About Kolkata Weather :
Kolkata, the state capital of West Bengal, is one of the most favored destinations for national as well as international tourists. People from all over the globe come to enjoy the festivity, culture, art and beauty of the city. Named as the ‘City of Joy’ due to its liveliness and the umpteen celebrations that take place here – throughout the year, Kolkata is one place that you must visit to have a glimpse of the rich cultural lineage of West Bengal. However, before visiting Kolkata, make sure that you are aware of the weather conditions here, so that you can plan your trip in accordance. As the city is located near sea, its weather is greatly influenced by it. There are three major seasons – summer, monsoon and winter. Given below is more information on the weather and climate of Kolkata.
Summer :
Summers in Kolkata stretch for about 4 months i.e. from March to June. The summer season here is quite hot and humid. The maximum temperature of the city in summer goes up to 410 C. The hottest month of the summer season is May, when both heat and humidity are at their extreme in the city. The southwesterly monsoon winds flow here during summer. Showers, accompanied with dusty violent winds and termed as ‘Kal Baishakhi’ by the local people, do take place at times, in this season.
Monsoon :
Monsoon start from mid-June and stretch up to the end of September. The season is influenced by southeastern monsoon winds. Monsoon brings torrential and continuous rains in the city. The rainiest month of the monsoon season in Kolkata is ‘August’, with average rainfall of about 306 mm. The average annual rainfall of the city is about 1582 mm. After the monsoon, there is a very brief autumn here, which lasts about a month.
Winter :
Winters in Kolkata start from end-October and last till February. The weather in this season is pleasing. This is the best time to visit the place, as there is no humidity and dust. The early mornings in the winter season are hazy. The average temperature of winters in Kolkata varies between 120 C and 140 C. The temperature here never goes below 100 C.
General Information about Kolkata :
Location: Kolkata
State: West Bengal
Capital: Kolkata
Language: Bengali, Hindi, English
Temperature: Max 42˚C, Min 27˚C (summer), Max 26˚C, Min 14˚C (winter)
Best Season: September to March
How to Reach Kolkata :
By Air:
Kolkata is well connected by airways, to all the major countries in the world as well as to the key Indian cities. There are regular flights from all the major cities of India, like Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi and Mumbai, to the place. Even international destinations, in France, Britain, Holland, Bangladesh, Japan, Singapore, Nepal, Jordan and Thailand, are connected to the Netaji Subash Chandra Bose International Airport of Kolkata. This airport is located at Dumdum, about 15 km away from the main township.
By Rail:
The rail connectivity of Calcutta is also very good. Trains connect the city with all the major cities of India. Super fast trains like Rajdhani and Shatabdi Express ply between Kolkata and Delhi and other nearby places. Kolkata has two major railway stations; one is located in Howrah and the other is at Sealdah, with the former being the stop for majority of the interstate trains.
By Road:
The road connectivity of Kolkata to adjoining areas is also wisely planned. The Esplanade Terminus is the main bus terminal that lies in the heart of the city. From here, you can easily get a bus as well as taxi for travelling to the cities within West Bengal as well as in the neighbouring states. Even road connectivity to Bangladesh is smooth and comfortable, with frequent Bus service.
How to Travel in Kolkata:
For the international tourists, it is always advisable to carry their Indian visa, as it is cumbersome to get one after arriving Carry all your important documents and money If you are travelling alone, don’t publicize it. Incase you happen to lose your passport, immediately lodge a complaint at the police station and also inform your country’s embassy. It is advisable to carry adequate photocopies of your passport, traveller’s checks and insurance. Beware of touts and agents. Make sure that your hotel reservation is done and it is confirmed. To secure your belongings, use a combination lock.