How is the Weather in Kolkata?

Kolkata, a bustling city in Eastern India, is known for its rich cultural heritage and British Raj-era architecture. While it is a popular tourist destination all year round, one factor that visitors should keep in mind while planning their visit is the weather. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the weather in Kolkata throughout the year, and give you some tips on how to plan your trip accordingly.

Summer in Kolkata (March to June)

Kolkata experiences a hot and humid summer, with temperatures sometimes soaring up to 40°C. The hottest months are April and May, during which it can be very uncomfortable to be out in the sun. The humidity can make matters worse, making it feel like the temperature is even higher. However, summer is also the season for many festivals in Kolkata, including Holi, Poila Baisakh (Bengali New Year), and Rath Yatra.

If you’re planning a visit during the summer, be sure to carry light and breathable clothing. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat are also essential items to keep yourself protected from the harsh sun.

Monsoon in Kolkata (June to September)

The monsoon season in Kolkata starts in June and lasts till September. The city receives a fair amount of rainfall during this time, making it a relief from the blistering heat of summer. However, the humidity levels remain high, so it can still feel quite uncomfortable.

If you’re visiting Kolkata during the monsoon season, be prepared for occasional heavy rains. Carry an umbrella or a raincoat, and be extra careful while walking on the streets as they can get slippery and flooded. However, the rains also bring a refreshing greenery to the city and make it an ideal time for sightseeing.

Autumn in Kolkata (October to November)

Autumn in Kolkata is a time of festivities and celebrations. The humidity levels start to come down, and the weather becomes more pleasant. The city also gears up for Durga Puja, its biggest festival, during which the streets come alive with colorful pandals, lights, and music.

If you’re visiting Kolkata during autumn, be sure to attend Durga Puja celebrations and try out the delicious Bengali cuisine that the city is famous for. The weather is perfect for wandering around the city and soaking in the festivities.

Winter in Kolkata (December to February)

Winter in Kolkata is mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. It is a great time to visit the city, especially if you want to avoid the scorching heat of summer. The nights can get chilly, so be sure to carry a light jacket or sweater, especially if you plan to stay out late.

Winter is also the time for many cultural events and carnivals in Kolkata, including the Kolkata International Film Festival and the Kolkata Book Fair.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the weather in Kolkata can be quite challenging, especially during the summer months when the heat and humidity can be unbearable. However, with proper planning and preparation, you can enjoy the city all year round. Be sure to carry light and breathable clothing during the summer, an umbrella and raincoat during the monsoon, and a light sweater during the winter. With its rich cultural heritage and vibrant festivals, Kolkata is an experience not to be missed. If you are curious about activities that Kolkata has to offer, you will find a list of current tours and attractions here.

An Insider’s Guide to Exploring Kolkata

Welcome to Kolkata – a city known for its rich culture, artistic heritage, and delectable cuisine. Kolkata is located in eastern India, and formerly known as Calcutta. This city is a perfect blend of colonial and modern architecture, diverse culture, and rich history. In this guide, we will explore the city’s local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to make your trip to Kolkata a memorable one.

Weather in Kolkata

As the title rightly suggests, let’s start with the weather in Kolkata. The best time to visit Kolkata is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and mild. Temperatures usually range between 12-24°C (54-75°F) during the day, with occasional cold spells. The months of April to June are very hot and humid, and the monsoon season, between July and September, brings heavy rains and waterlogging. If you are planning to visit Kolkata during the summer or monsoon season, make sure you carry appropriate clothing and footwear.

Local Attractions

Kolkata has a rich cultural heritage and offers a plethora of local attractions to explore. Here are some must-visit places when in Kolkata:

– Victoria Memorial: This marble structure is a reminder of the British Raj in India and was built in memory of Queen Victoria. The memorial houses a museum that displays the history of Kolkata during the British period.

– Howrah Bridge: The iconic Howrah Bridge is a cantilever bridge that connects Kolkata with Howrah district. It is a symbol of Kolkata’s rich history and attracts thousands of tourists every day.

– Dakshineswar Kali Temple: Located in the northern suburbs of Kolkata, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali and is a prominent place of worship in the city.

Dining Spots

Kolkata is known for its mouth-watering street food, and the city offers a mix of sweet and savory dishes that you cannot miss out on. Here are some dining spots to try when in Kolkata:

– Park Street: This famous street in Kolkata offers a wide variety of dining options, from street food to fine dining restaurants.

– Dacre Lane: Located near Esplanade, this lane is famous for its Kolkata-style kathi rolls.

– Tiretta Bazaar: This area is known for its Chinese cuisine. The street food stalls offer delicious momos, noodles, and other Chinese delicacies.

Cultural Experiences

Kolkata has a vibrant cultural scene and offers several activities for tourists to delve into. Here are some cultural experiences when in Kolkata:

– Durga Puja: This is the largest festival in Kolkata and is celebrated in September or October every year. The festival celebrates the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura and includes elaborate pandals (mandaps), cultural performances, and delicious street food.

– Rabindra Jayanti: This festival is celebrated to commemorate the birth anniversary of Nobel-Laureate Rabindranath Tagore, the famous poet, writer, and musician. The festival takes place in May and includes cultural programs, plays, and musical events.

– Kolkata Literature Festival: This festival celebrates the rich literary history of Kolkata and attracts famous writers, poets, and literary enthusiasts from across the globe. The festival takes place in January.

Local History

Kolkata has a rich history, dating back to the 16th century when it was a small village. Here are some places to explore the city’s local history:

– Marble Palace: Built-in 1835, Marble Palace is a beautiful mansion that displays an exquisite collection of artwork, antiques, and sculptures.

– St. Paul’s Cathedral: This cathedral was established in 1847 and is an Anglican cathedral known for its Victorian-gothic architecture.

– Indian Museum: Established in 1814, the Indian Museum is the oldest museum in India and displays an extensive collection of cultural artifacts and natural history exhibits.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Apart from the famous tourist destinations, Kolkata has some hidden gems that are worth exploring. Here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

– Kumartuli: Located in North Kolkata, Kumartuli is the city’s traditional hub of potters who make clay idols of deities. The area is bustling with activity all-year-round, but the best time to visit is before Durga Puja when the idols are being made.

– College Street: Located in Central Kolkata, College Street is also known as ‘Boi Para’ or ‘Book Street’. It is a hub for book lovers and offers a wide range of books, from academic to fiction.

– Heritage Tram Tour: Kolkata’s heritage trams are over a century old and offer a unique way to explore the city’s historic sites and landmarks. The tour covers places like College Street, Howrah Bridge, and Victoria Memorial.

Conclusion

Kolkata is a city that exudes charm, history, and endless opportunities to explore. From its rich cultural heritage to its delectable cuisine, there is something for everyone in the city. Follow this insider’s guide to make the most of your visit to Kolkata and to explore the city like a true local.