“Connecting Continents: The Most Innovative Ways to Reach the Heart of Kolkata!”

Best way to reach Kolkata
Kolkata, the vibrant capital of West Bengal, is a city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and modernity. Known for its colonial architecture, artistic heritage, and delectable cuisine, Kolkata is a must-visit destination for travelers. If you are planning a trip, understanding the best way to reach Kolkata is essential for a hassle-free journey. This blog will provide a detailed guide on how to reach Kolkata by air, bus, and train, ensuring you have all the information needed for an enjoyable travel experience.

By Air

The fastest and most convenient way to reach Kolkata is by air. The Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, located approximately 17 kilometers from the city center, serves as the primary gateway for domestic and international travelers. The airport is well-connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai, as well as international destinations such as Dhaka, Bangkok, and Dubai. Upon arrival at the airport, you can easily find taxis, app-based cabs, and shuttle services to take you to your destination in the city.

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport

Indira Gandhi International Airport

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU), situated in Dum Dum, is the gateway to Kolkata for both domestic and international travelers. The airport is named after the revered freedom fighter Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and is one of the busiest airports in India.

The airport boasts modern infrastructure and facilities, including multiple terminals for domestic and international flights. Terminal 2, the main terminal, offers a range of amenities such as duty-free shops, restaurants, lounges, and business centers, ensuring a comfortable experience for travelers. The airport is well-connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai, as well as international destinations like Dhaka, Bangkok, and Dubai.

Transportation options from the airport include prepaid taxis, app-based cab services like Uber and Ola, and airport shuttle buses. Additionally, the Kolkata Metro Line 4 is under construction and will soon provide direct connectivity from the airport to the city center, further enhancing the ease of travel.

By Train

For those who prefer the charm of train travel, Kolkata is well-served by an extensive railway network. The city has Six major railway stations: Kolkata railway station, Howrah Junction railway station, Sealdah railway station, Dankuni Junction railway station , Shalimar railway station and Santragachi Junction railway station. Howrah Junction, one of the busiest railway stations in India, connects Kolkata to almost every major city in the country, including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bangalore. Sealdah Railway Station primarily serves the eastern and northeastern regions of India. From either station, you can easily find taxis, buses, and metro services to reach your final destination within the city.

Kolkata railway station

New Delhi Railway Station

Kolkata Railway Station, also known as Chitpur Station, is relatively new compared to the city’s other major stations. Located in the northern part of Kolkata, this station was developed to reduce the burden on Howrah and Sealdah stations. It is situated near Tala and Chitpur and serves as a significant rail terminus for the city.

The station handles a mix of long-distance and local trains, connecting Kolkata to various parts of India, including Assam, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi. Modern amenities at Kolkata Railway Station include waiting rooms, food stalls, and ticket booking counters. The station’s spacious platforms and efficient services make it a convenient choice for travelers.

Howrah Junction Railway Station

Old Delhi Railway Station

Howrah Railway Station, the oldest and busiest railway station in Kolkata, is located on the western bank of the Hooghly River. Established in 1854, it is a historical landmark with its iconic colonial architecture and sprawling structure. Howrah Junction serves as a gateway to Kolkata and handles a significant portion of the city’s rail traffic.

Howrah connects Kolkata to almost every major city in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bangalore. The station features numerous amenities such as waiting rooms, retiring rooms, food stalls, bookshops, and prepaid taxi services. The station’s proximity to the iconic Howrah Bridge ensures easy access to the main city.

Sealdah railway station

Old Delhi Railway Station

Sealdah Railway Station, one of Kolkata’s primary rail hubs, is located in the northern part of the city. It is divided into three sections: Sealdah North, Sealdah Main, and Sealdah South, each catering to different routes and services. Sealdah primarily serves the eastern and northeastern regions of India, including states like West Bengal, Assam, and Tripura.

Sealdah Station is known for its high passenger footfall and efficient services. It offers various amenities, including waiting rooms, food stalls, booking counters, and luggage storage facilities. The station is well-connected to other parts of Kolkata through the city’s extensive public transportation network, including buses, taxis, and the Kolkata Metro.

Dankuni Junction railway station

Old Delhi Railway Station

Dankuni Junction, located in the Dankuni area, is an important railway station serving the western suburbs of Kolkata. It is a key junction for freight and passenger trains and plays a significant role in easing the rail traffic from Howrah and Sealdah. Dankuni Junction is strategically positioned on the Howrah-Bardhaman chord line, facilitating smooth connectivity to various regions.

