Kolkata Travel Guide

Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) is a city of contrasts and contradictions, and one that has a lasting impact on its visitors. It is India's fourth-largest city, and home to some of the country's holiest temples and finest colonial structures.

As the 'Cultural Capital of India', Kolkata is said to have the biggest concentration of artists, writers and publishers in the country. Although it is the centre of Bengali culture, Kolkata is also a diverse city, with a diverse mixture of languages spoken among its 14 million inhabitants. Kolkata was home to two Nobel Laureates: Mother Teresa, whose humble home can still be visited, and writer Rabindranath Tagore. The city also accommodates sports fans, with Eden Gardens, the city's temple to cricket and the second-largest cricket stadium in the world, and Saltlake Stadium, one of the world's largest football venues, with an impressive crowd capacity of 120,000.

From 1772 to 1912 Kolkata was the capital of the British Raj, a legacy evident in its superb colonial architecture, highlighted by the enormous Victoria Memorial, and well-planned infrastructure. The latter half of the 20th century, however, saw Kolkata enter a period of decline, with rampant poverty and economic stagnation. It was only in the 1980s, under India's first democratically elected Marxist administration, that the city turned the corner.

Today, visitors making the journey to this eastern corner of the country will find a city that has rediscovered its pride and cultural identity, offering a Bengali welcome warm enough to seduce even the most jaded traveller.

Things to do in Kolkata

Kolkata is associated powerfully in the global imagination with the inspiring figure of Mother Teresa. Mother House, which her order still uses as a headquarters and where visitors can see her tomb and a small museum, is one of the top attractions in Kolkata. It is also a city of scholars, with many cultural attractions and some impressive colonial architecture. The India Museum, India's oldest, largest and arguably best museum, is a must for those interested in the history of the country. The lovely Victoria Memorial is celebrated as one of the architectural gems of the colonial period. The Marble Palace, an eccentric, privately owned mansion with some intriguing features is also very popular.

A deeply religious city representing several faiths, some striking temples often top the list of things to see in Kolkata. The Kalighat Temple is the city's holiest site, and those willing to brave the hordes of worshippers and pilgrims will find this attraction to be a profound experience. The Sri Mayapur Chandrodaya Temple, frequented by devotees of Lord Krishna, is popular with tourists; and the Dakshineshwar Kali Temple, stunning architecturally, is another favourite.

For a break from traditional cultural sightseeing, visitors can wander through the spooky 18th-century South Park Street Cemetery, or visit the Great Banyan Tree in the Indian Botanical Garden.

Kolkata photo

Kolkata

Kolkata is India's third-largest city, and home to some of the country's holiest temples and finest colonial structures. The 'Cultural Capital of India' is a diverse city with a diverse mixture of languages spoken among its 14 million inhabitants. It was also home to Mother Teresa, whose humble home can still be visited, and the famous writer Rabindranath Tagore. Kolkata is a city of many cultural attractions and some impressive colonial architecture. A deeply religious city representing several faiths, some striking temples often top the list of things to see in Kolkata.

Great Banyan Tree photo

Great Banyan Tree

The Indian Botanical Garden in Kolkata has many floral treasures, but none as impressive as the 250-year-old Great Banyan Tree, which covers nearly 5,300 square feet (500sq/m). What at first seems like a forest of narrow trunks is, in fact, 1,573 drop-roots from a single banyan tree. The gardens, located on the west bank of the Hooghly River, contain about 12,000 living plant species from every corner of the globe and offer some good bird watching opportunities and a quiet green space in which to walk, relax and picnic. There are many paths and trails to explore.

Victoria Memorial photo

Victoria Memorial

This astounding marble building is probably the most impressive colonial structure in India. In a city known for several great monuments and buildings, this palace is often considered the primary architectural gem and most iconic landmark. It was built to commemorate Queen Victoria (although she never actually visited the city) and only completed in 1921, after 20 years of solid work. Inside is a fascinating museum of Indian history, including some wonderful sculptures and paintings. The monument is situated on 64 acres of land, which includes lakes, gardens and walking paths.

Indian Museum photo

Indian Museum

With 60 galleries of art, archaeology and anthropology, this is India's largest museum, India's oldest museum, and quite possibly India's most attractive museum, housed as it is in a stunning, colonnaded palace. The Indian Museum was established in 1814 and the collection is vast and varied, including fossils, skeletons, coins, manuscripts, all kinds of Indian art and sculpture, traditional games, icons, puppets, toys, musical instruments and much more. The natural history collection is thought to be one of the world's finest and the museum library is famous for its impressive collection.

