Kolkata Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
Planning & Logistics (1-15)
1. Q: What is the best time of year to visit Kolkata?
A: The absolute best time is from October to February. The weather is pleasant, cool, and sunny, perfect for exploring. Avoid the scorching heat and humidity of April-June and the heavy monsoon rains of July-September.
2. Q: How many days are enough for Kolkata?
A: Most travelers suggest 3-4 full days is a good amount to cover the main highlights without rushing.
3. Q: Is Kolkata safe for solo female travelers?
A: Generally, yes, especially in well-populated areas. Travelers advise dressing modestly, using pre-paid taxis or Uber/Ola at night, and avoiding isolated areas after dark. Standard big-city caution applies.
4. Q: What’s the best area to find accommodation?
A: Sudder Street (near New Market) is the classic backpacker hub. Park Street is great for mid-range to luxury hotels and nightlife. Ballygunge and Southern Avenue are more residential and peaceful.
5. Q: Should I book hotels in advance?
A: For the peak season (Dec-Feb), yes. For other times, you can often find good deals last minute, but booking ahead is always safer.
6. Q: What is the main airport and how do I get to the city from there?
A: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU). Take an Uber/Ola (most recommended), a pre-paid taxi, or the modern Airport Express Bus Service which is very cheap and comfortable.
7. Q: Is public transport easy to use for tourists?
A: The Kolkata Metro is efficient, cheap, and a great way to beat the traffic. Buses can be crowded and confusing for first-timers. Trams are a slow but charming experience.
8. Q: Are Uber and Ola reliable?
A: Yes, very. They are the most convenient and hassle-free way to get around, as the meter is automatic. Often cheaper than auto-rickshaws for longer distances.
9. Q: How should I get around for short distances?
A: For a truly Kolkata experience, take a hand-pulled rickshaw for a short ride in North Kolkata. Auto-rickshaws also ply on specific routes and are cheap.
10. Q: Do I need to haggle for rides?
A: With Uber/Ola, no. With yellow taxis, always insist on the meter (“meter chalu”). If they refuse, walk away and find another. For auto-rickshaws, agree on the price before you get in.
11. Q: Is Kolkata a walkable city?
A: Certain areas are great for walking, like the Park Street-Maidan area and the College Street book market. However, sidewalks can be uneven and crowded, so wear comfortable shoes.
12. Q: What should I pack for Kolkata?
A: Light, breathable cotton clothes for the day, a light jacket for winter evenings, comfortable walking shoes, an umbrella if visiting during monsoon, and all necessary medications.
13. Q: Is it easy to find ATMs?
A: Yes, ATMs are widely available all over the city. It’s still a good idea to carry some cash for small shops, rickshaws, and local markets.
14. Q: What’s the language barrier like?
A: You can easily get by with English in hotels, restaurants, and with most younger people. Learning a few Bengali phrases like “Dhanyabad” (Thank you) will be appreciated.
15. Q: Any specific cultural etiquette I should know?
A: Dress modestly when visiting temples. Use your right hand for giving and receiving money/eating. It’s polite to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home.
Food & Drink (16-35)
16. Q: What is the one food I must try in Kolkata?
A: The Kolkata Kathi Roll (paratha wrapped around a filling, usually egg and chicken/mutton). Also, the city’s signature Macher Jhol (fish curry) and Bengali Sweets.
17. Q: Where can I get the best Bengali food?
A: For a classic, no-frills experience, travelers love Kewpie’s and 6 Ballygunge Place. For a more modern twist, try Oh! Calcutta.
18. Q: Is Kolkata street food safe for tourists?
A: Generally, yes, but be cautious. Stick to busy stalls with high turnover. Avoid raw salads and drink only bottled or filtered water. Puchkas (pani puri) are a must-try from a reputable vendor.
19. Q: What’s the deal with “Kosha Mangsho”?
A: It’s a rich, slow-cooked mutton curry that is a Bengali specialty. It’s a must-try for non-vegetarians.
