Kolkata Metro Launches Tourist Smart Card For Unlimited Travel During Durga Puja

To ease travel during the Durga Puja rush, Kolkata Metro has introduced a Tourist Smart Card, allowing unlimited rides for three or five days. Aimed at both domestic and international visitors, the card offers fast-track, cashless access across the city’s growing Metro network—including both underground and suburban lines.

With daily commuter numbers expected to rise to 11–12 lakh during the festival—up from over 9 lakh last year—the initiative is designed to reduce congestion and simplify commuting during one of the city's busiest times. Metro officials stated that the card will help streamline travel for the large number of tourists and daily passengers expected during this year's Durga Puja.

Unlimited-Travel On The Cards

The Tourist Smart Card for Durga Puja will make travel easier for both visitors and daily commuters during the city’s peak festive season. Available in two options—valid for three days at INR 250 or five days at INR 550—the card offers unlimited travel across the Metro network within its validity period.

Designed to eliminate the hassle of queuing for tokens or topping up pay-as-you-go cards, the Tourist Smart Card is ideal for tourists and pandal-hoppers planning multiple journeys each day. The cards can be purchased at booking counters in all metro stations.

Unlike regular Smart Cards, which deduct fare per trip and offer a 5 percent bonus on recharge value, the Tourist Smart Card allows unrestricted access for a fixed price, making it both convenient and cost-effective for short-term visitors. Regular commuters can continue to use mobile QR tickets via the ‘Aamar Kolkata Metro’ app, which also includes the 5 percent fare rebate.

Additional Services On Mahalaya

To accommodate increased passenger demand on Mahalaya, Metro Railway will operate 182 train services on Sunday, 21 September—significantly more than the usual 130 services run on Sundays. Of these, 173 trains will run along the busy corridor connecting Dakshineswar to various parts of the city. The first trains of the day will depart from Noapara, Dakshineswar, and Dum Dum stations between 6:50 AM and 6:55 AM. The last train timings will remain unchanged.

Mahalaya marks the beginning of the Durga Puja season in Bengal and holds deep spiritual and cultural significance. It is observed with early morning rituals and a traditional radio programme that recounts the story of Goddess Durga’s descent to Earth. Many people visit the Ganges for a ritual offering to their ancestors—leading to a sharp rise in early morning travel.

FAQs

What is the Kolkata Metro Tourist Smart Card?

The Tourist Smart Card is a special Metro pass that allows unlimited rides across the Kolkata Metro network for a fixed duration—either 3 days (INR 250) or 5 days (INR 550). It is designed for tourists and pandal-hoppers during the Durga Puja season.

Where can I purchase the Tourist Smart Card?

The Tourist Smart Card is available at booking counters in all Kolkata Metro stations. It can be bought on the spot and used immediately for travel within its validity period.

How is the Tourist Smart Card different from a regular Smart Card?

Unlike the regular Smart Card, which deducts fare per trip and offers a 5% bonus on recharge, the Tourist Smart Card allows unlimited travel for a fixed price within its validity—ideal for short-term, high-frequency users.

Will there be extra Metro services during Durga Puja?

Yes. For example, on Mahalaya (September21, 2025), Kolkata Metro will run 182 services, up from the usual 130 on a Sunday, to manage higher footfall—particularly to and from Dakshineswar.

What is Mahalaya, and why is Metro adding more trains that day?

Mahalaya marks the start of Durga Puja in Bengal and is observed with early morning rituals and river offerings. Metro services are increased on this day to accommodate the large number of people travelling to ghats and temples early in the morning.