Ever wondered what 2000 kilometres of Delhi-Kolkata highway adventures look like? I recently travelled this epic route and discovered hidden gems most tourists miss mostly.
During my journey, I spent Rs. 35,000 on a cab from Delhi to Kolkata by road. We made unforgettable stops at Kanpur, Varanasi, and Gaya, where the UNESCO World Heritage Mahabodhi Temple attracts thousands of visitors annually. Finding budget hotels in Kolkata was surprisingly easy, with prices ranging from $18 to $34 per night. Kolkata sits in the top 25% of affordable Asian cities, with average daily costs around $47 (₹3,977) per person, including food and local transportation.
While accommodation in Varanasi costs around Rs. 1000 per bed, Kolkata offered even better value with numerous cheap hotels and dining options averaging $24 (₹2,054) daily per person. If you’re planning a week-long stay, two people can enjoy Kolkata for approximately $652 (₹55,678) – perfect for budget travellers looking to experience the city’s vibrant culture and bustling markets.
From tasting local delicacies to visiting historical landmarks, this guide reveals 12 must-see stops between these two major cities that won’t break your bank. Let me share what I discovered on this incredible journey across northern India.
Murthal, Haryana
Image Source: Justdial
Just 50 kilometres north of Delhi, Murthal marks the perfect first pit stop on your Delhi-Kolkata highway adventure. This small town in Sonipat district of Haryana has earned legendary status among road trippers for one spectacular reason – food!
Murthal food culture
When driving along the Delhi-Ambala National Highway (NH-44), you’ll notice hundreds of 24-hour eateries lining the road. At the heart of Murthal’s culinary fame are its iconic parathas – especially the aloo parantha served with generous dollops of white butter. These parathas aren’t just any flatbreads; they’re baked in tandoors rather than fried, creating a unique taste that’s become synonymous with highway dining excellence.
The crown jewel of Murthal’s food scene is Amrik Sukhdev Dhaba, established in 1956. Originally created to serve truck drivers, it has grown into a must-visit destination ranked 13th among the world’s 100 most iconic restaurants by TasteAtlas. Nearly two lakh people from NCR cities visit Murthal’s dhabas daily, creating a vibrant atmosphere day and night.
Why Murthal is a great first stop
After leaving Delhi, Murthal provides the ideal breakfast break on your journey toward Kolkata. Located on the Grand Trunk Karnal Road, it offers a taste of rural Haryana before the long drive ahead. Moreover, the town’s position makes it accessible via the Delhi-Meerut Expressway, allowing for easy navigation.
What makes Murthal truly special is its 24/7 operation – regardless of when you start your delhi to kolkata by road journey, these dhabas will be open and bustling. Additionally, most establishments offer free parking facilities, solving a major headache for road-trippers carrying luggage.
Budget-friendly dhabas
My favorite discovery is that Murthal caters brilliantly to budget travelers with numerous options under Rs. 500 per meal:
Hawai Adda Murthal: Offering Italian and Chinese cuisine at approximately Rs. 300 for two, this unique restaurant features dining inside an airplane!
Ganpati Dhaba and Sangam Neelkanth Dhaba: Both offer meals at around Rs. 350 for two people.
Gulshan Dhaba: Though slightly pricier (Rs. 550 for two), it’s worth the extra cost for its famous parathas, lassi, and chai.
First thing to remember about eating in Murthal: evenings tend to be extremely busy with wait times up to an hour. Therefore, I recommend hitting this stop early morning when driving from Delhi towards Kolkata to avoid crowds and enjoy fresher food.
Agra Bypass Viewpoint
Image Source: Team-BHP
After leaving Murthal behind, the Agra Bypass emerges as an exciting milestone on the delhi kolkata highway journey. I reached this point around 8:00 am during my recent trip to West Bengal, and the thrill of seeing those green distance markers showing “Kanpur 285 Km and Kolkata 1290 Km” was genuinely exhilarating.
