Kolkata, West Bengal to Mandarmani, West Bengal from $4: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

• While traveling from Kolkata to Mandarmani, plan your stops, as there are gas stations approximately every 30-40 kilometers along NH16; expect to pay around ₹110-₹120 per liter of petrol.

• Be aware of restricted traffic zones in Kolkata, particularly in the central business district; it's advisable to use navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze for real-time traffic updates and alternate routes.

• Upon arrival in Mandarmani, parking options vary: expect daily rates to be between ₹100-₹300 depending on your location; be cautious as some areas may have restricted parking zones along the beachfront.

• On your train journey from Kolkata to Mandarmani, you can expect catering services that typically offer a variety of meal options. Most trains provide packed meals or snacks, which you can order ahead of time through the catering service available during the booking process on websites like IRCTC. Be sure to check the menu options, as they can range from vegetarian to non-vegetarian meals, as well as snacks and beverages.

• For your journey, the train offers several seating options, including Sleeper Class, AC 3 Tier, AC 2 Tier, and First Class. AC 3 Tier is a popular choice for comfort without breaking the bank, providing air conditioning and bedding. First Class offers an even higher level of comfort but at an increased fare. Make sure to book your tickets in advance, especially if you choose the more comfortable classes, as they fill up quickly.

• There are multiple train operators for this route, including Eastern Railway, South Eastern Railway, and others. You can find more information and book tickets through their official websites: Indian Railways and Cleartrip. To assist in your journey, check local transport schedules from Kolkata to the Haripur or Contai railway stations, as these are your closest access points to Mandarmani.

• Book your bus tickets in advance with reputable operators such as 'West Bengal Surface Transport Corporation' or 'SS Travels' to ensure you get a seat, especially on weekends when many travelers head to Mandarmani for the beach.

• Pack light snacks and water for the journey, as the bus may not make frequent stops; however, you can find good dining options at the roadside restaurants around Kolaghat, roughly halfway through the trip.

• Upon arrival at Mandarmani, the bus will drop you off near the beach area; expect taxis and autos available at the drop-off for easy access to hotels or resorts, but be prepared to negotiate the fare.