Kolkata Travel Guide, the ancient capital of India

Kolkata, the capital of the state of West Bengal in Indiais a vibrant and chaotic city with a strong cultural and colonial heritage. Formerly known as Calcuta (until 2001), this metropolis was the capital of British India until 1911 and continues to be an important center of art, literature and gastronomy in the country. Known as "The City of Joy", Kolkata is a destination that surprises with its mix of history, spirituality and urban life. And it is the seventh most populous city in India.

If you're planning a trip to this city full of contrasts, this Kolkata Travel Guide will help you discover the best places, activities, accommodation options and tips to enjoy Kolkata or Calcuta to the fullest.

Must-see in Kolkata: How many days do I recommend?

While Kolkata can be visited in two days by touring its main attractions,I recommend at least three days to experience the essence of the city.. Whether you are interested in exploring its markets, discovering its rich artistic and literary tradition or enjoying its unique gastronomy, you could stay up to five days without getting bored.

What to see and do in Kolkata

Kolkata is a city full of historical monuments, temples, museums and cultural experiences. I share with you a list of the 10 places you can not miss and other suggestions in case you do not know enough and if you want to extend your tour.

Top 10 must-see places to visit in Kolkata and things to do in Kolkata

1. Victoria Memorial

An imposing white marble building built in honor of Queen Victoria. It is now a museum with exhibits on the colonial history of India and beautiful gardens.

2. The Flower Market - Mullik Ghat Flower Market

Located on the banks of the Hooghly River and just below the Howrah Bridge, this market is one of the largest and most vibrant in Asia. From early in the morning, it is filled with color and fragrances with thousands of flowers. It is a visual and sensory spectacle perfect for photography lovers. In addition, the experience becomes spiritual since most of these flowers are destined for temples and religious rituals.

3. Howrah Bridge

This bridge is an icon of the city of Kolkata and is a one of the busiest suspension bridges in the world. Connects Kolkata with Howrah on the Hooghly River.

4. Dakshineswar Kali Temple

A temple dedicated to the goddess Kali, located on the banks of the Hooghly River. It is an important site of pilgrimage and spirituality in the city.

5. Kalighat Temple
The most important temple in Kolkata dedicated to the goddess Kali, the protector of the city. This temple accumulates long queues of pilgrims coming from all corners of India. There is usually a long wait to get in, but it is well worth it.

6. Park Street

It is one of the liveliest streets in the city, famous for its restaurants, cafes and nightlife as well as shopping.

7. Kumartuli Neighborhood

This is the neighborhood where artisans mold and paint thousands of the iconic statues of Hindu deities, especially for the Durga Puja festival, that takes place annually in Kolkata. A walk full of art and spirituality.

8. Mother Teresa's House - Missionaries of Charity Kolkata

This is an almost obligatory visit when in the ancient imperial city of Calcutta. A deeply moving place where you can visit the tomb of Mother Teresa.The place and the room where he lived until the day of his death and to learn more about his humanitarian work. The simplicity and spirituality of the place invite reflection and peace.

The orphanage is not located at the same address but if you want to visit it, it is only a 10 min walk away.

9. Indian Museum

It is the oldest museum in India, with an extensive collection of archaeological artifacts, fossils and historical pieces. For me personally is the museum I liked the most in India,super interesting and huge.

10. College Street and the Indian Coffee House

Known as the "street of books,it is the best place to buy second hand books and all kinds of school and college books.

And right there, it's the Indian Coffee House, an iconic coffee shop in the city and a historical meeting point for intellectuals and artists. I recommend you to have a cold coffee and some pakoras (they are delicious). In this place, I was writing my experiences in the city of Calcuta and I must say that the place inspired me a lot.

More attractions: what to see in Kolkata

1. Prinsep Ghat

A beautiful walk along the banks of the Hooghly River, ideal for watching the sunset and enjoy a quiet environment away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

2. Marble Palace

It is a 19th century mansion that houses an incredible collection of art and antiques, including European sculptures and paintings by great masters.

