Getting Started on the Kolkata Metro
The Kolkata Metro is the fastest and most affordable way to get around Kolkata. The network covers 60 stations across 6 lines and 60 km of track, connecting the city's key neighbourhoods, transport hubs, and attractions. Around ~750,000 journeys are made every day.
Kolkata Metro is India's oldest metro railway and was the first metro system to open in the country. Opened on 24 October 1984 (with public service from 1995), it holds the distinction of being the only metro operated by Indian Railways (rather than a state metro corporation).
How to Pay
The best way to pay is with the Kolkata Metro Smart Card — faster boarding, no queue at the machine, and usually a discount on fares. How to pay for Kolkata Metro — Smart Card, token, and the lowest metro fares in India explained.
All payment options: 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.
Getting from the Airport to Kolkata
Kolkata Metro's Violet Line extension to NSCBI Airport is under construction — current options: Dum Dum metro connection and airport buses. Journey time: ~30 min by bus/auto from airport to Dum Dum metro station. Estimated fare: ₹30–₹50 auto/bus to metro + ₹10–₹20 metro fare.
Full airport connection guide →
Key Stations
These are the most important and useful stations on the Kolkata Metro for visitors:
Lines Overview
Essential Tips for Visitors
- Baggage X-ray at every station — all bags are scanned at the security checkpoint before entry. Allow 2–3 extra minutes at busy stations.
- Women-only coaches — the first coach of every train is reserved for women. Clearly marked. Male passengers should use other coaches.
- Peak hours are very crowded — avoid 08:00–10:00 and 17:00–20:00 on weekdays if you can. Trains run reliably but are packed during rush hours.
- Smart Card is essential — buy it on your first visit. The discount and time saving pay back the deposit within a day of travel. Available at any station customer care centre.
- Download the operator app — fare calculators, UPI ticketing, and route planners are available from Metro Railway Kolkata.
- Operating hours — the metro runs approximately 06:00 to 22:00–23:00. Always check the last train time if travelling late.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kolkata Metro really the oldest metro in India?
Yes — Kolkata Metro (Line 1) opened on 24 October 1984, making it India's first metro by 12 years (Delhi Metro opened in 2002). It is operated uniquely by Indian Railways, not a state metro corporation — the only metro in India under direct central government railway operation.
What is the East-West Metro (Orange Line)?
Line 2 (Orange Line) runs from Howrah Maidan under the Hooghly river (through India's first underwater metro tunnel) to Esplanade, then east to Sector V in Salt Lake. The underwater tunnel section opened in 2023 and is an engineering landmark. The full line connects Howrah to the Salt Lake IT corridor.
How do I get from Howrah Station to central Kolkata by metro?
The Orange Line runs from Howrah Maidan station (a short walk from Howrah Railway Station) through the underwater tunnel to Esplanade — about 5 minutes. From Esplanade, change to the Blue Line for Park Street, Maidan, and north/south Kolkata.
Does Kolkata Metro go to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Airport?
The Violet Line (Line 4) is planned to extend to Netaji Subhas Airport — construction is in progress. As of 2026, check the latest status at mtp.indianrailways.gov.in. The Blue Line's Dum Dum station is accessible via bus from the airport.
What time does Kolkata Metro run?
Monday–Saturday: 06:45–21:45. Sunday: 08:45–21:45. Kolkata Metro has an earlier last-train time than most Indian metros. Note reduced hours on Sundays.
Which station is closest to Victoria Memorial?
Maidan station (Blue Line) is the closest — a 10–15 minute walk to Victoria Memorial. Exit the station and walk south through the Maidan park. The Rabindra Sarani (Chowringhee) area is also easily accessible from Maidan station.
Can I use the Indian Railways Smart Card on Kolkata Metro?
The Metro Smart Card is specific to Kolkata Metro (Metro Railway Kolkata). It is not the same as the IRCTC travel card or general Indian Railways cards. Buy the dedicated Metro Smart Card at metro station counters.
Is the Kolkata Metro safe to use at night?
The metro itself is safe — well-patrolled with CISF security personnel at stations. However, the metro closes relatively early (~21:45). After metro hours, auto-rickshaws, yellow taxis, and Ola/Uber are available across the city.
Fare Guide
See the full Kolkata Metro ticket prices guide for all fares, the Kolkata Metro Smart Card discount, and payment options.
Source: Metro Railway Kolkata (Indian Railways) and Wikipedia. Information is for general guidance — verify with the operator before travel.