Malda is a historic town located in northern West Bengal, known for its rich cultural heritage and mango orchards. Kolkata, the capital city of West Bengal, is a major metropolitan hub and a common starting point for travelers heading to Malda.

This route is frequently traveled by tourists and business visitors alike due to Malda’s growing importance and Kolkata’s connectivity. This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Kolkata to Malda, covering trains, buses, cars, and flights with practical advice for a smooth journey.

Getting from Kolkata to Malda – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is the most popular and convenient option for reaching Malda from Kolkata. Trains offer a comfortable and affordable way to cover the approximately 350 km distance.

• Major trains depart from Kolkata’s Howrah Junction and Sealdah stations, arriving at Malda Town railway station, which is well connected and centrally located.

• The journey typically takes between 6 to 8 hours depending on the train type, with fares ranging from ₹150 for sleeper class to ₹700 for AC classes.

• Trains run frequently throughout the day, but booking tickets in advance via IRCTC is recommended, especially during festivals and holiday seasons to avoid last-minute unavailability.

• Train travel is generally comfortable, but during monsoon months, delays can occur due to waterlogging on tracks, so plan accordingly.

• Onboard catering is available on some trains, but it is advisable to carry your own snacks and water, especially for early morning or late-night trains.

Bus

Buses offer a flexible and budget-friendly way to travel from Kolkata to Malda. Both government and private operators run services on this route.

• Buses depart from major terminals like Esplanade and Howrah Bus Stand in Kolkata, heading to Malda’s main bus stand near the town center.

• The road distance is about 350 km via NH12, with travel times ranging from 7 to 9 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Bus fares vary between ₹300 and ₹600 depending on the type of bus—ordinary, deluxe, or Volvo AC coaches.

• Buses are frequent but can get crowded during weekends and festivals; booking tickets in advance through MSRTC or private operators’ websites is advisable.

• Road conditions are generally good, but monsoon rains can cause occasional delays due to waterlogged stretches and traffic jams near towns.

• Several highway dhabas and rest stops along NH12 provide food and restroom facilities, making breaks convenient during the journey.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Kolkata to Malda offers flexibility and the chance to explore en route. The route is well connected by national highways and state roads.

• The most common route is via NH12, covering around 350 km, which usually takes 7 to 8 hours depending on traffic and stops.

• Driving allows you to stop at towns like Bardhaman and Rampurhat for refreshments or sightseeing, enhancing the travel experience.

• Toll plazas are present on NH12, so keep cash or FASTag ready for smooth passage; toll charges may total around ₹200–₹300.

• Fuel stations are available regularly along the highway, but it is wise to fill up before starting to avoid delays in remote stretches.

• During monsoon, some road sections may be slippery or waterlogged, so drive cautiously and check weather updates before departure.

• Parking in Malda town is generally available near major hotels and markets, but busy areas can get congested during peak hours.

Flight

There is no direct flight between Kolkata and Malda, but air travel can be combined with road or rail for faster journeys.

• The nearest airport to Malda is Bagdogra Airport, about 180 km away, with limited connectivity from Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport.

• Flying to Bagdogra takes about 1 hour, followed by a 4 to 5-hour road journey to Malda via NH12 or NH27.

• Flight fares vary widely, typically between ₹2,000 and ₹5,000 one way, depending on the airline and booking time.

• This option suits travelers who want to save time on the initial leg but should factor in the additional road travel to Malda.

• Pre-booking cabs or buses from Bagdogra to Malda is recommended to avoid last-minute hassles, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If you are traveling from Kolkata to Malda for the first time, this step-by-step plan will help you organize your journey smoothly and avoid common pitfalls.

• Book your train or bus tickets online at least a week in advance using IRCTC or MSRTC portals to secure preferred travel dates and classes.

• Reach the departure station or bus stand at least 30 minutes early to navigate crowds and find your platform or bus easily, especially during busy seasons.

• If traveling by car, check your vehicle’s condition, fuel level, and carry a physical map or GPS device as mobile signals can be weak in some rural areas.

• Pack light but carry essentials like water, snacks, a power bank, and a basic first-aid kit to stay comfortable during the 7-8 hour journey.

• Upon arrival at Malda Town railway station or bus stand, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for safe and reliable local transport to your accommodation.

• Inform your hotel or guesthouse of your expected arrival time to arrange pick-up if possible, which can save time and avoid confusion in an unfamiliar town.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always keep your valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive items openly while traveling, as crowded stations and buses can attract pickpockets.

• Drink only bottled or filtered water during your journey and avoid street food unless it is freshly prepared and from a trusted vendor to prevent stomach issues.

• Book tickets well in advance during festivals like Durga Puja and Eid when travel demand spikes, causing last-minute price hikes and unavailability.

• Use local transport apps or prepaid taxi counters at stations for reliable rides; avoid unmetered autos or taxis to prevent overcharging.

• Carry a small bag with essentials during travel, as handling large luggage on crowded trains or buses can be difficult and tiring.

• During monsoon, check weather forecasts and train/bus running status online to avoid unexpected cancellations or delays due to flooding or landslides.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Kolkata to Malda is during the cooler months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and roads are dry. Summers can be hot and humid, making daytime travel uncomfortable.

Monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rains that may cause delays and slippery roads, so plan extra travel time or consider alternate dates if possible.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Durga Puja and Diwali when transport is crowded and prices surge significantly.

• Early morning departures are recommended to avoid city traffic in Kolkata and reach Malda before evening, especially during winter when daylight hours are shorter.

• Fog in northern West Bengal during December and January can delay trains and flights, so keep buffer time in your schedule.

• Summer afternoons can be very hot, so traveling by air or overnight trains is preferable to avoid heat exhaustion.

Arrival at Malda & What to Expect

When you arrive at Malda Town railway station or the main bus stand, you will find several options for local transport. Prepaid taxi counters and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate here, providing safe and convenient rides to hotels and tourist spots.

Accommodation options are concentrated near the station and the main market area, making it easy to reach your stay without long commutes. Auto-rickshaws are also available but agree on fares beforehand to avoid confusion. The town is generally safe, but it is best to travel in groups or during daylight hours if unfamiliar with the area.

Conclusion

Traveling from Kolkata to Malda is straightforward with multiple transport options to suit different budgets and preferences. Trains offer the best balance of comfort, cost, and convenience, while buses and cars provide flexibility for those who want to explore en route. Flights combined with road travel can save time but are less common.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and arranging local transport in advance will ensure a smooth journey. With this guide, you can confidently plan your trip from Kolkata to Malda and enjoy the rich culture and history that this vibrant town has to offer.