Kolkata is a city of close-knit neighbourhoods, freestyle conversation and grand imperial landmarks, spread along the eastern bank of the Hooghly River. Its historic core holds the Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge and much of the architecture left by the British era, while newer commercial and residential quarters stretch east and south.
For a visitor, the practical question is which part of this sprawl to base yourself in. The main choices cluster around the central Sudder Street area, the two major railway stations at Howrah and Sealdah, South Kolkata and East Kolkata. This guide covers those areas, who each one suits, and what kind of accommodation you will find there.
Best areas to stay in Kolkata
1. Sudder Street area
Sudder Street is the traditional centre of Kolkata's budget backpacker accommodation, and many of the properties here are colonial-era buildings, albeit decaying ones. It is centrally located and well connected by public transport, which makes it a convenient base for reaching the city's sights.
This area suits budget travellers and first-time visitors who want to be in the middle of things. Expect inexpensive, older-style places rather than polished ones. One practical caution applies here: do not walk with a local "friend" or guide, unless you want to have higher prices.
2. Around Howrah and Sealdah railway stations
Both of Kolkata's major railway stations, Howrah and Sealdah, have many hotels around them. This makes them the obvious choice if you are arriving or departing by train and want to stay close to your connection.
Be aware that most of the hotels around the stations might be only licensed to accommodate Indian citizens, so confirm this before booking if it applies to you.
3. South Kolkata
There are some hotels in South Kolkata. This part of the city is a residential and southern district option rather than a sightseeing hub, and it suits travellers who prefer to stay away from the central bustle.
4. East Kolkata
The growth of the IT sector and hospital facilities in East Kolkata has led to the development of hotels in that district. This area suits visitors with business or medical reasons to be in the east of the city, or those who want newer accommodation away from the historic core.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: The Sudder Street area has long had a concentration of budget backpacker hotels, many in colonial-era buildings. The areas around Howrah and Sealdah stations also have many hotels, though most might be only licensed to accommodate Indian citizens.
- Mid-range: South Kolkata and East Kolkata both have hotels, with East Kolkata's supply having developed alongside the IT sector and hospital facilities there.
- Splurge: If money is no object, the city's large luxury hotels include Great Eastern, ITC Sonar, Taj Bengal and JW Marriott Kolkata. British-era clubs such as Tollygunge Club, Calcutta Club, Saturday Club and Bengal Club have lavish rooms for rent, but they only accept bookings through members.
Best area for a first visit
For a first visit, base yourself in the Sudder Street area. It is centrally located and well connected by public transport, which keeps the city's sights within easy reach, and it has the widest concentration of budget places to stay. Just avoid accepting help from local "friends" or guides if you want to avoid higher prices.
Frequently asked questions
Where do budget travellers usually stay in Kolkata?
The Sudder Street area has long had a concentration of budget backpacker hotels, many of them colonial-era buildings, and it is centrally located with good public transport connections.
Can I stay near Kolkata's railway stations?
Yes. Both the major railway stations at Howrah and Sealdah have many hotels around them, though most of them might be only licensed to accommodate Indian citizens.
Are there hotels outside the central area?
Yes. There are some hotels in South Kolkata, and the growth of the IT sector and hospital facilities in East Kolkata has led to the development of hotels in that district.
Can anyone book the British-era clubs?
No. Clubs such as Tollygunge Club, Calcutta Club, Saturday Club and Bengal Club have lavish rooms for rent, but they only accept bookings through members.
Compare live prices for the area you choose with the booking tools on this page.