How to get around Kolkata

Start with neighbourhoods. The Maidan and central museums form one cluster; BBD Bagh and the river form another; College Street, Jorasanko and Kumartuli belong to a north-Kolkata day; Kalighat and the southern districts need their own route.

Metro is the clearest long-distance tool for many visitors, but Kolkata's lines are not one simple spine. Use the operator's current map and timetable, check the exact station name and confirm whether an interchange is within the paid system or requires a walk.

Suburban rail is useful for longer metropolitan journeys and major terminals, but commuter periods can be intense. Avoid using an unfamiliar peak service with luggage when a less crowded option is available.

Buses and trams provide street-level context but can be slow in traffic. Ferries can make an efficient Hooghly crossing and a revealing city journey; verify the terminal and current service before relying on one for a timed connection.

Taxis and app-booked vehicles fill awkward gaps. Confirm the vehicle and destination, then expect road time to vary. Walking works best within College Street, central heritage streets, the Maidan edge or a compact neighbourhood—not between all of them.

From the airport: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport has official taxi and public-transport information. The Yellow Line connects the airport area with the Metro network, but the best route depends on the current operating section and your final neighbourhood.

From Howrah or Sealdah: these are different major rail terminals. Use the station printed on the ticket. Green Line Metro serves Howrah and central Kolkata; Sealdah has its own connections.

Across the Hooghly: ferry routes and Green Line Metro can avoid road bridges. Ferry terminals are specific and services can change, so check the current route before building an onward connection.

Tickets: Metro Railway publishes current fares and ticket products. Other rail, bus and ferry systems may use separate tickets or cards; do not assume one product covers every mode.

Last kilometre: pavements, crossings, construction and crowding vary sharply. Save the destination in writing, identify the nearest gate or landmark and allow time for a short walk or authorised ride.