Kolkata formerly Calcutta is the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal. It is located in eastern India on the east bank of the River Hooghly. The city has a population of almost 4.5 million, with an extended metropolitan population of over 14 million, making it the third-largest urban agglomeration and the fourth-largest city in India. Calcutta, the city of joy was established in the year 1686, as a result of the expansion plans of the British Raj. It was during those times that European powers were heading their way towards capturing the small villages of Sutanati, Govindpur, and Kalikata. However, since the year 2000, an economic rejuvenation has led to a spurt in the city's growth. Like other metropolitan cities of India, Kolkata continues to struggle with urbanisation problems like poverty, pollution and traffic congestion. Kolkata is noted for its revolutionary history, ranging from the Indian struggle for independence to the leftist and trade union movements. This vibrant city, with a distinct socio-political culture, is considered by many as the Cultural capital of India.


Main Languages: Bengali, Hindi, Urdu, English, Maithili, and Bhojpuri.
City telephone code/ STD code: 033
Best time to visit: October to March
Phone Number:Admin Department -- 91-033-40048254
 RMC Department -- 91-033-40014706
 Fax - 91-033-40014708
Tourist Information: Ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India,
Fax-033-40014708(Ph.)22145999, 22258183, 22487318, 22487302
Distance from other cities: Agra-1258 kms, Ahemdabad-1924 kms, Bangalore-1881 kms,
Chennai-1676 kms, Delhi-1461 kms, Hyderabad-1516 kms, Trivandrum-2384 kms


Getting there and away:

By Air: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport at Dum Dum to the north of the city, operates both domestic and international flights.

By Rail: Kolkata has two major long distance railway stations at Howrah Station and Sealdah.

By Road: State transport and Private Operators have services in Kolkata and to the neighboring states. The Esplanade Terminus is the main bus terminus that lies in the heart of the city.

Getting Around • Kolkata suburban railway

• Kolkata Metro
• Trams
• Buses
• Auto rickshaws
• Taxis
• Cycle rickshaw
• Hand pulled rickshaw
• Ferries