The station is equipped with basic amenities like waiting areas, ticket counters, and refreshment stalls. Dankuni Junction’s strategic location makes it a vital hub for both passenger and freight trains, contributing to the overall efficiency of Kolkata’s railway network.

Shalimar railway station

Old Delhi Railway Station

Shalimar Railway Station, situated in the Shibpur area of Howrah, is another crucial rail terminus in Kolkata. It primarily serves long-distance express trains and some local passenger trains. Shalimar is known for its clean and well-maintained facilities, providing a pleasant experience for travelers.

The station is relatively less crowded compared to Howrah and Sealdah, offering a more relaxed travel experience. Amenities at Shalimar Railway Station include waiting rooms, ticket booking counters, food stalls, and parking facilities. Its strategic location near the Shalimar Industrial Area makes it an important station for both passengers and goods transport.

Santragachi Junction railway station

Old Delhi Railway Station

Santragachi Junction, located in Howrah, is a major railway station that serves as an alternative to Howrah Junction. It is situated on the Howrah-Kharagpur line and handles a significant volume of long-distance trains, easing the congestion at Howrah Junction.

Santragachi Junction is known for its efficient services and modern amenities, including waiting rooms, ticket counters, and refreshment stalls. The station’s proximity to major highways ensures smooth connectivity to different parts of the city and beyond. Santragachi also serves as an important junction for freight trains, contributing to the logistics and transportation network of Kolkata.

Bus terminals

Traveling to Kolkata by bus is a viable option, particularly for those coming from neighboring states. The city is connected to various parts of West Bengal and nearby states like Jharkhand, Bihar, and Odisha through a robust network of state-run and private bus services. The journey by bus can be long but offers a scenic view of the countryside. Major bus terminals like Esplanade, Karunamoyee, and Santragachi facilitate easy access to different parts of the city. You can choose from a range of services, including luxury coaches, Volvo buses, and regular state transport buses, based on your budget and comfort preferences.

Esplanade Bus Terminal

Maharana Pratap Inter-State Bus Terminus (ISBT)

Esplanade Bus Terminal, located in the heart of Kolkata, is the main hub for long-distance and intercity bus services. The terminal is situated in the bustling Esplanade area, close to major landmarks like the Indian Museum and the New Market.

Esplanade Bus Terminal offers a wide range of bus services operated by both state-run and private operators. Buses to various destinations within West Bengal, as well as neighboring states like Jharkhand, Bihar, and Odisha, are available from here. The terminal is equipped with basic amenities like ticket counters, waiting areas, and food stalls.

Karunamoyee Bus Terminal

Vir Hakikat Rai Inter-State Bus Terminus (ISBT)

Karunamoyee Bus Terminal, located in the Salt Lake area, is another important bus terminal in Kolkata. It primarily serves intracity and intercity routes, making it a convenient starting point for travelers heading to different parts of West Bengal and nearby states.

The terminal is well-organized and provides services like ticket counters, waiting areas, and information desks. Karunamoyee is also well-connected to the rest of Kolkata through the city’s bus network, taxis, and the Kolkata Metro.

Santragachi Bus Terminal

Swami Vivekanand Inter-State Bus Terminus

Santragachi Bus Terminal, situated in Howrah, serves as a key bus terminal for travelers heading towards southern and western parts of India. It is strategically located near the Santragachi Railway Station, providing easy access for passengers transferring between bus and train services.

The terminal offers a variety of bus services, including long-distance and interstate buses. Facilities at Santragachi Bus Terminal include ticket counters, waiting areas, and refreshment stalls. The terminal’s proximity to major highways ensures smooth connectivity to different regions.

In summary, the best way to reach Kolkata depends on your starting point and travel preferences. Flying to the city is the quickest and most comfortable option, with Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport serving as the main gateway. Traveling by train offers a scenic and relaxed journey, with Howrah Junction and Sealdah Railway Station providing extensive connectivity. For those who enjoy road trips, the city’s well-connected bus services present a viable alternative. Regardless of the mode of transport you choose, Kolkata’s rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality await you. Plan your trip, pack your bags, and get ready to explore the City of Joy.

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