Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is the cultural capital of India. Known for its colonial architecture, arts, literature, Durga Puja, and street food, Kolkata attracts tourists from all over the world. Whether you're visiting for business, education, festivals, or leisure, choosing the right hotel in Kolkata is essential for a smooth and enjoyable stay.
This guide covers the best areas to stay, hotel types, price ranges, online booking tips, and recommended hotels—everything you need to know before booking your stay in Kolkata.
Best Time to Visit Kolkata
October to March: Best weather, perfect for sightseeing and attending cultural events like Durga Puja.
April to June: Hot and humid; off-season, cheaper hotel deals.
July to September: Monsoon season—beautiful rains, but travel can be affected.
Plan your hotel bookings well in advance if you're visiting during festivals or school holidays.
Types of Hotels in Kolkata
Luxury Hotels
5-star and heritage properties located in areas like Park Street, Salt Lake, and New Town.
Ideal for business travelers, NRI visitors, and premium guests.
Examples: ITC Royal Bengal, The Oberoi Grand, JW Marriott Kolkata.
Mid-Range Hotels
Located in Esplanade, Bhowanipore, and Salt Lake.
Suitable for families, working professionals, and tourists.
Budget Hotels
Found in Sealdah, Howrah, and near metro stations.
Great for students, short trips, and backpackers.
Guesthouses & Hostels
Best for solo travelers and those on a tight budget.
Available in areas like Kalighat, Gariahat, and Shyambazar.
Service Apartments
Ideal for long stays; available in Salt Lake, New Town, and Park Circus.
Best Areas for Hotel Booking in Kolkata
Park Street & Esplanade
Central Kolkata, close to shopping, nightlife, restaurants, and major attractions.
Great for first-time visitors and luxury stays.
Salt Lake (Bidhannagar)
Clean, planned area with business hubs and IT offices.
Perfect for corporate travelers and events.
New Town & Rajarhat
Near the airport, modern infrastructure, wide range of hotels.
Ideal for business and family stays.
Howrah & Sealdah
Budget accommodations, near railway stations.
Best for transit stays or short overnight stops.
South Kolkata (Gariahat, Kalighat, Ballygunge)
Residential, peaceful areas with mid-range hotels and access to local attractions.
Top Hotels in Kolkata (Across Budgets)
Luxury
The Oberoi Grand (Esplanade)
ITC Royal Bengal (EM Bypass)
JW Marriott (Science City)
Hyatt Regency (Salt Lake)
Mid-Range
The Astor Hotel
The Senator Hotel
Holiday Inn Express Kolkata Airport
Budget
Treebo Trend Hotels
FabHotel Sreems
Hotel Trimoorti
Hotel Booking Tips
Compare prices on multiple platforms
Use Booking.com, MakeMyTrip, Goibibo, and Agoda.
Look for combo deals, free breakfast, or airport pickup.
Use filters wisely
Filter by budget, ratings (above 3.5 stars), location (near metro, airport, or railway).
Read genuine reviews
Check Google Reviews and TripAdvisor for real customer feedback.
Check location on the map
Make sure your hotel is close to your planned activities (e.g., near Science City or Kalighat Temple).
Book early during peak seasons
Especially during Durga Puja (September–October), when hotel demand skyrockets.
Top Online Hotel Booking Apps in India
MakeMyTrip
Goibibo
Agoda
Yatra
Booking.com
ClearTrip
Airbnb (for apartments and local stays)
All apps offer:
Free cancellation (on select hotels)
Wallet & UPI payment
Customer support
Filtered search with photos & maps
Tourist Places Near Popular Hotels
Victoria Memorial (Near Park Street)
Indian Museum (Near Esplanade)
Kalighat Temple (Near Hazra)
Howrah Bridge & River Ganga
Science City (Near EM Bypass)
Eco Park (Near New Town)
South City Mall (Near Jadavpur)
Staying near metro stations like Rabindra Sadan, Esplanade, or Kalighat makes city travel easier.
Final Thoughts
Booking a hotel in Kolkata is now easier than ever, thanks to online platforms and wide choices across budgets. Whether you're visiting for festivals, work, or a cultural retreat, Kolkata’s hotels cater to all. Just remember to plan early, choose the right location, and enjoy your stay in this vibrant, historic city.