When the monsoon arrives in Kolkata, the city transforms into a dreamy landscape, where the rhythmic sound of raindrops creates a calming symphony. The overcast skies and cool breeze offer a refreshing break from the heat, while the streets glisten with reflections, breathing new life into the city’s timeless charm. On such days, Kolkata in the rain becomes a canvas of delightful experiences—whether it’s enjoying a hot cup of tea, savoring comfort food at home, or stepping out to embrace the rain. For locals, monsoon days are more than just an excuse to stay indoors—they’re an opportunity to savor the little joys the city has to offer. From indulging in comforting food to embracing the rain. So whenever you find yourself in the rains in Kolkata don’t run away but enjoy the pleasant moment, just feel the rain and enjoy the day. Here’s a list of 7 fun things to do in Kolkata when it pours.
Sip a Hot Cup of Tea by the Window
No rainy day in Kolkata is complete without a steaming cup of tea. Whether it’s at home or at your favorite roadside tea stall, enjoying a cup of “matir bharer chaa” (tea in an earthen cup) while watching the rain fall is a quintessential Kolkata experience. The earthy aroma of the tea combined with the cool weather creates a sense of warmth and nostalgia. Pair your tea with some crispy biscuits, and you’ve got the perfect monsoon treat. We should never miss the chance to drink tea on a rainy day by getting out of the busy routine of work. We should just enjoy the pleasant drops of rain which provide a unique peace to the mind.
Go for a Photowalk in the Rain
Rain-washed streets, shimmering reflections, and vibrant umbrellas create the ideal backdrop for photography. Kolkata’s timeless charm is magnified in the rain, with iconic landmarks like Howrah Bridge, Victoria Memorial, and College Street taking on a different persona. A photowalk through the city during the monsoon is an artistic adventure. Capture candid shots of daily life, explore narrow lanes, and document the beauty of the city in its rain-drenched form. Wherever you click your photos, it will give a nice and unique memory of the rainy day as there is a magic in the streets of Kolkata. So whenever you get stuck in the rain in Kolkata, don’t forget to capture it as your rainy memory.
Savor Some Khichuri at Home
Monsoons in Kolkata are synonymous with a piping hot plate of khichuri (a rice and lentil dish) paired with fried vegetables and fish. The comforting, hearty meal is often cooked at home when the rain brings a chilly atmosphere. It’s not just food; it’s a ritual that warms both the body and the soul. Cooking and enjoying khichuri with family while rain softly pelts the window is a cozy way to spend a rainy day indoors.
Get Drenched in the Rain
Sometimes, the best way to enjoy the rain is to step out and embrace it fully. Take a break from the hustle, put aside your worries, and let the raindrops wash over you. The streets of Kolkata, with their bustling energy and old-world charm, come alive when you walk through them in the rain. It’s a liberating and refreshing experience that connects you to the city’s monsoon magic on a personal level.
Make and Sail Some Paper Boats
Rainy days bring out the child in all of us, and there’s no better way to relive those childhood memories than by making and sailing paper boats. The puddles that form on the streets are the perfect playground for these tiny vessels. Gather a few friends, fold some paper boats, and race them down the flowing water. It’s a simple joy, but one that adds a touch of whimsy to the rainy day.
Go for a Long Drive in the Rain
Kolkata’s wide roads and scenic vistas make for a perfect long drive during the monsoon. Whether it’s a drive along the Maidan with the towering Victoria Memorial in view or a breezy trip down the Eastern Metropolitan Bypass, the sight of rain-soaked trees and the smell of wet earth can turn an ordinary drive into a soothing experience. Roll down the windows, play some calming music, and enjoy the rhythmic sound of rain as it hits the windshield.
Indulge in Some Fish Fry
Rainy days and crispy fish fry go hand in hand in Kolkata. Whether you’re at a local café or enjoying a homemade version, the delightful crunch of fish fry with mustard dip is a rainy-day indulgence you shouldn’t miss. Pair it with a hot cup of tea, and you’ve got the perfect snack to enjoy while watching the rain fall outside. This hot fish fry will surely improve your taste and mood. So don’t waste the rain, just go out and grab your favorite snacks and enjoy your rainy day.
The rains in Kolkata bring with them a sense of nostalgia, joy, and relaxation. Whether you’re indoors savoring delicious food, exploring the rain-soaked streets, or simply embracing the weather, the monsoon offers countless ways to appreciate the city’s charm. So, the next time it rains in Kolkata, step out and discover the magic hidden in those raindrops. It is not fair to ignore the magical reign of Kolkata.
