Kolkata, the cultural capital of Eastern India, is a bustling metropolis in West Bengal. Dawki, a serene town in Meghalaya, is famous for its crystal-clear Umngot River and vibrant border trade with Bangladesh. This route is popular among tourists seeking nature, adventure, and a unique cross-border experience.

This guide covers all practical ways to travel from Kolkata to Dawki, including train, bus, car, and flight options. You'll find detailed tips on routes, timings, costs, and local conditions to help you plan your trip confidently and enjoy the scenic journey.

Getting from Kolkata to Dawki – Main Options

Train

Train travel from Kolkata to Dawki is partially feasible, as Dawki does not have a railway station. The nearest major railway station is Guwahati, from where you can continue by road. Trains from Kolkata to Guwahati are frequent and comfortable, making this a popular option for long-distance travelers.

• Key stations and routes:

  Trains depart from Kolkata’s Howrah or Sealdah stations to Guwahati Railway Station, covering approximately 1000 km. Popular trains include the Kamrup Express and Saraighat Express.

• Duration and cost:

  The journey takes around 18–22 hours, with sleeper class tickets costing ₹600–₹900 and AC classes ₹1500–₹2500, depending on availability and booking time.

• Frequency and comfort:

  Multiple trains run daily, offering various classes. Booking in advance via IRCTC is recommended, especially during peak seasons.

• From Guwahati to Dawki:

  After reaching Guwahati, you must travel by road for about 165 km, which takes 4–5 hours via NH27 and NH217.

• Travel tips:

  Night trains are convenient to save daytime for sightseeing. Keep your tickets and ID handy for verification at stations.

Bus

Buses offer a direct and economical way to reach Meghalaya, but there are no direct buses from Kolkata to Dawki. You can take buses to Shillong or Guwahati and then switch to local transport to Dawki. This mode is preferred by budget travelers and those who enjoy road trips.

• Kolkata to Guwahati/Shillong:

  Several private and government buses operate overnight routes covering 1000+ km. Ticket prices range from ₹800 to ₹1500 depending on the bus type.

• Local buses to Dawki:

  From Shillong or Guwahati, shared taxis, buses, or hired cabs cover the 70–165 km distance to Dawki, costing ₹300–₹700.

• Bus quality and frequency:

  Volvo and deluxe buses are available for long routes, but local buses may be crowded and less comfortable.

• Road conditions:

  NH27 and NH217 are the main highways; expect winding roads near Meghalaya. Avoid night travel on hilly stretches due to limited lighting.

• Booking tips:

  Book long-distance buses online or at major bus terminals like Esplanade in Kolkata. Confirm local transport availability in advance.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Kolkata to Dawki offers flexibility and the chance to explore offbeat spots en route. The journey covers about 1000 km and takes 20–22 hours, mostly on national highways and hilly roads near Meghalaya.

• Route details:

  The most common route is via NH12, NH27, and NH217 passing through Siliguri and Guwahati before reaching Dawki.

• Road conditions:

  National highways are mostly well-maintained, but expect narrow, winding roads near Meghalaya. Watch for tolls on NH27 and NH217.

• Rest stops and fuel:

  Major towns like Siliguri, Guwahati, and Shillong have ample fuel stations and eateries. Plan breaks to avoid fatigue.

• Permits and regulations:

  No special permits are required for Dawki, but carry valid driving licenses and vehicle documents. Check weather conditions during monsoon.

• Travel tips:

  Start early to avoid city traffic in Kolkata and Guwahati. Avoid night driving in Meghalaya due to limited street lighting and wildlife crossings.

Flight

Flying is the fastest way to cover the long distance between Kolkata and Meghalaya. While Dawki has no airport, the nearest airport is Shillong Airport (Umroi), about 80 km away, or Guwahati Airport, about 165 km away.

• Kolkata to Guwahati flights:

  Multiple daily flights connect Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) to Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU). Flight duration is approximately 1.5 hours.

• Kolkata to Shillong flights:

  Direct flights are limited; most require a stopover in Guwahati. Flight duration is around 1.5 hours plus layover time.

