Location
Kolkata is the capital of West Bengal, located in eastern India on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River, close to the border with Bangladesh.
Population
Kolkata has a population of approximately 5 million people in the city proper, with the greater Kolkata metropolitan area home to over 15 million residents.
Climate
Kolkata has a tropical wet and dry climate with hot, humid summers and a heavy monsoon season. The best time to visit is between October and February when weather is cooler, drier, and far more comfortable.
Economy
Kolkata is eastern India's commercial hub, with a diverse economy driven by trade, manufacturing, jute, tea, IT services, and a growing creative and startup ecosystem that is rapidly transforming the city.
Transportation
Kolkata is served by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU). The city has India's oldest metro system, iconic trams, buses, taxis, cycle rickshaws, and ride-hailing services.
Culture & Attractions
Key attractions include the Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Indian Museum, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, Belur Math, College Street book market, and the charming neighbourhoods of Ballygunge and Park Street.
Language
Bengali is the official language and most widely spoken. English is extensively used across the city, particularly in business, academia, and professional circles.
Cuisine
Kolkata offers rosogolla sweets, kati rolls, puchka, kosha mangsho (slow-cooked mutton), hilsa fish curry, mishti doi, and a remarkable street food culture that is celebrated across all of India.
Safety
Kolkata is generally considered one of India's safer and more welcoming major cities for tourists. Standard precautions are advised throughout the city.
One-stop flights from the UK to Kolkata take approximately 12 to 16 hours depending on the airline and layover.
There are currently no direct flights. Travellers fly one-stop via Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi, or Dhaka.
Flights are available from London Heathrow with connecting options from Manchester, Birmingham, and other UK airports.
Air India, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, British Airways, Turkish Airlines, and Biman Bangladesh Airlines all serve this route.
Kolkata is served by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU), approximately 17 km from the city centre.
Yes. UK passport holders must apply for an Indian e-Visa online before travelling.
October to February offers the most comfortable weather. October is especially vibrant during the Durga Puja festival.
The Indian Rupee (INR) is the official currency. ATMs and currency exchanges are widely available.
Yes. We find the best fares for UK travellers on this route every day. Call us or WhatsApp today.
