Kolkata is one of the most affordable cities in the world for airport transport. Even premium options cost a fraction of what you would pay in Europe or North America.
Price breakdown by transport type
| Option | Cost (INR) | Cost (EUR) | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metro | INR 25–40 | ~0.30–0.50 EUR | ~$0.30–$0.50 | Cheapest; Airport Gate No. 1 station |
| Auto-rickshaw | INR 200–350 | ~2–4 EUR | ~$2–$4 | Short distances; no meter guarantee |
| Ola / Uber | INR 300–600 | ~3–7 EUR | ~$4–$7 | App-based; surge pricing possible |
| Prepaid taxi | INR 350–600 | ~4–7 EUR | ~$4–$7 | Fixed counter rate; AC costs more |
| Private transfer | INR 800–1,500 | ~9–17 EUR | ~$10–$18 | Fixed price, meet-and-greet |
Prices to popular destinations
| Destination | Distance | Prepaid Taxi | Ola/Uber | Private Transfer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Town / Rajarhat | ~8 km | INR 200–300 (~2–3 EUR) | INR 150–300 | INR 600–900 |
| Salt Lake / Sector V | ~10 km | INR 250–350 (~3–4 EUR) | INR 200–350 | INR 700–1,000 |
| Park Street | ~17 km | INR 400–500 (~5–6 EUR) | INR 300–500 | INR 900–1,200 |
| Esplanade / BBD Bagh | ~18 km | INR 400–550 (~5–6 EUR) | INR 350–550 | INR 900–1,200 |
| Howrah Station | ~22 km | INR 450–600 (~5–7 EUR) | INR 350–600 | INR 1,000–1,300 |
| Sealdah Station | ~17 km | INR 400–550 (~5–6 EUR) | INR 350–550 | INR 900–1,200 |
What affects the price
Traffic is the main variable. Kolkata traffic, especially on VIP Road and EM Bypass, can be intense during rush hours (8–10 AM, 5–8 PM). Metered auto-rickshaws and Ola/Uber fares climb during slow traffic.
Rain causes significant disruptions in Kolkata. During monsoon season (June–September), waterlogged roads can double journey times and trigger heavy surge pricing on app cabs.
AC vs non-AC matters for prepaid taxis. An air-conditioned car costs roughly INR 50–100 more than a non-AC option. Given Kolkata's heat and humidity, AC is worth the small premium.
Tips to save money
- The Metro is extraordinarily cheap and efficient. If your hotel is near a Metro station and you are traveling light, it is the best value by far.
- Ola often undercuts Uber in Kolkata. Check both apps and take the cheaper option.
- Prepaid taxi counters prevent fare disputes. Pay inside, get a receipt, and there is nothing to negotiate with the driver.
- For groups of 3–4, a private transfer at INR 1,200 works out to INR 300–400 per person — comparable to individual Ola rides with much more comfort.