3. South Park Street Cemetery

An 18th-century colonial cemetery with historic tombs and a mysterious environment which makes it a fascinating place to visit.

4. Tagore House

The house museum of Rabindranath Tagore, India's first Nobel Prize winner, where you can learn more about his life and literary work.

5. Nakhoda Mosque

The largest mosque in Kolkata. It is an important place of worship and an interesting stop for lovers of Islamic architecture. It is an important place of worship and an interesting stop for lovers of Islamic architecture. It is also located in one of the most bustling and oldest neighborhoods of Kolkata, home to one of the largest and oldest wholesale markets in India. It is lined with narrow streets lined with stores selling everything from fabrics and clothing to spices, electronics and jewelry. The proximity of the Nakhoda Mosque to this bazaar makes it an important spot for traders and devotees alike.

The atmosphere around the mosque is vibrant and somewhat chaotic., the area has street food stalls, stores of all kinds and a constant flow of people. In addition, the Zakaria Street is famous for its traditional Muslim food, especially during Ramadan, when it is filled with stalls selling kebabs, biryani and sweets.

6. St. Paul's Cathedral

An Anglican cathedral with an impressive Gothic style. It is known for its stained glass windows and its bell tower, which offers beautiful views of the city.

7. Boat ride on the Hooghly River

Sailing on the Hooghly at sunset is a magical experience. You can enjoy panoramic views of the Howrah Bridge and the city skyline as the sun sets over the river.

8. New Market

One of the oldest and most popular markets in Kolkata, it is the perfect place to buy saris, spices, jewelry and all kinds of local products. It is the ideal place to practice the art of bargaining and experience the typical bustle of the city.

9. Belur Math

Situated on the banks of the Hooghly River, Belur Math is the home of the Ramakrishna Mission and an important spiritual center in Kolkata. Its architecture combines Hindu, Christian and Islamic styles, symbolizing the unity of all religions. It is a perfect place to stroll, meditate and enjoy the tranquility by the river.

Where to stay in Kolkata

Kolkata, known as the "City of Joy, offers a wide variety of lodging options for all budgets and styles of travelers. The key to choosing the ideal hotel is in the area where you stay, as the city is vast and each neighborhood has its own personality. From bustling Park Street to bohemian Sudder Street to trendy Salt Lake and New Town, there is something for everyone.

To help you decide, I have prepared a guide to the best areas to stay in Kolkata, along with recommendations of hotels that stand out for their location and value for money.

Best neighborhoods to stay in Kolkata

Park Street and Chowringhee: the heart of social and night life
If you like to be in the center of the action, Park Street is the best choice. This area is known for its lively nightlife, iconic restaurants and charming cafés. In addition, the proximity to attractions such as the Victoria Memorial, the Indian Museum and St. Paul's Cathedral makes it a perfect base for exploring the city.
It is ideal for those looking for luxury hotels as well as for travelers with average budgets. In this area, options such as The Park Kolkata and Hotel Casa Fortuna are highly recommended for their comfort and excellent service.

Sudder Street: the bohemian area for backpackers and travelers on a budget
Located near New Market and Esplanade, Sudder Street is a favorite of backpackers. Its streets are lined with inexpensive hostels, bookstores and cafes with a relaxed, multicultural atmosphere. It is the perfect place to meet other travelers and plan routes while enjoying a hot chai.
Here you will find hostels and small budget hotels, offering basic services.

Salt Lake and New Town: modernity and tranquility for business travelers
If you prefer a more modern and less chaotic environment, Salt Lake and New Town are ideal neighborhoods. These areas stand out for their wide avenues, shopping malls and parks. They are also the business and technology center of Kolkata, with modern hotels and international chains.
It is a good option for long stays and for business travelers, with hotels such as the ITC Royal Bengal and Novotel Kolkata Hotel and Residences that guarantee comfort and first class services.

