There are 2 way(s) to get from Mumbai to Kolkata
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Practical tips
Indian Railways tickets, especially for popular routes and AC classes, sell out quickly. Aim to book 2-3 weeks in advance, or even more for peak season, to secure your preferred class and avoid long waitlists. Use platforms like 12go.asia for easy online booking.
When heading to hill stations like Manali or Dharamshala, where trains don't go, always opt for an AC Volvo coach. They offer a far more comfortable and less gruelling overnight journey than non-AC buses, ensuring you arrive rested.
For long distances, overnight trains with sleeper classes (like 2A or 3A) save you a night of accommodation and often cover vast distances efficiently. Book an upper berth for more privacy and a quieter ride.
Always double-check your departure station or terminal. Large cities often have multiple. For trains, Mumbai CSMT or LTT, and Kolkata Howrah or Sealdah are main hubs. For flights, it's typically the main international airport.
While food is often available on trains, having your own supply of snacks and water is always a good idea, especially for longer journeys. This ensures you have preferred options and can avoid relying solely on train vendors.
🛣️ The journey experience
Traveling from Mumbai to Kolkata is a classic cross-country journey in India, connecting the financial capital with the cultural heart of the East. You've got two main choices for this epic route: a long but authentic train ride or a swift flight. Understanding the real duration and comfort levels for each will help you make the best decision, especially considering the vast distances involved. Don't worry, we'll break it down so you know exactly what to expect.
The train journey with Indian Railways is an adventure in itself, typically taking around 33 hours and costing about €13. It's a fantastic way to see the country, often with overnight sections where you can experience a sleeper berth. For those in a hurry, flying is a much quicker option, clocking in at around 3 hours with a price tag of about €80. Major domestic airlines operate this route frequently, offering a convenient alternative to the long train ride.
So, how do you decide? If you're on a tight schedule and value time above all else, flying is undoubtedly your best bet to cover the distance between Mumbai and Kolkata efficiently. However, if you're looking to immerse yourself in the Indian travel experience, meet locals, and enjoy the changing landscapes, the train offers an unforgettable, budget-friendly journey. Consider how far ahead you want to book; flights tend to get more expensive closer to departure, while popular train classes fill up weeks in advance.
Frequently asked questions — Mumbai → Kolkata
For speed and convenience, flying is your best option, taking only 3 hours. If you prefer a budget-friendly journey and want to experience more of India's landscape and culture, the train journey, while much longer (33 hours), offers a unique and authentic travel experience.
By air, the journey is approximately 3 hours. For train travel, expect a duration of around 33 hours, often including an overnight segment. It’s a substantial distance, so both options are long-haul, just in very different timeframes.
A train ticket typically costs around €13, varying slightly by class. Flights are significantly more expensive, averaging about €80. Prices can fluctuate based on booking time, airline, and demand, so booking in advance is always recommended for better rates.
For trains, especially popular AC classes, booking 2-3 weeks in advance is wise, sometimes even a month or more for peak travel periods. For flights, booking 1-2 months ahead usually secures better prices, though last-minute deals can sometimes appear.
For long journeys like Mumbai to Kolkata, AC 2-tier (2A) or AC 3-tier (3A) sleeper classes offer a good balance of comfort and value. They provide berths, bedding, and air-conditioning, making overnight travel much more pleasant than non-AC options. 1A (AC First Class) is even more private but also more expensive.
✨ Why visit Kolkata?
- ✓ Explore the majestic Victoria Memorial, a grand marble monument dedicated to Queen Victoria.
- ✓ Ride a tram or metro, experiencing the city's unique blend of colonial and modern transport.
- ✓ Wander through Kumartuli, the potters' quarter, witnessing artisans craft Durga Puja idols.
- ✓ Visit Mother House, the former home of Mother Teresa, for a poignant look at her humanitarian work.
- ✓ Savour street food delicacies like puchka, kathi rolls, and mishti doi in local markets.
☀️ When to visit Kolkata?
TROPICAL HUMID
October to March — pleasant, dry weather, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities, avoiding extreme heat and monsoon rains.
What to do in Kolkata?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
⏱️ How long to visit Kolkata?
For an independent francophone traveler, 4 to 6 days is ideal to experience Calcutta's vibrant culture without feeling rushed. With 2-3 days, you can cover major landmarks like the Victoria Memorial and Mother House, but you'll miss out on deeper explorations. To truly soak in the city's unique atmosphere, including its markets, street food, and less-trodden paths, aim for a week. Don't underestimate the time needed for transport and sensory overload.
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