A comfortable lounge offering amenities like Wi-Fi, snacks, beverages, and flight information. Available to domestic passengers with lounge memberships or pay-per-use options, open typically during flight hours.
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport serves as a major gateway in eastern India. Located near Kolkata, it handles both domestic and international flights connecting the city to global destinations. The airport plays an important role for business travelers, tourists exploring nearby attractions like historic sites and cultural centers and residents needing reliable air travel options. Its operations support regional trade while providing convenient access to one of India’s oldest metropolitan areas with diverse culinary scenes and heritage landmarks within reachable distance.
| Power Grid: |
230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type D , Type M
Type C:
Read about power adapters |
|---|---|
| Currency: |
Indian Rupee (INR) £1 ≈ ₹126.52 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 4/5
Cashless payments are becoming more common in India, especially in urban areas. Credit cards and mobile payment apps like Google Pay, Paytm, and PhonePe are widely accepted in cities.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is appreciated in India but not mandatory. A 10% tip in restaurants is common. Tipping taxi drivers and hotel staff is also customary, typically 10-15% for good service. |
|---|---|
| Public drinking: | Public drinking is not commonly seen in India. Alcohol is typically consumed in licensed bars, restaurants, and hotels. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is prohibited in many indoor public spaces, including restaurants, bars, and public transport stations. |
| Independence Day (15 August) |
A national holiday celebrated with flag hoisting and parades |
|---|---|
| Diwali (October-November) |
The Festival of Lights, celebrated with fireworks and festivities |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 112 |
|---|---|
| Taxi apps: | Ola, Uber |
| Other: | India is a vast and diverse country with a rich cultural heritage, offering a wide range of experiences from ancient temples to modern cities. Prepare for varying infrastructure and safety conditions depending on the region. |
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport is spread over an area of 6.64 square kilometers and operates two parallel runways with advanced instrument landing capabilities, making it one of India’s busiest airports. The integrated Terminal 2, opened in 2013, accommodates both domestic and international flights efficiently with 128 check-in counters and 78 immigration counters.
The airport features numerous amenities including lounges, restaurants, baby care rooms, shopping zones and free Wi-Fi. Airlines such as IndiGo, Air India and SpiceJet operate extensively here, contributing to a bustling atmosphere especially in peak hours.
While well laid out, passengers should prepare for potentially long queues during peak times and be aware that traffic between the airport and Kolkata city center can be heavy, extending travel times. English is moderately spoken, particularly at airline counters and lounges, but familiarity with basic Hindi or Bengali helps in communication. Taxi services are available but tend to be more expensive than public transport options.
CCU acts as a gateway not only to Kolkata’s colonial charm and cultural delights but also to northeastern India and international destinations, making it a key aviation node in the region.
Helpful tips for Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport
- Arrive at least two hours before departure for security and immigration.
- Check visa requirements and carry a photocopy of your passport, as Indian authorities may request it during check‑in.
- Use the airport’s free Wi‑Fi to download local maps and transport apps; this helps navigate Delhi’s traffic efficiently.
- The terminal offers a dedicated lounge for international travelers, but access requires a valid lounge pass or credit card membership.
Available airport lounges
Offers a quiet space with international cuisine options, free Wi-Fi, business facilities, and relaxing seating. Access is via priority airline status, credit card programmes, or pay-at-door.
An additional lounge in the domestic terminal providing similar services, focusing on comfort and convenience for domestic travellers from early morning to late evening.
Where to stay near Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport
Most hotels are located in the Kolkata city center, ranging from luxury to budget options. The airport’s proximity to the city allows easy transfer by taxi or airport shuttle.
Hotel recommendations
How to get from Kolkata Airport to popular destinations
To Kolkata City Center:
About 17 km from the airport, travel options include prepaid airport taxis costing roughly ₹400 – 600 (£3.16 – 4.73), with a journey time of 45-60 minutes depending on traffic. The Voltas air-conditioned bus and other public buses connect the airport to major city points but may be less convenient with heavy luggage. Kolkata’s metro system is expanding, but currently does not directly serve the airport.
To Howrah:
About 21 km west, Howrah is reachable by taxi or shuttle. Taxi rides take around 45-60 minutes, costing ₹500 – 700 (£3.95 – 5.52), serving passengers heading to the iconic Howrah Station for onward train travel.
To Salt Lake City:
Located approximately 13 km from the airport, Salt Lake is accessible via taxis and ride-sharing apps. Travel times vary between 30-40 minutes with typical fares around ₹350 – 500 (£2.76 – 3.95).