City in West Bengal, India
Getting around Kolkata
How to get around Kolkata
Kolkata Metro is the cheapest and fastest option for north–south trips; yellow taxis, trams and ferries add charm. Use Uber for other trips.
Ways to get around Kolkata
| Option | Fare | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Kolkata Metro | 5–25 INR | Blue, Green and Purple lines; Kolkata's oldest metro in India |
| Tram | 7–10 INR | Slow, scenic ride from Esplanade to Shyambazar; limited routes |
| Yellow taxi | About 100–250 INR across town | Metered in theory; many drivers negotiate or refuse |
| Ferry on the Hooghly | 6–15 INR | Cheap crossings from Babughat and Howrah |
Ride-hailing apps in Kolkata
A 5 km ride costs about ₹80–200 ($0.8–2.1).
| App | Notes |
|---|---|
| Uber | Cabs and autos; the most reliable |
| Rapido | Cheap bike taxis and autos |
| Ola | Available with fewer drivers |
| inDrive | Offer your own fare |
- Yellow taxis are iconic but quote high fares at the airport and Howrah. Use apps or prepaid booths.
Arriving in Kolkata
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International (CCU)
Uber or prepaid taxi 400–800 INR to Park Street, 45–90 min; AC airport buses run to Esplanade and Howrah for about 100–300 INR.
Driving and onward travel
- Scooters: Rentals are rare and traffic is heavy; not recommended for visitors.
- Driving: on the left. IDP plus home licence required; scooters are rented in Goa and the Himalaya; most visitors hire a car with driver.
- Onward travel in India: Trains link most cities: book up to 60 days ahead on IRCTC or use the foreign tourist quota at big stations. Cheap domestic flights and sleeper buses fill gaps.
Quick answers
Is there Uber in Kolkata?
Yes. Apps that work here: Uber, Rapido, Ola, inDrive.
What's the best way to get around Kolkata?
Kolkata Metro is the cheapest and fastest option for north–south trips; yellow taxis, trams and ferries add charm. Use Uber for other trips.
How do I get from the airport to Kolkata?
Uber or prepaid taxi 400–800 INR to Park Street, 45–90 min; AC airport buses run to Esplanade and Howrah for about 100–300 INR.
Is Kolkata walkable?
Walkable center.
More about Kolkata
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Sources
- IRCTC (Indian Railways tickets)
- Kolkata Metro Railway
- West Bengal Tourism
- Kolkata Airport (Airports Authority of India)
Fares are typical 2026 prices; check the operator for today's fares. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.