Is there a direct train from Shillong?

No, Shillong does not have a railway station; you must travel to Guwahati first.

How far is Shillong from Guwahati?

It is approximately 100 km and takes 3 hours by road.

Which is the nearest airport to Shillong?

Shillong Airport (Umroi) is the nearest, though Guwahati has more connectivity.

Can I travel by bus to Kolkata?

Yes, but it is a long journey of over 24 hours via Siliguri.

Is Kolkata safe for tourists?

Yes, Kolkata is generally safe, but exercise standard urban precautions.

Shillong

Kolkata

Train Flight

Shillong to Kolkata

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Shillong to Kolkata spans approximately 1050 km. You must first travel to Guwahati by road via NH 6, which takes about 3 hours. From Guwahati, you can take the Saraighat Express or a direct flight to Kolkata. The train journey offers scenic views of the Brahmaputra valley. Flights are the fastest, connecting Umroi or Guwahati to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport.

Total Distance: 1050 km by road, 550 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight from Guwahati to Kolkata, taking 90 minutes of air time.

Cheapest Way

Train in Sleeper class from Guwahati to Howrah, costing approximately 800 INR.

Compare Shillong to Kolkata Routes

	Train Connecting	Flight Direct
Duration	18 hours	1 hour 30 mins
Avg Price	1500-3500 INR	4000-8000 INR
Operator	Saraighat Express	IndiGo
Route	Guwahati Railway Station to Howrah Junction	Guwahati (GAU) to Kolkata (CCU)
Tip	Book your tickets at least 60 days in advance for confirmed berths.	Check-in at Guwahati airport at least 2 hours before departure.

Travel Tips

Book Early
Train tickets from Guwahati sell out quickly during festive seasons.
Airport Transfer
Use pre-paid taxis from Guwahati airport to reach the city center.
Local Transport
In Kolkata, use the Metro for the fastest commute across the city.
Weather Check
Carry an umbrella as Kolkata experiences heavy monsoon rains.
Currency
Keep small denominations of cash for local transport like hand-pulled rickshaws.

Safety Tips

Luggage Security
Keep your bags locked and under your seat during train journeys.
Avoid Touts
Do not engage with unauthorized taxi agents at Howrah station.
Night Travel
Prefer pre-booked cabs when arriving in Kolkata late at night.
Emergency Contacts
Save the local police helpline number on your phone.