Mother House photo

Mother House

This humble and touching temple to Mother Teresa's life and work in downtown Kolkata is well worth a visit. Upstairs is a small museum, full of affecting and interesting displays. Visitors even have a chance to see Blessed Teresa's bedroom, preserved exactly as it was when she lived in the building. Tourists can also visit Mother Teresa's tomb and spend a quiet moment praying or reflecting in this inspirational place. Not so much an 'attraction' as a deeply emotional and inspiring insight into a life of self-sacrifice and devotion, a visit to Mother House makes a fine counterpoint to more traditional tourist pursuits.

Kalighat Temple photo

Kalighat Temple

This 350-year-old temple dedicated to Kali is Kolkata's holiest site, attracting a throng of excited pilgrims every day. Inside the temple there are several shrines: a Krishna shrine where goats and buffalo are sacrificed to the goddess (the meat is distributed to the poor); a shrine to the goddess Manasa that consists of a tree, to which devotees (typically women) tie rocks with red thread in order to receive blessings, usually regarding fertility; a Shiva shrine with a Vedic fire pit in which a fire ceremony is performed daily; and, of course, a shrine to Kali, which is a statue of the god with a three-eyed black skull and a long, golden tongue.

Marble Palace photo

Marble Palace

One of Kolkata's most unusual sites, this palace was built by a local member of the 19th century gentry in a marvellous patchwork of classical architectural styles. Lavish use is made of Italian marble, and the lawns contain an eclectic pantheon of statues including Christopher Columbus and the Buddha. The Marble Palace is a place of drama and dilapidation that, unsurprisingly, has frequently been used as a movie set. It remains a private residence, however, so visitors will have to arrange a permit to view the interior (a worthwhile activity, if only to gawk at the impressive art lining the walls). Permits can be obtained from the West Bengal Tourism Information Bureau.

Getting Around

Kolkata has one of the best transport networks in the country. The metro runs the length of the city, and trams and buses provide wide coverage as well. Car hire is available, with drivers included; Uber is another option. Tourists are advised to not even attempt to drive around Kolkata, which is simply too congested and chaotic and will be overly stressful for the uninitiated.

As in all Indian cities, traffic congestion is a problem that results in frequent, noisy gridlock. Walking from one attraction to the other is often the quickest way of getting around. Some of the attractions are conveniently close together, especially in some of the old, colonial neighbourhoods, but it is a huge city so some transport other than feet will be required.

Kolkata Climate and Weather

Kolkata experiences a tropical climate, with wet and dry seasons. Kolkata arguably has three seasons: summer, winter and monsoon. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures soaring as high as 104F (40C) during the months of May and June. The summer months are often punctuated with dusty squalls, followed by hail or thunderstorms, bringing slight relief from the humidity and heat. Winters are short, lasting only about two to three months, with temperatures dropping to 54F (9C) during the day between December and January. There are occasional showers in winter but the wet season is brought by the monsoon between June and September, when the city receives a lot of rain. Visiting during the monsoon season is not recommended.

The best time to visit Kolkata is in the cooler months between October and April. February is probably the best month of all from a weather perspective. Kolkata has a problem with pollution and there is regularly haze and smog in the city reducing visibility. In winter the mornings are often hazy and misty, but there is usually sunshine in the afternoons.

India travel info

Electricity

230 volts, 50Hz. A variety of power outlets are used in India, but most plugs have two or three round pins.

Language

India has a total of 22 official languages, including English and Hindi. Hindi is spoken by about 40 percent of the population; Urdu is the language common with the Muslim demographic.

Money

The currency is the Indian rupee (INR), which is divided into 100 paise (singular paisa). Major currencies can be changed at banks, and authorised bureaux de change. It is illegal to exchange money through the black market and it is advisable to refuse torn notes, as no one will accept them apart from the National Bank. It is best to change money into small denominations. Major credit cards are widely accepted, particularly in tourist orientated establishments. ATMs are available in large cities and airports but are not generally available in rural areas.

Tipping

Taxi drivers do not expect to be tipped, though it's standard to leave a gratuity for porters, guides, hotel staff and waiters in small establishments. A 10 percent service charge is often added to bills in tourist restaurants or hotels. 'Baksheesh' is common in India. It's more a bribe than a tip and is given before rather than after service.

