Events in Kolkata range from the annual International Kolkata Book Fair to the city’s Durga Puja season and established cultural festivals.
- Annual event: International Kolkata Book Fair, established in 1976.
- Book fair venue: Boi Mela Prangan, beside Karunamoyee Bus Stand.
- Culture: The Kolkata International Film Festival was established in 1995.
Durga Puja and Kali Puja season
Durga Puja and Kali Puja are key occasions to consider when planning a seasonal visit to Kolkata.
Dates can vary between official calendars, so avoid relying on a past schedule to plan a future trip. For an outing, see this guide to Deshapriya Park.
Kolkata International Book Fair
The International Kolkata Book Fair is held annually at Boi Mela Prangan, beside Karunamoyee Bus Stand. Established in 1976, it features international publishers and authors, a guest-country pavilion, literary discussions, book launches and performances.
The fair’s website offers a downloadable map and a Kolkata Book Fair app. Check the official site before you go for details relevant to your visit. If you’re travelling from Hindustan Park to the venue, this guide to getting around Kolkata from Hindustan Park can help with transport planning.
Film, running and cultural events
Kolkata has an established film festival tradition: the Kolkata International Film Festival was founded by the Government of West Bengal in 1995, according to FIAPF. Dates and details for film, running and cultural events can change, so check organiser information when setting travel dates.
For another cultural stop, Rabindra Sadan is a city landmark. If a performance is part of your plans, this Rabindra Sadan venue guide covers practical details.
Planning your stay and event dates
Use Hindustan Park as a starting area, then check where each event is being held before arranging the day. The facts here don’t confirm event-specific transport arrangements or crowd conditions, so allow your plans to follow the organiser’s current information rather than assuming a regular route or schedule.
A standard room at 55B hindustan park puts Deshapriya Park about a 12-minute walk away. When you’re choosing dates, distinguish recurring events from particular editions: the book fair is annual, while dates for an individual edition need to be confirmed separately.
FAQs
Is the Kolkata International Book Fair held every year?
Yes. The fair is held annually and was established in 1976.
What can you find at the book fair?
Its programme includes international publishers and authors, literary discussions, book launches, performances and a guest-country pavilion.
Are a map and app available for the book fair?
Yes. The fair’s website provides a downloadable map and a Kolkata Book Fair app.