Getting Around Kharagpur
Kharagpur is a semi-planned urban agglomeration with a variety of transport options for visitors. The city benefits from strong railway infrastructure and connects to the wider region through multiple modes of transport. This guide covers the main ways to move around the city and reach it from outside.
Arriving at Kharagpur
From Kolkata Airport
The nearest commercial airport is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, located approximately 120 km east of Kharagpur. From the airport, you will need to arrange ground transport to reach the city. Options include hiring a taxi, using a ride-hailing service, or arranging a car rental for the journey.
By Train
Kharagpur is well-connected by rail and is served by three railway stations. Kharagpur Junction is the primary station and the busiest railway station in Southwest Bengal. It features the fourth longest railway platform in the world and is the headquarters of the Kharagpur Division of the South Eastern Railways. Virtually every long-distance train passing through the region has a scheduled halt here. The station is also served by suburban trains from Kolkata, making it easy to arrive from the capital by rail.
Hijli is a bypass station that handles some traffic to reduce congestion at Kharagpur Junction. Midnapore is the third station serving the area.
Local Transport Options
Suburban Rail
Suburban trains connect Kharagpur to Kolkata and surrounding areas. These services provide an affordable option for longer journeys within the wider metropolitan region.
Walking
Kharagpur is a planned urban settlement with distinct residential and commercial areas. Walking is a viable way to explore individual neighborhoods, though the spread-out nature of the city means that most longer journeys will require other transport modes. Key areas like the railway colony, market districts such as Gole Bazaar and Talbagicha Bazar, and shopping zones are pedestrian-accessible within their neighborhoods.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing
Taxis and ride-hailing services operate in Kharagpur and are a convenient option for point-to-point journeys around the city. These are particularly useful for reaching attractions, shopping areas, or accommodation from transport hubs.
Local Buses
Public buses serve the city, though detailed route and ticketing information is best obtained locally upon arrival or from your accommodation.
Key Destinations and Areas
Popular areas for visitors include the Railway Garden (also known as BNR Garden) on the south side of the railway station, which is a park frequented by people of all ages and offers toy-train rides. Shopping and market areas are concentrated around Gole Bazaar and newer commercial zones. The IIT Kharagpur campus is another notable destination in the city.