Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Bus
Urban buses range from fume-belching, human-stuffed mechanical monsters that travel at breakneck speed to sanitised
AC vehicles with comfortable seating and smoother ride quality. In any case, it's usually far more convenient to opt for
an autorickshaw or taxi, as they are quicker and more frequent.
Cycle-Rickshaw
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A cycle-rickshaw is a pedal cycle with two rear wheels, supporting a bench seat for passengers. Most have a canopy
that can be raised in wet weather, or lowered to provide extra space for luggage.
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Fares must be agreed upon in advance - speak to locals to get an idea of what is a fair price for the distance you intend
to travel.
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Kolkata (Calcutta) is the last bastion of the hand-pulled rickshaw, known as the
tana
rickshaw. This is a hand-cart on
two wheels pulled directly by the rickshaw-wallah.
Taxi
Most towns have taxis, and these are usually metered; however, getting drivers to use the meter can be a hassle. To
avoid fare-setting shenanigans, use prepaid taxis where possible.
MANNING THE METER
Getting a metered ride is only half the battle. Meters are almost always outdated, so fares are calculated using a
combination of the meter reading and a complicated 'fare adjustment card'. Predictably, this system is open to ab-
use. To get a rough estimate of fares in advance, try the portal
www.taxiautofare.com
.
Prepaid Taxis & Radio Cabs
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Most major Indian airports and train stations now incorporate prepaid-taxi and radio cab booths. Here, you can book a
taxi for a fixed price (which will include baggage) and thus avoid commission scams. Hold onto your receipt until you
reach your destination, as proof of payment.
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Radio cabs cost marginally more than prepaid taxis, but are air-conditioned and manned by the company's chauffeurs.
Cabs have electronic, receipt-generating fare meters and are fitted with GPS units, so the company can monitor the
vehicle's movement around town. These minimise chances of errant driving or unreasonable demands for extra cash by
the driver afterward.
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Smaller airports and stations may have prepaid autorickshaw booths instead.
Other Local Transport
In some towns, tongas (horse-drawn two-wheelers) and victorias (horse-drawn carriages) still operate. Mumbai and
Chennai, among other centres, have suburban trains that leave from ordinary train stations.