Hidden photo spots
The Agra Bypass offers several unmarked yet photogenic spots that most travelers miss entirely. Subsequently, many drivers simply zoom past at speeds of 100-120 km/h, missing these hidden gems. For instance, near the toll booth area, you’ll find the perfect spot to capture that iconic green distance sign marking your progress toward Kolkata—a true road trip memory worth preserving.
Following the bypass route provides momentary glimpses of rural landscapes surrounding Agra without the city’s congestion. Notably, these quieter stretches allow you to pull over safely for quick photography sessions that capture the essence of the delhi kolkata highway road experience.
Best time to visit
Based on my journey experience, early morning (between 7-9 am) proves ideal for crossing the Agra Bypass. At this hour, traffic remains relatively light, and the morning light creates perfect conditions for photography. Furthermore, crossing earlier helps avoid the midday heat and gives you ample time to reach subsequent stops like Sasaram or Varanasi by evening.
Winter months (October-February) offer the most pleasant weather conditions for driving this stretch of the delhi to kolkata by road route. During summer, temperatures can soar above 40°C, making outdoor stops uncomfortable without adequate protection.
Nearby tea stalls
The Agra area boasts several charming tea options near the bypass:
Chai Pyaala serves exceptional masala chai and ginger tea varieties in a unique ambiance
Tandoor Tea Stall offers a distinctive smoky-flavored tea brewed in traditional tandoor
Baba Ka Dhaba provides strong, flavorful chai typically paired with biscuits and pakoras
Many travelers particularly favor the roadside stall at Delhi Gate near Hariparvat crossing, which operates 24/7. Given the extensive driving ahead toward budget hotels in kolkata, these tea stops offer perfect refreshment breaks.
After rejuvenating with a hot cup of tea, you’ll feel ready to continue your journey toward the next major landmark on this epic highway adventure connecting Delhi to West Bengal.
Tara Chandi Temple, Sasaram
Image Source: Rohtas
Continuing on the delhi kolkata highway journey, I discovered a hidden spiritual gem at the 5-kilometer mark south of Sasaram in Bihar. The Maa Tara Chandi Temple sits nestled within a natural cave of the Kaimur hills, offering a perfect spiritual pause on your long drive toward West Bengal.
Tara Chandi Temple history
This ancient shrine holds profound historical significance as one of India’s oldest temples. According to Pauranic legends, this sacred spot marks where the “right eye” (Netra) of Goddess Sati fell when Lord Vishnu dismembered her body with his Sudarshan Chakra. Originally called Maa Sati, the temple has stood as a testament to centuries of devotion.
What fascinated me most was the 12th-century inscription near the deity, commissioned by Kharwar dynasty king Mahanayak Pratap Dhavaldev through his son Shatrudhan. Indeed, historical records suggest the temple’s fame had already spread widely by that era.
Interestingly, the temple complex contains statues dating back to the late Gupta period. The main idol, four-handed Goddess Tara, holds a knife and scissors in her right hands and a hood and lotus in her left—perfectly matching traditional Tantric descriptions.
Spiritual significance
Maa Tara Chandi Temple ranks among the 51 Siddha Shakti Pithas of India, making it a crucial pilgrimage site for devotees. Thus, religious texts like the Shiva Puran and the Chandika Puran mention its glory. The temple’s spiritual power attracts thousands seeking prosperity and moksha (liberation).
While traveling from Delhi to West Bengal, I was intrigued by the legend connecting this temple to Gautam Buddha. After attaining enlightenment, Buddha supposedly received darshan from Maa Tarachandi in the form of a girl child who directed him to Sarnath for his first sermon. Consequently, this adds another layer to the temple’s cross-faith significance.
Tips for visiting on a budget
During my delhi to kolkata by road journey, I found this stop extremely budget-friendly. The temple follows satvik worship traditions, so dress modestly—loose, comfortable clothing worked well for me. Essentially, prepare for a climb to reach the temple, as it involves ascending several steps.
