Essential Travel Guide: What to Know Before Visiting Kolkata

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Kolkata (Calcutta) is a vibrant, historic city in eastern India known for culture, food, and colonial architecture. Plan for warm, humid weather, crowds, and a rich cultural experience.

Visa / Entry requirements

- Most foreign visitors need an Indian visa; check india.gov.in or your nearest Indian consulate for e-Visa and sticker visa options and apply well before travel.
- Ensure passport validity of at least six months and blank pages for stamping.
- Carry a printed copy of your visa and passport ID page while traveling.

Best time to visit

- October to March: pleasant temperatures (15–30°C), dry weather — ideal for sightseeing and festivals (Durga Puja if traveling in Oct/Nov when dates vary yearly).
- April to June: hot and humid; afternoon temperatures often exceed 35°C.
- June to September: monsoon season — heavy rains can cause localized flooding and slow transport.

Safety tips

- Kolkata is generally safe for tourists, but standard urban precautions apply.
- Avoid poorly lit or deserted areas at night; use trusted taxi apps (Ola, Uber) or pre-paid taxis from stands.
- Keep valuables secure and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded markets, trains, and on trams.
- Use bottled water; avoid tap water for drinking and ice from uncertain sources.

Local customs and etiquette

- Greet with a simple "Namaste" (folded hands) or a handshake in urban, business settings.
- Dress modestly for religious sites: cover shoulders and knees; women may be asked to remove footwear.
- Public displays of affection are frowned upon in conservative areas.
- Bargaining is expected in street markets but be polite and smile.

Currency and money matters

- Indian Rupee (INR). Carry cash for small purchases; cards widely accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, malls.
- ATMs are common but can run out of cash, especially during festivals — keep some reserve cash.
- Use official money changers or banks for currency exchange; avoid street exchangers.

Transport

Kolkata Travel Questions & Answers

Essential Travel Guide: What to Know Before Visiting Kolkata

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