Gangasagar is a famous pilgrimage spot located in the South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, where the Ganges River meets the Bay of Bengal. Patna, the capital of Bihar, is a major city in eastern India. Many travelers journey from Patna to Gangasagar to visit the sacred island, especially during the Gangasagar Mela.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Patna to Gangasagar. You will learn about the main transport options, step-by-step travel plans, practical tips, and what to expect upon arrival. This will make your trip easier and more enjoyable.

Getting from Patna to Gangasagar – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and economical choice for this route. Trains connect Patna to Kolkata, from where you can continue to Gangasagar by road and ferry.

• Patna Junction (PNBE) is the main railway station with frequent trains to Kolkata’s Howrah (HWH) and Sealdah (SDAH) stations, covering around 560 km in 10 to 14 hours depending on the train type.

• Train fares range from INR 300 to 1500 for sleeper and AC classes, with options like Rajdhani Express offering faster and more comfortable travel.

• After reaching Kolkata, you can take a local train or taxi to Harwood Point or Kakdwip, the nearest ferry points to Gangasagar, about 90 km away.

• During peak pilgrimage seasons, trains can be crowded; booking tickets in advance through IRCTC is essential to secure seats and avoid last-minute hassles.

Bus

Buses offer a direct but longer route from Patna to Gangasagar with multiple changes. This mode suits travelers who prefer road travel and want to explore local areas en route.

• State-run buses like Bihar State Road Transport Corporation (BSRTC) operate from Patna to Kolkata, taking approximately 14 to 16 hours depending on traffic and route.

• From Kolkata, West Bengal Transport Corporation (WBTC) buses or private operators run services to Kakdwip or Harwood Point, where you can catch a ferry to Gangasagar.

• Bus fares vary from INR 400 to 800 depending on the type of bus (AC or non-AC) and operator, with frequent departures throughout the day.

• Road conditions on National Highway 19 and NH12 are generally good, but monsoon rains can cause delays and slippery roads, so plan accordingly during June to September.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Patna to Gangasagar offers flexibility and comfort, especially if traveling in a group or with family. The journey covers around 650 km and takes about 12 to 14 hours by car.

• The route mainly follows NH19 from Patna to Kolkata, then NH12 towards Kakdwip, with toll plazas at regular intervals requiring cash or FASTag payments.

• Rest stops with food options are available at major towns like Dhanbad, Asansol, and Kolkata outskirts, allowing for breaks and refreshments during the long drive.

• Ferry services from Harwood Point or Kakdwip to Gangasagar operate regularly, but parking options near ferry ghats are limited, so plan to leave your vehicle safely.

• Driving during early morning or late evening can help avoid city traffic in Patna and Kolkata, but night driving on rural roads requires caution due to poor lighting and stray animals.

Flight

Flying is partly useful for this journey, mainly to reach Kolkata quickly from Patna. The rest of the trip requires road and ferry travel.

• Patna Airport (PAT) has daily flights to Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU), with flight times around 1.5 hours and fares ranging from INR 2000 to 5000.

• From Kolkata airport, you can hire a prepaid taxi or use app-based cabs like Ola and Uber to reach Harwood Point or Kakdwip, approximately 90 to 100 km away, taking 3 to 4 hours.

• Ferry tickets to Gangasagar are available at the ghats, with regular services throughout the day, but check timings during monsoon or festival seasons when schedules may change.

• Flight bookings should be made well in advance during the Gangasagar Mela to avoid price surges and seat unavailability.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers from Patna to Gangasagar, helping you organize your journey smoothly.

• Book your train or flight ticket from Patna to Kolkata early via IRCTC or airline websites to secure your preferred travel date and class, especially during festival seasons.

• Upon arrival in Kolkata, arrange local transport to Harwood Point or Kakdwip using prepaid taxis or app-based cabs to avoid overcharging and ensure safety.

• Purchase ferry tickets at the ghat; carry some cash as digital payments may not be accepted everywhere, and confirm ferry timings to avoid waiting long hours.

• Carry light luggage and water bottles for the ferry ride and island stay, as facilities on Gangasagar are basic and crowded during mela times.

• Plan your return journey in advance by booking train or bus tickets from Kolkata to Patna, considering possible delays due to weather or traffic.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always use prepaid taxi counters or trusted app-based cabs in Kolkata to avoid scams and negotiate fares in advance if using private vehicles.

• Drink only bottled water and eat from clean, busy stalls to avoid stomach issues, especially during long road or ferry journeys.

• Book your train and flight tickets at least 2-3 weeks before travel during peak pilgrimage seasons to avoid last-minute unavailability and higher prices.

• Carry a power bank and a physical copy of your tickets and ID proofs, as network coverage can be weak on the ferry and in remote areas of Gangasagar.

• Pack light, breathable clothes and a raincoat or umbrella during monsoon months, as sudden showers can disrupt travel plans and ferry services.

• Use local transport options like cycle rickshaws or shared autos on Gangasagar island for short distances, as private taxis are rare and expensive.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Patna to Gangasagar is during the winter months from November to February when the weather is cool and dry. This period also coincides with the Gangasagar Mela, attracting many pilgrims.

Monsoon months from June to September bring heavy rains, causing road and ferry delays. Summer months can be hot and humid, making travel uncomfortable without proper hydration and rest.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Durga Puja and Diwali in Kolkata, as city traffic and accommodation become difficult to manage.

• Fog in winter mornings on NH19 can reduce visibility, so start early to avoid delays and drive carefully.

• Ferry services may be suspended during rough sea conditions in monsoon, so check weather updates before planning your trip.

• Departing early in the morning helps avoid city traffic in Patna and Kolkata, ensuring a smoother and faster journey.

Arrival at Gangasagar & What to Expect

When you arrive at Gangasagar, you will disembark at the ferry ghat where local transport options like cycle rickshaws and shared autos are available to reach the main pilgrimage sites and lodging areas. The island is small but crowded during mela season.

Accommodation ranges from budget lodges to dharamshalas near the temple. Prepaid taxis are not common, so negotiate fares for any private vehicles. Carry cash as digital payments may not be widely accepted. The local market offers basic food options, but it is best to carry some snacks and water.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to travel from Patna to Gangasagar is by train to Kolkata followed by road and ferry transport. This option balances cost, comfort, and convenience, especially if you book tickets early and plan your local transfers carefully.

Remember to check weather conditions, carry essential items, and use trusted transport services for a hassle-free journey. With proper planning and awareness of local travel nuances, you can confidently enjoy your pilgrimage or visit to Gangasagar from Patna.