Here’s a detailed guide to planning your trip from Melbourne, Australia, to Kolkata, India:

1. Flight Options

• There are no direct flights from Melbourne (MEL) to Kolkata (CCU).
• Connecting flights are available, typically with layovers in cities such as Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Colombo, or Bangkok.
• The total travel time ranges from 15 to 20 hours, depending on the layover duration and route.

2. Airlines Offering Flights from Melbourne to Kolkata

Some popular airlines that operate this route include:

• Singapore Airlines (via Singapore)
• SriLankan Airlines (via Colombo)
• Malaysia Airlines (via Kuala Lumpur)
• Thai Airways (via Bangkok)
• Qantas Airways (via Sydney or other cities)

3. Flight Prices

• Economy class tickets typically cost between AUD 800 and AUD 1,500 for a round trip.
• Business class fares start at around AUD 2,500 and can vary based on the airline and booking time.

4. Best Time to Book

• Book flights at least 2-3 months in advance for the best prices.
• Avoid peak travel periods like December-January and July-August, when prices are higher.
• For better deals, consider traveling during off-peak months like April to June or September to November.

5. Visa Requirements

• Australian citizens need a tourist visa to enter India.
  • The easiest option is an e-visa, valid for stays of up to 60 days.
  • For longer stays, you can apply for a regular tourist visa through the Indian High Commission.
  • The e-visa process generally takes 3 to 7 business days.

6. Airport Information

• Melbourne Airport (MEL):
  • Located about 23 kilometers from Melbourne city center.
  • Accessible via SkyBus, taxis, or ride-sharing services like Uber or DiDi.
• Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU):
  • Situated approximately 17 kilometers from Kolkata city center.
  • Transportation options include prepaid taxis, app-based ride services like Ola or Uber, and shuttle services.

7. Currency and Payments

• Kolkata, like the rest of India, uses the Indian Rupee (INR).
• Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, but it’s advisable to carry cash for smaller transactions and local vendors.

8. Travel Tips

• Time Zone: Kolkata is 5 hours and 30 minutes behind Melbourne.
• 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, ideal for travel.
• COVID-19 Considerations: Check the latest travel advisories and health protocols before departure