Search and compare cheap flights to Kolkata (CCU) from Washington D.C., Northern Virginia, and Maryland. FlyToDash AI scans IAD, DCA, and BWI to find the best fares instantly.
Kolkata (CCU), formerly Calcutta, is a cultural and intellectual hub of India and one of the busiest gateways to the eastern region. Travelers from Washington D.C. frequently fly to Kolkata for family visits, business travel, academic programs, and tourism. FlyToDash AI compares airfares from IAD, DCA, and BWI to help you find the lowest prices instantly.
There are no nonstop flights from the U.S. to Kolkata, but the city is well-connected through the Middle East and Europe. The best options usually include one or two connections.
For most travelers, Qatar Airways and Emirates offer the best balance of price, comfort, and connection speed.
Typical fare ranges based on historical averages:
Prices fluctuate depending on the airline, connection city, and travel season. FlyToDash AI compares all airports automatically to reveal the cheapest combination.
Fares to Kolkata follow seasonal demand patterns. The most budget-friendly months include:
Peak pricing usually appears during:
These international hubs offer the most efficient routes to CCU:
For travelers looking for the shortest possible route, Middle Eastern hubs generally win over European hubs.
Depending on the connection city and layover length, total travel time typically falls within:
Kolkata is known for its literature, arts, food culture, festivals, and colonial-era architecture. Popular attractions include:
Many travelers also use Kolkata as a connection point for visiting Darjeeling, Sikkim, Sundarbans, and Northeast India.
FlyToDash AI automates all comparisons for you, helping you find the fastest, cheapest, and most reliable flight options from Washington DC to Kolkata.
Planning a trip to Kolkata, India? These FAQs cover visa requirements, airport details, flight connections, best travel months, and helpful arrival tips for a smooth journey.
Yes. U.S. citizens must obtain a visa before entering India, including for tourism in Kolkata. Most visitors apply online for an Indian e-Visa before travel. Passports should be valid for at least six months beyond arrival. Always confirm current entry rules here: India Travel Information – U.S. Department of State
Kolkata is served by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU), the main international gateway for eastern India. It offers direct routes to the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and strong domestic connections across India.
Flights are usually most affordable during April–June and September, when tourism demand is lower. Prices tend to rise from October through February thanks to cooler weather and major festivals like Durga Puja.
There are currently no regular nonstop flights from the U.S. to Kolkata. Most travelers connect through hubs such as Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi, or London, or transfer within India via Delhi or Mumbai. These routes usually offer the best combination of price and availability.
Total travel time typically ranges from 18 to 24 hours, depending on your departure city, layover length, and routing. East Coast departures are generally faster than West Coast flights.
Kolkata is known for its colonial architecture, vibrant arts scene, historic temples, literary culture, and famous street food. It also serves as a gateway to eastern India, including Darjeeling’s hill stations and the Sundarbans mangrove forests.
Taxis and app-based ride services are the easiest way to reach hotels and neighborhoods across the city. Travel time usually takes 30–60 minutes depending on traffic. Airport buses and prepaid taxi services are also available.
Booking about 3–5 months in advance often gives the best value. For winter travel and festival seasons, earlier booking is recommended as prices rise quickly.
Bring your passport, approved visa or e-Visa confirmation, return ticket, and hotel or host address details. Immigration officers may ask about your trip purpose and length of stay.
Flying through Gulf hubs often offers lower fares, traveling outside winter peak months reduces costs significantly, and using flexible date searches or price alerts can help catch good deals early.