There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Kolkata into a quick city adventure. From CCU, the Kolkata Metro / Bus can get you into town in around 150 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at CCU:
First, verify that you can enter India — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Kolkata Metro / Bus takes about 150 minutes into Kolkata, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — INR is the currency here. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
What to See and Do in Kolkata
If you head into Kolkata, here are two things worth checking out:
Victoria Memorial Hall is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past.
Howrah Bridge (Rabindra Setu) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
If you’d rather stay inside CCU — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Travel Club Lounge (International)
- Kolkata Duty Free
Food Worth Trying
For food in Kolkata, local travelers recommend Peter Cat. If you have time for a second stop, Flurys is another popular pick.
Back at CCU, KFC is the go-to. Subway rounds out your in-terminal options.
How to Get Into Kolkata
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kolkata Metro / Bus | ~150 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~170 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Kolkata Metro / Bus is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Layover Budget Breakdown
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Kolkata:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $6 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $21 USD total.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Luggage Storage Options
Luggage storage is available at Left luggage facility is available on the ground floor, near the domestic and international arrivals halls.. Drop your bags off early so you can explore hands-free.
Alternatively, third-party services like Bounce or Stasher can connect you with storage locations closer to wherever you’re headed in Kolkata.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at CCU for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Kolkata or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Sleep & Lounge Options at CCU
Long overnight layover? Your options at CCU include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in India also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Kolkata count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave CCU. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.