If you’re planning to travel from Sydney, Australia, to Kolkata, India, here’s a comprehensive guide for your journey:

1. Flight Options

• There are no direct flights from Sydney (SYD) to Kolkata (CCU).
• Connecting flights are available with layovers in cities such as Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Colombo, or Bangkok.
• The total travel time typically ranges from 13 to 18 hours, depending on the layover duration and the flight route.

2. Airlines Offering Flights from Sydney to Kolkata

Popular airlines offering flights with connections on this route include:

• Singapore Airlines (via Singapore)
• SriLankan Airlines (via Colombo)
• Malaysia Airlines (via Kuala Lumpur)
• Thai Airways (via Bangkok)
• Qatar Airways (via Doha)

3. Flight Prices

• Economy class tickets typically cost between AUD 900 and AUD 1,500 for a round trip.
• Business class fares usually start at AUD 2,500 and can go up depending on the airline and time of booking.

4. Best Time to Book

• Book at least 2-3 months in advance for the best pricing.
• Avoid peak travel seasons such as December to January and July to August, when flights tend to be more expensive.
• Travel during off-peak months like April to June and September to November for more affordable fares.

5. Visa Requirements

• Australian citizens will need a tourist visa to enter India.
  • You can apply for an e-visa, which is valid for stays of up to 60 days.
  • If you plan to stay longer, apply for a regular tourist visa through the Indian High Commission.
  • E-visas are usually processed in 3 to 7 business days.

6. Airport Information

• Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD):
  • Located about 8 kilometers from the city center.
  • Accessible via trains, taxis, buses, or ride-sharing services like Uber and Ola.
• Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU):
  • Situated approximately 17 kilometers from the city center.
  • Transportation options include prepaid taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app-based ride services like Ola or Uber.

7. Currency and Payments

• The local currency in Kolkata is the Indian Rupee (INR).
• Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in major urban areas, but carrying cash is advisable for small purchases or transactions with local vendors.

8. Travel Tips

• Time Zone: Kolkata is 5 hours and 30 minutes behind Sydney.
• Weather:
  • Summer (March to June): Hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C.
  • Monsoon (June to September): Humid with heavy rainfall.
  • Winter (October to February): Cool and pleasant, the best time for sightseeing.
• COVID-19 Considerations: Stay updated on health advisories and the latest travel regulations for India.