How To Reach Kolkata

How To Get To Kolkata: Flights, Trains & Bus Guide

Kolkata is one of the most well-connected cities in India, making it easy to reach from different parts of the country and across the globe. Known for its rich culture, colonial heritage, and vibrant lifestyle, the city welcomes travelers through multiple convenient transport options.

How To Reach Kolkata By Air

The city is served by Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport, located about 17 km from the city center. It is a major aviation hub in eastern India, offering regular domestic and international flights. The airport connects Kolkata with all major metropolitan cities, ensuring smooth and quick access for travelers.

How To Reach Kolkata By Rail

Kolkata has an extensive railway network connecting it to almost every corner of India. The two primary railway stations are Howrah Junction and Sealdah Railway Station. These busy railheads handle numerous long-distance and local trains daily, making train travel a reliable and budget-friendly option.

How To Reach Kolkata By Car

The city is well-linked via national highways and well-maintained road networks. Travelers can easily reach Kolkata by private vehicles, taxis, or interstate buses. Key bus terminals include Esplanade Bus Station, Babughat Bus Stand, and Tollygunge Tram Depot Bus Stand, which connect the city with nearby states and regions.

Kolkata Travel Advice

Dress & Requirements: Pack loose cotton clothing because of the humid weather. You will need footwear, sunblock, and headwear.

Transportation: Consider taking the metro train to escape traffic congestion. You can also choose yellow taxis (request to use the meter) and cab-hiring apps.

Currency: Cash is acceptable. It is recommended to have Indian rupees handy in small denominations.

Health: Be sure to drink only bottled water. Don’t consume cut fruits from the streets. Bring along some basic medication and insect repellents.

Language: The language spoken locally is Bengali. However, Hindi and English are commonly spoken.

Culture: The word for greeting is Namaste. Also, you should take off your footwear when entering temples and conduct yourself with your right hand.

Things Not to Do: You shouldn’t eat old street foods. Politely turn down the aggressive sellers who try to convince you.

Optimum Period to Go: The best season to visit Kolkata is between October and March.

Modes of Transport Available in Kolkata

There are a number of modes of transport that one can use within Kolkata.

Auto Rickshaw: Convenient and affordable means of travel but operates within a pre-defined route and fare system.

Buses: Numerous buses, both Air-conditioned and Non-Air Conditioned, but they tend to be overcrowded.

Yellow Ambassador Taxis: Easily available throughout the city. Alternatively, you can use air-conditioned taxis and apps such as Uber and Ola.

Tram: Kolkata’s historic tram system is one of the oldest and an interesting mode of travel. Unfortunately, trams tend to move slowly.

Ferry: If you are looking for a comfortable trip across the river Hoogly then ferries will be a good option, especially for travel from Howrah to central Kolkata.

Metro Rail: Fastest and easiest mode of transportation within the city.

Car rental: Recommended choice if one wants to visit numerous places within Kolkata comfortably.

Hand Rickshaws: Hand-pulled rickshaws can be found in certain parts of the city.

Suburban trains: Mostly used by local residents to commute.