How to Pay
- Token (single-trip)
- Metro Smart Card
- UPI (QR at machines)
💡 At just ₹5–₹25 per trip, Kolkata Metro has the lowest fares of any metro in India. The Smart Card (₹50 deposit) gives a 10% discount. Monthly passes are excellent value for daily commuters.
Peak Hours
No peak surcharge — flat fares at all times — trains are busiest during these hours. Fares do not change by time of day, but expect crowded carriages during rush hour.
Fare Table (INR)
| Distance | Off-Peak | Peak |
|---|---|---|
| 0–5 km | ₹5 | ₹5 |
| 5–10 km | ₹10 | ₹10 |
| 10–20 km | ₹15 | ₹15 |
| 20–30 km | ₹20 | ₹20 |
| 30+ km | ₹25 | ₹25 |
Payment Cards & Passes
Kolkata Metro Smart Card Guide 2026
How to pay for Kolkata Metro — Smart Card, token, and the lowest metro fares in India explained.
- 10% discount on all fares — already the cheapest metro in India at ₹5–₹25.
- No token queue — faster entry especially during peak hours.
- Refundable ₹50 deposit.
Tips to Save Money
- Use the Kolkata Metro Smart Card instead of buying a single-journey ticket every time — it's faster and usually cheaper.
- Travel off-peak — No peak surcharge — flat fares at all times. Fares are lower and trains are less crowded outside these hours.
- Top up your Smart Card using UPI at any station machine — no cash needed and credit is instant.
- Download the official app to calculate fares before travel and buy QR code tickets to avoid queues.
- The metro is always cheaper than taxis for the airport journey — see the airport connection guide for fares and timings.
- Check the Metro Railway Kolkata (Indian Railways) official website for any promotional passes or tourist cards that may offer unlimited travel for a fixed period.
- Plan journeys using the official app — some operators offer digital tickets that are slightly cheaper than physical tokens.
Fares are indicative and subject to change. Always verify current fares at the Metro Railway Kolkata (Indian Railways) official website.