Kolkata Visitor Guide 2024: Everything You Need To Know

The capital of West Bengal, Kolkata, is one of the biggest cities in India. A former stronghold of British rule known as Calcutta, Kolkata changed its name in 2001. Located on the bank of the Hooghly River, Kolkata is close to the border with Bangladesh and is the cultural and economic center of East India.

Known as the City of Joy, Kolkata is a fantastic place to enjoy a vacation. Combining British and Indian influences, this delightful city offers a beguiling combination of East and West. There is no shortage of things to see and do here, and the food is every bit as good as you would expect from a major Indian city. So drop off your unneeded bags at a Kolkata luggage storage locker and immerse yourself in this vibrant city.

A weekend in Kolkata

There's more to see and do in Kolkata than you can get to grips with in a single weekend. But if you only have a couple of days in the city, you can still see some of what makes it special. Drop off your bags at a Kolkata bag storage and you'll be free to explore.

• See the wild side of India at Sundarbans. This colossal river delta and its dense mangrove forests is listed as UNESCO World Heritage site thanks to its abundant wildlife. With luck, you may even see a Bengal tiger, a true icon of the Indian wilderness.
• See a relic of British India at the Victoria Memorial Palace. Built in the early twentieth century, this stunning building combines Indian and British architectural influences to make a truly unique sight. Capture incredible photos of the building at sunset as it is reflected in the water below.
• Visit Science City to learn more about the world while having fun. India's largest science center, Science City uses interactive exhibits and rides to keep families entertained while they learn more about science.

Kolkata lockers

Kolkata is a lively city where there's always something going on. No matter what you intend to do while you're in the city, you'll find your trip easier if you don't carry more than you need to. Drop off your unneeded bags at a Kolkata suitcase storage where they will be safely looked after until you return. The lighter you travel, the more ground you'll be able to cover and the more of the city you will see.

Off the beaten path in Kolkata

Beyond the big tourist draws, Kolkata has some fascinating hidden gems that are worth exploring. Drop off your bags at a Kolkata luggage storage service and you’ll be free to explore these lesser-known attractions.

• Visit Princep Ghat on the banks of the Hooghly River to see spectacular sunsets over the water. You can even take a boat ride to enjoy the scenery, and you’ll find plenty of delicious food available back onshore.
• Explore the opulence of British India at the Marble Palace. This nineteenth-century mansion is one of Calcutta's most outstanding palaces and takes its name from the marble statues it contains. It's an atmospheric place to wander for a while and take in the unique atmosphere.
• Immerse yourself in the modern life of Kolkata by taking a tram ride. Noisy and crowded, the trams nevertheless offer the opportunity to experience the city like the locals do. It's an experience you'll never forget as the old tram whisks you through the city.

What to do alone in Kolkata

Kolkata is bursting with life, which makes it a great place to explore by yourself. The liveliness of the city means you'll never feel alone. Whether you're in Kolkata for business or for pleasure, drop off your bags at a Kolkata luggage locker and enjoy the city by yourself.

• Visit Park Street for Kolkata's best retail experience. You'll find stores selling just about everything along this street, from sweets to saris to tea and more. It's also a great place to just hang out and soak in the atmosphere.
• Catch a cricket game at Eden Garden. Cricket is the most popular sport in India, and this 19th-century stadium is one of India’s most famous. Even if you don’t understand the rules, you’ll quickly get swept up in the excitement and passion of Kolkata’s cricket fans.
• Learn about the ancient history of the region at the State Archaeological Museum. The exhibits here explain the most remote reaches of Indian history, going all the way back to the Stone Age. It's a fascinating place to learn about Indian culture.

The best souvenirs in Kolkata

Kolkata has plenty of markets, but New Market is one of the best. Don't let the name fool you. This market goes back to 1874. With over 2000 stores, you can find just about anything here, from electronics to clothing to food.

For a delicious souvenir, pick up some roshogolla, syrupy dough balls that are a classic Bengali dessert. Chittaranjan Mishtanna Bhandar is widely regarded as having the best selection in the city. Of course, India is also one of the world’s largest tea producers, and a package of tea from Biswa Bangla makes a great gift or Momento. Or you could pick up a traditional silk sari from Tantuja to rejuvenate your wardrobe and remind you of your trip.