• From airport to Dawki:

  Hire a taxi or use shared cabs from Guwahati or Shillong to Dawki. The road journey takes 4–5 hours from Guwahati and 2.5–3 hours from Shillong.

• Cost and booking:

  Flight tickets range from ₹2500 to ₹6000 depending on the season and booking window. Book early via airline websites or apps like MakeMyTrip.

• Travel tips:

  Flights save time but add road travel. Check weather forecasts as fog in winter can cause delays at Shillong Airport.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary helps first-time travelers plan their journey from Kolkata to Dawki efficiently, balancing comfort and convenience.

• Book your train or flight tickets early:

  Use IRCTC for trains or airline apps for flights to secure the best fares and seats, especially during holidays.

• Reach the departure point early:

  Arrive at Howrah or Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport at least 1 hour before departure to avoid last-minute rush.

• Prepare for the road journey from Guwahati or Shillong:

  Pre-book a taxi or check bus schedules to Dawki to avoid waiting times and ensure smooth connections.

• Pack essentials for the hilly terrain:

  Carry water, snacks, and light warm clothing as weather can be cooler near Dawki, especially in the mornings and evenings.

• Use prepaid taxis or trusted cab services:

  At Guwahati or Shillong, use prepaid counters or apps like Ola to avoid overcharging and ensure safety.

• Keep local currency handy:

  Some remote areas near Dawki may not accept digital payments, so carry sufficient cash for tolls, food, and local transport.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety first:

  Avoid traveling alone at night on hilly roads near Meghalaya due to limited lighting and wildlife. Inform someone about your travel plans.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and light snacks, especially for the road journey from Guwahati or Shillong. Try local Khasi cuisine at Shillong for an authentic experience.

• Booking strategy:

  Use IRCTC for train tickets and official airline websites for flights to avoid scams. For buses, book at official counters or trusted online platforms.

• Local commute in Dawki:

  Shared taxis and auto-rickshaws are common. Negotiate fares beforehand or use local apps if available.

• Luggage considerations:

  Pack light due to multiple mode changes. Keep valuables secure and carry a daypack for essentials during local sightseeing.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Monsoon rains can cause landslides and roadblocks near Meghalaya. Check weather updates and avoid travel during heavy rains.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Kolkata to Dawki is during the cooler months from October to March. This period offers pleasant weather and clear skies for sightseeing.

Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) as heavy rains can disrupt road travel and cause delays. Early mornings and late evenings in winter can be chilly, so dress accordingly.

• Avoid peak festival weekends like Durga Puja in Kolkata or local festivals in Meghalaya to escape crowds and inflated prices.

• Start early in the morning to bypass city traffic in Kolkata and Guwahati, ensuring smoother road travel.

• Travel during daylight hours on hilly roads to enjoy scenic views and safer driving conditions.

• Check weather forecasts for fog or rain, especially if flying to Shillong, to prevent delays.

Arrival at Dawki & What to Expect

Upon arrival in Dawki, travelers are greeted by the stunning Umngot River, known for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque boat rides. The town is peaceful, with limited commercial activity, making it ideal for nature lovers and photographers.

Local transport options include shared taxis and auto-rickshaws that connect Dawki to nearby towns like Shillong and Mawlynnong. Accommodation ranges from guesthouses to homestays, mostly clustered near the river and main market area.

Visitors can explore the Dawki border market, enjoy boat rides on the Umngot River, and visit nearby attractions like Mawlynnong Village, Asia’s cleanest village. Prepaid taxis or local cabs are recommended for hassle-free commuting within the town and to nearby spots.

Conclusion

For most travelers, taking a train from Kolkata to Guwahati followed by a road trip to Dawki offers the best balance of comfort, cost, and experience. This option allows you to enjoy the scenic journey through Assam and Meghalaya while avoiding the complexities of multiple bus changes.

If time is limited, flying to Guwahati or Shillong and hiring a taxi to Dawki is the fastest and most convenient method. Regardless of your choice, this guide equips you with all the necessary information to plan your trip confidently and enjoy the natural beauty and cultural richness of Dawki.