Discover how to reach Gangasagar from Kolkata using 9 easy travel methods. Explore the best routes by road, train, and ferry, and avoid common travel mistakes.
How to Reach Gangasagar from Kolkata: 9 Easy Ways You Should Know
Gangasagar, located on the sacred Sagar Island, is one of India’s most significant pilgrimage sites, drawing thousands of pilgrims every year, especially during the Gangasagar Mela in January.
For those wondering how to reach Gangasagar from Kolkata, here are 9 easy ways to travel by road, train, and ferry.
Whether you are a pilgrim or an explorer, this detailed guide will help you plan the best route to Gangasagar from Kolkata and avoid any common travel mistakes.
1. How to Reach Gangasagar from Kolkata by Road: Private Car or Taxi
One of the most convenient ways to reach Gangasagar from Kolkata is by road. You can hire a private car or taxi from Kolkata to Harwood Point, which is about 90 km away
This direct route allows flexibility in terms of timing and comfort. From Harwood Point, you need to board a ferry to Kachuberia, from where buses and autos are available to take you to Gangasagar.
- Best Route: Kolkata → Diamond Harbour → Harwood Point → Kachuberia (by ferry) → Gangasagar
- Estimated Time: 2.5 hours by road + 30-40 minutes by ferry
- Cost: Taxi fares range from ₹2,500 to ₹3,500 for a round trip
- Tip: If traveling in a group, a private car is cost-effective and offers comfort.
2. How to Reach Gangasagar from Kolkata by Public Bus
There are several state-run and private buses that operate from Kolkata to Harwood Point. Buses usually leave from Esplanade or Babughat Bus Terminus.
The journey to Harwood Point takes around 3 hours. From there, you need to take a ferry to Kachuberia and then proceed to Gangasagar.
- Route: Kolkata → Harwood Point (by bus) → Kachuberia (by ferry) → Gangasagar
- Bus Fare: ₹80 to ₹150 depending on the bus service
- Estimated Time: 3 hours by bus + 40 minutes by ferry
- Tip: Plan your bus and ferry timings in advance, as ferry schedules can be affected by tides.
3. How to Reach Gangasagar from Kolkata by Train
Travelers can also opt for a train journey. The nearest railway station to Gangasagar is Kakdwip. Trains from Sealdah Station in Kolkata operate regularly to Kakdwip.
From Kakdwip, it’s a short auto or bus ride to Harwood Point, where ferries are available to take you to Kachuberia.
- Route: Kolkata (Sealdah) → Kakdwip (by train) → Harwood Point (by auto or bus) → Kachuberia (by ferry) → Gangasagar
- Train Fare: ₹20 to ₹50 for general class tickets
- Estimated Time: 2 hours by train + 20 minutes to Harwood Point + 40 minutes ferry time
- Tip: Check the train schedules in advance, as services may be limited during late hours.
Indian Railways – Train Schedules from Kolkata – Check train schedules from Kolkata to Kakdwip and Namkhana.
4. How to Reach Gangasagar from Kolkata by Ferry (Direct Access)
A unique way to reach Gangasagar is by taking a direct ferry service from Princep Ghat in Kolkata to Kachuberia. Though less common, this direct ferry route is available during the Gangasagar Mela or special events.
The ferry ride offers beautiful views of the Hooghly River and the surrounding areas.
- Ferry Route: Princep Ghat (Kolkata) → Kachuberia
- Travel Time: 4 to 5 hours
- Fare: Around ₹300 to ₹500
- Tip: Opt for this scenic route if you want to enjoy a leisurely ride and avoid road travel.
5. How to Reach Gangasagar from Kolkata via Train and Ferry
For a mixed transport experience, you can combine train and ferry travel. Take a train from Sealdah Station to Namkhana (an alternative railway station close to Gangasagar), then catch a local bus to the Namkhana Ferry Ghat. From here, ferries take you to Gangasagar Island.
- Route: Sealdah → Namkhana (by train) → Namkhana Ferry Ghat (by bus) → Gangasagar (by ferry)
- Fare: Train ₹30 + Ferry ₹10
- Estimated Time: 3 to 4 hours
- Tip: This is a good alternative to Kakdwip for those living near the southern parts of Kolkata.
6. How to Reach Gangasagar from Kolkata by Helicopter
For those seeking the quickest and most comfortable journey, private helicopter services operate from Kolkata to Gangasagar during peak seasons, especially during the Gangasagar Mela.
Helicopter services are provided by private operators and can be arranged in advance.
- Route: Kolkata (Helipad) → Gangasagar (Helipad near the island)
- Travel Time: Approximately 30 minutes
- Cost: ₹12,000 to ₹20,000 per seat (depending on season and availability)
- Tip: Ideal for those short on time or looking for a hassle-free journey.
7. How to Reach Gangasagar from Kolkata by Rented Bike or Scooter
If you love adventure, renting a bike or scooter can be a fun way to reach Gangasagar from Kolkata. There are several rental services in the city that offer motorbikes and scooters for rent.
Ride to Harwood Point, take a ferry to Kachuberia, and continue on to Gangasagar.
- Best Route: Kolkata → Harwood Point → Kachuberia (by ferry) → Gangasagar
- Rent Cost: ₹500 to ₹1,000 per day
- Travel Time: 2 to 3 hours by bike + 40 minutes ferry ride
- Tip: Ensure you have the necessary permits if you plan to take your bike on the ferry.
8. How to Reach Gangasagar from Kolkata by Private Tour Operators
Several private tour operators offer Gangasagar tour packages that cover transport, ferry tickets, and sometimes even accommodation.
This is a great option if you want a hassle-free journey with everything pre-arranged. Most packages start from Kolkata and include road transport to Harwood Point, ferry to Kachuberia, and onward travel to Gangasagar.
- Package Inclusions: Bus/car transport + Ferry tickets + Return trip
- Cost: ₹800 to ₹1,500 per person
- Tip: Look for tour operators that provide additional services like guides or group discounts.
9. How to Reach Gangasagar from Kolkata by Shared Transport
For budget-conscious travelers, shared taxis or vans operate from different parts of Kolkata to Harwood Point. These shared vehicles are a cheaper alternative to private taxis and buses.
You’ll find shared vehicles at major bus stops like Esplanade or Howrah Station.
- Route: Kolkata → Harwood Point (shared taxi/van) → Kachuberia (by ferry) → Gangasagar
- Fare: ₹100 to ₹200 for the shared taxi ride
- Estimated Time: 3 to 4 hours including ferry time
- Tip: Be prepared for crowded conditions in shared taxis, especially during peak seasons.
Best Time to Visit Gangasagar
Although Gangasagar is accessible year-round, the best time to visit is during January when the Gangasagar Mela takes place. During this period, special transport services and ferries operate to accommodate the large influx of pilgrims.
If you’re visiting outside of this time, the months from November to February are ideal for a pleasant journey, as the weather is cooler.
Gangasagar Mela Official Website – Everything you need to know about the Gangasagar Mela.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to reach Gangasagar from Kolkata through these 9 easy ways, you can choose the option that best fits your budget, time, and comfort level.
Whether you opt for the scenic ferry ride, the quick helicopter service, or the budget-friendly public bus, each route offers a unique travel experience.
Avoid common mistakes like missing ferry timings or underestimating travel time, and make your pilgrimage or visit to Gangasagar a smooth and memorable one.
Let us know how your journey went in the comments below!
Also Read : How to Reach Mousuni Island from Kolkata: Complete Travel Guide (Updated for 2024)
