Kolkata, the cultural capital of eastern India, is a bustling metropolis known for its colonial architecture and vibrant arts scene. Bangalore, the Silicon Valley of India, is a major IT hub in the south with pleasant weather and cosmopolitan vibes. Traveling between these two cities is common for business, education, and tourism.

This guide covers all practical ways to reach Bangalore from Kolkata, including trains, buses, flights, and self-drive options. You’ll find detailed travel times, costs, and tips to plan your journey confidently and comfortably.

Getting from Kolkata to Bangalore – Main Options

Train

Train travel between Kolkata and Bangalore is popular among budget travelers and those who prefer scenic routes. Indian Railways operates several direct trains connecting Howrah and Bangalore City stations.

• Key trains and stations:

  The Howrah Junction (HWH) to Bangalore City (SBC) route is served by trains like the Howrah Yesvantpur Express and Howrah Bangalore AC SF Express, covering approximately 1,900 km.

• Travel time and cost:

  Journey duration ranges from 30 to 36 hours depending on the train. Sleeper class tickets start around ₹700, while AC 3-tier costs ₹1,500–₹2,000. Booking via IRCTC is recommended well in advance.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Trains run 3–4 times a week. AC coaches offer comfortable sleeping berths, while sleeper class is economical but less comfortable for long journeys.

• Seasonal travel tips:

  Avoid traveling during peak festival seasons like Durga Puja or Diwali when trains are crowded. Booking early is essential to secure preferred classes.

• Scenic views and stops:

  The route passes through Odisha and Andhra Pradesh, offering glimpses of rural landscapes and major stations like Bhubaneswar and Visakhapatnam for breaks.

• Challenges:

  Long journey times and occasional delays are common. Carry sufficient water and snacks, and be prepared for limited charging points in sleeper coaches.

Bus

Bus travel from Kolkata to Bangalore is less common due to the long distance but available for adventurous travelers or those seeking budget options. It is generally not recommended for first-time travelers on this route.

• Operators and routes:

  Few private and state transport buses operate on this route, often requiring multiple changes, commonly via Hyderabad or Chennai.

• Travel time and cost:

  Total travel time can exceed 40 hours. Ticket prices vary widely, starting from ₹1,200 for non-AC buses to ₹2,500 for Volvo AC coaches.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Buses are infrequent and may not run daily. Comfort levels vary; Volvo buses offer better amenities but are rare on this route.

• Rest stops and safety:

  Long-distance buses stop at highway dhabas and rest areas along NH16 and NH44. Night travel is not advisable due to road safety concerns.

• Challenges:

  Multiple bus changes increase complexity. Buses may face traffic congestion near major cities and toll plazas.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Kolkata to Bangalore is an option for those who enjoy road trips and flexibility. The journey covers around 1,900 km via national highways.

• Route and highways:

  The most common route follows NH16 from Kolkata to Chennai, then NH44 to Bangalore. This route is well-maintained with toll plazas.

• Distance and time:

  Driving non-stop takes approximately 32–35 hours, so plan for overnight halts. Total distance is about 1,900 km.

• Road conditions and rest stops:

  NH16 and NH44 are mostly four-lane highways with good signage. Rest stops include fuel stations, restaurants, and motels in towns like Bhubaneswar, Visakhapatnam, and Chennai.

• Travel tips:

  Avoid night driving in rural stretches due to wildlife and poor lighting. Carry a physical map or GPS device with offline maps.

• Challenges:

  Traffic congestion near metro cities, toll costs, and fatigue are major concerns. Ensure vehicle maintenance before the trip.

Flight

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to travel from Kolkata to Bangalore. Multiple airlines operate daily direct flights between Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport and Kempegowda International Airport.

• Flight duration and frequency:

  Non-stop flights take about 3 hours. Airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet offer several daily flights.

• Ticket costs:

  Prices range from ₹3,000 to ₹7,000 depending on booking time and season. Booking 3–4 weeks in advance can secure better deals.

• Airport connectivity:

  Kolkata airport is well-connected by metro and taxis. Bangalore airport is about 40 km from the city center with multiple cab options like Ola and Uber.

• Comfort and convenience:

  Flights save significant time and offer in-flight services. Early morning or late evening flights help avoid city traffic.

• Seasonal considerations:

  Monsoon months may cause occasional delays. Check weather updates before booking.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary helps first-time travelers plan their journey from Kolkata to Bangalore smoothly, covering booking, travel, and arrival tips.

• Book your tickets early:

  Whether train or flight, use IRCTC or airline websites to secure seats 3–4 weeks in advance, especially during festivals.

• Reach the departure point early:

  Arrive at Howrah station or Kolkata airport at least 1 hour before departure to avoid last-minute rush and complete security checks.

• Pack essentials smartly:

  Carry water, snacks, chargers, and a light blanket for train or bus travel. For flights, keep ID and boarding pass handy.

• Use prepaid taxis or app cabs:

  At arrival in Bangalore, use prepaid counters or apps like Ola/Uber for safe and fair rides to your accommodation.

• Plan local commute:

  Bangalore has good metro and bus services. Download local transport apps or use autos for short distances.

• Stay informed about delays:

  Check live train or flight status on IRCTC and airline apps to adjust plans if needed.

Practical Travel Tips

• IRCTC booking tips:

  Register and verify your IRCTC account beforehand. Use the Tatkal scheme for last-minute train tickets but expect higher prices.

• Food and water safety:

  Carry bottled water and avoid street food during long journeys to prevent stomach issues.

• Local transport apps:

  Ola and Uber are reliable in both cities. Prepaid taxi counters at airports and stations help avoid overcharging.

• Luggage handling:

  Keep valuables in carry-on bags. For trains, secure your berth luggage with locks and keep important items close.

• Seasonal weather:

  Kolkata summers are hot and humid; Bangalore is cooler. Monsoon rains can disrupt travel, so check forecasts.

• Safety precautions:

  Avoid isolated areas at night, especially near bus stands and railway stations. Use trusted transport services.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel between Kolkata and Bangalore depends on weather and traffic considerations. Avoiding peak hours and seasons can make your journey smoother.

Monsoon months (June to September) bring heavy rains in eastern India, potentially causing train delays and slippery roads. Winter months (November to February) offer pleasant weather for road trips.

• Avoid traveling during Durga Puja and Diwali when trains and flights are crowded and expensive.

• Early morning or late evening flights help avoid city traffic at both ends.

• For road trips, start early to cover maximum distance in daylight and avoid night driving on highways.

• Check weather reports during monsoon to avoid disruptions caused by flooding or poor visibility.

Arrival at Bangalore & What to Expect

Arriving in Bangalore, travelers find a modern airport and well-connected railway station. Kempegowda International Airport is about 40 km from the city center, with multiple transport options including prepaid taxis, Ola, and Uber.

Bangalore City Railway Station is centrally located with easy access to metro stations and bus terminals. Popular stay areas include MG Road, Koramangala, and Indiranagar, all reachable by local cabs or metro.

Local commute is efficient with Bangalore Metro covering major parts of the city. Autos and app-based cabs are widely available for last-mile connectivity. Nearby attractions like Lalbagh Botanical Garden and Cubbon Park are easily accessible from central locations.

Conclusion

For most travelers, flying from Kolkata to Bangalore is the fastest and most convenient option, saving significant time and offering multiple daily flights. It is ideal for business travelers and tourists seeking comfort and efficiency.

Train travel offers a budget-friendly alternative with scenic views but requires more time and planning. Road trips suit adventurous travelers who enjoy long drives and flexibility. With this guide, you can confidently choose the best travel mode and plan a smooth journey between these two vibrant Indian cities.