Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, is a major metropolitan city in eastern India. Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, lies to the north of Kolkata, nestled in the Himalayan foothills. This route is popular among travelers for tourism, business, and cultural exchange between India and Nepal.

This guide will help you understand the main transport options from Kolkata to Kathmandu, including trains, buses, cars, and flights. You will also find a step-by-step travel plan, practical tips, and advice on the best time to travel, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free journey.

Getting from Kolkata to Kathmandu – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a budget-friendly and scenic option, though it requires multiple connections. It suits travelers who prefer a relaxed pace and want to experience Indian railways.

• You can board trains from Kolkata’s Howrah Junction to New Jalpaiguri or Siliguri, which are the nearest major stations to the India-Nepal border, covering about 560 to 600 km in 10 to 14 hours.

• From New Jalpaiguri or Siliguri, you can take local transport to the border town of Panitanki or Kakarbhitta, which is about 90 km away, before crossing into Nepal by road.

• Train fares from Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri range from ₹300 to ₹1,200 depending on class, with trains running frequently, but expect crowding during festivals and holidays.

• Note that there is no direct train into Nepal; you must switch to road transport after the Indian border. Monsoon season can cause delays on the rail route due to landslides in the hills.

• Food options on trains vary; it’s best to carry snacks and water. Booking tickets via IRCTC is recommended well in advance, especially in peak travel seasons.

Bus

Buses offer a direct and economical way to reach Kathmandu from Kolkata, favored by budget travelers and those comfortable with long road journeys.

• Direct buses depart from Kolkata’s Esplanade or Salt Lake bus terminals to Kathmandu via Siliguri and the India-Nepal border at Panitanki or Kakarbhitta, covering approximately 650 km in 18 to 22 hours.

• Bus fares typically range from ₹700 to ₹1,200 depending on the operator and bus type, with overnight buses available for convenience and saving on accommodation.

• Buses run daily but can be crowded during festivals like Dashain and Tihar; booking tickets a few days ahead is advisable to secure a seat.

• The route passes through NH12 and NH27, with toll plazas and rest stops offering basic food and restroom facilities; however, comfort levels vary widely between operators.

• Border crossing involves customs and immigration checks; keep your documents ready and expect some waiting time, especially during peak hours or holidays.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Kolkata to Kathmandu is suitable for travelers who prefer flexibility and want to explore en route. It requires careful planning and familiarity with Indian and Nepalese road rules.

• The distance by road is about 650 km via NH12 and NH27, taking roughly 16 to 18 hours without long stops, passing through Siliguri and the India-Nepal border at Panitanki or Kakarbhitta.

• Ensure your vehicle has valid permits for Nepal entry, including a Vehicle Permit and insurance, which can be arranged at the border or in advance.

• Road conditions vary; highways are mostly good but expect narrow or winding roads near the border and in Nepal’s hilly terrain, requiring cautious driving.

• There are multiple toll plazas on the Indian highways; keep cash handy for toll payments and fuel stops, which are available at regular intervals.

• Plan your journey to avoid night driving in unfamiliar areas, and use GPS or offline maps as mobile signals may be weak near the border and in Nepal’s hills.

Flight

Flying is the fastest and most comfortable option for reaching Kathmandu from Kolkata, ideal for travelers with limited time or those seeking convenience.

• Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata offers direct flights to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, with a flight time of about 1.5 hours covering approximately 500 km.

• Airlines such as IndiGo, Nepal Airlines, and Air India operate daily flights, with fares ranging from ₹3,000 to ₹7,000 depending on the season and how early you book.

• Flight frequency is good, but delays can occur during the monsoon season due to fog or heavy rain, so check weather updates before booking.

• Tribhuvan Airport is well connected to Kathmandu city by taxis and app-based cabs like Pathao and Tootle; prepaid taxi counters are available at the airport for safe and fixed fares.

• Booking flights at least two weeks in advance is recommended to get better prices and availability, especially during Nepalese festivals and Indian holidays.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This travel plan is designed for first-time travelers from Kolkata to Kathmandu, helping you organize your journey smoothly and avoid common pitfalls.

• Step 1: Decide your preferred mode of transport based on budget, time, and comfort. Flights are fastest, buses and trains are budget-friendly, and driving offers flexibility.

• Step 2: Book your tickets early through official platforms like IRCTC for trains, MSRTC or private operators for buses, and airline websites or trusted travel portals for flights to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Step 3: Prepare your travel documents, including a valid passport, Indian visa if required, and Nepalese entry permit. Carry multiple photocopies and keep them handy during border crossing.

• Step 4: Pack light but include essentials like water bottles, snacks, a power bank, and weather-appropriate clothing. Monsoon travelers should carry rain gear and waterproof bags.

• Step 5: On the day of travel, reach your departure point early to avoid rush, especially at Howrah station, bus terminals, or the airport. Confirm your seat and luggage allowances beforehand.

• Step 6: At the India-Nepal border, follow immigration procedures carefully, be patient during customs checks, and use authorized transport options to reach Kathmandu city safely.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety: Always use prepaid or app-based taxis in Kathmandu to avoid overcharging. Avoid traveling alone late at night on unfamiliar roads, especially near the border areas.

• Food and Water: Carry bottled water and eat at clean, popular eateries during stops. Avoid street food unless you are sure of its hygiene to prevent stomach issues.

• Booking Strategy: Use official websites like IRCTC for trains and airline portals for flights. For buses, book through reputed operators or trusted travel agents to ensure reliability.

• Local Transport: In Kathmandu, use local buses for budget travel, but prefer taxis or ride-hailing apps for comfort and safety. Traffic can be slow, so plan extra time for city travel.

• Luggage: Keep your luggage secure and avoid carrying valuables in checked bags. Use locks and keep important documents in a separate, easily accessible bag.

• Seasonal Warnings: During monsoon (June to September), expect road delays and possible landslides near border areas. Winter mornings can be foggy, affecting flights and road visibility.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Kolkata to Kathmandu is during the autumn and spring months when weather is pleasant and roads are clear. Avoid the monsoon season due to heavy rains and possible travel disruptions.

Winter mornings can be foggy, especially in northern West Bengal and near the border, causing flight delays and slower road travel. Plan accordingly to avoid inconvenience.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Dashain and Tihar in Nepal, and Durga Puja in Kolkata, as transport services are crowded and prices rise.

• Monsoon rains from June to September can cause landslides and roadblocks near the border and hilly areas, leading to delays and cancellations.

• Early morning departures are best to avoid city traffic in Kolkata and to reach the border before peak immigration hours.

• Late evening flights or road travel is not recommended due to limited visibility and fewer transport options after dark.

Arrival at Kathmandu & What to Expect

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will find a bustling city with a mix of traditional and modern culture. Tribhuvan International Airport is the main entry point for air travelers, while road travelers arrive via the border towns of Kakarbhitta or Birgunj.

Local commute options include prepaid taxis, app-based cabs like Pathao, and local buses. Prepaid taxi counters at the airport and major bus terminals help avoid overcharging. Popular areas to stay include Thamel, Lazimpat, and Patan, which are well connected and offer a range of accommodation.

Conclusion

For most travelers, flying from Kolkata to Kathmandu is the most efficient and comfortable option, saving time and energy. However, buses and trains provide economical alternatives for those who prefer road travel and want to experience the journey more deeply.

Plan your trip by booking tickets early, preparing travel documents carefully, and choosing travel times that avoid peak traffic and weather challenges. With the right preparation, you can confidently enjoy a smooth and memorable journey from Kolkata to Kathmandu.