Dwarka, located in the western state of Gujarat, is a revered pilgrimage city known for its ancient temples and spiritual significance. Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, is a bustling metropolis in eastern India. Traveling from Kolkata to Dwarka is popular among devotees, tourists, and weekend travelers seeking a spiritual retreat or cultural exploration.

This guide covers all practical ways to travel from Kolkata to Dwarka, including train, bus, car, and flight options. You will find detailed information on routes, travel times, costs, and tips to plan your journey confidently and comfortably.

Getting from Kolkata to Dwarka – Main Options

Train

Train travel is a popular and economical choice for the Kolkata to Dwarka route, connecting eastern and western India through Indian Railways. Though the journey is long, trains offer a comfortable and scenic experience with multiple classes to suit budgets.

• Key stations:

  Trains depart from Kolkata Railway Station (Howrah or Sealdah) and arrive at Dwarka Railway Station (DWK). The route covers approximately 2,200 km.

• Duration and cost:

  The journey takes around 36 to 42 hours depending on the train, with ticket prices ranging from ₹800 for sleeper class to ₹3,500 for AC 2-tier.

• Popular trains:

  The Howrah–Dwarka Express and other long-distance trains run weekly or bi-weekly. Booking via IRCTC well in advance is recommended due to limited frequency.

• Comfort and services:

  Trains offer onboard catering, clean restrooms, and sleeper berths. AC coaches provide better comfort for the long journey.

• Travel tips:

  Board early to find your berth easily. Carry snacks and water as train pantry services may be limited. Night travel can be restful but keep valuables secure.

• Scenic route:

  The train passes through diverse landscapes including the Gangetic plains and arid regions of Gujarat, offering a unique cross-country experience.

Bus

Bus travel from Kolkata to Dwarka is less common due to the long distance but possible via state and private operators. This option suits travelers looking for budget travel with multiple stops en route.

• Route and operators:

  Buses typically connect Kolkata to major Gujarat cities like Rajkot or Jamnagar, from where local buses or taxis reach Dwarka.

• Duration and cost:

  The trip can take 48+ hours with fares between ₹1,200 and ₹2,000 depending on bus type and operator.

• Bus types:

  Options include sleeper and semi-sleeper buses, but comfort is limited for such a long journey.

• Booking tips:

  Use MSRTC or private bus booking platforms. Confirm connections to Dwarka from Gujarat hubs before booking.

• Challenges:

  Long hours on the road can be tiring. Frequent stops and road conditions vary, so plan for rest breaks.

Car/Self-Drive

Driving from Kolkata to Dwarka offers flexibility and the chance to explore offbeat stops along the way. However, it requires endurance and familiarity with Indian highways.

• Distance and route:

  The journey covers about 2,200 km via NH19, NH48, and NH27, taking approximately 38 to 42 hours of driving time.

• Road conditions:

  Major national highways are mostly well-maintained with toll plazas. Some stretches near rural areas may have potholes or traffic.

• Rest stops:

  Plan stops at cities like Varanasi, Indore, and Ahmedabad for fuel, food, and overnight stays.

• Driving tips:

  Avoid night driving in unfamiliar areas. Carry a physical map or GPS device, and keep emergency contacts handy.

• Permits and fuel:

  Ensure your vehicle documents are in order. Fuel stations are frequent on highways but less so in remote stretches.

Flight

Flying is the fastest way to reach Gujarat from Kolkata, but Dwarka does not have an airport. The nearest airports are in Jamnagar and Rajkot, from where you can take road transport to Dwarka.

• Flight options:

  Direct flights from Kolkata to Jamnagar or Rajkot are limited; most routes require a connection via Mumbai or Delhi.

• Duration and cost:

  Flight time is around 4 to 6 hours including layovers, with fares ranging from ₹4,000 to ₹10,000 depending on booking time.

• From airport to Dwarka:

  Jamnagar is about 130 km and Rajkot about 140 km from Dwarka. Taxis and buses are available for this final leg.

• Booking tips:

  Book flights early to get better rates. Use apps like MakeMyTrip or Cleartrip for best deals.

• Travel tips:

  Arrive at the airport early, especially during festive seasons. Prepaid taxis or Ola/Uber cabs are recommended for safe transfers.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary helps first-time travelers plan their Kolkata to Dwarka journey smoothly, focusing on train travel as the most practical option.

• Book your train tickets early:

  Use the IRCTC website or app to book Howrah to Dwarka train tickets at least 2-3 weeks in advance to secure preferred classes.

• Pack essentials:

  Carry light luggage, snacks, water, and a power bank. Include a small first-aid kit and toiletries for the long journey.

• Reach the station early:

  Arrive at Howrah or Sealdah station at least 45 minutes before departure to navigate crowds and find your platform easily.

• Board and settle in:

  Locate your berth or seat, store luggage securely, and familiarize yourself with train staff and pantry services.

• Prepare for arrival:

  On reaching Dwarka, use prepaid taxis at the station exit or book Ola/Uber for safe and convenient transfers to hotels or temples.

• Plan local sightseeing:

  Allocate time to visit Dwarkadhish Temple, Rukmini Devi Temple, and nearby beaches. Use local auto-rickshaws or rental bikes for short trips.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety:

  Keep your belongings close and avoid displaying valuables on trains and buses. Use lockable bags and be cautious in crowded areas.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and eat freshly prepared food. Avoid street food during the journey to prevent stomach issues.

• Booking strategy:

  For trains, book via IRCTC and check PNR status regularly. For flights and buses, use trusted online portals and confirm schedules.

• Local commute:

  In Dwarka, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola for safe travel. Auto-rickshaws are cheaper but negotiate fares upfront.

• Luggage:

  Travel light and keep important documents handy. Use luggage tags and avoid leaving bags unattended.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Monsoon can cause delays on roads and railways. Check weather forecasts and be prepared for possible rescheduling.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Kolkata to Dwarka is during the cooler months, avoiding extreme heat and monsoon disruptions. Planning your trip around these conditions ensures a comfortable journey.

Peak festival times in Dwarka attract large crowds, so consider traveling during off-peak periods for a relaxed experience.

• Avoid traveling during the monsoon (July to September) due to heavy rains affecting road and rail conditions.

• Winter months (November to February) offer pleasant weather in Dwarka and Kolkata, ideal for sightseeing and travel.

• Depart early in the day to avoid city traffic congestion in Kolkata and ensure timely boarding.

• Steer clear of major festival weekends like Janmashtami in Dwarka to avoid accommodation and transport shortages.

Arrival at Dwarka & What to Expect

Dwarka Railway Station is well-connected to the city center and major temples. Upon arrival, travelers find a calm, spiritual atmosphere with easy access to local transport.

Prepaid taxi counters are available at the station exit, offering fixed fares to hotels and temples. Auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws provide economical options for short distances. Nearby attractions include the Dwarkadhish Temple, Gomti Ghat, and Rukmini Temple. Accommodation ranges from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels near the temple complex.

Conclusion

Among all options, train travel stands out as the most efficient and economical way to reach Dwarka from Kolkata. It balances comfort, cost, and accessibility, making it ideal for most travelers.

With proper planning and early bookings, your journey from Kolkata to Dwarka can be smooth and enjoyable. Embrace the adventure and spiritual charm of Dwarka with confidence, knowing you have all the travel details at your fingertips.