By Air
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose 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. You can reach Kolkata by flight through Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, which connects to major Indian cities.
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. If you prefer train travel, how to reach Kolkata by train is simple via Howrah Junction and Sealdah stations.
Kolkata 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
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
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
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
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
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. Kolkata is also well connected by bus, with state-run and private buses operating from nearby states and cities.
Esplanade Bus Terminal
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
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
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.
Navigating Kolkata: Local Transport Options
Kolkata Metro
The Kolkata Metro is India’s oldest underground railway and one of the most efficient ways to travel across the city. It is clean, fast, and incredibly affordable, making it a favorite among both commuters and tourists. The main North-South line connects the northern suburbs with the southern parts of Kolkata, effectively bypassing the city’s congested streets. Furthermore, new lines are continually expanding its reach. The new East-West corridor, for example, now connects Howrah Maidan to Salt Lake, featuring a remarkable underwater tunnel beneath the Hooghly River—the first of its kind in India.Trams
Kolkata holds the unique distinction of being the only Indian city with a functioning tram network. A ride on one of these historic trams is a nostalgic and charming experience. While trams are slower than other modes of transport, they offer a leisurely way to glimpse the city’s architectural heritage, especially in the older northern and central parts of the city. The Calcutta Tramways Company has been operating since the late 19th century, making this an eco-friendly and historic way to explore Kolkata.Buses
An extensive network of public and private buses crisscrosses the entire city and its suburbs. Buses are an incredibly cheap and effective way to get around, connecting almost every locality. They can be crowded, especially during peak hours. However, for those looking for more comfort, air-conditioned buses are also available on many popular routes. The West Bengal Transport Corporation (WBTC) is the primary government operator, running a vast fleet of services across the city.Taxis and Auto-rickshaws
The iconic yellow Ambassador taxis are a symbol of Kolkata and are readily available throughout the city. These taxis run on meters, providing a reliable mode of transport. In addition to the classic yellow cabs, app-based services like Uber and Ola are widely used and offer convenient booking through your smartphone. Auto-rickshaws are another popular choice, especially for shorter distances. They typically operate on fixed, shared routes, which makes them a predictable and very affordable option for daily commutes.Ferries
The Hooghly River flows through the heart of the city, and ferries provide a quick, scenic, and refreshing way to travel. They are particularly useful for crossing between Kolkata on the east bank and Howrah on the west bank, helping you avoid the heavy traffic on the bridges. The ferry service is frequent, inexpensive, and offers a unique perspective of the city’s historic riverfront and ghats. Key service points like Chandpal Ghat and Fairlie Place are bustling hubs of activity.Best Time to Visit Kolkata
The Spectacle of Durga Puja
Visiting Kolkata during Durga Puja is an unforgettable experience. This grand festival, typically held in September or October, is the largest in West Bengal and celebrates the victory of goddess Durga. The entire city transforms into a magnificent art gallery, with thousands of elaborate temporary structures called ‘pandals’ housing beautifully crafted idols of the goddess. The energy during these five days is infectious, as millions of people go ‘pandal-hopping’ to admire the art and craftsmanship. The streets are filled with dazzling lights, music, and countless food stalls, creating a cultural extravaganza that was recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2021.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the fastest way to reach Kolkata?
The fastest way to reach Kolkata is by flight. Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) is well-connected with major Indian cities and many international destinations. For instance, a flight from Delhi to Kolkata takes only about 2 hours.How many major railway stations are there in Kolkata?
Kolkata has five major railway stations, with Howrah Junction (HWH) and Sealdah Railway Station (SDAH) being the two primary and busiest terminals. The other key stations are Kolkata Railway Station (KOAA), Shalimar Railway Station (SHM), and Santragachi Junction (SRC).Is it possible to reach Kolkata by road from Delhi?
Yes, you can reach Kolkata by road from Delhi via National Highway 19. However, it is a very long journey of approximately 1,500 kilometers, which takes about a full day of driving.What is the best time of year to visit Kolkata?
The best time to visit Kolkata is during the winter months, from October to March. The weather is cool and pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing, and this period also hosts major festivals like Durga Puja.What are the local transport options available in Kolkata?
Kolkata offers a wide range of local transport options, including the Kolkata Metro, a historic tram network, an extensive bus system, yellow taxis, app-based cabs like Uber and Ola, auto-rickshaws, and ferries across the Hooghly River.Which is the main bus terminal in Kolkata for inter-state travel?
The Esplanade Bus Station, located in the Dharmatala area, is the main bus terminal for inter-state and inter-city bus services. It is centrally located, making it very convenient for travelers.Are app-based cab services like Uber and Ola available in Kolkata?
Yes, app-based cab services like Uber and Ola are widely available and operational throughout Kolkata. This includes pick-up and drop-off services from the airport and major railway stations.Can I travel to Bangladesh from Kolkata by train or bus?
Yes, there are direct international train and bus services connecting Kolkata to cities in Bangladesh. The Maitree Express and Bandhan Express are popular train services, and several private and government-run buses also operate on this route.Conclusion
Reaching Kolkata is easy whether you choose to fly, take a train, or travel by bus. The city’s airport and multiple railway stations provide good connectivity, and regular bus services add more travel flexibility. For bookings, you can use official sites like IRCTC for trains or RedBus for buses. Don’t miss out on the cultural experience by visiting popular shopping hubs listed in our shopping in Kolkata guide. Visit the Kolkata Official Website for more information.
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Binu Lamba
Binu Lamba is a 29-year-old editor and fact-checker with 7 years of experience in travel content. He verifies all location details, hotel recommendations, and travel tips to ensure our guides are accurate, updated, and helpful for readers planning real trips.
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