Comparison Between Kolkata and Ahmedabad: A Comprehensive Guide for Residents and Visitors
Both Kolkata and Ahmedabad are vibrant cities in India, each with its unique characteristics and appeal. As someone who has lived in both cities for work, I can provide an unbiased comparison based on my personal experiences. From work culture and cost of living to food options and weather conditions, this article aims to give you a detailed insight into what each city offers.
Work Culture
Both Kolkata and Ahmedabad have a diverse working culture, reflecting the multicultural India. People from various states come to work in these cities, creating a rich and diverse environment. The work ethic and professional dynamics are comparable in both cities, making them attractive destinations for professionals.
Cost of Living
Compared to Kolkata, Ahmedabad is a more affordable city. While Kolkata offers a wide range of options, living costs might be slightly higher. This makes Ahmedabad a more budget-friendly choice for those looking to save on rent and other expenses.
Weekend Destination
Kolkata emerges as the top weekend destination for its vibrant culture, historical significance, and numerous entertainment options. The city is brimming with activity even on weekends, offering a wide range of attractions and activities for both locals and tourists.
Food Culture
Food lovers will find more variety in Kolkata compared to Ahmedabad. Ahmedabad primarily focuses on vegetarian food, with limited exploration into South, East, and North Indian cuisines. Even when it comes to non-vegetarian options, finding such places can be challenging. Kolkata, on the other hand, offers an extensive range of food from all regions of India, making it a food lover's paradise.
Residential Life
When it comes to housing, Ahmedabad landlords might inquire about your religious background and food preferences before renting a place. In contrast, Kolkata is more inclusive and does not pose such restrictive questions. Living in Kolkata feels more welcoming and diverse.
Safety
The safety levels in both cities are relatively similar. While both can pose challenges, they are generally safe for residents and visitors. However, caution is advised, especially on empty roads during specific times in both cities.
Educational Opportunities
Kolkata boasts institutions like IIT Jodhpur and Khadakpur, providing excellent educational options. Ahmedabad, on the other hand, is a stronghold for IIMs and NID, making it ideal for those pursuing higher education in management and design. The choice between the two depends on your specific field of interest.
Weather
Ahmedabad experiences extreme heat, with temperatures often surpassing 48-50°C, albeit with a short winter period. The rainy season is brief but happens frequently between June to August. Kolkata, on the other hand, is hot and humid with frequent rain, but it also enjoys a pleasant spring season, which Ahmedabad lacks.
Transportation
Both cities have comparable transportation systems. However, the traffic in Ahmedabad can be worse, offering a more challenging commuting experience. Kolkata's transportation can be more congested due to a higher number of vehicles.
Nightlife
Kolkata's nightlife is famous for its 24/7 availability. The city never sleeps, offering a wide array of entertainment options late into the night. In contrast, Ahmedabad enforces a strict curfew, with police actively monitoring and enforcing a 10 PM cut-off for people roaming outside their homes.
Cleanliness
Both cities have newer and older parts, with newer areas being cleaner in both. However, the older sections of both cities suffer from pollution and lack of proper waste management.
Based on a comparative assessment of the above factors, Kolkata stands out with a higher score. It scores 10 out of 12, while Ahmedabad scores 6. This indicates that Kolkata offers more comprehensive benefits compared to Ahmedabad in terms of food variety, nightlife, and general living experience.
Conclusion: While both cities have their unique charm and appeal, Kolkata emerges as the better choice based on the diverse offerings and comprehensive lifestyle it provides.