Plan your sacred journey from West Bengal’s capital with confidence — from visa formalities at local offices to flights, comfortable stays, transport and guided ziyarat.
Introduction
Performing Umrah is a spiritually transformative experience for Muslims across the globe. Pilgrims from Kolkata and the larger eastern region of India increasingly seek professionally organised packages that reduce logistical burdens and allow full focus on worship. In 2026, Kolkata-based Umrah operators offer a wide range of packages — from economical group tours to premium, customised pilgrimages — that cater specifically to the cultural and language needs of Bengali pilgrims. This thesis covers package types, durations, typical inclusions and exclusions, travel logistics from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU), visa procedures, sample itineraries, practical tips, safety and health guidance, and frequently asked questions.
Why Choose a Package from Kolkata?
Kolkata is an important transport hub in eastern India with direct or convenient one-stop connections to Saudi Arabia. Choosing a reliable local operator provides several benefits:
- Local support and language assistance: Pre-departure briefings and agents who speak Bengali, Hindi, Urdu and English help pilgrims feel comfortable and informed.
- Convenient departures: Flights coordinated from CCU reduce the need for long domestic travel, especially for pilgrims from neighbouring states (Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, Assam).
- Community coordination: Local mosques and community organisations often run group bookings that provide cost savings and a familiar travel environment.
- Experienced agents: Kolkata operators understand eastern-India travel patterns, dietary preferences and family arrangements — important for seniors and families travelling together.
Types of Umrah Packages from Kolkata
Agencies typically group packages into four broad categories depending on budget, comfort and customization:
Budget / Economy Packages
These packages emphasise affordability. Expect economy-class flights (often with a stopover), 3-star hotels or economy apartments, shared AC transfers and group-guided rituals. Budget packages are ideal for students, young pilgrims and community groups aiming for the essential Umrah experience at lower cost.
Standard / Family Packages
The standard option is the most common. These packages include 3–4 star hotels within walking distance or a short shuttle ride from the Haram, air-conditioned coaches for transfers between cities, guided ziyarat and family-friendly rooming options. They balance comfort and price for most pilgrims.
Deluxe / Premium Packages
Deluxe packages upgrade hotel categories to 4–5 star properties, reduce group sizes and include private or smaller-group transfers and enhanced meal plans. They suit elderly pilgrims and families preferring additional rest and convenience.
Luxury & Customised Packages
For those seeking an exclusive experience, luxury packages provide Haram-view suites, private vehicles, business-class flight upgrades, private guides and bespoke itineraries. These packages can be customised for accessibility, medical support and private group events.
Popular Durations & Estimated Price Ranges
Package length directly influences price and the overall pace of worship. Typical duration options from Kolkata with indicative starting prices per person (2026 estimates) are:
- 7 Days: Short and focused Umrah for those with limited leave. Indicative starting price: ₹80,000 – ₹1,20,000.
- 10 Days: Balanced schedule allowing for ziyarat and rest. Indicative starting price: ₹95,000 – ₹1,50,000.
- 14 Days: Comfortable pace with time for multiple ziyarat and reflection. Indicative starting price: ₹1,10,000 – ₹1,90,000.
- 21–28 Days: Extended stays for deeper immersion; prices vary considerably by hotel category and flight upgrades.
Prices vary with seasonality (Ramadan and peak periods are costlier), exchange rates, airline fares and hotel availability. Always ask for a written, itemised quote before confirming a booking.
Accommodation — Hotel Options in Makkah & Madinah
The hotel you choose will greatly affect your comfort during Umrah. Kolkata-based packages commonly offer:
- 3-star hotels: Economical, clean and functional; often a short shuttle ride away from the Haram.
- 4-star hotels: Better amenities and frequently within walking distance to the Haram entrances.
- 5-star hotels: Luxury rooms, additional services and sometimes direct Haram views for premium packages.
Agencies should state the distance to the Haram (walking minutes, shuttle time or direct access). If you are travelling with elderly pilgrims, prioritise hotels within easy walking distance or request accessible rooms.
