Plan your Kolkata trip
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Best time to visit Kolkata. Recommended months: October to February. Peak season: October to February. Book flights and hotels on FareEagle.
🌟 Best Season (Peak)
October to February
Cool, dry weather (20–30°C). Best beach weather, comfortable for sightseeing. Peak tourist season.
👍 Good Time (Shoulder Season)
March to May
Getting hot (30–38°C) but still dry. Fewer crowds and better hotel deals.
⚠️ Avoid If Possible
June to September
Monsoon season — heavy rains, rough seas, some beach activities shut down. But lush green landscapes and Ayurveda season in Kerala.
💰 Cheapest months to visit Kolkata: June–August (monsoon discounts). Hotel and flight prices drop 30–50% during off-season. Book 4–6 weeks ahead for the best deals.
🗓️ Kolkata Through the Year
Kolkata experiences a distinct seasonal variation. Summers (March to May) are hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 30°C to 40°C. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings heavy rainfall and high humidity, with temperatures between 27°C and 33°C. The post-monsoon period (October and November) offers pleasant weather, with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 30°C. Winters (December to February) are mild and dry, with temperatures fluctuating between 12°C and 25°C. The best time to visit Kolkata is during the winter months of December and January, when the weather is most comfortable for exploring the city.
Festivals and events worth timing your visit
Durga Puja, in October, is Kolkata's biggest festival, with elaborate pandals and cultural performances throughout the city. Diwali, also in October or November, brings vibrant lights and firework displays. Kolkata International Film Festival is held in November, showcasing both Indian and international cinema. Christmas, in December, is celebrated with enthusiasm, especially in the Bow Barracks area. Poila Boishakh, the Bengali New Year, falls in April and is marked by cultural events and traditional food.
What to pack
For a winter visit, pack light woolens or shawls for evenings. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the city's attractions. During the monsoon, carry an umbrella or raincoat and waterproof footwear. For summer, pack light cotton clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen. When visiting temples, dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Do not forget mosquito repellent, especially during the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons.
Saving money
The cheapest time to find flights and hotels in Kolkata is typically during the monsoon months (June to September), with prices potentially 20-30% lower. For budget accommodations, consider areas like Sudder Street or Park Street. Utilize Kolkata's extensive public transportation, including buses and the metro, to save on travel costs. Explore street food options in areas like Hogg Market (New Market) or near Vivekananda Park for affordable meals. Booking flights and accommodations 4-6 weeks in advance can also help secure better deals. The nearest airport is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU).
How to Reach Kolkata
By Air: Kolkata has its own airport (CCU). Direct flights available from major Indian cities.
By Train: Check train routes on FareEagle train routes.
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