Travel Tips & Safety
Kharagpur is a busy railway hub, educational center (IIT Kharagpur), and industrial city. Whether you're visiting for business, studies, or leisure, here are some essential travel tips and safety measures to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Transportation & Travel Tips
✅ Best Way to Reach Kharagpur:
- By Train (Best Option) – Kharagpur Junction (KGP) is one of India’s busiest railway stations.
- By Road – Connected by NH-16 (Chennai-Kolkata Highway), making it accessible by bus and car.
- By Air – Nearest airport is Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU), Kolkata (~140 km away).
✅ Local Transport Options in Kharagpur:
- Auto-Rickshaws & Cycle Rickshaws – Best for short distances within the city.
- Buses & Private Taxis – Limited availability, so pre-booking is recommended.
- Ola/Uber: Not widely available; rely on local taxis for long-distance travel.
✅ Avoid Late-Night Travel Alone:
- Public transport is limited after 10 PM.
- If traveling late, use pre-booked taxis or personal vehicles.
Accommodation Tips
✅ Best Areas to Stay in Kharagpur:
- Near IIT Kharagpur – Ideal for visitors attending events, students, and researchers.
- Near Gole Bazaar – Close to markets, food joints, and transport options.
- Near Railway Station – Best for travelers in transit.
✅ Best Hotels in Kharagpur:
- Golden Retreat Hotel (Luxury)
- Hotel Greenland Inn (Mid-Range)
- Hotel Hindustan (Budget)
✅ Book Hotels in Advance:
- Kharagpur has limited hotels, so it’s best to book early, especially during festival seasons and IIT events.
✅ Check Hotel Reviews & Amenities:
- Choose hotels with secure parking, Wi-Fi, and good food options.
- Read reviews on Google, TripAdvisor, or MakeMyTrip.
Food & Drinking Water Safety
✅ Eat at Reputed Restaurants & Clean Street Stalls:
- Kharagpur offers delicious Bengali and Odia food, but choose well-known places.
- Avoid eating uncooked or semi-cooked street food during monsoon.
✅ Drink Bottled or Filtered Water:
- Avoid drinking tap water; always opt for sealed bottled water.
- Carry a reusable water bottle with a filter for added safety.
✅ Must-Try Local Dishes:
- Shorshe Ilish (Hilsa Fish in Mustard Gravy) – A Bengali delicacy.
- Ghugni Chaat – Spicy yellow peas curry, a popular street food.
- Mishti Doi & Roshogolla – Famous Bengali sweets.
Shopping & Money Tips
✅ Best Places to Shop:
- Gole Bazaar – For clothes, electronics, and street food.
- Prem Bazaar – For local spices and household essentials.
- Inda Market – Best for fresh fruits, vegetables, and fish.
✅ Carry Cash for Local Markets:
- Many small vendors do not accept digital payments.
- ATMs are available, but carry small denominations for convenience.
✅ Beware of Pickpockets in Crowded Areas:
- Keep your wallet, phone, and valuables secure while shopping or in markets.
Internet & Connectivity
✅ Mobile Network Availability:
- Kharagpur has good network coverage with Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone.
- Internet speed is generally good, but Wi-Fi in public areas is limited.
✅ Public Wi-Fi is Rare:
- Hotels and some cafes offer Wi-Fi, but it’s best to use mobile data or a hotspot.
Safety & Emergency Contacts
✅ Know Emergency Numbers:
- Police: 100
- Ambulance: 102
- Fire Service: 101
- Tourist Helpline: 1800-11-1363
- Nearest Hospital: Kharagpur Sub-Divisional Hospital
✅ Travel Insurance is Recommended:
- If you’re traveling for business or leisure, consider travel insurance to cover medical emergencies and trip cancellations.
✅ Keep Digital & Physical Copies of Documents:
- Carry a copy of your ID (Aadhar, Passport, Driving License, etc.).
- Keep soft copies on your phone as a backup.
✅ Women Travelers’ Safety Tips:
- Kharagpur is generally safe, but avoid isolated areas at night.
- Dress modestly and be cautious with strangers.
- Share your live location with a trusted friend or family member while traveling alone.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
✅ Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Pleasant weather, best for sightseeing.
- Monsoon (June–Sept): Heavy rains, avoid travel.
- Summer (April–June): Hot & humid, not ideal for tourists.
✅ Pack Accordingly:
- Winter: Light woolens, comfortable shoes.
- Summer: Light cotton clothes, sunglasses, sunscreen.
- Monsoon: Raincoat, umbrella, waterproof shoes.
Final Travel Checklist for Kharagpur
✔️ Train is the best way to reach Kharagpur – Book tickets in advance.
✔️ Choose accommodation near IIT or Gole Bazaar for convenience.
✔️ Eat at well-known restaurants and avoid unsafe street food.
✔️ Carry cash for local markets and transport.
✔️ Avoid traveling alone at night; use pre-booked taxis.
✔️ Download offline maps and keep emergency contacts saved.
✔️ Pack according to the season to stay comfortable.
Kharagpur is a safe and enjoyable city, offering a mix of educational landmarks, cultural diversity, and local experiences. By following these travel tips and safety guidelines, you can ensure a comfortable and hassle-free trip. Whether you're exploring IIT Kharagpur, visiting ancient temples, or enjoying local food, staying alert and prepared will make your journey smooth and memorable!
