What is the Best Time to Visit Kolkata?

Kolkata, the third most populous metropolitan area in India and the hub of India’s culture, is a must-visit destination. It is a vibrant city that attracts many tourists to visit every year. The City of Joy, as it is known, offers a unique experience for all its visitors. The myriad of cultures, languages, terrains, and attractions make it the perfect place for any traveler. But with so much to do, the question arises – what is the best time to visit Kolkata?

The answer depends largely on the kind of experience that you are looking for. To ensure that you make the most out of your visit, here is our guide on the best times to visit Kolkata and the factors which you should consider when deciding your schedule:

Factors to Consider When Picking Your Ideal Time for Visiting Kolkata

1. Weather: Kolkata experiences three distinct seasons, from spring to winter with monsoon in between. Depending on your climate preference, you can pick your preferred time to visit.
2. Festivals: Kolkata is known for its famous festivals such as Durga Puja, Kali Puja and Diwali. Participating in these festivities is one of the main reasons why travellers flock to this city. If you are looking for interesting ways to experience the culture and meet some locals, then it is best to visit during these occasions.
3. Crowds: If you are looking for a peaceful holiday away from the hustle and bustle of city life, then you may want to avoid peak tourist seasons. The months of October and November usually attract large crowds who come here to observe the various festivals.

Weather

Kolkata’s weather can be broadly categorized into three seasons: winter, summer and monsoon. In summer, the temperature can soar up to 44°C in May, making it one of the hottest months of the year. Winters in Kolkata may not be particularly cold—the average temperature remains around 21-25 °C—but the nights are much cooler than during summer. As for monsoon, this time of the year is when the city receives maximum rain, making it one of the wettest cities in India.

Festivals

If you have a penchant for festivals and cultural celebrations, then Kolkata is your perfect choice of destination. The city has a number of popular festivals throughout the year, making it an attractive spot for tourists from around the world. From Diwali to Christmas, Ganesh Chaturthi to Saraswati Puja, Kolkata is home to a variety of celebrations. During these times there is lots to see and do across the city. Local shops are adorned with lights and decorations and street markets come alive with activities and music. Local people flock in large numbers to take part in the festivities, so make sure you keep an eye out for those!

Crowds

Kolkata can get pretty crowded during peak tourist seasons like October and November thanks to tourists who come here to attend its renowned festivals. This can be a great time to experience the festival atmosphere with lots of stalls and festivities, but you might be competing for space with lots of other tourists! To avoid this rush and make sure you have adequate breathing space, it’s best to pick your time before or after touristic seasons for your visit.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Kolkata has lots of great experiences on offer for travellers of all kinds regardless of the time of year that they choose to visit. Of course, depending on your interests and preferences, you may want to pick your ideal time by factoring in all the considerations mentioned above. From spring weather, fascinating festivals and revelling crowds to fascinating air pollution levels, manageable prices, varied cuisines – all this makes this City of Joy one of the most interesting places to explore in India! Also make sure you check out MakeMyTrip for some great accommodation deals while planning your trip.

The Insider’s Guide to Kolkata: What to See, Eat, Experience and Explore

Kolkata, the cultural capital of India, is best visited between October and February when the weather is pleasant and dry. With a vibrant history and rich cultural heritage, Kolkata provides tourists with a plethora of unique experiences not found elsewhere. Here’s an insiders’ guide to discovering lesser-known attractions, indulging in delectable food and soaking up the city’s diverse culture.

Local Attractions: Discovering Hidden Gems

While Kolkata is home to popular tourist attractions, it’s the hidden gems that capture the city’s spirit, history and charm. One such gem is Kumartuli – a hub of clay idol makers, embroiderers and artisans that breathe life into Kolkata’s festivals like Durga Puja and Kali Puja. Visitors can watch artists work on intricate clay models, indulge in conversations with creators and even order customised statues as mementos. Other such hidden gems include the historic South Park Street cemetery with its ornate Gothic tombs and the vibrant College Street – the world’s largest second-hand bookstore.

Dining in Kolkata: Exploring the City’s Food Culture

Kolkata has always been known for its sweets, and a visit to the city isn’t complete without trying Sandesh, Rasgulla, Rasmalai and Mishti Doi. However, Kolkata’s cuisine runs deeper than just sweets. The city boasts of an extensive street food culture with mouth-watering, spiced up local delicacies like Puchka, Jhal Muri, Ghugni, and Kathi Rolls. For a unique culinary experience, step into the culinary institution that is ‘Kewpies Kitchen’ to savour authentic Bengali thalis, where food is served in traditional earthen pots and plates.

Cultural Experiences: Diving into Kolkata’s Traditions and Festivals

Kolkata is a city that comes alive during its numerous festivities and traditions. Visitors can participate in the annual Durga Puja – an event that sees Kolkata’s streets bursting with colourful lights, music, and food. For art enthusiasts, the Birla Academy of Art and Culture offers a glimpse into Kolkata’s contemporary art scene, and the local theatre houses like the Academy of Fine Arts and Nandikar showcase traditional shows that delve into Bengali culture and literature. Other attractions include the various local bazaars such as Gariahat Market and New market, that offer an authentic glimpse into the local lifestyle, shopping and cuisine.

Local History: Unravelling the City’s Fascinating Past

Kolkata is a city with a deep and rich history that dates back more than three centuries. Visitors can get a glimpse of Kolkata’s fascinating past by visiting iconic landmarks such as the Victoria Memorial, St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Howrah Bridge. A walk along the iconic Maidan or Red Road can lead visitors to learning about the city’s colonial past. The Indian Museum is an institution that boasts of a vast collection of exhibits, artefacts, and archives that provide insight into the city’s past and heritage.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unique and Unforgettable Experiences

Kolkata is a city that offers countless opportunities for those looking to explore beyond the conventional touristy spots. A visit to the Marble Palace Mansion is a must for the art connoisseur. It’s now a privately owned museum of art and curios. Take a ferry ride to the little-visited Sundarbans mangrove forest, a UNESCO world heritage site, where visitors can catch a glimpse of the elusive Bengal tiger. Head to Park Street during Christmas for a vibrant display of Christmas lights and decorations, and for a unique evening visit, take a metro ride to the offbeat metro station of Mahanayak Uttam Kumar or experience the Electric Tram Car that makes its way through the heart of Kolkata.

Kolkata has something in store for every visitor – a city that has its charm rooted in its past and its thriving present. This insider’s guide can help tourists discover some of the lesser-known jewels, dive deeper into Kolkata’s food culture, traditions, and history, and create unforgettable memories of their visit to this vibrant city.