Flights from Singapore (SIN) to Kolkata (CCU)

About Kolkata

Discover Kolkata

Why visit Kolkata?
Kolkata is a vibrant cultural centre of eastern India, known for its rich literary heritage, grand colonial-era architecture, and lively arts scene. You will find leafy boulevards, historic clubs, bookshops, and cafés that give the city a distinctly intellectual and creative atmosphere.

What to expect
The city stretches along the Hooghly River, with a mix of bustling markets, tram-lined streets, and tranquil neighbourhoods. Iconic landmarks, museums, and galleries sit alongside modern shopping districts, while everyday life unfolds in parks, riverside ghats, and friendly local cafés.

Plan your trip
Kolkata is an excellent base for exploring eastern India, from coastal retreats to the hill regions of the northeast. With good road and rail links, and increasing air connections, it works well as both a main destination and a gateway to nearby cities and landscapes.

Top sights in Kolkata

Victoria Memorial

Explore this grand marble monument set in manicured gardens, home to galleries that trace the city’s colonial-era history.

Howrah Bridge

View the iconic cantilever bridge at sunrise or evening as ferries glide below and the city’s daily rhythm plays out around it.

Indian Museum

Visit one of India’s oldest museums to see extensive collections of art, archaeology, and natural history in a stately building.

South Park Street Cemetery

Wander through this atmospheric heritage cemetery, noted for its moss-covered monuments and quiet, shaded paths.

College Street and the book district

Browse countless bookshops and stalls along College Street, a landmark area for readers, students, and collectors.

Prinsep Ghat

Stroll the riverside promenade near Prinsep Ghat and enjoy views of the Hooghly River and nearby bridges, especially at dusk.

Eco Park New Town

Spend time in this expansive urban park with themed gardens, lakeside walks, and outdoor activities for families and groups.

New Market

Experience one of Kolkata’s busiest historic markets, where narrow aisles are filled with textiles, souvenirs, and everyday essentials.

Experience Kolkata’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Taxis, app-based rides, and the Kolkata Metro are the most efficient ways to cover longer distances across the city. Trams and ferries along the Hooghly River offer a slower, more scenic perspective. For short trips within neighbourhoods, auto-rickshaws and walking work well.

Local life & culture
Kolkata moves at a thoughtful yet energetic pace, with street conversations, art exhibitions, and cultural events forming part of daily life. Neighbourhoods like Ballygunge, Park Street, and parts of North Kolkata reveal elegant homes, historic clubs, and music venues that highlight the city’s creative character.

Where to unwind
You can unwind at the Maidan, a vast stretch of green where locals gather for walks and games, especially in the late afternoon. Riverside areas along the Hooghly offer gentle evening breezes and city views. Many hotels also feature spa and pool facilities, ideal for relaxing after a day of exploration.

A taste of Kolkata

Street food & local specialties
Kolkata is known for its street snacks and regional Bengali dishes, from savoury bites to delicate, sweet treats. Areas such as North Kolkata and around College Street are popular for traditional eateries, where you can sample family-run recipes in simple, welcoming settings.

Casual & modern dining hubs
For relaxed dining, head to Park Street, Salt Lake, or New Town, where cafés, bakeries, and restaurants serve both local and international flavours. Many menus feature smaller plates and shared dishes, making it easy to try a variety of tastes in one sitting.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable meal, consider heritage-style restaurants, rooftop venues, or riverside spots that showcase views of the skyline or the Hooghly. Advance reservations are recommended at the most popular places, especially on weekends and holidays.

Retail therapy in Kolkata

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Kolkata’s modern malls, such as those in Salt Lake and New Town, bring together international brands, local labels, cinemas, and dining in one place. These lifestyle hubs are convenient for combining errands, shopping, and a relaxed meal indoors.

Markets & local crafts
For traditional textiles, handicrafts, and local fashion, explore areas like New Market, Gariahat, and Hatibagan. Here you will find everything from handwoven fabrics to everyday clothing, often sold by small, family-run businesses.

Evening retail scene
As the day cools, busy shopping streets and markets stay lively into the evening, with illuminated storefronts and active footpaths. Some malls also extend their hours, allowing for late-night browsing. Public transport and taxis make it straightforward to reach these areas after sunset.

Best time to visit Kolkata

Winter season (November to February, peak season)
Kolkata’s winter, often considered the most pleasant time, brings mild, dry weather with average temperatures around 15–25°C (59–77°F). Clear skies make it ideal for sightseeing, outdoor walks, and cultural events across the city.

Summer season (March to June, shoulder season)
Summer is warm to hot, with temperatures typically between 26–35°C (79–95°F). Early mornings and evenings are comfortable for exploring, and many indoor attractions, malls, and cafés provide cool, air-conditioned spaces during the hotter hours.

Monsoon season (July to October, low season)
The monsoon season sees regular showers and lush greenery, with temperatures around 25–32°C (77–90°F). Rain adds a dramatic atmosphere to riverside views and parks, and you can enjoy quieter museums, galleries, and indoor venues between bursts of rainfall.

Frequently Asked Questions