How to Reach Mayapur from Kolkata by Train, Bus and Car, 2025
Planning a trip to Mayapur, the spiritual capital and global headquarters of ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness)? Often called the “Vedic heart of the world,” this serene town, nestled at the confluence of the Ganga and Jalangi rivers, is a must-visit for seekers and tourists alike.
The journey from the bustling metropolis of Kolkata (Calcutta) to the divine tranquility of Mayapur is approximately 130-140 km and can be comfortably covered by various modes of transport. To help you plan your spiritual escape seamlessly, here is your definitive guide on the best ways to reach Mayapur.
Quick Comparison Table for Travel Modes
| Mode | Duration (Approx.) | Cost (Approx. Per Person) | Best For |
| Train (to Nabadwip Dham) | 3.5 – 4 Hours (including transfers) | ₹150 – ₹400 (Local to Express) | Budget-conscious and solo travellers seeking the local experience. |
| Direct Bus (WBTC/ISKCON) | 4 – 4.5 Hours | ₹200 – ₹500 | Travelers preferring a direct, hassle-free transfer with comfort. |
| Private Car / Taxi | 3.5 – 4 Hours | ₹1,500 – ₹3,500 (one-way total) | Groups, families, or those prioritizing speed and door-to-door convenience. |
Mayapur West Bengal
Mayapur, strategically located in the heart of West Bengal, is a favorite destination for devotees and travel enthusiasts in India. Situated near Nabadwip with the Jalangi and Bhagirathi rivers on either side, Mayapur attracts tourists with its rich history and tranquil attractions. Whether you seek its rich pilgrim destinations or a peaceful weekend getaway, Mayapur is sure to exceed your expectations.
Key Highlights:
- Location: At the confluence of the Jalangi and Ganga rivers.
- Famous For: Unexploited nature, rich traditions, customs, and artistic views.
- Significance: Birthplace of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and a spiritual Hub for Gaudiya Vaishnavism adherents.
- Nicknamed: Land of the Golden Avatar.
Best Tourist Attractions:
-
- ISKCON Mayapur: The main temple complex with the newly constructed New Chandrodaya Mandir.
- Chaitanya Mahaprabhu’s Birthplace: A significant pilgrimage site.
- Mayapur Ghat: A serene spot along the river for meditation and relaxation.
To reach Mayapur from Kolkata, you have three main options: train, bus, and car. Here is a clear and easy guide for each mode of transport.
1. By Train: The Fastest & Most Economical Route
The railway is often the preferred choice for a quick and cost-effective journey. There is no direct railway station in Mayapur itself, but the nearest major station provides excellent connectivity.
- The fastest trains from Howrah/KOAA (Kolkata) to Mayapur (MAYP) take about 1 hour 47 minutes to 2 hours. For example, the HWH Gogt Local (train 37379) covers the distance of about 73-86 km in around 1 hour 47 minutes.
- There are about 11 trains daily running between Kolkata and Mayapur, making it a convenient and frequent option.
- You can book tickets online via IRCTC or other train booking websites.
- Trains typically depart from Howrah Junction or nearby stations.
| Travel Route | Details | Approximate Duration | Final Leg to Mayapur ISKCON |
| From Howrah (HWH) | Catch a local or express train going towards Nabadwip Dham (NDAE). Regular trains are available. | Approx. 2 to 3 hours | From NDAE station, hire an auto-rickshaw or electric rickshaw (Toto) to Mayapur Ghat. Cross the Ganga river by ferry/boat to Hular Ghat (Mayapur side). From Hular Ghat, another short Toto ride will take you to the ISKCON main campus. |
| From Sealdah (SDAH) | Catch a local train to Krishnanagar City Junction (KNJ). | Approx. 2 hours | From KNJ, take a local bus or private cab directly to the ISKCON Mayapur campus (approx. 18-20 km). Alternatively, a Toto can take you to Swarupganj Ghat, where a boat ride across the Jalangi River brings you closer to the temple complex. |
2. By Road: Comfort, Convenience & Direct Access
Traveling by road offers maximum flexibility, especially if you are traveling with family or a group. The journey takes around 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and route.
A. Private Car / Taxi
- Route: The most common route is via State Highway 6 (SH-6) / STKK Road, passing through Krishnanagar. The drive is approximately 120-130 km.
- Convenience: This is the most comfortable and fastest direct mode, taking you straight to the ISKCON campus parking lot.
- Booking: You can hire an outstation taxi or use app-based cab services for a one-way drop or a round-trip package.
B. Direct Bus Services
- WBTC (West Bengal Transport Corporation): Government-run AC Volvo buses, often branded as ‘Banglashree Express,’ run daily from Kolkata’s major terminals like Esplanade or Karunamoyee. These buses often go directly into the ISKCON Mayapur campus.
- ISKCON Buses: The ISKCON Kolkata center (at Minto Park) often operates dedicated, comfortable AC bus services to Mayapur on specific days (usually weekends or festival days), which can be booked in advance.
Summary Table
| Mode | Approx. Distance | Travel Time | Approx. Cost (INR) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train | 73-86 km | 1 hr 47 min – 2 hrs | 300 – 1600 | Frequent, fastest mode |
| Bus | 73-130 km | 4 hr 30 min | 150 – 300 | Cheapest, slower |
| Car/Taxi | 75-116 km | 1 hr 43 min – 4 hr 20 min | 1,100 – 3,500 | Most comfortable, flexible |
Tips for the Journey
- Train travel is recommended for fast and economical transit. Book tickets early on IRCTC.
- If you prefer a scenic and private ride, a car or taxi is best but book in advance to get fair prices.
- Bus travel is budget-friendly but less comfortable and time-consuming.