For those seeking inexpensive accommodation near this delhi kolkata highway landmark, Sasaram offers several options under ₹1000. Meanwhile, plan your visit during Navaratri (September-October) to experience the vibrant festival atmosphere and annual fair.
If travelling with limited funds, I recommend carrying your water and snacks, as options near the temple are basic. Albeit simple, nearby chai stalls provide refreshing breaks before continuing your journey toward cheap hotels in kolkata.
The serene atmosphere of this ancient temple offers much-needed respite from highway driving—a spiritual oasis worth exploring on your road trip from kolkata to Delhi or vice versa.
Dehri-on-Sone Bridge
Image Source: Team-BHP
As my journey along the Delhi-Kolkata highway continued, I was awestruck by the magnificent Nehru Setu spanning across the Son River. This historical landmark connects Dehri-on-Sone with Son Nagar and serves as a crucial crossing point for travellers heading toward West Bengal.
Engineering marvel of the bridge
Constructed during the British era in 1900 by the East India Company, Nehru Setu stands as a remarkable engineering achievement. The bridge stretches an impressive 3,064 meters (10,052 ft) over abutments and features a remarkable design with steel girders resting on 93 stone pillars, each positioned precisely 100 feet apart.
What makes this structure truly special is its historical significance—when completed, it was the longest bridge in India and reportedly the second longest in the world. Despite newer constructions surpassing it, Nehru Setu held its position as India’s longest rail bridge for many decades until February 2011, when the 4.62 km Vembanad Rail Bridge finally overtook it.
Scenic views and photo ops
The bridge offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Son River flowing beneath. Nevertheless, unlike touristy spots, this hidden gem on the delhi to kolkata by road route provides authentic natural beauty without crowds.
Despite being a lesser-known attraction, Dehri Sone Bridge has earned an impressive 4.0 rating from 496 visitors, clearly indicating its appeal to travellers. The best photographs can be captured from either end of the bridge, with early morning light creating magical reflections on the water.
In contrast to more famous bridges, Jawahar Setu (the road bridge) located on NH 2 provides complementary views and is recognised as one of India’s longest bridges.
Nearby local eateries
After exploring the bridge, I discovered several dining options with surprising variety for a small town. Dehri-on-Sone’s restaurants average a solid 4.0 rating across 9,229 reviews, offering excellent value for budget-conscious travelers.
The dining scene includes:
Fine dining establishments: Starting from Rs. 1500
Casual dining outlets: From Rs. 400
Ethnic cuisine restaurants: Around Rs. 500
Family-friendly dining: Approximately Rs. 1000
Highly recommended spots include Bamboo House Restaurant (4.8/5 rating) and Bihari Cafe & Restro (4.6/5). For travelers continuing toward budget hotels in kolkata, these eateries provide perfect refueling options without straining your wallet.
As I continued my journey toward West Bengal, this impressive bridge served as a reminder of India’s rich engineering heritage along the historic Grand Trunk Road.
Barabar Caves, Bihar
Image Source: Trawell.in
Tucked away in the hills near Makhdumpur, about 25 km south of Jehanabad, my exploration of the delhi kolkata highway revealed a spectacular hidden treasure. Dating back to the 3rd century BCE, Barabar Caves stand as India’s oldest surviving rock-cut chambers, offering a fascinating detour for history enthusiasts.
Ancient rock-cut caves
These remarkable caves, carved from monolithic granite rock, showcase extraordinary craftsmanship that still amazes visitors today. The complex comprises four main caves on Barabar Hill: Lomas Rishi, Sudama, Karan Chaupar, and Vishwakarma. What struck me most was their immaculate “Mauryan polish” – interior surfaces so perfectly smoothed they create mirror-like reflections. Even more impressive, all chambers feature exceptional acoustic properties, creating fascinating echo effects.
Initially, I was captivated by the Lomas Rishi cave with its beautifully carved entrance featuring a row of elephants marching toward stupa emblems. This architectural element, known as the “chaitya arch,” became influential in Indian rock-cut architecture for centuries afterward.
