Essential Guide for First-Time Visitors to Kolkata

Kolkata, the second-largest city and seventh-most populous city in the country is known for its rich history and culture. If it’s your first time here, you might have some questions. Things2do is here to help! We’ll break down everything a newbie needs to know about Kolkata, from navigating the city to must-try local experiences. So, pack your bags, grab this guide, and get ready to learn about the city.

1Language

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Bengali is the primary language, but people understand and speak Hindi, and English is mostly spoken around tourist areas and some posh areas like Alipore, Bhowanipore, and Park Street. Learning a few sentences in Bengali might help you communicate: “Tumi kemon accho?” “How are you?”, “Aami khub bhalo” – “I’m doing great”, “Aeyi Jayega ta kothai?” – “Where is this location?”, “Oh dada! Koto nibe?” – “Dada! How much?”, “”Tomar kache change hobe?” – “Do you have change?” , “Dhonoawaad” – “Thankyou”.

2Culture and dress code

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Kolkata is a very religious city, and Hinduism is the religion followed by the majority of the people. They follow Hindu deities, which are Maa Durga, Maa Kali, Maa Lakshmi, Shiva, and Krishna. There are also many Muslims, Christians, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists living in the city. This mix of religions adds to Kolkata’s vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.

The wear in Kolkata is the same as in other Tier 1 cities, but yes, Kolkata is a bit conservative compared to some other cities in India. Go for modest clothing, especially when visiting religious sites.

3Public Transport

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Kolkata has vast and affordable public transportation. Metros and buses are available to reach one end of another. In some places, trams are also available, like from Tollygunge to Ballygunge. Taxies have meter machines, but they do not use them; you have to bargain for taxis and autorickshaws. Otherwise, you can use ride-hailing apps like Ola and Uber; Uber would cost less than others. Using local transport is another option that will get you to your destination efficiently and at a low cost.

4Food

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People in Kolkata love eating food. You can get a huge variety of food in all three courses of meals. Fuchka (pani puri), chaat, momos, egg mughlai, and rolls are must-try items for those who love fast food. Kolkata has its own way of serving biryani; do give it a try at Arsalan, Shiraz, Haji Saheb, Hatari, Tandoor Park, or Dada Boudi of Barrackpore. But never ever complain about aloo in the biryani, because it’s an emotion for everyone here. Among the sweets you must try are roshogolla, gulab jamun, mishti doi, and sandesh.

5Festivals

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Kolkata celebrates numerous festivals throughout the year. Durga Puja, which is celebrated in September/October and is the biggest festival, is a vibrant spectacle worth experiencing. Some other festivals that the people of Kolkata celebrate are: Kali Puja, which comes in October/November and coincides with Diwali in North India, honors the fierce aspect of Goddess Kali. 

Saraswati Puja in January/February Dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, the patron deity of knowledge, music, and the arts.

Be prepared for larger crowds during these times.

6Shopping

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The best quality material products can be found at shopping malls like South City Mall, Quest Mall, and City Centre Salt Lake, which are some of the best places to shop for branded items in Kolkata. When it comes to street shops, head to Gariahat Market, New Market (Hogg Market). Here, you’ll need to bargain. Don’t be afraid to ask for better deals! Getting a great deal can be easy when you haggle. Make sure you check before you buy to avoid buying fake items.

7Must-visit places: Monuments and Cafes

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Many famous places in the city with rich histories are worth a visit, such as the Howrah Bridge, Victoria Memorial, Indian Museum, Marble Palace, and Dakshineswar Kali Temple.

Some cafes you should visit are Cafe Ekante, Flurys, Indian Coffee House, and Artsy. These are some of the cafes you should try at least once. Park Street Cemetery and Birla Mandir, or an evening at a Ganga Ghat like Baghbazar, might be able to provide you with some solace.

Now you’re all set to explore the city of joy, Kolkata. Don’t be shy about asking for help when you need it. Enjoy the delicious food and have an amazing time! These are some pointers from Things2do that will provide some guidance when you are a newbie. For more such guidance, check out our other blogs: https://things2.do/blogs/  

by Sagar Raj Singh

Content Writer at Things2do