Kolkata has one of the best transport networks in the country. The metro - India's oldest underground - runs the length of the city, while trams and buses provide wide coverage as well. The ubiquitous yellow Ambassador taxis are good value and a thrilling means of getting around. Hand-pulled rickshaws are a fun way to travel short distances - though this practice is being discouraged by policy-makers, who deem it ignoble. Car hire is available, with drivers included. Tourists are advised to not even attempt to drive around Kolkata; it is simply too congested and chaotic and will be overly stressful for the uninitiated.As in all Indian cities, traffic congestion is a problem that results in frequent, noisy gridlock. Walking from one attraction to the other is, therefore, often the quickest way of getting around. Some of the attractions are conveniently close together, especially in some of the old, colonial neighbourhoods, but it is a huge city so some transport other than feet will be required. Note that the 11-mile (17km) journey to and from the airport usually takes over an hour.
