Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal. Located on the east bank of the Hooghly River, it is the principal commercial, cultural, and educational centre of East India. It has been one of the most important cities in the country and has been an important center of trade in the country since centuries. Often called the 'city of joy', the city boasts of its rich cultural heritage which is easily reflected in the livelihood in and around the city.

Kolkata has a Tropical wet-and-dry climate with an annual mean temperature of 24.8 ℃. Summers are generally hot and humid while the maximum temperature during the dry spells of May and June exceed 40 ℃. A short spell of winter, lasting about three months during December and February, are really cool and the best time to visit the city. The temperature in December ranges between 9 to 15. You may expect a cool weather in Kolkata during the time of the conference.