Flights & Transport from Kolkata
Most packages include round-trip flights from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) to Jeddah (JED) or Madinah (MED). Depending on the season and airline schedules, flights can be direct (limited/seasonal) or via Gulf hubs such as Dubai, Doha or Abu Dhabi. Carriers commonly used include Saudia, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad and Air India.
Within Saudi Arabia, transfers are typically arranged by air-conditioned coaches for airport pickups, intercity travel (Makkah ⇄ Madinah) and daily shuttle services to and from the Haram. Premium packages offer private cars and chauffeur-driven vehicles for convenience and reduced wait times.
Visa Processing & Documentation (Kolkata Applicants)
Trusted Kolkata operators usually handle Umrah visa submissions and follow-up. Required documents commonly include:
- Passport with at least six months’ validity from travel date.
- Recent passport-size photographs meeting Saudi embassy specifications.
- Confirmed round-trip flight tickets and hotel reservations.
- Vaccination certificates as required by Saudi health authorities (e.g., meningococcal and any applicable COVID-19 requirements).
- Completed visa application forms and any agency authorisation letters.
Visa processing generally ranges from a few working days to two weeks depending on embassy workload. Submit documents early—especially before Ramadan or school holidays—to avoid delays.
Sample 10-Day Itinerary (Kolkata → Jeddah/Madinah → Makkah → Madinah → Kolkata)
- Day 1: Depart Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU), arrive Jeddah or Madinah, transfer to Makkah, rest and prepare for Ihram.
- Day 2: Enter Ihram, perform Umrah rituals (Tawaf and Sa’i), then rest and offer prayers at the Haram.
- Days 3–4: Additional prayers, optional ziyarat in and around Makkah (e.g., Jabal al-Noor, Cave of Hira), and time for Quranic recitation and reflection.
- Day 5: Transfer to Madinah, check in near Masjid an-Nabawi and participate in prayers.
- Days 6–8: Ziyarat in Madinah: Masjid Quba, Uhud, Masjid Qiblatain, and extended time at the Prophet’s Mosque for dua and contemplation.
- Day 9: Free personal day for worship, shopping or rest.
- Day 10: Transfer to airport and return to Kolkata with cherished memories and duas.
Inclusions & Exclusions — What to Confirm
Clarify inclusions and exclusions in writing before booking to avoid surprises. Typical inclusions in a full-service package:
- Round-trip airfare (CCU ⇄ JED/MED) with the agreed baggage allowance.
- Umrah visa processing and agency facilitation.
- Hotel accommodation in Makkah and Madinah (3–5 star) according to the selected package and meal plan.
- Airport transfers, intercity transport (Makkah ↔ Madinah) and shuttle service to the Haram.
- Guided ziyarat tours and local assistance, including multi-lingual support where available.
- 24/7 helpline and local representative help while in Saudi Arabia.
Common exclusions: international travel insurance (recommended), personal expenses (shopping, extra meals), optional private ziyarat charges, tipping/gratuities, and any services not explicitly listed in the package.
Health, Safety & Practical Tips
Health and safety are essential for a peaceful pilgrimage. Practical advice includes:
- Carry essential medications and a basic first-aid kit; disclose chronic conditions to your travel agent and request necessary assistance.
- Stay hydrated, pace your worship, and avoid strenuous activity in extreme heat.
- Pack Ihram garments, comfortable footwear, a lightweight prayer mat, personal toiletries and necessary chargers/adapters.
- Keep physical and digital copies of passport, visa, travel insurance and emergency contact numbers.
- Attend pre-departure briefings organised by the agency to understand rituals, Ihram rules and local Saudi guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How long does Umrah visa processing take for Kolkata applicants?
A: Processing typically takes between 5–14 working days depending on embassy workload and completeness of documentation. Apply early, particularly during Ramadan and other peak months.
Q: Are direct flights from Kolkata to Jeddah or Madinah available?
A: Direct flights may be seasonal or limited. Many itineraries involve one-stop connections via Gulf hubs. Your travel agent will advise the most efficient routing at the time of booking.
Q: Can elderly or mobility-impaired pilgrims receive assistance?
A: Yes — most reputable operators provide wheelchair assistance, priority check-ins, accessible rooms and private transfers on request. Inform the agent about mobility or medical needs during booking to arrange appropriate support.