West Bengal · East India
City of joy, city of Durga
Kolkata combines the architectural legacy of British India with Bengali literature, theatre, art and an exceptionally varied food culture. Its riverfront, neighbourhood markets and working craft districts are as revealing as its grand museums and monuments.
Best time to visit
IdealGoodAvoid
Top attractions
- Victoria Memorial
- Indian Museum
- Howrah Bridge
- Dakshineswar Kali Temple
- Kumartuli
- Marble Palace
How to reach
- By air: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport is about 17 km from central Kolkata.
- By rail: Howrah Junction and Sealdah are major terminals; Howrah is about 5 km from the Esplanade area.
- By road: Kolkata connects to Bhubaneswar, about 440 km away, via NH 16 and to Durgapur, about 170 km away, via NH 19.
Local food to try
- Shorshe ilish
- Kolkata biryani
- Kathi roll
- Mishti doi
- Rosogolla
Things to do
Take a heritage walk around BBD Bagh
Watch idol-making in Kumartuli with permission
Browse College Street bookshops
Ride a public ferry across the Hooghly
Explore Bengali sweets and street food on a guided walk
Good to know
When is the best time to visit Kolkata?+
November to February is coolest. Durga Puja, usually in September or October, is culturally spectacular but very crowded.
How many days are needed?+
Three to four days cover major museums, riverfront areas and several neighbourhoods; add time for festival visits.
How can I travel around the city?+
The Metro is useful for many routes, while app taxis, buses and ferries fill gaps. Allow extra time for traffic and check current museum closure days.
Journeys here