- Start early in the day to avoid traffic and enjoy a peaceful journey.
This guide covers the easy and practical ways to reach Mayapur from Kolkata by train, bus, or car, helping you plan your trip smoothly and efficiently.
Suggested Read: Mayapur ISKCON Opening Timing & Aarti Schedule
How to Reach Mayapur from Kolkata
By Train ( Mayapur From Kolkata )
- You have two main options by train:
From Howrah Station: ( Mayapur from Kolkata )
- Take the Intercity Express at 3 PM (not on Sundays). It reaches Nabadwip Dham by 5:45 PM. It’s less crowded.
- Other trains to Nabadwip Dham run about every hour and a half but can be crowded. Travel time is about 3 hours.
- From Nabadwip Dham station, take a rickshaw to Mayapur Ghat.
- Take a boat across the Ganga to Hular Ghat in Mayapur.
- Take a rickshaw to ISKCON Mayapur Chandrodaya Mandir.
From Sealdah Station: ( Mayapur from Kolkata )
- Trains to Krishnanagar take about 2 hours and can be crowded.
- From Krishnanagar, take a rickshaw to the bus terminal and catch a bus to ISKCON Mayapur, or
- Take a three-wheeler to Mayapur Ghat in Swarup Ganj, cross the Jalangi river by boat to Hular Ghat, and then take a rickshaw to ISKCON Mayapur.
Train Schedule from Howrah Junction to Nabadwip Dham
Here are the details of trains from Howrah Junction to Nabadwip Dham, including total travel time, arrival, and departure times:
| Train Name | Train Number | Total Time Taken | Arrival Time | Departure Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HWH GOGT LOCAL DAILY | 37371 | 1 hour 59 mins | 04:22 am | 06:21 am |
| HWH GOGT LOCAL DAILY | 37375 | 1 hour 52 mins | 10:35 am | 12:27 pm |
| HWH ARAMBAGH LOCAL DAILY | 37361 | 1 hour 48 mins | 09:55 am | 11:43 am |
| HWH GOGHAT LOCAL DAILY | 37373 | 2 hours 07 mins | 07:25 am | 09:32 am |
| HWH ARAMBAGH LOCAL DAILY | 37359 | 2 hours 03 mins | 05:19 am | 07:22 am |
By Flight ( Mayapur from Kolkata )
Mayapur doesn’t have its own airport. The closest airport is Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, about 117 km away.
Travel Tips:
- From Other States/Countries: Book your flight to Kolkata. The airport has excellent connectivity with various national and international airlines.
- Flight Fare: Approximate one-way fare from Mumbai to Kolkata is INR 5000-7000, varying based on the airline, departure location, and booking time.
- Check Updates: Verify flight schedules and fares with airlines or travel websites before booking.
By Road: ( Mayapur from Kolkata )
You can travel via Krishnanagar to reach Mayapur by road.
- Distance: 130 km
- Driving Time: Approximately 4 hours and 17 minutes
- Route: Via SH-6 and STKK road
Suggested Read: TOVP Mayapur ( Temple of the Vedic Planetarium )
Local Options: ( Mayapur from Kolkata )
If you live near Nabadwip or Krishnanagar (within 20-25 km), it’s convenient to go by car or tuk-tuk. The journey by tuk-tuk offers a memorable and scenic experience through the picturesque villages.
Bus to Mayapur From Kolkata
Traveling from Kolkata to Mayapur by bus takes around 4 hours, depending on traffic, road, and weather conditions. Public and private buses are available, with fares starting at INR 110 per person. Deluxe buses with air conditioning and video coach facilities may cost more.
ISKCON Kolkata Buses:
-
- Operates on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
- Direct bus from ISKCON Kolkata temple to Sri Mayapur.
- For room bookings at ISKCON Kolkata guest house, call +91-3322-876075.
- To book a bus seat, call +91-33-32488041 or +91-33-64588777.
Public Buses: ( Mayapur from Kolkata )
-
- From Kolkata’s Dharmatala Bus Terminal, take a bus to Krishnanagar.
- From Krishnanagar, take a bus to ISKCON Mayapur.
Best Time to Visit Mayapur from Kolkata
Mayapur can be visited year-round, thanks to its devotional places and traditional architecture. However, the best time to visit is during the winter, when you can fully enjoy the experience without worrying about seasonal hassles.
Ideal Time to Visit:
- Peak Season: October to February – Cool and pleasant weather with an average temperature of 28°C.
- Optimal Season: March to April – Mild weather, making it comfortable for sightseeing.
When to Avoid:
- Monsoon Season: June to August – Heavy rainfall and potential waterlogging can disrupt your travel plans.
Final Takeaway for a Divine Journey
No matter your choice—be it the scenic train ride followed by a sacred ferry crossing, or the convenience of a direct bus—the journey from Kolkata to Mayapur is an adventure that concludes in profound peace. Plan ahead, book your accommodation at the ISKCON guest houses (Gada Bhavan, Vamsi Bhavan, etc.) well in advance, and prepare to immerse yourself in the vibrant spiritual atmosphere of Shri Dham Mayapur!
FAQ
- Q. Mayapur to Kolkata?
- A. Distance: 130 km by Road.
- Q. Mayapur to Kolkata distance 130 km by Road
- A. By Road 130 km
- Q. Kolkata to Mayapur Volvo Bus Available.
- A. Yes, VOLVO Bus available in the season time.
- How far is Mayapur from Kolkata: 130 km by road.
- How to visit Mayapur: You can visit Mayapur via Kolkata City of India.
- How to reach Mayapur Iskcon from Kolkata: You can take train, bus, private transport to reach Mayapur.
- Mayapur best time to visit: October to Marth is the best time to visit Mayapur.
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