Historical importance
Originally, Emperor Ashoka dedicated these caves to Ajivika ascetics, a religious sect predating Buddhism. The Sudama cave contains an inscription from 261 BCE indicating Ashoka’s dedication in the 12th year of his reign. Similarly, Karan Chaupar features an inscription from approximately 245 BCE.
Given that these structures were carved by hand from solid granite using ancient tools, they represent an astonishing engineering achievement. Typically overlooked by travelers rushing between major cities, the caves provide a tangible connection to India’s ancient past.
Entry fees and timings
On my road trip from kolkata, I found these caves extremely budget-friendly:
Entrance fee: Free admission
Visiting hours: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, seven days a week
Best season: October through March offers the most pleasant weather
With no entry fee, this attraction makes an ideal stop for budget travelers, commonly allowing 2-3 hours for proper exploration.
Telhar Kund Waterfall
Image Source: HelloTravel
Driving further along the delhi kolkata highway, I stumbled upon the magnificent Telhar Kund Waterfall—a hidden gem nestled in the Kaimur district of Bihar. This spectacular cascade plunges from an impressive height of 80 meters, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that instantly captivated me during my journey toward West Bengal.
Natural beauty and serenity
The waterfall’s beauty is truly captivating with its dramatic landscape of cliffs and vibrant rainbows forming in the mist. As I approached, I was greeted by the magnificent sight of water cascading down, creating a mesmerising display surrounded by lush vegetation. The waterfall flows from the Kaimur Mountain range, ending in Telhar Kund Lake at the bottom, resulting in a picture-perfect setting.
What makes this spot special is its undisturbed natural surroundings. The fresh air, chirping birds, and flowing water create a soothing atmosphere that instantly rejuvenated my senses. Nearby, the Karamchat Dam adds to the area’s appeal, making it a popular picnic destination for locals.
Best time to visit
Based on my experience traveling the delhi to kolkata by road route, the optimal time to visit Telhar Kund is between October and February when the weather is pleasant. However, to witness the waterfall in its full glory with water gushing down forcefully, consider visiting during or just after the monsoon season (June to September).
Safety and accessibility
Recently, the government has upgraded tourist facilities at Telhar Kund with new amenities including access paths, gazebos, parking, and viewpoints. Nonetheless, it’s worth noting that swimming is prohibited since the waterfall’s strong current poses safety risks.
Located approximately 32 kilometers from Bhabua and 47 kilometers from Mohania, this waterfall is accessible from the main delhi kolkata highway road. For travelers seeking cheap hotels in kolkata after this stop, continue along NH-30 which connects to the capital via Arrah.
Telhar Kund stands out as one of the most remarkable natural attractions on this route—certainly worth the short detour on your budget road trip across northern India.
Bodh Gaya Detour
Image Source: Times of India
On my Delhi-Kolkata highway adventure, I made an enlightening 16-kilometre detour to Bodh Gaya. This sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site in Bihar offered a profound cultural experience that completely justified the slight deviation from my route.
Why Bodh Gaya is worth the detour
Bodh Gaya stands as one of Buddhism’s most sacred sites where Prince Siddhartha attained enlightenment over 2,500 years ago. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it draws pilgrims from worldwide, creating an atmosphere of remarkable spiritual energy. What struck me most was the genuine tranquil ambiance—perfect for reflection after hours of highway driving.
The detour takes approximately 34 minutes off the main Delhi to Kolkata by road route, yet delivers an experience that resonates long after returning to the highway. Although often overlooked by those rushing between major cities, this spiritual haven offers a welcome contrast to the typical road trip scenery.
Mahabodhi Temple visit
The magnificent Mahabodhi Temple complex operates daily from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with dawn and dusk being particularly evocative times. I arrived early morning to avoid crowds and experience the peaceful meditation sessions.
The complex encompasses several key elements:
The central shrine with exquisite architecture
A direct descendant of the original Bodhi Tree
The Vajrasana (Diamond Throne) marks Buddha’s enlightenment spot
A serene lotus pond
Dress code tip: Wear modest clothing covering knees and shoulders; footwear must be removed before entering.
