Explore Kolkata
Kolkata, the capital city of West Bengal, is the cultural and intellectual heart of India, often referred to as the "City of Joy." It is a vibrant metropolis that beautifully blends colonial-era charm with modern development. Established as the capital of British India until 1911, Kolkata boasts remarkable architecture, including the iconic Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Indian Museum, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. The city is also home to major educational and research institutions like IIT Kharagpur, Jadavpur University, and Presidency University. The historic tram system, yellow taxis, and bustling streets of Esplanade add to Kolkata’s timeless appeal. Beyond its historical significance, Kolkata is also known for its rich literary, artistic, and culinary heritage. It is the birthplace of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore and hosts the famous Durga Puja, a grand festival recognized by UNESCO for its cultural importance. Food lovers can indulge in rosogolla, mishti doi, kathi rolls, and fish curry, while book enthusiasts flock to College Street, the world's largest second-hand book market. With its blend of nostalgia, progress, and cultural depth, Kolkata remains one of India's most charismatic and soulful cities.
Overview
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Country
India
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Best Time to Visit
January, February, March, October, November, December
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Ideal Duration
n/a
Visa Rules
Last updated: 2025-04-23 03:41:06
Tourist Visa
You can apply for a tourist visa if you're visiting India for recreation, sightseeing, or to meet friends and relatives. You can also apply for a tourist visa if you're attending a short-term yoga program or medical treatment.
You can apply for an e-visa
online.
Mandatory Documents:
1. Passport: Original passport valid for at least 6 months with at least 3 blank visa pages, plus a photocopy of the passport's data page.
2. Photographs: Two passport-size photographs (2x2 inches) glued to the visa application form as per instructions.
3. Visa Application Form: Fill out the Indian Government visa application form online at www.indianvisaonline.gov.in. Ensure your signature matches your passport signature and validate the data with a declaration signature at the bottom of page 2.
Additional Documents (Depending on Applicant's Situation):
• For Applicants of Indian Origin (Born Indian):
o Surrender Certificate or cancelled Indian passport copy or sworn affidavit.
• For Applicants of Indian Origin (Naturalized):
o First passport copy (if issued in India), Nationality Certificate, or sworn affidavit.
• Explanation for Birth in India (if not of Indian origin): Letter in English addressed to consular services explaining details and reasons.
• Parent of Indian Descent Born in France: Statement confirming no previous Indian passport or nationality.
• Joining Specific Organizations in India: Official invitation letter in a sealed envelope from the organization.
• Property Ownership Intention: Letter from Reserve Bank of India granting permission to acquire property and proof of property ownership in India.
• Minor Applicants: French "livret de famille" or birth certificate, ID proof of each parent, and travel authorization letter signed by both parents.
• Dual Nationality: Copy of the second passport.
• Applicants of Pakistani Origin: Reference form as per current nationality and additional documents based on current or previous nationality.
Declaration:
Certification: Acknowledgment of submitting a complete application and acceptance of the minimum processing time required.
Make sure to gather all necessary documents according to your specific situation and follow the guidelines closely to ensure a smooth visa application process. If you have any more questions or need further clarification on any of these requirements, feel free to ask!
Disclaimers
The above list of documents is the standard requirement for the visa application. The Embassy/Consulate/High Commission/Application Centres reserve the right to request additional documents for verification.
Travelspoc does not guarantee the outcome of any visa application. Decisions on visa applications are at the sole discretion of the respective Embassy/Consulate/High Commission.
The official website for applying for an Indian visa is: