Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about the championships and your trip to Kolkata.
What are the World Sudoku & Puzzle Championships?
The World Puzzle Championship (WPC), first organised in 1992, is an annual competition featuring primarily puzzles of logic and reasoning, so that solvers from around the globe can compete on equal footing. The three-day event features hundreds of puzzles, organised into both individual and team rounds, to challenge the world's best puzzle solvers. Hosts come from the different member nations of the World Puzzle Federation.
In 2006, the World Sudoku Championship (WSC) became a second annual competition under the World Puzzle Federation, focused on Sudoku and its common variations, with a competition structure similar to the WPC. Today the two events are held together in a puzzle-packed week — two days for the WSC, a break/excursion day, and then three days for the WPC. This is the third time India is hosting the world championships, after successfully hosting them in 2008 and 2017.
Is it possible to participate online?
No. The championship is held offline, on site in Kolkata, India.
Is video recording and photography allowed inside the competition hall?
Yes, video recording and photography are allowed inside the competition hall, as long as they do not disturb other participants. For example, please keep the camera shutter sound off.
When will the winners of the Puzzle Innovation Contest be announced?
The winners will be announced during the Prize Distribution Ceremony at the championships.
Do I need permission from my country's representation to register?
To compete, you should contact your country's national member of the World Puzzle Federation (WPF), as listed on the WPF Members page. Each member country is obliged to run open national qualifying tournaments. If your country is not listed, please get in touch with us.
Do I have to stay in the venue hotel to participate?
Yes — staying at the venue hotel is mandatory, unless the organisers have specified otherwise for you.
Do I need a visa?
All foreign nationals entering India must hold a valid international travel document — a national passport with a valid visa obtained from an Indian Mission or Post abroad. More details can be obtained here.
How are local transport arrangements handled?
Airport transfers are included with your registration, provided your travel coincides with the official arrival and departure dates.
What currency is used in India?
India uses the Indian Rupee (INR).
Are ATMs available that accept debit or credit cards from other countries?
ATMs are plentiful across the city — you will find one on almost every street, and there are several right at the airport. Nearly all ATMs accept international Visa and MasterCard debit and credit cards, and a few also work with American Express.
What type of electrical sockets are used in India?
India primarily uses Type C, D and M sockets, with a standard supply of 230V at 50Hz. Most modern hotels and venues accommodate a variety of plug types, but international visitors are advised to bring a universal travel adapter if their devices use a different plug configuration. You can read more about plugs and sockets in India.
What are the general dos and don'ts in India?
Drink only bottled water, not tap water. Avoid food from roadside stalls or mobile canteens. And avoid driving in India unless you have been trained on Indian roads.
How is the weather expected to be in Kolkata around the championships?
October in Kolkata is typically warm and humid, with daytime temperatures around 30–33°C (86–91°F) and cooler evenings around 23–25°C (73–77°F). As the city transitions out of the monsoon season, occasional rain showers are possible, so bring light clothing and an umbrella.
How can I keep myself updated on the latest news about WSPC 2026?
Do you have further questions?
Please use our contact form and we'll be glad to help.