Budget stay options
After exploring, I discovered numerous affordable accommodations in Bodh Gaya:
Nilam Guest House: Just 10 minutes from the temple, with rooms starting at ₹841 per night
Dwarka Home Stay: Located 8 minutes from Mahabodhi Temple, priced from ₹693
HouseTale: Featuring both indoor and outdoor social areas, costing around ₹1,187
For extremely budget-conscious travellers, guesthouses like Rahul Guest House offer clean rooms with excellent 9.0/10 ratings. October through March presents the ideal visiting period with pleasant weather and major Buddhist festivals.
This spiritual pause rejuvenated me to continue the journey toward cheap hotels in Kolkata.
Mokama Bridge Crossing
Image Source: YouTube
Cruising eastward on the Delhi-Kolkata highway brings you to the historic Rajendra Setu at Mokama, where Bihar’s remarkable engineering legacy stretches across the mighty Ganga. This crucial link between North and South Bihar offers both a practical passage and unexpected beauty for budget travellers.
Ganga river views
From atop Rajendra Setu, the panoramic vistas of the sacred Ganga flowing majestically below create breathtaking photo opportunities. The river stretches wide here, reflecting sky colours differently throughout the day. Generally, early morning visits provide the most serene experience with misty river views. I pulled over at several designated spots along the 2-kilometre bridge to capture unforgettable river landscapes before continuing my journey toward West Bengal.
Bridge history
Originally inaugurated in 1959 by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, Rajendra Setu (or Simaria Bridge) marked a historic milestone as the first bridge connecting northern and southern Bihar. The foundation stone was laid by Dr. Rajendra Prasad in 1956, with construction completed by Braithwaite, Burn & Jessop Construction Company.
The bridge’s engineering significance remains impressive even today. Presently, major developments are underway nearby – a new parallel double-line railway bridge inaugurated by PM Modi in 2016 should be operational by 2024. Correspondingly, a six-lane road bridge, widely touted as Asia’s widest extra-dosed cable-stayed bridge, runs parallel to the original structure. This newer marvel spans 1.865 km across the river with a total project length of 8.15 km, including approach roads.
Nearby chai stalls
After crossing this historic bridge on my Delhi to Kolkata by road journey, I discovered several welcoming tea stalls near Rajendra Pul station. These modest establishments serve refreshing chai in traditional clay cups for around ₹10-15. Markedly different from chain cafes, these authentic stops offer the perfect chance to stretch your legs while watching locals and travellers interact.
Forthwith, the journey continues toward cheap hotels in kolkata, but this significant crossing point provides both historical appreciation and practical rest before tackling the remainder of the delhi kolkata highway.
Rajmahal Hills Viewpoint
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The majestic Rajmahal Hills emerge on the horizon as the Delhi-Kolkata highway winds through Jharkhand’s eastern landscapes. Spanning an impressive 2,600 km² area, these ancient formations create a dramatic backdrop along your journey toward West Bengal.
Hidden hill views
Unlike overtly commercialised attractions, the Rajmahal Hills offer secluded viewpoints that most travellers zip past without noticing. The hills trend north-south with elevations averaging 200-300 meters, forming a natural barrier that forces the mighty Ganges to change its flow direction from east to south. For the best panoramic vistas, I recommend stopping near the Sahibganj district, where the hills provide breathtaking backdrops.
What makes these hills truly special is their geological significance. The region features the famous “Rajmahal Traps,” a series of formations created during the Jurassic period. These serve as silent witnesses to India’s ancient geological past when volcanic activity shaped this landscape. Even more fascinating, the area contains plant fossils estimated to be 68-145 million years old—a hidden treasure for science enthusiasts.
Best sunrise/sunset spots
My road trip from Kolkata revealed that Rajmahal offers extraordinary dawn and dusk experiences. According to precise data, sunrise occurs around 4:53 AM with sunset at approximately 6:16 PM, providing over 13 hours of daylight for exploration. The sunset views are particularly spectacular, with the fading light creating a vivid backdrop against the hills.
