FAQ
Kolkata is generally safe, though use standard precautions. Stay aware of surroundings, avoid isolated areas after dark, and dress conservatively. Women travelers should be particularly cautious. Hire guides in neighborhoods like Sonagachi. The city is safer than Delhi but requires more vigilance than established tourist zones. Local awareness matters more than strict danger.
Phuchka (pani puri), luchi with aloo dum, momos, and kathi rolls represent authentic Kolkata street food. Visit late-night markets near Metro stations or Park Circus for authentic vendors. Eat where crowds gather; that indicates freshness. Avoid questionable hygiene situations. Street food carries digestive risks; consider your stomach strength.
Three days allows basic exploration of major sites. Five days permits genuine neighborhood immersion. A week enables cultural understanding beyond surface-level tourism. Kolkata rewards those who linger, as its appeal emerges through relationships with locals and repeated visits to familiar haunts.
Bengali is the primary language, but Hindi and English are widely spoken in tourist areas. Learning basic Bengali phrases delights locals. Hotels, restaurants, and major attractions have English signage. Younger people speak English more fluently than older generations. Translation apps help navigate markets and local establishments.
Consult your doctor, but typhoid, hepatitis A and B, and Japanese encephalitis vaccinations are commonly recommended. Tetanus and polio should be current. Malaria prophylaxis may be advised depending on your destination and season. Water should be filtered or bottled. These are standard precautions for Indian travel.
Budget 1500-2500 rupees daily (roughly 18-30 USD) for budget travelers including meals, local transport, and attractions. Mid-range travelers spend 3000-5000 rupees daily. Street food meals cost 50-150 rupees. Guesthouse beds range from 300-1000 rupees nightly. Costs are significantly lower than Western cities.
Stay in local neighborhoods rather than tourist hotels. Eat at family-run restaurants. Attend cultural performances and festivals. Take walking tours with local guides. Visit during academic seasons at Santiniketan or Presidency University. Engage with bookstores and galleries. Learn basic Bengali. Spend time sitting in cafes observing daily life. Authenticity emerges through unhurried exploration.
Avoid May-June when heat and humidity are extreme, and power outages frequent. Skip monsoon season if you dislike rain and flooding. September-October can be uncomfortable. December-March is optimal. Even during off-seasons, Kolkata has merit for those seeking less crowded experiences, though weather and services may be less convenient.