Yes, March can be a good time to visit Kolkata, India for several reasons:
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Cultural Events and Festivals:
- March is the time for the famous Holi festival, also known as the Festival of Colors. Kolkata celebrates Holi with great enthusiasm, and visitors can witness vibrant street processions, music, dance, and revelry.
- The month of March also marks the beginning of the Bengali new year, known as Poila Baisakh. This is a time for cultural performances, traditional fairs, and family gatherings.
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Pleasant Weather:
- While the weather in Kolkata can be hot and humid, March is generally considered a transitional month with more moderate temperatures. The average temperature ranges from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius (68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit), making it comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
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Fewer Crowds:
- March falls in the shoulder season for tourism in Kolkata, which means there are fewer crowds compared to the peak tourist season in winter. This can make for a more relaxed and enjoyable travel experience, with shorter queues at attractions and more availability at hotels and restaurants.
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Lower Accommodation Rates:
- Due to the lower demand during the shoulder season, accommodation rates in Kolkata tend to be more affordable in March compared to other times of the year. This can be a great opportunity for budget-conscious travelers to find good deals on hotels and guesthouses.
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Availability of Flights and Transportation:
- March is generally a good time to find affordable flights and transportation options to Kolkata, as there is less demand during the shoulder season. This can make it easier and more cost-effective to plan your trip.
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Shopping and Local Markets:
- Kolkata is known for its vibrant shopping scene and local markets. In March, visitors can enjoy a pleasant shopping experience without the overwhelming crowds of the peak season. The city’s markets offer a wide range of products, from traditional handicrafts to clothing and spices.
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Cultural and Historical Sights:
- Kolkata is home to numerous cultural and historical attractions that are accessible year-round. Some notable places to visit include the Victoria Memorial, the Indian Museum, and the Howrah Bridge. These attractions offer insights into the city’s rich history, architecture, and significance in India’s freedom struggle.
Weather In Kolkata During March
During March, Kolkata experiences warm and humid weather with average temperatures ranging from 22°C (72°F) to 32°C (90°F).
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Temperature:
- Average high: 32°C (90°F)
- Average low: 22°C (72°F)
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Humidity:
- Average humidity: 70-80%
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Rainfall:
- Average rainfall: 23mm (0.9 inches)
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Daylight:
- Average daylight hours: 12 hours
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Clothing:
- Light and breathable clothing is recommended.
- Carry an umbrella or raincoat for occasional showers.
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Activities:
- Visit the Victoria Memorial and other historical landmarks.
- Take a boat ride on the Hooghly River.
- Explore the bustling markets and bazaars.
- Attend a traditional Bengali music or dance performance.
- Enjoy a cup of tea at one of the many tea stalls.
Overall, March is a pleasant time to visit Kolkata, with warm and humid weather that is ideal for exploring the city’s many attractions.
Things To Do In Kolkata In March
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Holi, the Festival of Colors: Holi is a Hindu spring festival celebrated on the full moon day in the month of Phalguna (February-March). This colorful festival is a celebration of joy, love, and triumph over evil. People celebrate by throwing colored powder and water at each other, playing with water guns, and dancing in the streets.
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Vasant Utsav, the Spring Festival: Vasant Utsav is a two-day festival that celebrates the arrival of spring. The festival is held at the Indian Museum in Kolkata and features a variety of cultural programs, including music, dance, and drama performances. There are also food stalls and exhibitions of handicrafts and paintings.
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Kolkata Book Fair: The Kolkata Book Fair is one of the largest book fairs in the world. The fair is held in January and February and features over 2,000 stalls selling books in a variety of languages. There are also cultural programs, author readings, and book signings.
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International Kolkata Film Festival: Established in 1995, The International Kolkata Film Festival is considered one of India’s most prestigious film festivals and occurs every year in November. If you are in Kolkata in March, you might catch the end of the festival.
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Ganga Sagar Mela: The Ganga Sagar Mela is a large religious fair held on the banks of the Ganges River. The fair is held in January and February and attracts millions of pilgrims from all over India. Pilgrims bathe in the Ganges River and offer prayers to the goddess Ganga.
Tourism In Kolkata, India During March
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The Kolkata International Film Festival: Held annually in March, this festival showcases a diverse range of films from around the world, including independent, mainstream, and documentary productions. This is a highly regarded festival and attracts both Indian and international filmmakers and film enthusiasts.
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The Calcutta Book Fair: This month-long book fair is one of the largest in the world, attracting millions of visitors. It features a wide range of books and publications, as well as cultural events like author talks, panel discussions, and book signings.
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The Holi Festival: Also known as the “Festival of Colors,” Holi is a Hindu festival celebrated in March. During Holi, people throw colored powder and water at each other, creating a festive and joyous atmosphere. Kolkata celebrates Holi with great enthusiasm, with music, dancing, and feasts.
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The International Garden Festival: Held in the serene surroundings of the Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden, this festival showcases beautiful flower arrangements, landscaping, and garden art from around the world.
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The St. Patrick’s Day Festival: While not a traditional Indian festival, St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated in Kolkata’s Irish pubs and cultural centers. Expect live music, Irish dancing, and traditional Irish food and drinks.
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The Kolkata Fashion Week: This event showcases the latest trends in Indian and international fashion, with runway shows, exhibitions, and workshops by leading designers.
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The Kolkata Heritage Walk Festival: This festival offers guided walks through Kolkata’s historic neighborhoods, allowing visitors to explore the city’s rich architectural and cultural heritage.
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The Bengal Classical Music Festival: This festival celebrates the rich classical music traditions of Bengal, with performances by renowned musicians and vocalists.
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The Kolkata International Jazz Festival: This festival features performances by jazz musicians from India and around the world, blending traditional and contemporary jazz styles.
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The Calcutta International Photography Festival: This festival showcases the work of both established and emerging photographers, offering exhibitions, workshops, and talks on photography and visual art.