Kolkata · India

Kolkata Trip Planner

Plan Kolkata around the right base area, not just a list of attractions. For most groups, the key choices are park street for food/nightlife, whether to prioritise victoria memorial or park street food scene, and how much buffer to keep for local transfers, weather and group split-ups.

culture food3 days idealOctober to FebruaryGood for friends
Best time
October to February
Ideal duration
3 days
Budget / day (mid)
₹3,500
Good for
friends

When to visit Kolkata

October to February

Durga Puja season is spectacular but crowded and expensive

Conditions vary year to year — check live weather and event calendars before locking dates.

Things to do in Kolkata

Shortlist with your group and vote on what makes it into the plan.

Victoria Memorial

Best for: friends

Check current timings and entry fees before visiting — they change with season.

Park Street food scene

Best for: friends

Check current timings and entry fees before visiting — they change with season.

Howrah Bridge/ghats

Best for: friends

Check current timings and entry fees before visiting — they change with season.

Kumartuli/College Street

Best for: friends

Check current timings and entry fees before visiting — they change with season.

Where to stay in Kolkata

Pick a base that matches your group's vibe.

Park Street

Best for: first-time groups

Park Street for food/nightlife

! Watch-out: May not suit every group style; verify commute time, late-night transport, parking and current stay inventory.

Esplanade/New Market

Best for: friends/couples

Esplanade/New Market for central access

! Watch-out: May not suit every group style; verify commute time, late-night transport, parking and current stay inventory.

Ballygunge/South Kolkata

Best for: families or premium groups

Ballygunge/South Kolkata for calmer stays

! Watch-out: May not suit every group style; verify commute time, late-night transport, parking and current stay inventory.

Salt Lake/New Town

Best for: budget or logistics-focused groups

Salt Lake/New Town for business

! Watch-out: May not suit every group style; verify commute time, late-night transport, parking and current stay inventory.

Pre-trip checklist for Kolkata

Share it with your group in one tap.

documents

  • ID
  • monument booking proof
  • student/senior IDs if applicable

clothes

  • Comfortable clothes
  • walking shoes
  • modest layers for religious sites

gear

  • Water bottle
  • hat
  • camera
  • small cash

health

  • Heat protection
  • basic medicines
  • hydration

group planning

  • Guide decision
  • old-town walk plan
  • ticket owner
  • market budget

Good to know

Common planning mistakes

FAQs

How many days are enough for Kolkata?+

Most groups should start with 3 days in Kolkata. Add a buffer day if your group wants slower mornings, longer transfers or more unplanned time.

What should groups decide first for Kolkata?+

Decide the stay zone, trip dates, budget range and top two experiences first. Smaller details become easier once these four choices are fixed.

Is Kolkata better for friends or family trips?+

Kolkata can work for friends, but the ideal plan depends on pace, stay type and activity mix. Use polls to align expectations before booking.

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Start planning this trip with your group

Start a shared board for Kolkata — vote on dates, split costs and keep everyone on the same page.

Start planning this trip with your group