Also called the 'City of Joy', Kolkata gives a deep insight into West Bengal's culture, heritage and gastronomical front. A thriving contemporary city, Kolkata has a lot of engaging experiences to offer to its visitors. From serving piping hot delicacies that have rich flavours, to Kolkata's larger-than-life festivities, this city is all that your imagination can hold and more. A visit to Kolkata will include lots of sightseeing, feasting and shopping at the best market places. With all these experiences to offer, no wonder, Kolkata is on every globetrotter's travel bucket list.
Things to do in Kolkata
Dwelled amid lush gardens and trees and housing numerous stunning artefacts, a tour to the world-famous Victoria Memorial Hall is a must during your trip to Kolkata. Build in the memory of Queen Victoria, this white-coloured settlement, welcomes over 20 lakh visitors from all across the globe. Apart from this, a visit to Fort William is also another intriguing experience to indulge in. Situated near the Hooghly River, this fort is an ancient building that represents Kolkata's colonial past. Also, when in Kolkata, do not forget to gorge on lip-smacking delicacies, which are exclusive to this city, including Kolkata Biryani, Cholar Dal and Macher Jhol.
Tourist attractions
The Marble Palace, Howrah Bridge, Tagore's House, Mother House and Sundarbans are the famous tourist attractions in Kolkata that are worth a visit. In addition to these, the Rabindra Sarovar is another popular attraction to be visited with your loved ones. Known to offer a spellbinding view of nature, this natural attraction is the perfect retreat destination.
Places to shop
Kolkata's bustling markets are the ideal spot to indulge in a much-needed shopping spree. Known to offer top-quality clothing items and other commodities, a visit to these markets will also allow you to get an insight into Kolkata's local life. Some of the shopping spots that are worth a visit are the New Market, Dakshinapan Shopping Centre and Bara Bazaar. Do not forget to head to the famous Oxford Store in Kolkata to buy second-hand books and other literature classics.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Kolkata is from October to February as the weather during this time is pleasant and ideal for travelling within the city.
Modes of transport
From local buses to ferries, Kolkata offers several means of transport to the commuters, making travelling in the city a convenient task. Auto-rickshaws and trams are readily available in Kolkata and are excellent for commuting swiftly within the city. Apart from this, you can also avail the services of Metro rails.
Weather in Kolkata
Kolkata experiences a tropical, wet and dry climate, and the annual temperature in this city is 24.8°C.
Airport in Kolkata
The Netaji Subash Chandra Bose International Airport also called Kolkata Airport (IATA: CCU), offers round-the-clock arrival and departure. Located 17 km away from the city, this airport provides Currency Exchange facilities and E-tourist Visa services to the passengers. IndiGo operates 100 daily non-stop flights between Kolkata and other domestic and international destinations.