India : Safety by City
India - safety as a countryKolkata previously Calcutta is the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal. Located on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River, the city is approximately 80 kilometers west of the border with Bangladesh.
Warnings & Dangers in Kolkata
OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM
You need to take special precautions in this city, watch out for your belongings and surroundings, and do not walk alone late at night.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM
Public transport is not well developed. Traffic on the roads can be hectic and unsafe. Pickpockets are common on buses. Use only licensed taxi services.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : HIGH
Pickpocketing occurs in Kolkata at every turn, so wear an anti-theft backpack, look after your belongings, and don't leave your phones and wallets unattended. In crowded places, keep an eye on your surroundings.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM
Kolkata is located in a seismically dangerous region and is prone to earthquakes. Check the weather conditions before your trip here.
MUGGING RISK : LOW
The risk of serious robbery and armed attacks is shallow in Kolkata. There is little danger of these attacks in the suburbs. However, the likelihood that you will be attacked is minimal.
TERRORISM RISK : LOW
The risk of terrorism is low in Kolkata. Of course, the risk of attacks still exists, due to the international position of the city. The global risk of terrorist attacks in public areas exists worldwide, so tourists should be vigilant.
SCAMS RISK : HIGH
Fraud is commonly associated with street vendors offering counterfeit goods to tourists. Don't buy them even if the price is very attractive. Also, only withdraw money from ATMs at banks with cameras to avoid skimming your card.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : MEDIUM
Women traveling alone can feel quite safe in Kolkata. The main thing is to adhere to the usual precautions and monitor your surroundings. Wear modest clothing that covers your knees and shoulders.
How Safe Is Kolkata for Tourists?
Kolkata is a relatively safe city to travel to.
The crime index here is at an average level.
The main problems are related to corruption and vandalism.
Kolkata is considered one of the safest cities in India.
Serious violent crimes are rare and usually do not involve tourists.
Petty theft and theft of personal belongings are common everywhere in India.
Be especially careful in crowded places: train stations, bazaars, shopping areas.
Keep your bags and belongings tightly close to you, as bag theft is also one of the popular forms of petty crime.
Also, lock your home carefully: it is known that thieves can sneak into a tourist’s room or house to commit a robbery.
Expect people to trick you or extort money from you, even the police, although the corruption situation has improved over the past couple of years.
India uses a left-hand drive system which can cause difficulties for tourists looking to rent a car.
If you are planning to drive in India, keep in mind that Indian roads are not in the best condition and that Indian drivers can often be reckless when driving, and do not forget that you may encounter stray livestock on the road.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Kolkata?
Visitors to India must obtain a visa from an Indian diplomatic mission unless they come from one of the visa-exempt countries or a country whose citizens may obtain a visa on arrival, or an e-Visa online.
Which Currency Is Used in Kolkata?
The Indian rupee (symbol: ₹; code: INR) is the official currency of India. The rupee is subdivided into 100 paise.
How's the Weather like in Kolkata?
In Kolkata, the wet season is hot, oppressive, and overcast, and the dry season is warm, humid, and mostly clear. The city enjoys winter from November to February.
What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Kolkata?
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport is located in Dum Dum, near Kolkata, West Bengal, India. Initially, the civil airport was called Dum-Dum Airport; later, it was renamed Subhas Chandra Bose.
Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?
A travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country or city. Make sure you got it before starting your journey; the customs officer may ask for it.
What Are Some Things to Do in Kolkata?
Kolkata is the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal. The city, founded as a trading outpost of the East India Company from 1773 to 1911, was the capital of the British possessions in India. Modern Kolkata is renowned for its stately colonial architecture, art galleries, and cultural festivals. The city is home to the Mother’s House – the headquarters of the monastic congregation Missionaries of Mercy, founded by Mother Teresa, whose grave is here.
Is the Water in Kolkata Safe to Drink?
Tap water is not potable. You can use bottled water or boil tap water.
Is Uber Safe in Kolkata?
There is an Uber taxi in the city; you can call a taxi from your smartphone application. The fare will depend on the time of day, and the distance traveled.