For optimal photography, position yourself at higher elevations facing west before 6:00 PM. I found several pullover spots along the highway where you can safely park to witness this natural spectacle without spending a rupee—perfect for budget travellers heading toward cheap hotels in Kolkata.
Local legends
Throughout history, these hills harboured communities isolated from outside influence. In the early 19th century, British traveller Francis Buchanan-Hamilton documented locals who were extremely wary of outsiders, often abandoning villages upon official visits. Today, this historical wariness has transformed into rich folklore about hidden treasures and protective spirits said to inhabit the less accessible peaks.
The Moti Jharna waterfall, originating from these hills, adds another dimension to local stories. Hence, conversing with elderly residents might reveal tales passed through generations about these ancient formations guarding the route between Delhi and West Bengal.
Deoghar, Jharkhand
Image Source: YouTube
As I approached the eastern part of Jharkhand on my Delhi-Kolkata highway expedition, the holy town of Deoghar beckoned with its spiritual magnetism. Known as the “abode of the Gods,” this sacred destination proved to be a rejuvenating break from the long drive toward West Bengal.
Baidhyanath Temple visit
The heart of Deoghar is undoubtedly Baba Baidyanath Dham, one of the twelve revered Jyotirlingas in India. The temple complex houses the main shrine along with 21 additional temples, creating an atmosphere of profound devotion. I arrived early morning at 6:00 AM when the temple gates opened, allowing me to avoid the typical 3-4 hour wait times.
For those seeking quicker access, I discovered a ₹200 token option reduces waiting time to 30-40 minutes – a worthwhile investment on a tight schedule. The temple remains open until 9:00 PM, yet I recommend visiting between October and March for the most pleasant weather experience.
Spiritual and cultural vibe
What makes Deoghar truly remarkable is its unique status as both a Jyotirlinga and one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, creating an exceptional spiritual confluence. During my visit, I observed pilgrims performing the sacred Kanwar Yatra – walking barefoot from Jasidih carrying holy Ganges water.
To fully experience Deoghar’s cultural essence, visit during the vibrant Shravani Mela (July-August). Yet, be prepared for massive crowds as millions of devotees converge for what’s recognised as the world’s longest religious fair.
Budget hotels in Deoghar
Finding affordable accommodation proved surprisingly easy. Hotel Ekta International offers decent rooms just 300 meters from the temple, while Hotel Golden Continental provides comfortable stays within walking distance. For extremely budget-conscious travelers, options like Hotel Janki Niwas and Parinay Hotel feature fully air-conditioned rooms at modest rates.
The Royals Home Stay caught my attention with its spacious rooms and free private parking – a rare convenience on the Delhi to Kolkata by road journey. Primarily, booking in advance is essential if travelling during peak religious seasons when pilgrims flood the city.
Shantiniketan Bypass
Image Source: AstaGuru
Approaching West Bengal on my Delhi-Kolkata highway journey, I made a worthwhile detour to Shantiniketan, where art and spirituality blend in perfect harmony. This cultural haven, founded by Rabindranath Tagore in 1901, recently achieved UNESCO World Heritage status in recognition of its unique educational model and cultural significance.
Tagore’s legacy
Shantiniketan emerged from Tagore’s vision of creating an educational institution in harmony with nature, transcending religious and regional barriers. His concept of open-air classrooms continues today, reflecting his belief that learning cannot be confined to enclosed spaces. Primarily, Visva Bharati University, established in 1921, embodied his dream of a “world university” signifying human unity across cultural boundaries. As I walked through the campus, the tranquil atmosphere instantly revealed why Tagore chose this location as his creative sanctuary.
