Kolkata (Bengali: কলকাতা Kolkātā, Hindi: कोलकाता Kolkātā), the capital of West Bengal, is one of the largest in India, with a metro population of over 22.5 million (2025). Once called Calcutta in colonial times and is still fondly called as such, the city once served as the capital of the British Raj till 1911. It is an "in your face" city that shocks and charms the unsuspecting visitor.
Photos: Wikimedia Commons contributors.
Kolkata (Bengali: KOHL-kah-tah) is the main business, commercial and financial hub of eastern India. Spread along the eastern banks of the Hooghly River, Kolkata was once the administrative centre of the British Raj, governing a vast region that stretched from Pakistan to Burma (Myanmar) and the "second city of the British Empire after London". The name "Kolkata" is derived from Kolikātā (কলিকাতা), the name of one of the three villages in the area before the arrival of the British. There has been much debate regarding the origin of the name. Some say the name derives from Kālīkhyetro (কালীক্ষেত্র), meaning the "land of [the goddess] Kali".
Kolkata has an extensive public transport network, from the modern rapid transit system to the century-old heritage tram system. Taxis and cabs are a popular mode of transport in Kolkata. Both are easily available, relatively cheap, and will use their meters, at least in theory. The usual way to call such vehicles is to hail one on the street. Besides, there are dedicated taxi stands at Howrah and Sealdah stations. Older vehicle models are often referred to as "taxis", while newer ones are referred to as "cabs".
Individual listings can be found in Kolkata's district articles Kolkata is known for its numerous attractions — palaces, parks and museums — built during and after the 190 years of British rule in India. Built in 1814, the Indian Museum houses large collections that showcase Indian natural history and Indian art. The Marble Palace is a classic example of a European mansion that was built in the city. The iconic Victoria Memorial has a museum documenting the city's history. The National Library is the leading public library in India, while Science City is the largest science centre in the country.
Individual listings can be found in Kolkata's district articles Take a tram ride in Kolkata. The city has the only active tram service in India and has become an icon of Kolkata. They move slowly on the laid tracks in traffic-jammed streets. Several modern cinemas are dotted around the city, including INOX with several locations, Fame at Metropolis Mall in Highland Park, and RDB Adlabs at RDB Boulevard, Near Infinity Building in Sector-V, Bidhannagar, all showing Indian and American blockbusters. Kolkata also has many established theatre houses, which host events by international theatre groups frequently.
Individual listings can be found in Kolkata's district articles Kolkata has old traditions about eating out. Wilson's Hotel (which later became the Great Eastern Hotel) is credited to have been the first western-style hotel/restaurant in Kolkata, serving what was then forbidden food for Indians, particularly Hindus. One could be treated as an out-caste if caught eating there, but the idea caught on and others followed. Many of the restaurants that line the streets in the Esplanade area have been around for more than a hundred years. The joy of food in Kolkata is in its Indian foods.
Individual listings can be found in Kolkata's district articles There are plenty of places to buy alcohol around the city. Kolkata has many pubs and bars, which are frequented by youngsters as well as its older residents. Some pubs have live concerts or DJs. All pubs are supposed to shut shop by midnight or 1AM. So go early if you want to enjoy yourself in the club.
Kolkata is one of the safest metropolitan areas in India, and the people are friendly and helpful, unlike in most of India's other large cities. Violent crime in Kolkata is more or less like any other large Indian city. There has been some incidents of chain, bag and mobile snatching in railway stations and empty roads. Be on guard for anybody trying to help you by giving you unsolicited directions or travel advice. Do not blindly rely on the advice of taxi and auto drivers. Carry your cash and cards in a secure money belt, with only enough cash for a few hours at a time in your wallet or other accessible place.
Guide content from Wikivoyage contributors (CC BY-SA) — abridged; the full article has much more.
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In Jul, Kolkata typically sees ~31°C daytime highs and 29 rainy days.
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