The Longest Bus Service from London to Calcutta by Albert Travel
The bus service from London to Calcutta, India (now Kolkata) was operated by Albert Travel from 1957 to 1976. It was considered to be the longest bus route in the world, covering over 10,000 miles (16,100 km) one way. The journey took passengers through Europe and Asia, passing through countries such as Belgium, Yugoslavia (Now Serbia), Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India.
The bus service was popular with hippies and backpackers in the 1960s and 1970s, as it offered a relatively inexpensive way to travel between Europe and Asia. The journey was also an adventure, as passengers would get to experience different cultures and landscapes along the way.
The bus service was discontinued in 1976 due to a number of factors, including the political instability in Iran and Pakistan. However, it remains a remarkable example of long-distance bus travel and a testament to the spirit of adventure.
How long did the journey take?
The journey from London to Calcutta took approximately 50 days. The bus would stop overnight in various cities along the way, giving passengers a chance to explore and rest.
What was the bus like?
The bus used by Albert Travel was a double-decker bus with seats for up to 30 passengers. The bus was also equipped with a kitchen, dining area, and sleeping compartments.
What was the route?
The route taken by the bus varied slightly over the years, but it typically passed through the following countries:
- London, England
- Brussels, Belgium
- Belgrade, Yugoslavia (Now in Serbia)
- Istanbul, Turkey
- Tehran, Iran
- Kabul, Afghanistan
- Lahore, Pakistan
- Delhi, India
- Agra, India
- Varanasi, India
- Calcutta, India
What was the cost of the journey?
The cost of the journey varied depending on the time of year and the exchange rate. However, it was typically around £85 in 1957 and £145 in 1973. This included the cost of food, travel, and accommodation.
What was it like to travel on the bus?
Traveling on the bus was a unique and unforgettable experience. Passengers would have the opportunity to meet people from all over the world and experience different cultures and landscapes. The journey was also challenging, as passengers would have to spend long periods of time on the bus. However, it was a rewarding experience that many passengers still cherish today.
Why was the bus service discontinued?
The bus service was discontinued in 1976 due to a number of factors, including:
- The political instability in Iran and Pakistan
- The rising cost of fuel
- The increasing popularity of air travel
The bus service from London to Calcutta was a remarkable example of long-distance bus travel and a testament to the spirit of adventure. It was a popular way for hippies and backpackers to travel between Europe and Asia in the 1960s and 1970s. The journey was long and challenging, but it was also an unforgettable experience.
Legacy of the bus service
The bus service from London to Calcutta was discontinued in 1976 due to a number of factors, including the political instability in Iran and Pakistan. However, it remains a remarkable example of long-distance bus travel and a testament to the spirit of adventure.
The bus service has been featured in a number of books, articles, and documentaries. It has also inspired a number of people to travel the world by bus.
Today
While there is no longer a bus service that operates from London to Calcutta, there are a number of companies that offer long-distance bus travel services in different parts of the world. These services can be a great way to travel on a budget and experience different cultures and landscapes.
If you are interested in traveling by bus, I encourage you to do some research and find a company that offers a service that meets your needs. You may be surprised at how much fun and rewarding it can be to travel the world by bus.
