Kolkata - Sudeep Layek

KOLKATA

Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is the capital of West Bengal and a city where tradition meets modernity. Kolkata is also known as the “City of Joy“. Once the capital of British India, it still holds a colonial charm while buzzing with modern energy. The city is famous for its artistic heritage and literary brilliance. Kolkata offers a unique blend of nostalgia, warmth, and charm, making it an unforgettable destination. It’s a place to discover, to experience, and to fall in love with.

Things to Know

Kolkata is the third most populated metropolitan region in India. In 1690, the British East India Company founded Kolkata as a trading post. Kolkata was the capital of British India until 1911. This is a city home to Asia’s first and oldest luxury hotel, built in 1840 as the Auckland Hotel by David Wilson and now known as The Great Eastern Hotel, along with the first metro and only tram network in India. Kolkata is a city that will stay with you long after you leave.

Language: Bengali (Bangla) is the primary language, known for its poetical and melodic nature, often referred to as the “language of emotions”. English and Hindi are commonly spoken. English is widely used in education, government and business.

People: The people of Kolkata are friendly and intellectual. They are known for their warm hospitality, making visitors feel at home. Their love for culture makes the city a truly unique destination. Intellectual discussions, or “adda,” over tea in local cafes are a classic Kolkata tradition.

Culture and Traditions: Everyone knows Kolkata for its great culture, like its art, literature, and music. The city is known as the cultural capital of India. Kolkata is the city where writers like Rabindranath Tagore and Satyajit Ray were born. The city celebrates art and culture through events like the Kolkata International Film Festival and the Durga Puja, a UNESCO-recognized cultural heritage event.

Festivals & Celebrations: Durga Puja, The grandest and most awaited festival in Kolkata, is dedicated to Goddess Durga. Some other popular festivals include: Kali Puja, Diwali (festival of lights), Pohela Boishakh (Bengali New Year), Holi (festival of colours), Saraswati Puja, Christmas, Eid al-Fitr, Poush Mela, Rath Yatra, and Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF). These are just a few of the many festivals that bring colour and joy to Kolkata. Kolkata’s festivals reflect its rich traditions, art, and joyful spirit.

Money and Cost

Kolkata is considered one of the most affordable metropolitan cities in India, offering a wide range of options for every budget. This blog provides useful tips on budgeting, accommodation, transportation, and local experiences to help you plan a memorable and affordable journey.

Accommodation

Budget: 400 INR to 1000 INR ($5 to $12) per night
Mid-range: 1000 INR to 5000 INR ($12 to $60) per night
Luxury: 5000 INR + ($60 +) per night

Meal for one

Budget: 50 INR to 200 INR ($1 to $3)
Mid-range: 200 INR to 1000 INR ($3 to $12)
Luxury: 1000 INR + ($12 +)

Transport

Autorickshaw, local taxi, bus, train, metro rail, privet cab, flight, UBER, OLA, Rapido etc. are available.

Autorickshaw, local bus, local train, metro rail: 20 INR to 200 INR ($0.3 to $3)
Metro rail: Kolkata’s metro system is an efficient way to navigate the city.
Intercity bus, train: 500 INR to 5000 INR ($6 to $60)
Privet cab, UBER, OLA: 300 INR to 1000 INR ($5 to $12) per 10Km
Bike rentals: 500 INR to 3000 INR ($6 to $40) per day
Ferry service: Passenger ferry services are available for short routes.

Average daily cost: 2000 INR to 20,000 INR ($25 USD to $250 USD).

Best Time to Visit

You can visit Kolkata any time of the year, but the best time to enjoy its charm is after the monsoon and in winter. At this time, the weather is pleasant, and the city is full of festivals and celebrations.

October to March: The weather is generally cool and dry, making it comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Explore iconic places like the Victoria Memorial and Howrah Bridge without the hot weather. During this time, Kolkata celebrates big festivals, including Durga Puja, Kali Puja, Diwali and Christmas, which transforms the city into a colorful cultural place.

How to Reach

Kolkata is well-connected to major Indian cities and international destinations by air, rail, road, and even waterways.

By Air: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport is the main international airport serving the city, with excellent connectivity to major Indian cities and international destinations. You can easily travel to and from the airport using taxis, app-based cabs, or shuttle services.

By Train: Kolkata is a major railway hub with numerous trains connecting it to cities across India. Howrah and Sealdah Railway Stations are two of India’s busiest railway hubs, with excellent connectivity to all parts of the country.

By Road: A network of national highways connects Kolkata to neighbouring states. Long-distance buses, including government-run and private services, operate to and from Kolkata. Esplanade and Karunamoyee are major bus terminals in the city.

By Water: While water travel is not the primary mode of transport, ferries and river cruises operate along the Hooghly River, offering unique views of the city.

Traveling to Kolkata is very easy because of its strong transport network, so you can spend your time enjoying the city.

Safety in Kolkata

Kolkata has a relatively low crime rate compared to other major cities in India. Its warm and welcoming atmosphere makes it a comfortable destination for travellers, including solo explorers and families. The locals are known for their helpful nature and often assist travellers with directions or information.

However, like any major tourist destination, it’s essential to take some basic safety precautions while travelling to Kolkata. Keep an eye on your valuables, especially in crowded areas. Trust your instincts and be cautious in unfamiliar areas. Use reputable transportation and stick to pre-booked transportation whenever possible.

Women travellers generally find Kolkata to be safe, even when exploring solo. Moving around during the day is safe, but at night, it’s best to stay in well-lit and busy areas. App-based cab services like Uber, Rapido, Ola etc. are reliable options to get around at night.

Stay hydrated. Carry water with you, especially during the hot season. It’s better to drink bottled water and avoid tap water unless properly filtered.

Be aware of the monsoon season. Heavy rainfall may cause flooding in some areas. Stay updated with weather forecasts and follow any advisories issued by local authorities.

Historical Overview

Kolkata, once known as Calcutta, was established as a trading post by the British East India Company in 1690. It developed very fast and became the capital of British India from 1772 to 1911. During this period, Kolkata emerged as a cultural and intellectual hub, earning the title “City of Joy.” The city played an important role in India’s struggle for independence, with leaders like Subhas Chandra Bose and movements that inspired the nation. After independence, Kolkata kept its cultural importance and remains a vibrant blend of colonial heritage, art, and modern growth.