Regular bus services are available between the city and a number of destinations in< Bengal. Train services are generally more efficient but be warned that the stations themselves can often be frenetic and a favourite hang out spot for pickpockets. Boat services run from the city’s port to the Andaman and Nicoba islands.

The rail lines running through Kolkata connect the city with many of the country’s major cities. Two main lines run from the city’s main stations known as Howrah and Sealdah. Train routes from a number of neighbouring countries are available to Kolkata. Travelling by train can often be one of the best means of taking in large land masses of a country while sitting in comfort.

The most common routes run from Nepal, Bhutan and Bangladesh to a number of border crossings near Kolkata. The majority of journeys will also involve a bus ride either to the border or after crossing. For information on train routes and timetables the best option is to contact the local station at your destination

More and more travellers with a keen sense of adventure choose to travel to Kolkata by car across land. The main border crossing nearest to the city is Birganj. Although this mode of transport is generally quite safe, remember to take the usual precautions and allow sufficient time for rest along the way.

Once you have arrived in Kolkata there are number of options for getting around the city. The metro system, one of the most modern in the world, runs throughout the city and offers transport across various lines. Lines run from the city centre both north and south and visitors often catch a ride to Dum Dum, the city’s international airport.

Ferry travel is also another novel and enjoyable way of avoiding tiresome traffic jams, especially those along the Howrah Bridge. Ferries run from Howrah to Armenian Ghat from 08:00 to 20:00, every 15 minutes; from Howrah to Fairlie Place from 08:00 to 20:00, every 10 minutes; from Howrah to Chandpal from 07:30 to 20:00, every 15 minutes; and from Howrah to Bagbazar from 08:00 to 20:00, every 15 minutes.

The bus infrastructure around India is pretty well organised and run, and Kolkata is no different. There are many different bus types and services running both in and around the city and on long distances across the country. Most services reserve a certain number of seats for women and elderly passengers, while tickets are usually purchased from a conductor after boarding.

Kolkata State Transport Corporation is the main bus service provider within the city. The most common routes, starting from a number of destinations, reach Rampurhat, Berhampore, Digha and Namkhana to name just a few and stop off at many more sites along the way. Esplanade is the main booking centre and terminal for long distance bus journeys and information can be found at the information desk at the station, by calling, or from local travel agents.

Taxis are found all across the city and can be caught simply by waving your hand. This does not always ensure that you will be picked up and often you may have to wait before you are taken to your destination. Another problem with Kolkata taxis are the metering measures. Many taxis have old meters and confusing systems. Drivers carrying a meter conversion chart onboard are probably more reliable than those who don’t.