Art and culture stops
The heart of Shantiniketan’s artistic life is Kala Bhavan, the renowned fine arts school that attracts artists globally. Under Nandalal Bose’s leadership as its first principal, this institution fostered legendary artists like Ramkinkar Baij and Benode Behari Mukherjee. Throughout the year, vibrant festivals (Utsavs) celebrate nature’s rhythms, including:
Vasantotsav (spring festival)
Varsha Mangal (monsoon festival)
Maghotsav (winter celebration)
These celebrations feature traditional elements like Alpana ground designs, Vedic chanting, and conch shell blowing, creating an authentic cultural experience.
Local crafts and souvenirs
For budget travellers, Shantiniketan offers exceptional handcrafted souvenirs. Amar Kutir, established in 1927 by freedom fighter Sushen Mukherjee, now operates as a cooperative promoting sustainable rural development through local handicrafts. Shortly after Independence, it began supporting artisans creating unique items from wood, clay, bamboo, and even scrap metals.
The distinctive Shantiniketan leather crafts, recognised for their embossed tie-dye pieces and traditional patterns, make perfect mementoes. Likewise, the colourful handicrafts display ingenious terracotta figurines, musical instruments, and ornaments made from colourful pulses and seeds—all at remarkably affordable prices. For quality textiles, numerous boutiques showcase products from local weavers, making this stop ideal before continuing toward budget hotels in Kolkata.
Kona Expressway Entry to Kolkata
Image Source: Team-BHP
After winding through hills and crossing rivers, my Delhi-Kolkata highway journey culminated at the bustling Kona Expressway—the final gateway into the City of Joy. This 7.3-kilometre stretch of NH12 serves as one of the three major entry routes into Kolkata, carrying over 70,000 vehicles daily as of November 2022.
Final stretch excitement
The approach via Kona Expressway creates a distinct transitional feeling as the highway transforms into an urban corridor. Operational since 2001, this crucial connector links National Highway 16 near Nibra to Vidyasagar Setu (Second Hooghly Bridge), which then leads directly into Kolkata’s heart.
Soon, you’ll notice the expressway passing two significant railway junctions—Santragachi Junction (the third largest station in the Kolkata Metropolitan area) and Shalimar Railway Station near the Vidyasagar Setu toll plaza. Eventually, the Santragachi bus terminus appears, serving as a major inter-city transport hub.
Scenic drive into the city
Once, as I drove along this final stretch, the six-lane expressway (four major lanes plus two service roads) offered glimpses of suburban life transitioning into urban landscapes. The route passes through several noteworthy areas, including Santragachi, Jagacha, Gorpha, and Belepole.
At present, a major development project is underway—the National Highways Authority plans to construct a 7.2 km superhighway along Kona Expressway by 2026 at an estimated cost of Rs.. 720 crore. This six-lane elevated highway aims to alleviate the current traffic challenges.
Tips for entering Kolkata smoothly
Based on my experience, these strategies help navigate this final stretch efficiently:
Avoid peak congestion areas: Primarily watch for bottlenecks at Shibpur, Carrie Road Junction, Santragachi Railway Station, Santragachi Bus Terminus, and Canal Side Road.
Time your entry wisely: The expressway gets particularly crowded during morning and evening rush hours.
Navigate the narrowing: Be prepared as the six-lane expressway narrows to just two lanes at the Santragachi over-bridge crossing Santragachi jheel and rail lines.
Afterwards, follow signage to your destination in Kolkata, where numerous budget accommodations await after your epic road journey from Delhi—the perfect conclusion to an adventure spanning northern India’s diverse landscapes.
