Fun Classes for Expats Living in Kolkata
Summary: Once you've arrived in Kolkata, here are some classes to consider taking to help you meet people and get settled in to your new life abroad.
For expats and digital nomads in Kolkata, diving into the local culture and community can be both enriching and enjoyable. Engaging in classes tailored to English-speaking adults is a fantastic way to learn new skills, explore interests, and meet like-minded individuals. From the aromatic world of Indian cooking to the expressive strokes of a paintbrush, Kolkata offers a variety of classes that cater to diverse tastes and learning appetites. Whether you're looking to master the local language, savor the nuances of Indian wines, or unleash your inner artist, there's a class waiting for you. Here's a curated list of classes in Kolkata that are perfect for English-speaking residents who are eager to learn and connect.
Sienna Store & Cafe
Type of Class(es): Cooking Workshops
Location: 49/1 Hindustan Park, Gariahat
Sienna Store & Cafe offers cooking workshops that are perfect for those looking to delve into the flavors of Bengali cuisine. These workshops are conducted in English and are designed to accommodate both beginners and seasoned cooks. Participants get hands-on experience in preparing traditional dishes, making it a delightful way to immerse oneself in the local culture.
Swirls
Type of Class(es): Wine Tasting
Location: Multiple locations across Kolkata
Swirls is a wine enthusiast's haven, offering wine tasting classes that guide you through the intricacies of wine varieties, pairings, and tasting techniques. Conducted in English, these sessions are a great opportunity to refine your palate and meet fellow wine lovers in the city.
Art Rickshaw
Type of Class(es): Painting and Art Workshops
Location: Hindustan Park Area
Art Rickshaw is an art studio that provides a creative outlet for adults through various art and painting workshops. These classes are conducted in English and cater to all levels, from beginners to advanced artists. It's a wonderful way to express yourself and connect with Kolkata's vibrant art scene.
Mastering Bengali
Type of Class(es): Bengali language Courses
Location: Various locations in Kolkata
Mastering Bengali offers language courses designed for English speakers who wish to learn Bengali. With a focus on conversational skills, these classes are ideal for expats and digital nomads looking to communicate more effectively with locals and enrich their experience in the city.
The Chromatic Circle
Type of Class(es): Music Appreciation and Instrument Lessons
Location: Ballygunge Area
The Chromatic Circle provides a platform for music lovers to explore and learn about different genres of music. They offer instrument lessons and music appreciation classes in English, making it accessible for expats and digital nomads to pursue their passion for music.
Calcutta Walks
Type of Class(es): Photography Walks and Workshops
Location: Different locations for each walk
Calcutta Walks organizes photography walks and workshops that allow participants to capture the essence of Kolkata through their lenses. These walks are guided in English and are a fantastic way to learn photography skills while discovering the hidden gems of the city.
Spice Kraft Cooking School
Type of Class(es): Indian and International Cooking Classes
Location: Ballygunge Phari
Spice Kraft Cooking School offers a range of cooking classes that cover Indian and international cuisines. These classes are conducted in English and are perfect for those who want to expand their culinary repertoire and enjoy the communal experience of cooking and dining.
Clay Station Art Studios
Type of Class(es): Pottery and Ceramics Workshops
Location: Ballygunge Place
Clay Station Art Studios invites adults to get their hands dirty and learn the art of pottery and ceramics. The workshops are held in English and cater to all skill levels, providing a therapeutic and fulfilling experience as you shape and create with clay.
Tea Tasting Club
Type of Class(es): Tea Tasting and Appreciation
Location: Various tea lounges and estates in Kolkata
The Tea Tasting Club conducts sessions for tea enthusiasts to explore the rich heritage of Indian teas. These English-medium classes offer insights into tea varieties, brewing methods, and the history of tea in India, making it a unique cultural and sensory experience.
Language Ladder
Type of Class(es): Foreign Language Courses
Location: Salt Lake City
Language Ladder is a language institute that offers courses in various foreign languages, including Spanish, French, and German. These courses are tailored for English speakers and are a great way to add a new language to your skill set while living in Kolkata.
Studio 21
Type of Class(es): Contemporary Art Exhibitions and Workshops
Location: Camac Street
Studio 21 hosts contemporary art exhibitions and workshops that are open to the public. These events are often conducted in English and provide an interactive platform for art enthusiasts to engage with local artists and learn about contemporary art practices.
Indian Wine Academy
Type of Class(es): Wine Education and Certification
Location: Various locations in Kolkata
The Indian Wine Academy offers courses for those interested in wine education and certification. The classes are conducted in English and are designed to cater to both beginners and professionals in the wine industry, offering a comprehensive understanding of wine tasting, service, and management.
Kolkata Storytellers
Type of Class(es): Storytelling Workshops
Location: Various cultural centers in Kolkata
Kolkata Storytellers conducts workshops that explore the art of storytelling. These workshops are held in English and are a great way to learn the craft of narrative, enhance public speaking skills, and connect with the rich tradition of storytelling in India.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