20. Q: Where is the best place for a Kathi Roll?
A: Nizam’s in New Market is the legendary birthplace of the Kathi Roll. Kusum Rolls on Park Street is also a top contender.
21. Q: What are some must-try Bengali sweets?
A: Rosogolla, Sandesh, Mishti Doi (sweet yogurt), and Pantua. Go to iconic places like KC Das, Balaram Mullick & Radharaman Mullick, or Ganguram’s.
22. Q: Where can I get a good breakfast?
A: Try Luchi & Aloor Dom (poori with potato curry) or a Bengali-style mutton/chicken roll from a local stall. Many also recommend the breakfast at Flurys.
23. Q: What is a “Phuchka” and how is it different from Pani Puri?
A: It’s Kolkata’s name for Pani Puri. The filling is typically a mashed potato and chickpea mix, and the “pani” (water) is tangy and tamarind-based.
24. Q: Any good places for Chinese food?
A: Kolkata has a unique Indian-Chinese cuisine. Tangra is the old Chinatown area, full of great restaurants like Beijing Restaurant. Kim Ling is another popular choice.
25. Q: Is it easy to find vegetarian food?
A: Yes, absolutely. While Bengali cuisine is big on fish, there is a huge variety of delicious vegetarian food, from street food like Aloo Kabli to restaurant dishes like Shukto and Dhokar Dalna.
26. Q: Where should I go for a fine-dining experience?
A: Peter Cat on Park Street for its legendary Chelo Kebabs, Mocambo for its retro vibe and global menu, or The Blue Poppy for Sikkimese-Tibetan fare.
27. Q: What’s a good place for coffee?
A: Indian Coffee House on College Street is a historic, no-frills institution. For specialty coffee, try 8th Day Café & Bakery or Blue Tokai.
28. Q: Can I drink the tap water?
A: No. Stick to bottled or filtered water.
29. Q: What is a good local snack?
A: Mughlai Paratha – a flaky, stuffed paratha, often with egg and keema (minced meat). Try it at Anadi Cabin or Royal Indian Hotel.
30. Q: Where can I try a traditional Bengali thali?
A: Bhojohori Manna is a popular chain that serves an authentic and affordable Bengali thali.
31. Q: Is alcohol easily available?
A: Yes, in bars, pubs, and licensed liquor shops (“off-licenses”). The legal drinking age is 25.
32. Q: Any good craft beer places?
A: The craft beer scene is growing. Check out The Grid, Beeji’s Beer Shop, or Biker’s Cafe.
33. Q: What’s a good food-centric neighborhood to explore?
A: Park Street for a mix of high-end and historic restaurants. The lanes around New Market for street food and rolls.
34. Q: I have a sweet tooth. Where should I go?
A: Take a walk down Bhim Nag in North Kolkata, which is famous for its sweet shops, or visit any of the iconic ones in South Kolkata like Balaram Mullick.
35. Q: What is “Misti Doi” and where is the best place to have it?
A: It’s sweetened yogurt, set in a clay pot. It’s creamy and delicious. You can get it at any sweet shop, but it’s often best from a local vendor.
Sights & Attractions (36-65)
36. Q: What are the absolute must-see sights in Kolkata?
A: The Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, Kalighat Temple, and the Indian Museum.
37. Q: Is the Victoria Memorial worth it?
A: Overwhelmingly, yes. Travelers say the museum inside is so-so, but the building itself and the gardens are stunning, especially at sunset.
38. Q: How can I experience the real Kolkata culture?
A: Get lost in the North Kolkata neighborhoods like Kumartuli (potter’s quarter), Shobhabazar, and Jorasanko. Take a walk along the Adi Ganga riverbank.
39. Q: What’s a good itinerary for one day?
A: Morning at Victoria Memorial & Maidan, lunch on Park Street, afternoon exploring the Indian Museum or St. Paul’s Cathedral, evening walk across Howrah Bridge, and dinner in the city.
40. Q: Is the tram ride worth it?
A: Yes, for the novelty and a slow, nostalgic look at the city. Don’t be in a hurry. Route 24/25 from Tollygunge to Esplanade is a popular one.
