkata. It is also a city of festivals, with Durga Puja being the most significant and widely celebrated. Kolkata’s culinary scene is diverse and delectable, offering a wide range of street food delicacies and traditional Bengali sweets. The city is also home to numerous temples, mosques, and churches, offering spiritual solace to visitors. Kolkata’s unique blend of history, culture, and culinary delights makes it a captivating city to explore and experience.

Kolkata Historical Significance

Kolkata holds immense historical significance as it was the capital of British India until 1911. It played a pivotal role in India’s struggle for independence and was a center for revolutionary activities. The city witnessed significant events like the Partition of Bengal in 1905 and the Quit India Movement in 1942. Kolkata was also the birthplace of many prominent freedom fighters and intellectuals who shaped the course of Indian history. Its colonial architecture and historical landmarks stand as a testament to its rich past.

Facts About Kolkata

Major Attractions	Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, Marble Palace, Indian Museum
Language Spoken	Bengali, English, Hindi, Urdu, Nepali
Must Buy	Sarees, Terracotta handicrafts, Bengali sweets, Handloom textiles, Tea
Time Zone	GMT+5:30
Experiences	Durga Puja, Tram ride, Boat ride on the Hooghly River, Heritage walk, Cultural performances
Cuisines	Macher Jhol, Shukto, Aloo Posto, Kosha Mangsho

Festivals in Kolkata

Durga Puja: Durga Puja is the most significant and widely celebrated festival in Kolkata. It is a ten-day festival dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga, the embodiment of female power.
Kolkata International Film Festival: – This annual film festival attracts filmmakers, actors, and cinema enthusiasts from around the world. It showcases a diverse range of films, including international and regional cinema.
Christmas: – Kolkata celebrates Christmas with great enthusiasm and joy. The city is adorned with colorful lights, and churches are beautifully decorated for the occasion.

Travel Tips To Visit Kolkata

Dress Respectfully at Religious Sites: When visiting temples and religious sites, it is important to dress modestly as a sign of respect for the local customs and traditions.
Stay Hydrated, Especially in Summer: Kolkata’s summers can be hot and humid, so it is crucial to stay hydrated. Carry a water bottle with you and drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.
Protect Yourself from the Sun: Don’t forget to apply sunscreen and wear sunglasses to shield yourself from the sun’s rays. This will help prevent sunburn and protect your eyes from harmful UV radiation.
Bargain at Local Markets: When shopping for souvenirs at local markets, feel free to engage in bargaining. It is a common practice and can often lead to getting a better deal on your purchases.
Show Respect for Local Customs: Interacting with the locals in Kolkata, it is important to show respect for their customs and traditions. Be mindful of cultural norms and practices, and adapt your behavior accordingly.

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TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN KOLKATA

Belur Math Shrine

Sprawling over forty acres of land on the west bank of the Hooghly River the Belur Math Shrine in Kolkata is a place of pilgrimage. It is also the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission. The Math campus includes temples that are dedicated to Sri Ramakrishna, Sarada Devi and Swami Vivekananda. The foundation stone of the Math was laid on 16th May 1935, and the structure was built under Swami Vivekananda's guidance, incorporating the features and symbols of all religions across the world, into a single structure. This is something unique to the organisation.

Belur Math Entry Fee: Nil

Note - Photography is strictly prohibited inside all temples and museum in Belur Math

Howrah Bridge

A trip to Kolkata cannot be complete without seeing Howrah Bridge and a memorable token of its photographs. The suspended bridge was constructed in the British Raj, built back in 1943 and became immortalised in many Bollywood and Hollywood films. The old Howrah Bridge is also known as Ravindra Setu. Its identity is much more than the townships of Kolkata and other neighbourhoods. The splendour of the Howrah Bridge while flying over Kolkata International Airport will spontaneously catch your attention. Walking on Kolkata Howrah Bridge in the evening, amidst the cool breeze coming from the river, watching the ships and boats passing under the bridge will prove to be an unforgettable experience. If you are in Howrah then do not forget to visit this beautiful romantic place.

Howrah Bridge Timings: 24-hours

Howrah Bridge Entry Fees:Nil

Victoria Memorial Hall

The Victoria Memorial in Kolkata, West Bengal is reminiscent of the British era and it was the royal heritage of the British era. The Victoria Memorial Hall Kolkata is considered to be the best tourist destination and is being thrived by the tourists throughout the year.

This beautiful edifice made of white marble and was built in the memory of Queen Victoria. It was built to commemorate her 25 years of rule over India. This monument not only bears artefacts of the British era in India but stands out as an example of sophisticated and exquisite architecture in the Indo-Saracenic Revivalist style. The Victoria Memorial hall Kolkata houses various galleries, with the Royal Gallery featuring masterpieces by Janssen and Winter Halter, which skilfully depict the life of Prince Albert while the Calcutta Gallery is revered to be the first City Gallery in the country. The lush and well-maintained garden, spread over 64 acres, has many sculptures. This monument looks very beautiful amidst shimmering lights at night.

Victoria Memorial Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Monday closed)

Victoria Memorial Entry Fees: INR 20 for Indians, INR 200 for foreigners, School Children upto 12th class do not have to pay entry fees.

EXPLORE TOUR PACKAGES

6 Nights & 7 Days

Darjeeling & Gangtok Honeymoon Package

3 Nights & 4 Days

Darjeeling Vacation Package

5 Nights & 6 Days

West Bengal Vacation Package: Darjeeling & Gangtok

13 Nights & 14 Days

Northeast Vacation Package: West Bengal & Odisha

9 Nights & 10 Days

Northeast India Vacation Package

5 Nights & 6 Days

Sundarbans Wildlife Tour Package

THINGS TO DO IN KOLKATA

Boating

Experience the charm of Kolkata by taking a boat ride on the Hooghly River. Enjoy panoramic views of the city’s skyline, witness the bustling activity along the riverbanks, and soak in the serene ambiance.

Cultural Performance

Immerse yourself in Kolkata’s vibrant cultural scene by attending a traditional dance or music performance. Experience the rich heritage of classical dance forms like Kathak and Odissi, or enjoy a live music concert.

Tram Ride

Hop on a tram and experience the nostalgia of Kolkata’s iconic mode of transportation. Take a leisurely ride through the city’s streets, witnessing the daily life and architectural beauty along the way.

BEST TIME TO VISIT KOLKATA

SUMMER SEASON

(March to May)

The summer season in Kolkata is hot and humid. It can be uncomfortable for outdoor activities, but if you can handle the heat, you may find good deals on accommodations.

MONSOON SEASON

(June to September)

Kolkata experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season. The city gets a refreshing respite from the scorching heat, but the downpours can sometimes disrupt outdoor plans.

WINTER SEASON

(October to February)

The winter season is the best time to visit Kolkata. The weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. It is ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city’s attractions.

HOW TO REACH KOLKATA

By Flight

By Train

By Road

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport is the primary airport serving Kolkata. It is well-connected to major cities in India and international destinations. Several domestic and international airlines operate regular flights to and from Kolkata.

Kolkata is a major railway hub with multiple railway stations. Howrah Junction and Sealdah Railway Station are the two main railway stations in the city. They are well-connected to various cities across India.

Kolkata is well-connected to neighboring cities and states through a network of national highways and state highways. You can reach Kolkata by road through private cars, buses, or taxis.