Tourist places in Kolkata, Kolkata Travel Info
Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is the capital city of the Indian state of West Bengal and one of India’s most historically and culturally significant metropolitan cities. Located on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River, Kolkata served as the capital of British India until 1911 and played a major role in the country’s freedom movement, intellectual life, and artistic development.
Often referred to as the “Cultural Capital of India,” Kolkata is renowned for its literature, art, theatre, cinema, music, and intellectual traditions. The city is famous worldwide for figures like Rabindranath Tagore and institutions that shaped modern Indian thought. Today, Kolkata is a major center for education, commerce, ports, healthcare, and information technology. It is ideal for cultural travelers, heritage enthusiasts, business visitors, students, food lovers, and families.
Kolkata experiences a tropical climate with hot summers, a humid monsoon season, and mild winters. Summers can be intense with high humidity, while monsoon months bring heavy rainfall. Winters are pleasant and comfortable, making them the most popular season for travel.
The best time to visit Kolkata is from October to February, when the weather is cooler and the city comes alive with festivals, cultural programs, and outdoor events. Durga Puja, the city’s biggest festival, attracts visitors from across India and abroad.
Kolkata is one of the best-connected cities in eastern India. The city has an international airport with domestic and global connectivity. Major railway stations link Kolkata with all parts of India, and the city also serves as an important port.
Local transportation is extensive and affordable. Kolkata Metro is India’s oldest metro system and provides fast urban transit. Other options include buses, trams, auto-rickshaws, taxis, app-based cab services, and ferries across the Hooghly River. The city is known for its diverse and budget-friendly transport network.
Kolkata’s location allows easy access to historical, religious, and natural destinations in West Bengal. These nearby places are suitable for short trips and weekend travel.