Cost of Living in Kolkata, India
Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal and formerly the capital of British India, is renowned as the 'City of Joy.' For expats, digital nomads, and locals alike, it stands out as one of the most affordable major metropolitan areas in India. While it offers a deeply traditional soul through its colonial architecture and vibrant literary culture, it maintains a significantly lower cost of living compared to Mumbai or Delhi. From world-class street food to remarkably cheap public transit including the iconic yellow taxis and India’s oldest metro system, Kolkata provides a high standard of urban living at a budget-friendly price point.
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Quality of Life in Kolkata
Kolkata offers a high level of cultural richness and social safety. It is often cited as one of the safest metros in India for women. Healthcare is robust, with several prestigious private hospitals like Apollo and AMRI. However, the city faces challenges common to large Indian urban centers, including high air pollution levels during winter and heavy traffic congestion in older districts. The slower pace of life and lower cost of services like domestic help make it an attractive destination for those prioritizing heritage over modern hyper-development.
3 Days in Kolkata: A Budget Itinerary
Day 1
Morning visit to Victoria Memorial and St. Paul's Cathedral. Lunch at Park Street. Evening stroll at Prinsep Ghat for a sunset view of the Vidyasagar Setu.
Day 2
Early morning visit to the Mullik Ghat Flower Market followed by a walk across the Howrah Bridge. Explore the potters' colony at Kumartuli and visit the Marble Palace.
Day 3
Take a ferry across the Hooghly River to the Dakshineswar Kali Temple and Belur Math. End the trip with a traditional Bengali 'Thali' in South Kolkata.
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