IIT Kharagpur, the first IIT in India, offers a unique blend of tradition, innovation, and excellence. Established in 1951, it has grown from a single engineering institution to a prestigious hub for multiple disciplines, including management, law, architecture, and more. Located in the heart of West Bengal, this institute provides not only world-class education but also a vibrant campus life.
Known for its rigorous academic programs and outstanding faculty, IIT Kharagpur is a place where students are challenged to push boundaries and reach their full potential. With an extensive network of alumni excelling across industries globally, the institute promises an educational experience that goes beyond textbooks.
Whether you’re interested in cutting-edge research or the dynamic student life, IIT Kharagpur offers opportunities to shape your future. As an Institute of Eminence, it continues to lead the way in higher education, making it an ideal destination for aspiring students.
Overview of IIT Kharagpur
IIT Kharagpur, established in 1951, is the first and one of the most prestigious institutes of technology in India. It was set up with the vision of providing world-class education in engineering and technology to Indian students.
History & Founding
The story of IIT Kharagpur begins with the vision to create an institute that would provide technical education on par with international standards. The initiative was born out of India’s need for highly skilled professionals to drive industrial growth after gaining independence. The Government of India, with the help of various educational experts, established IIT Kharagpur as the first of many IITs that would shape the future of technical education in the country.
IIT Kharagpur was modeled after the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the United States, reflecting a commitment to academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and a rigorous curriculum. The founding committee of the institute, led by Nalini Ranjan Sarkar and Sir Jogendra Singh, played an instrumental role in shaping the vision of IIT Kharagpur. Their goal was to create an institute that would not only offer high-quality education but also contribute to the development of the nation by addressing its technological challenges.
Academic Excellence and Recognition
One of the key factors contributing to IIT Kharagpur’s success is its commitment to academic excellence. The institute offers undergraduate (B.Tech), postgraduate (M.Tech, MBA), and doctoral programs (Ph.D.) in various disciplines.
In recognition of its academic achievements, IIT Kharagpur was declared an Institute of Eminence (IoE) by the Government of India in 2019. This recognition is awarded to select institutions that have demonstrated exceptional academic performance and research output. As an IoE, IIT Kharagpur has the autonomy to offer more innovative programs, expand its research activities, and further strengthen its global presence.
IIT Kharagpur Rankings & Reputation
IIT Kharagpur, established in 1951, has consistently demonstrated its commitment to academic excellence and research innovation. In 2025, the institution’s global and national standings reflect its ongoing dedication to quality education and scholarly impact.​
| Ranking Category | Rank |
| QS World University Rankings 2025 | 222nd |
| QS Asia University Rankings 2025 | 60th |
| Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) 2022 | 801-900 |
| NIRF 2024 Overall Ranking | 6th |
| NIRF 2024 Engineering Ranking | 5th |
| NIRF 2024 Architecture Ranking | 2nd |
| NIRF 2024 Law Ranking | 7th |
| NIRF 2024 Management Ranking | 19th |
Global Rankings
- QS World University Rankings 2025: IIT Kharagpur is ranked 222nd globally, marking a significant improvement from its previous position of 271st in 2024. ​
- QS Asia University Rankings 2025: The institute holds the 60th position in Asia, showcasing its strong presence in the continent’s higher education landscape.
- Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) 2022: Placed within the 801-900 bracket, IIT Kharagpur continues to be recognized for its research contributions on a global scale.​
National Rankings
National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2024:
- Overall: Ranked 6th among all institutions in India, reflecting its comprehensive excellence.​
- Engineering: Secured the 5th position, underscoring its strength in technical education.​
- Architecture: Placed 2nd, highlighting its prominence in architectural studies.​
- Law: Ranked 7th, demonstrating its reputable legal education programs.​
- Management: Positioned at 19th, indicating a competitive edge in management studies. ​
These rankings reflect IIT Kharagpur’s unwavering commitment to fostering academic excellence, pioneering research, and holistic development across various disciplines.
Where Is Kharagpur IIT?
IIT Kharagpur is located in the town of Kharagpur in the state of West Bengal, India. It is one of the most accessible and strategically situated IITs in India.
City & State: Kharagpur, West Bengal
Kharagpur is a town in the Paschim Medinipur district of West Bengal, about 120 kilometers west of Kolkata, the state capital. Known for its historical significance and industrial background, Kharagpur is an important railway town. It is also a rapidly developing educational hub, thanks to the presence of IIT Kharagpur and several other educational institutions.
The town is primarily an industrial center and is historically known for being home to India’s largest railway yard and the longest railway platform in the world, Kharagpur Junction.
IIT Kharagpur Distance from Kolkata
Kharagpur’s proximity to Kolkata makes it easy for students to travel between the two locations. Situated about 120 kilometers to the west of Kolkata, it takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours by road to reach the town from the city. This makes Kolkata, with its bustling urban life, cultural richness, and industrial opportunities, an accessible destination for students when they seek recreational activities or career opportunities beyond the academic campus.
The road between Kolkata and Kharagpur is well-connected via National Highway 16 (NH16), which ensures smooth and efficient travel. This highway is a major arterial road connecting various cities along the eastern coast of India, including Kolkata, Bhubaneswar, and Chennai. The distance of 120 kilometers is easily manageable by bus, taxi, or private vehicle, and many students often opt for these road travel options.
How to Reach IIT Kharagpur?
