Kolkata is a city located in the eastern part of India, situated in the state of West Bengal, and is known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance.
Quick Facts
Location & Borders
Kolkata is situated in the eastern part of India, in the state of West Bengal, and is located near the Bay of Bengal. The city is positioned on the banks of the Hooghly River, which is a distributary of the Ganges River. Kolkata is surrounded by the districts of North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas, and Howrah, and is connected to the neighboring cities of Howrah and Bidhannagar. The city's strategic location has made it an important center for trade and commerce in the region.
The city's proximity to the Bay of Bengal has also made it vulnerable to cyclones and storms, which can bring heavy rainfall and strong winds to the area. However, the city's location has also made it an important hub for maritime trade, with the Port of Kolkata being one of the oldest and busiest ports in the country. The city is also connected to the rest of India by a network of roads, railways, and airways, making it an important transportation hub in the region.
Terrain & Landscape
Kolkata is a low-lying city, with an average elevation of around 9 meters above sea level. The city is situated on the banks of the Hooghly River, which flows through the city and provides a source of water and transportation. The city's terrain is generally flat, with some areas of low-lying marshland and swamp. The city's landscape is dominated by the river, which has played a crucial role in the city's development and growth. The river has also created a number of wetlands and mangrove forests in the area, which provide a habitat for a wide range of plants and animals.
The city's terrain has also been shaped by human activity, with the construction of canals, drains, and roads having altered the natural landscape of the area. The city's urban landscape is characterized by a mix of old and new buildings, with many historic landmarks and monuments standing alongside modern skyscrapers and shopping malls. The city's parks and gardens provide a green oasis in the midst of the bustling metropolis, and offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The city's surrounding areas are also home to a number of agricultural lands, which provide a source of fresh produce to the city's inhabitants. The Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located nearby and is home to a wide range of wildlife, including the Bengal tiger and the Ganges River dolphin.
Climate By Season
| Season | Months | Temperature Range | Rainfall | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | March to May | 25-35°C | Low | Hot and humid |
| Monsoon | June to September | 25-30°C | High | Heavy rainfall and flooding |
| Autumn | October to November | 20-25°C | Low | Mild and pleasant |
| Winter | December to February | 10-20°C | Low | Cool and dry |
Best Time To Visit
Best months: October to February. Why: The weather is mild and pleasant, with low humidity and comfortable temperatures. Avoid: June to September, as the monsoon season can bring heavy rainfall and flooding, making it difficult to get around the city.
Natural Highlights
- The Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to a wide range of wildlife, including the Bengal tiger and the Ganges River dolphin.
- The Hooghly River, which flows through the city and provides a source of water and transportation.
- The Mangrove forests of the Sundarbans, which provide a unique and diverse ecosystem.
- The Wetlands of the city, which provide a habitat for a wide range of plants and animals.
- The Victoria Memorial, a historic landmark and one of the city's most iconic buildings, set in a beautiful park and garden.
- The Eco Park, a large urban park that provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with a range of lakes, gardens, and walking trails.