How to Get from Gaya to Kolkata

Leaving the quiet of Gaya, where the Phalgu River flows past ancient temples, takes you from the heart of Buddhist heritage to the cultural pulse of Kolkata. Gaya is the gateway for pilgrims visiting Bodh Gaya, and Kolkata greets you with grand colonial architecture, yellow taxis and the busy Hooghly River.

The train is the straightforward way to make this trip.

Gaya to Kolkata by Train

The Gaya-Howrah Express 13024 leaves Gaya Junction at 12:20 and arrives at Howrah Junction at 03:40 the next morning. In the other direction, the Howrah-Gaya Express 13023 leaves Howrah at 19:50 and arrives in Gaya at 11:15.^[1]

Sleeper and AC Classes

On an overnight train the AC classes are the comfortable choice: 1A (AC First Class) has lockable compartments with bedding, and 2A (AC 2-Tier) and 3A (AC 3-Tier) have air-conditioned berths. SL (Sleeper Class) is the budget option without air conditioning, with open windows and plenty of local interaction. Chair-car classes such as CC and EC have seats rather than beds.

Tips for Traveling from Gaya to Kolkata

• Book early: Indian Railways opens reservations 60 days before the journey, and 365 days ahead for foreign tourists.^[2] Book as soon as your dates are fixed, especially during pilgrimage seasons.
• Onward from Howrah: The Kolkata Metro East-West line serves Howrah, Howrah Maidan, Esplanade and Sealdah.^[3]
• Luggage safety: Keep valuables in a small bag that stays with you, and secure larger bags under the berth with a chain and lock.
• Food and water: Carry bottled water and dry snacks. Eat hot, freshly cooked food from station vendors and stick to peeled fruit.