41. Q: Where can I see the Durga Puja festivities?
A: If you’re visiting in Sept/Oct, you’re in for a treat. The entire city becomes a gallery of artistic pandals. Travelers advice is to avoid the main days (Ashtami, Navami) if you dislike crowds, but that’s also the peak experience.
42. Q: What are the best “pandal” spots during Durga Puja?
A: The big, award-winning ones are in North Kolkata (Kumartuli, Bagbazar) and South Kolkata (Selimpur, Ballygunge). Check local guides when you’re there.
43. Q: Is a boat ride on the Hooghly River recommended?
A: Yes, the ferry from Howrah to Babu Ghat is a cheap and fantastic way to see the Howrah Bridge from the water. Avoid the overpriced private tourist boats.
44. Q: What are some good day trips from Kolkata?
A: Bishnupur for terracotta temples, Sunderbans for a taste of the mangrove forests (requires more than a day, ideally), and the former French colony of Chandannagar.
45. Q: Is the Sunderbans accessible for a day trip?
A: Technically yes, but it’s a very long and rushed day (4-5 hours one way). Travelers strongly recommend an overnight trip (2D/1N minimum) to properly experience it.
46. Q: What are some underrated or offbeat things to do?
A: Visit the Marble Palace, explore the Jewish quarter around Synagogue Street, see the Chinese Kali Temple in Tangra, or visit the South Park Street Cemetery.
47. Q: Where can I see the famous Howrah Bridge?
A: Walk across it from the Howrah station side towards the city. Alternatively, take the ferry for a view from the river.
48. Q: Is the Indian Museum good?
A: It’s old and a bit rundown, but it houses an incredible and vast collection. It’s a fascinating time capsule if you manage your expectations about modern museum design.
49. Q: What’s the best way to see the Flower Market?
A: The Mallick Ghat Flower Market under the Howrah Bridge is a sensory explosion. Go early in the morning (6-8 AM) for the best activity and light for photography.
50. Q: Are the Kalighat and Dakshineswar temples very crowded?
A: Yes, always, especially Kalighat. Go as early as possible in the morning. Be prepared for queues, and be wary of “guides” and touts.
51. Q: What is Kumartuli and why should I go?
A: It’s the neighborhood where artisans create the iconic clay idols for Durga Puja. You can see them working year-round, but it’s most active in the months leading up to the festival.
52. Q: Is St. Paul’s Cathedral worth visiting?
A: Yes, especially if you’re in the Maidan area. It’s a beautiful and peaceful Anglican cathedral.
53. Q: Where can I find the best view of the city?
A: From the top of The 42 (a skyscraper) or from the rooftop of some hotels. The view of the Howrah Bridge from the Prinsep Ghat area is also iconic.
54. Q: What is Prinsep Ghat?
A: A beautiful colonial-era ghat on the Hooghly River. It’s a popular spot for evening walks, boat rides, and photography with the Vidyasagar Setu bridge in the background.
55. Q: Is the Jain Temple in Badridas Temple Street worth it?
A: Yes, it’s a stunning, intricately carved marble temple that is often overlooked by tourists. A hidden gem.
56. Q: Can I visit Mother Teresa’s Missionaries of Charity?
A: Yes, you can visit the Mother House to pay respects at her tomb. Volunteering requires prior arrangement and a minimum time commitment.
57. Q: Where is the best place for book lovers?
A: College Street (“Boi Para” – Book Town), a mile-long stretch of pavement bookstores and academic shops. Also, the National Library in Alipore.
58. Q: Is New Market good for shopping?
A: Yes, for everything from souvenirs and spices to clothing and leather goods. Be prepared to haggle. It’s a chaotic but fun experience.
59. Q: What are some good parks to relax in?
A: The Maidan (the “lungs of Kolkata”) is the biggest. Rabindra Sarobar lake is also a peaceful spot in South Kolkata.
60. Q: Is Belur Math worth the trip?
A: Yes, it’s the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission. The architecture is a fascinating blend of Hindu, Christian, and Islamic motifs, and the atmosphere is very serene.
