Kolkata West Bengal, India Travel Guide
Winter (October to March): This period has pleasant, dry weather. October-November sees mild, post-monsoon conditions with decreasing humidity and temperatures from 20-30°C. December-February are the coolest months, 12-26°C with not much moisture in the air and minimal rain. March warms up to 20-35°C, humidity rising.
Summer (April to June): Kolkata experiences hot and humid conditions. Temperatures often exceed 35°C, sometimes reaching 40°C. High humidity creates uncomfortable conditions. Pre-monsoon showers during The month of may and June offer temporary relief.
Sightseeing and outdoor activities are best from October to March for comfortable weather. Festivals, especially Durga Puja, happen in October/November (dates vary), so book well in advance. Food tours and street food are more enjoyable from Between october And march. Photography sees clear skies in winter; monsoon gives spectacular views but rain and humidity pose challenges.
Image: A typical pleasant winter morning scene in Kolkata, ideal for exploration.
Peak Tourist Demand
Ideal weather, pleasant temperatures, low humidity, best for outdoor activities.
Higher accommodation/flight prices, larger crowds.
Transition Periods
Fewer crowds, potentially lower prices. Post-monsoon freshness in Sep/Oct.
March/April can be very warm and humid. Sep/Oct still retains residual humidity.
Summer & Monsoon
Significantly lower flight and accommodation prices, fewer tourists, lush green landscapes.
Intense heat/humidity. Heavy rainfall and potential flooding limit outdoor exploration.
Heavy and continuous rainfall can disturb daily life and travel plans. Waterlogging is common in some areas. Mosquito activity rises during this period.
Kolkata frequently experiences intense heat waves. Take precautions against heatstroke and dehydration. Stay indoors in the middle of the day day.
Prone to cyclonic storms in pre-monsoon (Apr-May) and post-monsoon (Oct-Nov).
Periphery of storms can bring heavy rains and blustery conditions.
Monitor weather forecasts during these months for safe travel.
If visiting during monsoon, carry a sturdy Umbrella or a Lightweight rain jacket.
Consider waterproof footwear to navigate occasional waterlogged streets.
Travelers to India, including Kolkata, must meet specific visa and entry requirements. Plan ahead for a smooth arrival.
Most foreign nationals need a visa to enter India. The type of a visa you require depends on your nationality and the purpose and duration of your visit.
Gather all necessary documents well in advance of your travel date.
This helps you plan your spending for accommodation, food, transportation, and activities.
Here is an approximate daily cost breakdown to help you budget for different travel styles. Prices are in Indian Rupees (₹).
Budget Traveler Daily Costs: Accommodation ₹500-₹1500 (dorm beds, basic guesthouses). Meals ₹300-₹700 (street food, local eateries). Transportation ₹100-₹200 (public transport). Attractions ₹100-₹300. Total Daily: ₹1000-₹2700 (approx. USD 12-32).
Mid-range Traveler Daily Costs: Accommodation ₹2500-₹6000 (mid-range hotels). Meals ₹800-₹1500 (good local restaurants). Transportation ₹300-₹700 (taxis, ride-sharing). Attractions ₹300-₹800. Total Daily: ₹3900-₹9000 (approx. USD 47-108).
A well-stocked personal health kit is an intelligent addition to your packing list for Kolkata. This for addressing minor ailments and comfortable travel.
Consult a healthcare professional well before your trip for personalized advice.
Kolkata contains a lot of communal and individual hospitals, including modern multi-specialty facilities.
This table gives a general overview of price ranges for various categories:
| Category | Item | Price Range (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | Hostels/Dorms | ₹500-₹1000 per night |
| Mid-range Hotels | ₹2500-₹5000 per night | |
| Meals | Street Food | ₹50-₹200 per item |