Alipore and Ballygunge: residential neighborhoods with colonial charm
Alipore and Ballygunge are elegant residential neighborhoods known for their colonial houses, gardens and embassies. These are quiet and safe areas, ideal for families and those seeking a slower pace. without straying too far from the tourist attractions.
The Taj Bengal Kolkata in Alipore is an excellent choice if you want to enjoy luxurious surroundings with easy access to places like the Alipore Zoo and the Victoria Memorial.

Burrabazar and Howrah: for travelers who want to immerse themselves in the authenticity of Kolkata
If you are one of those who enjoy exploring traditional markets and the typical hustle and bustle of India, Burrabazar and the Howrah area will delight you. It's a chaotic but fascinating area, famous for its wholesale bazaars and the proximity to emblematic monuments such as the Howrah Bridge and the Nakhoda Mosque.
Here the hotels are simpler and more practical, focused on travelers seeking authenticity rather than luxury. It is ideal for being close to the Howrah train station and enjoying traditional markets and street food.

Experiences and activities

In Kolkata you can live unique experiences such as a gastronomic tour to taste the famous Kathi Rolls and the Rasgulla dessert, a boat ride on the Hooghly River, attend a Bengali dance or theater show, visit its bazaars...

Find the best experiences here to get the most out of your trip and, as always, remember to always travel with travel insurance. I travel with HeyMondo insurance as they have the best coverage and prices, and for being a reader of MiViajealaIndia you have a discount of 5% in this link.

The weather in Kolkata

Kolkata has a tropical climate with four distinct seasons: winter, summer, monsoon and autumn. The best time to visit is during the winter, when the weather is more pleasant. Here I detail each season for you to choose the best time for your trip.

Winter in Kolkata: November to February

• Winter in Kolkata: from November to February. Winter is the best time to visit Kolkata, with maximum temperatures between 20-26ºC and minimums of 10-15ºC. The days are sunny and the nights are cool, ideal for walking around the city.
• Summer (pre-monsoon) in Kolkata: from March to June. The summer is hot and humid, with highs of 30-40ºC and minimums of 25-30ºC. Wind chill is high and thunderstorms are frequent.
• Monsoon or rainy season: from July to September. During the monsoon, Kolkata receives heavy rains and humidity exceeds the 80%. Temperatures range from 25-32ºC and it is common for some streets to flood.
• Autumn (post-monsoon) in Kolkata: from October to November. Autumn is short but pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 24-30ºC and less rainfall. It is the time of the Durga PujaKolkata's most important festival.

Temperature in Kolkata

• May is the warmest month (with the maximum average high temperature at 35.4°C). 
• January is the coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature at 13.8°C).

Humidity in Kolkata

• July and August are the months with the highest humidity (83%). 
• February and March are the months with the lowest humidity (58%).

Rains in Kolkata

• July is the rainiest month with about 20.5 days of rain. 
• December is the least rainy month with only 0.9 days of rain.

You can read more about the climate in India in this article.

Shopping in Kolkata

Kolkata is a shopper's paradise, with a perfect combination of traditional bazaars and modern shopping malls. The city has a rich tradition of handicrafts and textiles, making it the ideal place to shop for silk saris, Bengali jewelry, terracotta handicrafts, leather goods and Darjeeling tea.

The bazaars are the soul of Kolkata's culture and I recommend you not to overlook them. There you will find everything from spices and fabrics to unique products that you would not imagine. Getting lost in its narrow and bustling streets is a sensory experience worthwhile.

New Market is one of the oldest and most emblematic markets in the city. Its covered aisles are full of small stores selling everything: saris, spices, jewelry and typical Bengali sweets. It is the perfect place to practice the art of bargaining and take home a unique souvenir.

On the other hand, Burrabazar is the largest wholesale market in Kolkata. Here you will find fabrics, costume jewelry and wholesale products at really good prices. But be prepared for hustle and bustle and overflow crowds.

