🌟 Best Season (Peak)
Cool, dry weather (20–30°C). Best beach weather, comfortable for sightseeing. Peak tourist season.
👍 Good Time (Shoulder Season)
Getting hot (30–38°C) but still dry. Fewer crowds and better hotel deals.
⚠️ Avoid If Possible
Monsoon season — heavy rains, rough seas, some beach activities shut down. But lush green landscapes and Ayurveda season in Kerala.
🗓️ Calcutta Through the Year
Kolkata experiences a hot and humid climate for most of the year. March to May is the summer season, with temperatures ranging from 30°C to 40°C, making it uncomfortable for sightseeing. The monsoon season begins in June and lasts until September, bringing heavy rainfall and high humidity. October and November mark the pleasant autumn season, with temperatures between 22°C and 30°C and clear skies. Winter arrives in December and lasts until February, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 25°C, offering the most comfortable weather for exploring the city. The best time to visit Kolkata is during the winter months of December and January for the most agreeable climate.
Festivals and events worth timing your visit
Durga Puja in October is Kolkata's biggest festival, a ten-day celebration with elaborate pandals (temporary structures) and cultural performances throughout the city. Diwali, the festival of lights, also falls in October or November and is celebrated with fireworks and traditional sweets. Christmas in December is celebrated with enthusiasm, especially in the Bow Barracks area. Poila Boishakh, the Bengali New Year, is in April and is marked by cultural events and traditional Bengali food. Kolkata International Film Festival happens in November and showcases films from across the globe.
What to pack
For a winter visit to Kolkata, pack light woolens, shawls, and comfortable walking shoes as you'll be doing a lot of sightseeing. During summer, pack light cotton clothes, sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. If visiting during the monsoon, carry an umbrella or raincoat and waterproof footwear. Always carry insect repellent. For temple visits, dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.
Saving money
The cheapest time to visit Kolkata is generally during the monsoon season (June to September), when flight and hotel prices can be 20-30% lower. Look for budget accommodation in areas like Sudder Street and Park Street. Utilize Kolkata's public transport such as the metro and local buses to save money on transportation. Eating street food is a great way to experience local cuisine on a budget; try phuchka and jhalmuri. Booking flights and hotels 4-6 weeks in advance can also help you secure better deals. Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) is the nearest airport.
How to Reach Calcutta
By Air: Nearest airport is CCU. From there, take a taxi or bus to Calcutta.
By Train: Check train routes on FareEagle train routes.
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