Comparison Table
Stop Name | Key Attractions/Features | Best Time to Visit | Budget-Friendly Options | Notable Facilities/Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Murthal, Haryana | Famous parathas, 24-hour eateries | Early morning (to avoid crowds) | Meals under Rs. 500 at multiple dhabas | Free parking, 24/7 operations |
Agra Bypass Viewpoint | Photo spots, distance markers | 7-9 AM | Roadside tea stalls | Multiple tea stops, parking areas |
Tara Chandi Temple | Ancient shrine, cave temple | Navaratri (Sept-Oct) | No entry fee | Basic chai stalls nearby |
Dehri-on-Sone Bridge | 3,064m historical bridge, river views | Early morning | Casual dining from Rs. 400 | Multiple rated restaurants nearby |
Barabar Caves | Rock-cut chambers, ancient architecture | Oct-March | Free entry | Open 6 AM – 6 PM daily |
Telhar Kund Waterfall | 80m waterfall, scenic views | Oct-Feb (pleasant), June-Sept (full flow) | Free entry | New tourist facilities, parking |
Bodh Gaya Detour | Mahabodhi Temple, Bodhi Tree | Oct-March | Rooms from Rs. 693 | Basic chai stalls are nearby |
Mokama Bridge Crossing | Ganga river views, historic bridge | Early morning | Chai for Rs. 10-15 | Designated photo spots |
Rajmahal Hills | Geological formations, sunset views | Sunrise (4:53 AM), Sunset (6:16 PM) | Free viewpoints | Safe pullover spots |
Deoghar | Baidyanath Temple, 21 temples | Oct-March | Budget hotels from Rs. 200 entry token | The temple open 5 AM – 9 PM |
Shantiniketan Bypass | Visva Bharati University, art galleries | During festivals (seasonal) | Local handicrafts, souvenirs | Art exhibitions, cultural events |
Kona Expressway | 7.3km gateway to Kolkata | Non-peak hours | N/A | Six-lane expressway, service roads |
Conclusion
Travelling the entire Delhi-Kolkata highway certainly reveals India’s extraordinary diversity, from roadside dhabas to ancient temples and breathtaking natural wonders. Throughout this 2000-kilometre journey, each hidden gem offers unique experiences without draining your wallet. My recent travels across West Bengal and this epic highway adventure taught me that the most memorable moments often happen at these lesser-known stops rather than popular tourist destinations.
Undoubtedly, budget travellers can complete this entire journey for approximately Rs. 35,000 (cab hire) plus modest accommodation costs. Whether you’re marvelling at the engineering marvel of Dehri-on-Sone Bridge, experiencing spiritual enlightenment at Bodh Gaya, or simply enjoying a perfect paratha at Murthal, these stops provide authentic Indian experiences at a fraction of typical tourist prices.
The contrast between starting in bustling Delhi and ending in cultural Kolkata creates a perfect narrative arc for any road trip enthusiast. Finally, reaching Kolkata via Kona Expressway feels like completing an epic adventure – one filled with diverse landscapes, historical sites, and spiritual encounters that few international travellers ever experience. Subscribe to our newsletter for more hidden gems and budget travel guides across India’s magnificent highways.
Above all, remember that this highway journey isn’t merely about reaching your destination – the true joy lies in these unexpected discoveries along the way. The next time you plan a cross-country Indian adventure, skip the flights and embrace the road less travelled instead. After all, these hidden stops transform an ordinary journey into an extraordinary expedition through the heart of India.
FAQs
Q1. What are some must-see stops on the Delhi-Kolkata highway?
Some hidden gems along the route include Murthal for its famous parathas, the ancient Barabar Caves, the scenic Telhar Kund Waterfall, and the spiritual town of Deoghar with its Baidyanath Temple complex.
Q2. How long does the Delhi to Kolkata road trip take?
The journey covers approximately 2000 kilometres. While driving time varies, most travellers complete the trip in 3-4 days, allowing time to explore attractions along the way.
Q3. What’s the best time of year for this road trip?
October through March offers the most pleasant weather for travelling the Delhi-Kolkata highway. This period avoids extreme summer heat and monsoon rains, making stops more enjoyable.
Q4. Are there budget-friendly accommodation options along the route?
Yes, many stops offer affordable lodging. For example, in Bodh Gaya, rooms start from as low as Rs. 693 per night. Deoghar and other towns also have budget hotels catering to pilgrims and travellers.
Q5. What’s a unique experience to have on this journey?
Consider visiting Shantiniketan, founded by Rabindranath Tagore. This cultural haven offers a glimpse into Bengali art and literature, with opportunities to purchase unique handicrafts and experience traditional festivals.
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