If you like sarees and Bengali handicrafts, the Gariahat Market is a must-see. In addition, its street food stalls are ideal for tasting the famous kathi rolls and the puchkas.

Kolkata also has modern shopping malls for those looking for international brands. South City Mall and Quest Mall are the favorites, with trendy stores, cafes and restaurants for all tastes.

How to get to Kolkata

By plane

The Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) is the main entry point to Kolkata. It is located about 17 km The airport is located in the center of the city and offers frequent domestic and international flights. Once at the airport, the fastest way to get downtown is by cab. You can opt for prepaid cabs at the terminal or use apps like Ola Cabs and Uber. There is also a bus service that connects the airport with central areas, although it usually takes a long time due to traffic.
Recommendation: If you are looking for comfort and speed, it is best to book a cab with the app to avoid haggling and have a fixed price. Don't miss my article with tips for to find flight at the best price.

By train

Kolkata has two main stations: Howrah Junction and Sealdah Station, which are among the busiest in India. If you are traveling from other major cities, you are likely to arrive at Howrah, an iconic colonial building on the banks of the Hooghly River. The station is connected to the rest of the city by the subway and ferries that cross the river.
I recommend taking a cab from the station, as traffic can be chaotic. The app Ola Cabs is very practical for moving around.
Recommendation: If you have time, walk across the Howrah Bridge to enjoy the views of the river and the city.

If you are traveling by train, I recommend you to read my Guide "Trains in India"with many tips for your adventure.

By private car with driver

Traveling by chauffeured car is a good option if you want to discover the surroundings of Kolkata without complications. The National Route 12 (NH12) connects Kolkata with cities like Varanasi and Darjeeling. However, driving on your own is not recommended due to traffic and confusing signage.
Recommendation: Rent a car with driver to avoid the stress of driving in Kolkata's chaotic traffic. Prices are quite reasonable.

By bus

Kolkata has an extensive bus network, both public and private. Most of the intercity buses arrive at the Esplanade station and to the Karunamoyee Bus Terminal in Salt Lake. It is the most economical way, although not always the most comfortable.
Recommendation: Opt for air-conditioned (AC) buses if traveling during the summer.

Transportation in Kolkata

Metro

The Kolkata Metro is the fastest and most economical way to move around the city. It has several lines that connect the main tourist and commercial points. I recommend buying the Smart Metro Card if you plan to use it frequently. However, avoid rush hours, as it tends to get crowded.

City bus

Kolkata has an extensive network of public and private buses. They are inexpensive but often crowded and traffic can be chaotic. Opt for air-conditioned buses for long journeys.
Recommendation: Carry exact change and ask the driver if you have any doubts about the route.

Tramway

Kolkata is the only city in India that still has streetcars. They are slow, but a scenic and inexpensive way to get around the city.
Recommendation: Try a short drive through the Esplanade and College Street areas.

Auto Rickshaw or Tuk Tuk

Perfect for short trips and to avoid traffic in the bazaars. Most drivers do not use a taximeter, so agree on the price before getting in. Use the app Ola Cabs for fixed prices. I recommend that you read the article on the most popular scams in India and be aware of the scams around.

Cab

Yellow cabs are iconic in Kolkata. Many drivers prefer to agree on the price before starting the journey. To avoid problems, it is best to book with Ola Cabs , Uber.

Hooghly River Ferry

Ferries are an inexpensive and scenic option for crossing the river and offer spectacular views of the Howrah Bridge.
Recommendation: Take the ferry at sunset to enjoy the best views.

Kolkata Guide Map

Tours in Kolkata

Useful Apps and Websites in Kolkata

MyCityWay Kolkata: To find events, restaurants and places of interest.

Kolkata Metro Rail: For information on subway routes and schedules.

OlaCabs and Uber: To book cabs in a secure way.

Websites of interest

Official Kolkata Tourism website

Contact Embassy of Spain in India

I hope that this Kolkata Travel Guide 🚖 helps you plan your trip and enjoy this city full of history, culture and life.