London Calcutta Bus Service
London-Calcutta Bus Service
The London-Calcutta Bus Service was an extraordinary long-distance international bus route connecting London, England, to Calcutta, India. This ambitious service, inaugurated in 1957, was an embodiment of the post-war period's adventurous spirit, facilitating overland travel across continents.
Historical Context
The route was operated by Albert Travel, a company known for its adventurous travel services. Albert Travel was based both in England and Australia, and it ran routes not only to Calcutta but also extended to Sydney. This service was part of a broader network of overland travel routes that emerged during the 1950s and continued until the 1970s, such as the famed Indiaman.
The Journey
The maiden journey of the London-Calcutta Bus Service began on April 15, 1957, departing from London and arriving in Calcutta on June 5, spanning 50 days in total. This epic journey covered approximately 10,000 miles (16,000 kilometers), making it one of the longest bus routes globally at the time.
The route traversed through a diverse set of countries, starting from Belgium, passing through West Germany, Austria, Yugoslavia, Bulgaria, Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and finally reaching the northwestern regions of India. The service offered a unique opportunity to experience diverse cultures and landscapes, making it an attractive choice for those interested in overland travel.
Route Extension to Australia
The bus route did not end in Calcutta for all travelers. For those continuing to Australia, the journey extended through parts of Southeast Asia. After reaching India, the bus traveled to Singapore via Burma, Thailand, and Malaysia. From Singapore, the bus was shipped to Perth in Australia, continuing overland to Sydney.
Significance
This bus service is a testament to the ingenuity and adventurous spirit of the time. It provided a vital link between Europe and Asia, enhancing cultural exchange and travel. The cost of the journey from London to Calcutta was £145, a significant sum at the time, yet it was considered a worthy investment for the unique experience it offered.
The London-Calcutta Bus Service is a remarkable chapter in the history of overland travel, illustrating the adventurous spirit and the drive for connectivity that characterized the post-war era. It paved the way for future transportation innovations and remains a symbol of a bygone era of exploratory travel.