61. Q: What’s the best way to see the colonial architecture?
A: Take a walking tour around the BBD Bagh (Dalhousie Square) area, seeing the Writer’s Building, GPO, and St. John’s Church.
62. Q: Are there any good art galleries?
A: Yes, the Victoria Memorial has a gallery, and the Indian Museum has art sections. For modern Indian art, check out the Academy of Fine Arts or private galleries like CIMA.
63. Q: Where can I see a traditional Bengali play or listen to music?
A: Check the schedules at Academy of Fine Arts, Rabindra Sadan, or Nandan complex during the winter season.
64. Q: Is the Birla Planetarium good?
A: It’s one of the largest in Asia, but the shows are in Hindi/Bengali. It might not be a top priority unless you’re very interested in planetariums or have kids.
65. Q: What’s a good place to see the city light up at night?
A: The Victoria Memorial and the Howrah Bridge are beautifully illuminated. A stroll along the Strand Road or a drink at a rooftop bar on Park Street offers great night views.
Shopping & Souvenirs (66-75)
66. Q: What are good souvenirs to buy from Kolkata?
A: Bengali sweets (in vacuum packs), handloom sarees (Tant, Baluchari), terracotta items, Darjeeling tea, and handicrafts.
67. Q: Where is the best place to buy authentic handloom sarees?
A: Government emporiums like Manjusha or Bangla Shilpa Mela for fixed prices and authenticity. For a wider range (but requiring haggling), try Gariahat Market or Shree Mahalakshmi Silks.
68. Q: Where can I buy good leather goods?
A: New Market has many shops. Hazra Law College Road is also famous for its leather goods stores.
69. Q: Is haggling expected in markets?
A: Yes, in all local markets like New Market and Gariahat. Start at about 50-60% of the quoted price and negotiate from there. It’s not expected in malls or fixed-price stores.
70. Q: What is a good market for clothes?
A: New Market for a bit of everything. Gariahat Market for traditional Bengali wear and street shopping. South City Mall or Quest Mall for international brands.
71. Q: Where can I buy authentic Bengali handicrafts?
A: Dakshinapan shopping complex is a government-run hub with emporiums from all over India, perfect for authentic handicrafts at fixed prices.
72. Q: Can I buy good tea to take home?
A: Absolutely. Visit any Kolkata branch of a Darjeeling tea estate (like Nathmulls, Golden Tips) or buy from reputable shops in New Market.
73. Q: What are some unique, non-touristy souvenirs?
A: A Shola Pith craft item, a conch shell bangle, or a small idol from Kumartuli.
74. Q: Where can I find old, antique items?
A: The lanes of Chor Bazaar (though be cautious of fakes) and some shops in New Market.
75. Q: Is it safe to use credit cards for shopping?
A: In malls and established stores, yes. In small local markets, it’s best to use cash.
Culture, Nightlife & Misc. (76-90)
76. Q: What is the nightlife like in Kolkata?
A: More vibrant than people expect! Park Street is the historic hub with pubs and bars. Camac Street and Southern Avenue also have many popular spots.
77. Q: Any good live music venues?
A: Someplace Else (The Park Hotel) is a legendary pub for rock music. Harbour Bar (Taj Bengal) and The Grid often have live bands.
78. Q: Is Kolkata good for solo travelers?
A: Yes, travelers often describe it as a city with a big heart. People are generally helpful, and it’s easy to meet other travelers in Sudder Street hostels.
79. Q: What’s a typical Kolkata experience I shouldn’t miss?
A: Having a cup of “cha” (tea) from a roadside stall (“ramesh da er adda”) while reading the newspaper, or arguing about politics and football.
80. Q: How football-crazy is the city?
A: Extremely. The Kolkata Derby between Mohun Bagan and East Bengal is one of the most intense rivalries in world football. Avoid wearing the rival team’s colors on match day if you’re not a fan!
