Traveling from Kolkata, the vibrant capital of West Bengal, to Diu, a serene coastal town in the union territory of Daman and Diu, offers a unique contrast between bustling city life and tranquil beaches. This route is popular among tourists seeking a peaceful getaway from eastern India to the western coast, combining cultural exploration with seaside relaxation.

This guide covers all practical ways to reach Diu from Kolkata, including train, bus, car, and flight options. Whether you prefer scenic road trips or faster air travel, you will find detailed advice, travel times, costs, and insider tips to plan your journey confidently.

Getting from Kolkata to Diu – Main Options

Train

Train travel from Kolkata to Diu is a cost-effective and comfortable option, though it requires some planning due to the distance and limited direct connections. Indian Railways connects Kolkata to nearby major stations, from where you can take local transport to Diu.

• Nearest major railway stations:

  The closest major station to Diu is Veraval Junction (VRL) in Gujarat, approximately 70 km away. From Kolkata, you can board trains to Veraval or nearby Somnath, then take a taxi or bus to Diu.

• Travel time and distance:

  The train journey from Kolkata to Veraval covers around 2,200 km and takes approximately 36 to 40 hours, depending on the train service chosen. Ticket prices range from INR 800 for sleeper class to INR 2,500 for AC classes.

• Popular trains:

  Trains like the Kolkata–Veraval Express and Kolkata–Somnath Express run weekly or biweekly. Booking in advance via IRCTC is advisable due to limited frequency.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Trains are generally clean and safe, with pantry cars on long routes. However, the journey is long and may require overnight travel, so prepare accordingly.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Veraval or Somnath, frequent state transport buses and private taxis are available to Diu. The road journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, with scenic views of the Arabian Sea coast.

Bus

Direct bus services from Kolkata to Diu are not available due to the long distance and interstate travel complexities. However, a combination of buses can be used, making this option less convenient but budget-friendly for adventurous travelers.

• Multi-leg journey:

  You can take a bus from Kolkata to Ahmedabad or Rajkot, major cities in Gujarat, then switch to local buses or taxis to reach Diu. This involves multiple bookings and longer travel times.

• Travel duration and cost:

  The total bus travel time can exceed 48 hours, with ticket costs ranging from INR 1,200 to INR 2,000 depending on the bus type and operators.

• Bus operators:

  State transport corporations like MSRTC and GSRTC operate buses in Gujarat, while private operators run long-distance routes from Kolkata to western India.

• Comfort considerations:

  Long bus journeys can be tiring, with variable road conditions. Opt for Volvo or deluxe buses where possible for better comfort.

• Seasonal tips:

  Avoid traveling during monsoon months due to potential road disruptions and delays on highways like NH 48 and NH 27.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Kolkata to Diu is an adventurous option for those who enjoy road trips and want to explore multiple destinations en route. The journey covers diverse landscapes and cultural regions across India.

• Route details:

  The most common route follows NH 19 from Kolkata to Varanasi, then NH 44 and NH 48 through Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat, covering approximately 2,200 km.

• Travel time and stops:

  Non-stop driving can take around 38 to 40 hours, so plan for at least 3 to 4 days with overnight halts in cities like Varanasi, Indore, and Ahmedabad.

• Road conditions:

  National highways are generally well-maintained, but expect variable conditions in rural areas. Toll plazas are frequent, so keep cash or FASTag ready.

• Fuel and rest stops:

  Numerous fuel stations and dhabas are available along the route. Popular rest stops include highway eateries near Nagpur and Vadodara.

• Driving tips:

  Avoid night driving in unfamiliar areas and monsoon months due to slippery roads. Carry a physical map or GPS device as mobile signals may be weak in some stretches.

Flight

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Diu from Kolkata, though there are no direct flights. You will need to connect via major hubs like Mumbai or Ahmedabad.

• Flight connections:

  Fly from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) in Kolkata to Mumbai (BOM) or Ahmedabad (AMD), then take a connecting flight or road transfer to Diu Airport (DIU).

