Kolkata is slowing warming up to the pace of a growing IT hub.

The city, previously known as Calcutta is the prime city in eastern India and has its unique culture and characteristics. Kolkata has always had migrants coming to the city for business or pleasure for a long time now.

Kolkata is the capital of the state of West Bengal. This state has been ruled by the Communists for a few decades now. ‘Bandhs’ or city wide shut downs as means of public protest are characteristic of Kolkata and it is best to get used to the idea from the day you land here. NRIs realise ‘People are a lot less efficient but if you know your way around and have a few contacts, things definitely gets done a lot faster’.

Living in Kolkata is not for someone used to a hectic pace of life. If you would like to slow down a bit, then Kolkata is the city for you. The city is opening up to MNCs and new areas of residential development are coming up. Kolkata has an international airport and global connectivity is not an issue. The city is rich in art and culture. The flip side is the ‘dirty roads, pollution and perennial traffic jams. Traveling in the monsoon season is a big problem’. The latter applies to most cities in India.

This guide answers most questions about living in Kolkata- from the weather and upkeep of clothes to popular neighborhoods, social concerns, domestic help, medical facilities, recreational options, Bengali culture, cuisine, festivities and more. There are Chilli tips from those who have made the move.

The survival guide gives a realistic picture about the city and how to manage everyday situations. There are aspects that may take time to get used to. In other words ‘Getting adjusted to the climate is really difficult, especially Kolkata’s humid summer time. It’s hard to adjust to constant power cuts. Electricity is something we take so much for granted in the West. It’s terrible to see little children begging on the roads. Also, if you’re dressed in shorts, you’re constantly stared at. Over a certain period of time, I realized that the only thing I could do was ignore the problems’.

Move to Kolkata if you are an optimist. ‘It’s not really that bad an experience as it is made out to be. Do not come overloaded with basic requirements because almost everything you get in the West is available here. There are amazing places to see and so much to discover here’.

Product Summary

This is a guide for foreigners and NRIs planning to move to Kolkata.

The guide includes information on places to live, schooling, weather, utility services, shopping, social aspects, recreation and interviews with NRIs who have relocated.

A valuable resource if you are new to the city.

US$16.99