Health

There are many health risks associated with travel to India. Although no vaccinations are required for entry into the country, travellers should take medical advice on vaccinations at least three weeks before departure. Outbreaks of dengue fever and chikungunya virus occur, and Malaria is common, particularly in the northeast of the country. Outbreaks of cholera occur frequently. Travellers coming to India from an infected area should hold a yellow fever certificate. Rabies is also a hazard; travellers should get immediate medical advice if bitten.

Food poisoning is the most common problem among travellers to India. Visitors should only drink bottled water and ensure that the seal on the bottle is intact. Travellers should avoid ice, as it's often made from tap water. Meat and fish should be eaten with care in all but the best restaurants, and should always be well cooked and served hot. Salads and unpeeled fruit should be avoided.

Health facilities are adequate in the larger cities, but limited in rural areas. Travellers should have comprehensive medical insurance, and carry a small first-aid kit complete with a traveller's diarrhoea kit and a course of general antibiotics.

Safety

Although the vast majority of trips to India are trouble free, there are some risks that travellers should be aware of. As in many countries, there is a threat of terrorism; in the past there have been attacks in popular tourist haunts such as hotels, markets and temples. Travellers should take caution at large religious events, where huge crowds can result in life-threatening stampedes.

On a more everyday level, there is a risk of minor theft such as pick-pocketing, and credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Travellers using India's vast railway network are advised to lock their baggage, and keep it close. Visitors should remember that if someone offers them a 'business opportunity' that seems too be good to be true, it probably is. Scammers usually target foreigners at airports and in tourist areas with scams involving the exportation of, among other things, jewels, gemstones, carpets. Taxi drivers may offer them money to export such items.

Female travellers should note that there are rare incidents of rape and assault. Women should respect local dress codes and customs, and avoid travel to secluded rural areas, including beaches, at any time of day. Foreign offices advise against travel to Jammu and Kashmir, as there are risks of civil disorder and acts of terrorism in many districts.

Local customs

India is a tolerant society, but visitors should educate themselves about the country's religious and social customs so as not to cause offence. In this regard, smoking in public is banned, and there is a ban on e-cigarettes and related products. Consumption of alcohol is prohibited in Bihar, Gujarat, Mizoram, Nagaland and the union territory of Lakshadweep; there is a partial ban in parts of Manipur.

When visiting temples, visitors will probably be required to remove their footwear and cover their heads. Generally, women should dress more conservatively than they may be used to doing at home, both to respect local sensibilities and to avoid unwanted attention. Topless bathing is illegal. Indians do not like to disappoint and, often instead of saying 'no', will come up with something that sounds positive, even if incorrect. Social order and status are very important in Indian culture, so it's important to remain respectful and obliging with elders. Visitors should avoid using their left hand, particularly when eating. Although homosexuality is no longer prohibited by law, Indian society remains conservative and public attitudes towards LGBT people can less tolerant than in the west.

Doing business

Business in India is conducted formally, with punctuality an important aspect. Suits and ties are appropriate, and women in particular should dress modestly. If it is very hot, jackets are usually not required and short-sleeve shirts are deemed appropriate. It is customary to engage in small talk before getting down to business, and conversation can cover a wide range of topics that may include anything from cricket to politics. Business cards are usually exchanged on initial introduction, using the right hand only. Handshakes are fairly common, though one should wait to see if greeted with a hand, or a 'namaste': a traditional Indian greeting of a small bow accompanied by hands clasped as if in prayer. Visitors should return the greeting as it is given. It is common for women to participate in business meetings, and hold high positions in companies, and foreign businesswomen are readily accepted. Business hours are usually from 9.30 to 5.30pm (weekdays) with a lunch break from 1pm to 2pm, and Saturdays from 9.30am to 1pm.

Duty free

Travellers to India over 18 years do not have to pay duty on 100 cigarettes or 25 cigars or 125g tobacco; two litre bottle of alcohol; medicine in reasonable amounts; and goods for personal use. Prohibited items include livestock, bird and pig meat products, and e-cigarettes.

Communications

The international access code for India is +91. International calls are expensive and there are often high surcharges on calls made from hotels. Buying a local SIM card is a good option, as international roaming fees can be high. Free WiFi is offered at cafes and hotels in major cities.