81. Q: Can I visit a local’s home for a meal?
A: This is rare to arrange formally, but if you befriend a local, they might invite you. There are also some platforms that offer curated home-dining experiences.
82. Q: What is “Adda”?
A: It’s the Bengali art of long, informal, and intellectual conversation. You’ll see groups of friends in coffee houses (like Indian Coffee House) and parks engaged in adda for hours.
83. Q: Is the city LGBTQ+ friendly?
A: Kolkata is one of India’s more progressive cities. While public displays of affection are generally frowned upon for everyone, the city has a visible and active LGBTQ+ community, especially in certain cafes and bars.
84. Q: Are there any good walking tour companies?
A: Yes, look for “Heritage Walk Kolkata” or “Calcutta Walks”. They offer excellent themed walks (colonial, literary, food) that provide great context.
85. Q: What is the best way to deal with beggars and touts?
A: A firm but polite “No” (“Na” in Bengali) is usually enough. Don’t make eye contact or engage in long conversations. Keep walking purposefully.
86. Q: Is photography allowed everywhere?
A: Mostly yes, but always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in temples and sensitive areas like the flower market. Some temples and museums may charge a camera fee.
87. Q: What’s the tipping culture like?
A: In sit-down restaurants, a 10% tip is standard if service charge isn’t already included. For porters, taxi drivers, and hotel staff, small tips (₹20-₹100) are appreciated.
88. Q: Is there a lot of air and noise pollution?
A: Yes, like any large, dense metropolis. The traffic can be chaotic and loud. If you have respiratory issues, consider carrying a mask.
89. Q: What is the electricity voltage and plug type?
A: 230V, 50Hz. Plugs are Type C (European 2-pin), D (Indian 3-pin), and sometimes Type M. A universal adapter is recommended.
90. Q: Any specific scams to be aware of?
A: The “tourist price” from taxi-wallahs who refuse the meter. The “this temple/shop is closed” scam, where a friendly local will redirect you to a different, more expensive place. Stick to your own plan.
Final Practicalities & Travelers Gems (91-100)
91. Q: Is the Wi-Fi and mobile data connectivity good?
A: Yes, in most parts of the city. 4G is widely available and reliable. You can easily get a local SIM card at the airport.
92. Q: What’s a “Yellow Taxi” and should I use it?
A: They are the iconic Ambassador cabs. They are a cultural experience. Always insist on the meter. For convenience and AC, Uber/Ola are better.
93. Q: I’m a vegetarian/vegan. Will I face any problems?
A: Not at all. There are countless pure-veg restaurants and options. Use the word “shuddha shaakahari” to specify you don’t eat eggs (a common ingredient in some Bengali sweets).
94. Q: What’s the emergency number in India?
A: 112 is the single emergency number for police, fire, and ambulance.
95. Q: Any last-minute packing tips from travelers?
A: Wet wipes or hand sanitizer (you’ll use it constantly), a power bank for your phone, and earplugs if you’re a light sleeper.
96. Q: What’s the one thing you wish you knew before visiting Kolkata?
A: “That the city’s charm isn’t in its tourist spots, but in its chaotic, vibrant, and poetic everyday life. Don’t just tick off sights; sit back and observe.”
97. Q: Is it okay to wear shorts and t-shirts?
A: Yes, it’s perfectly acceptable for tourists, especially in the heat. However, when visiting religious sites, ensure your knees and shoulders are covered.
98. Q: What is the vibe of the city compared to Delhi or Mumbai?
A: Travelers often describe Kolkata as more intellectual, cultured, and laid-back. It’s less fast-paced and money-driven than Mumbai and less imposing and sprawling than Delhi. It has a strong sense of its own history and identity.
99. Q: Can I rely on Google Maps for navigation?
A: Yes, for walking and for Uber/Ola routes, it’s very accurate. It can be a lifesaver.
100. Q: What’s the final piece of travelers advice for a first-time visitor?
A: “Embrace the chaos. Let go of your rigid schedule. Talk to people. Eat everything. Get lost a little. Kolkata isn’t a city you see; it’s a city you feel.”