How to plan your first trip to Kolkata

Understanding the City Layout

Kolkata is divided by the Hooghly River and is best understood as a split between the old and the new. North Kolkata is the historic heart, characterized by narrow lanes, traditional mansions, and old markets. Central Kolkata serves as the commercial hub, home to the majority of colonial-era architecture and government buildings. South Kolkata is more residential and modern, offering a wider array of contemporary cafes and shopping districts.

Arrival and Transportation

Visitors arrive via Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU). To reach the city center, pre-paid taxis or app-based ride-hailing services are the most reliable options. Once inside the city, you have several choices:

• Yellow Taxis: Iconic to the city, though fares are often negotiated.
• Auto-rickshaws: Best for short distances within specific neighborhoods.
• Metro: The fastest way to bypass surface traffic when traveling north to south.
• Trams: A slow but historic way to experience the city's colonial atmosphere.

Common First-Timer Mistakes

Many visitors attempt to walk between major landmarks, but Kolkata's scale and traffic make this impractical. Instead, use the Metro for long hauls and rickshaws for the final mile. Another common error is underestimating the intensity of the crowds in markets like New Market; it is better to visit early in the morning to avoid the peak rush. Finally, avoid drinking tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water throughout your stay.

Suggested First-Trip Itinerary

For a first visit, prioritize the landmarks that define the city's identity before exploring deeper residential pockets:

• Essential: The Victoria Memorial for colonial history, the Howrah Bridge for engineering and scale, and the Dakshineswar Kali Temple for spiritual culture.
• Secondary: The Indian Museum and the various street markets of Central Kolkata.
• Can Wait: Remote outskirts or specialized galleries, which are better suited for a second visit once you are acclimated to the city's pace.