Passport & Visa

Indian law does not permit dual citizenship for nationals of India. An Indian national holding dual nationality should contact their embassy or consulate for further information. Passengers in possession of an "Overseas Citizen of India" card or a "Person of Indian Origin" card, however, are allowed to enter the country without a visa.

Travellers should note that a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required, if arriving in India within six days of leaving or transiting through heavily infected areas.

They should also note that the following areas of India are restricted, and require that visitors obtain a permit before entering them: (Protected Areas) parts of the state of Manipur, parts of the state of Mizoram, parts of the state of Arunachal Pradesh, parts of the state of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand, the whole State of Sikkim, parts of the state of Jammu and Kashmir, parts of the state of Himachal Pradesh; (Restricted Areas) the whole of the union territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, part of the state of Sikkim.

It is highly recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Entry requirements

US citizens must have a passport that is valid for their six months beyond the date of their visa application. A visa is required, except for passengers with a Person of Indian Origin (PIO) or Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card or booklet. E-visas can be obtained online before departure. Passengers using the e-visa for the first time must have a passport with at least two unused visa pages, and printed confirmation of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).

UK citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months from their date of entry into India. A visa is required, except for passengers with a Person of Indian Origin (PIO) or Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card or booklet. E-visas can be obtained online before departure. Passengers using the e-visa for the first time must have a passport with at least two unused visa pages, and printed confirmation of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).

Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for six months from their date of entry. A visa is required, except for passengers with a Person of Indian Origin (PIO) or Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card or booklet. E-visas can be obtained online before departure. Passengers using the e-visa for the first time must have a passport with at least two unused visa pages, and printed confirmation of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).

Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for six beyond their date of entry. A visa is required, except for passengers with a Person of Indian Origin (PIO) or Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card or booklet. E-visas can be obtained online before departure. Passengers using the e-visa for the first time must have a passport with at least two unused visa pages, and printed confirmation of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). Australian citizens can apply for visas online before travel provided they have a printed copy of the e-Toursit visa confimation that was applied for online, a passport containing at least two unused visa pages, and return or onward tickets.

South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for six months beyond their date of entry. A visa is required, except for passengers with a Person of Indian Origin (PIO) or Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card or booklet. E-visas can be obtained online before departure. Passengers using the e-visa for the first time must have a passport with at least two unused visa pages, and printed confirmation of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). South African citizens can apply for visas online before travel, provided they have a printed copy of the e-Toursit visa confimation that was applied for online, as well as a passport containing at least two unused visa pages.

Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid for six months beyond their date of entry. A visa is required, exept for passengers with a Person of Indian Origin (PIO) or Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card or booklet. E-visas can be obtained online before departure. Passengers using the e-visa for the first time must have a passport with at least two unused visa pages, and printed confirmation of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).

Citizens of New Zealand must have a passport that is valid for six months beyond their date of entry. A visa is required, exept for passengers with a Person of Indian Origin (PIO) or Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card or booklet. New Zealanders can apply for visas online before travel provided they have a printed copy of the e-Tourist visa confirmation that was applied for online, a passport containing at least two unused visa pages, and return or onward tickets; e-Tourist visas can only be issued a maximum of two times per calendar year.

Useful contacts

Indian Tourist Office, New Delhi: www.incredibleindia.org

100 (Police), 102 (Ambulance), 101 (Fire)

Embassies / consulates in other countries

Indian Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 939 7000.

Indian High Commission, London, United Kingdom: +44 (0)20 7836 8484.

Indian High Commission, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 744 3751/52/53

Indian High Commission, Canberra, Australia: +61 (0)2 6225 4900.

Indian High Commission, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 (0)12 342 5392.

Indian Embassy, Dublin, Ireland: +353 (0)1 496 6787.

Indian High Commission, Wellington, New Zealand: +64 (0)4 473 6390/1.

Embassies / consulates in India

United States Embassy, New Delhi: +91 (0)11 2419 8000.

British High Commission, New Delhi: +91 (0)11 2419 2100.

Canadian High Commission, New Delhi: +91 (0)11 4178 2000.

Australian High Commission, New Delhi: +91 (0)11 4139 9900.

South African High Commission, New Delhi: +91 (0)11 2614 9411.

Irish Embassy, New Delhi: +91 (0)11 4940 3200.

New Zealand High Commission, New Delhi: +91 (0)11 2688 3170.