• Flight duration and cost:

  Kolkata to Mumbai or Ahmedabad flights take about 2.5 to 3 hours, with fares ranging from INR 3,000 to INR 7,000. Connecting flights or taxis to Diu add 1 to 3 hours and INR 1,000 to INR 3,000.

• Airlines and frequency:

  Airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet operate frequent flights on these routes. Diu has limited flights, mostly from Mumbai and Ahmedabad, so check schedules carefully.

• Airport facilities:

  Diu Airport is small but functional, with basic amenities. Prepaid taxis and rental cars are available outside the terminal for onward travel.

• Booking tips:

  Book flights well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (winter and holidays), to secure better fares and connections.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Kolkata to Diu, focusing on a balanced approach combining air and road travel for convenience and comfort.

• Book your Kolkata to Mumbai or Ahmedabad flight:

  Use IRCTC Air or airline websites to find the best fares and timings. Early morning flights help avoid delays and give more connection time.

• Arrange onward transfer to Diu:

  From Mumbai or Ahmedabad, either book a connecting flight to Diu or pre-book a taxi for the 3 to 4-hour road journey. Confirm timings to avoid long waits.

• Pack light and carry essentials:

  Since Diu is a beach destination, bring comfortable clothing, sunscreen, and water bottles. Keep your ID and tickets handy for airport and road transfers.

• Reach Kolkata airport early:

  Arrive at least 2 hours before departure to clear security and check-in smoothly, especially during busy seasons.

• On arrival in Diu:

  Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola for safe and hassle-free local travel. Confirm fares beforehand to avoid overcharging.

• Plan your return similarly:

  Book return flights and transfers in advance, considering possible delays and local transport availability.

Practical Travel Tips

• IRCTC and airline bookings:

  Use official websites or apps for train and flight bookings to avoid scams. Keep printouts or digital copies of tickets accessible.

• Local transport in Diu:

  Auto-rickshaws are limited; prefer prepaid taxis or rental bikes for exploring beaches and heritage sites.

• Food and water safety:

  Stick to bottled water and eat at well-reviewed restaurants to avoid stomach issues common in coastal areas.

• Luggage considerations:

  Pack light to manage multiple transport modes easily, especially if switching between flights and road travel.

• Seasonal weather:

  Carry rain gear during monsoon (June to September) as heavy rains can disrupt travel plans and cause roadblocks.

• Safety tips:

  Avoid isolated beaches after dark and keep valuables secure. Use trusted taxi services and avoid unmetered rides.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Kolkata to Diu is during the cooler months from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and beach activities.

Avoid the monsoon season due to heavy rains affecting road and rail travel, and steer clear of major Indian festivals when transport can be crowded and expensive.

• Avoid peak traffic hours in Kolkata and Mumbai, typically 8–10 AM and 5–8 PM, to reduce airport transfer delays.

• Winter months offer clear skies and comfortable temperatures, making flights and road journeys smoother.

• Plan flights early in the day to minimize the risk of delays caused by fog or congestion.

• During summer, prepare for high temperatures and possible heat-related discomfort on long road trips.

Arrival at Diu & What to Expect

Upon arrival in Diu, travelers are greeted by a laid-back atmosphere with beautiful beaches, colonial architecture, and friendly locals. The small airport and bus stand are well-connected to the main town and popular tourist spots.

Local transport includes prepaid taxis, rental scooters, and limited auto-rickshaws. Popular areas to stay include Ghoghla Beach and Nagoa Beach, offering easy access to attractions like Diu Fort and St. Paul’s Church.

Conclusion

For most travelers, flying from Kolkata to Mumbai or Ahmedabad followed by a road transfer to Diu is the most efficient and comfortable option. It balances speed with convenience, minimizing the long travel hours involved in train or bus journeys.

With proper planning and advance bookings, you can enjoy a smooth journey from the eastern metropolis of Kolkata to the tranquil shores of Diu. This guide equips you with all the practical details to travel confidently and make the most of your trip.