Living in Kolkata, India. Neighborhoods, coworking, and what to expect.
Welcome to our comprehensive digital nomad guide to Kolkata, India, with monthly cost of living around $423 and average internet speeds of 97 Mbps. Whether you're planning a short stay or considering Kolkata as your next long-term base, this guide covers everything remote workers need to know.
As a digital nomad, I’ve had the pleasure of calling Kolkata, India, my home for several months. This vibrant city is a treasure trove of history, culture, and cuisine, making it an attractive destination for remote workers. With a nominal monthly rent of ₹6,500 (approximately $83 USD) for a one-bedroom apartment, Kolkata is an affordable option for those looking to experience the best of India without breaking the bank. The city’s rich cultural heritage, coupled with its thriving nightlife and social scene, has earned it a nomad score of 57/100. As a Kolkata digital nomad, you’ll find yourself immersed in a unique blend of traditional and modern India.
Kolkata’s population of 4,631,392 people is a testament to its status as a major metropolitan hub. While the safety index is a concern, with a rating of 53.10/100, taking necessary precautions and being aware of your surroundings can help mitigate any risks. The city’s culture score of 70/100 reflects its deep-rooted history, vibrant arts scene, and delectable cuisine. As a remote worker, you’ll find that Kolkata offers a great balance of work and play, with plenty of opportunities to explore and experience the local way of life.
When it comes to choosing a neighborhood to stay in Kolkata, there are several options that cater to different tastes and preferences. Here are three areas that I highly recommend:
The cost of living in Kolkata is relatively low compared to other major cities in India. Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses for a digital nomad:
Overall, the cost of living in Kolkata can range from ₹30,000 to ₹60,000 (approximately $375-$750 USD) per month, depending on your lifestyle and preferences.
Kolkata has a relatively good internet infrastructure, with average speeds of 49 Mbps. As a digital nomad, you’ll find several coworking spaces and cafes that offer reliable internet and a productive work environment. Some popular options include:
Kolkata has a growing digital nomad community, with several meetups and events organized regularly. Some popular groups and meetups include:
Kolkata is a city that proudly showcases its rich cultural heritage. As a digital nomad, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to experience the local customs, food scene, and nightlife. Some must-try experiences include:
As a digital nomad, you’ll need to obtain a tourist visa to enter India. The process is relatively straightforward, and you can apply online through the Indian government’s website. The cost of a tourist visa is ₹1,000 (approximately $12 USD) for a single-entry visa, and ₹2,000 (approximately $25 USD) for a multiple-entry visa. Unfortunately, India does not currently offer a digital nomad visa, but there are plans to introduce a new visa category for remote workers in the near future.
Here are some practical tips to help you navigate life as a digital nomad in Kolkata:
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INDIA