Reaching IIT Kharagpur is easy due to its strategic location and well-developed transportation network. Whether you’re traveling by air, train, or road, there are multiple options available to suit different preferences and convenience. Below, we outline the various travel methods to help you plan your journey to one of India’s most prestigious institutes.
1) By Air
The nearest airport to IIT Kharagpur is the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) in Kolkata, which is located approximately 140 kilometers away from the institute. Kolkata is the major air hub of Eastern India, well-connected to most cities in India and major international destinations. From the airport, you have two primary options for traveling to IIT Kharagpur:
Direct Taxi: A direct taxi ride from the airport to IIT Kharagpur is the most convenient, although it is slightly more expensive. The journey typically takes around 2.5 hours, depending on the traffic conditions, and costs approximately ₹4,000. This option offers door-to-door service, making it the most hassle-free choice for travelers with heavy luggage or those who prefer comfort.
Train Option: Alternatively, you can take a train from Kolkata to Kharagpur. To begin, take a taxi or private car to Howrah Railway Station (approximately 1.5 hours from the airport). From Howrah, you can board an express train to Kharagpur, which takes around 2 to 2.5 hours. The train fare varies depending on the class, ranging from ₹60 to ₹150. This is a more affordable option but requires a bit more time and effort in managing your luggage and navigating the stations.
Once you reach Kharagpur Railway Station, you will need to take a taxi or auto-rickshaw for the final leg of the journey to the IIT Kharagpur campus, which is around 5 kilometers away.
2) By Train
Kharagpur Junction is well-connected to major cities in India, and it is one of the busiest railway stations in the country. If you’re traveling by train, this is the most popular and convenient option for most students.
From Kolkata to Kharagpur: Trains from Kolkata’s Howrah Railway Station to Kharagpur are frequent and cover various categories, including local and express trains. The journey typically takes around 2 to 3 hours. Trains such as the Howrah-Mumbai CSMT Express and Howrah-Chennai Mail offer comfortable rides, with fares ranging from ₹100 to ₹200, depending on the class.
From Other Cities: Kharagpur Junction is also well-connected to major cities like Bhubaneswar, Mumbai, Delhi, and Chennai. There are several direct trains from these cities to Kharagpur, and the travel time depends on the departure city. Once at Kharagpur, taxis or auto-rickshaws are available to reach the IIT campus.
The ease of train travel, coupled with the variety of trains to choose from, makes this a popular and affordable option for students traveling to IIT Kharagpur.
3) By Road
Kharagpur is easily accessible by road from Kolkata and other cities in West Bengal. The town is situated on National Highway 16 (NH16), which is a well-maintained road that connects Kolkata to several coastal cities in India. Whether you’re traveling by private car, bus, or taxi, the journey to IIT Kharagpur is relatively smooth and hassle-free.
From Kolkata to Kharagpur: The distance between Kolkata and Kharagpur is approximately 120 kilometers, and the journey takes around 2.5 to 3 hours by car or bus. If you’re traveling by private car, the route via NH16 is direct, and the road conditions are generally good. Taxis are readily available, and the cost of hiring a taxi can range from ₹2,500 to ₹3,500, depending on the type of vehicle and the service provider.
By Bus: Several state-owned and private bus services operate between Kolkata and Kharagpur, with buses departing from Esplanade in Kolkata. These buses provide an affordable and convenient option for budget-conscious travelers. The journey typically takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic conditions. The bus fare ranges from ₹100 to ₹300, depending on the type of service (ordinary, semi-deluxe, etc.).
From Other Cities: If you’re traveling from other cities within West Bengal or nearby states, you can easily drive to Kharagpur via well-connected highways. The town’s location along NH16 makes it accessible from various regions, including Bhubaneswar, Raipur, and Ranchi.
4) Last-Mile Connectivity
Once you reach Kharagpur Railway Station or Kolkata Airport, you can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or cycle-rickshaw for the final leg of your journey to the IIT Kharagpur campus. The distance from Kharagpur Railway Station to IIT Kharagpur is approximately 5 kilometers. Taxis charge around ₹200 for the short ride, while auto-rickshaws may charge around ₹100.
For students traveling on a budget, cycle-rickshaws provide an affordable option at ₹60 to ₹70. These are readily available near the railway station and are often a popular choice for students with less luggage.
IIT Kharagpur Campus Layout & Key Locations
IIT Kharagpur boasts a sprawling, picturesque campus spread across 2,100 acres (8.7 square kilometers). It is the largest IIT campus in India, offering a conducive environment for academic excellence, research, and holistic student development. The campus is designed to offer state-of-the-art infrastructure while maintaining a blend of nature and modernity, providing a serene atmosphere for learning and exploration. The campus is divided into several zones, each designed to serve specific functions, such as academics, residential living, recreation, and essential services. Here are some of the key zones:
1) Academic Area
The academic zone is the heart of IIT Kharagpur, home to the various departments, research centers, and schools. It is where most of the teaching and learning takes place, providing students with access to world-class resources and facilities. This area includes:
- Departments: IIT Kharagpur is known for offering a wide range of engineering and non-engineering programs. The academic area houses the department buildings for fields such as Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, and more.
- Schools and Research Centers: In addition to the core departments, the academic zone also houses specialized schools and research centers that focus on cutting-edge innovations and interdisciplinary studies. These centers are involved in collaborative research with industries and contribute to national and global advancements in various fields.
- Lecture Halls & Classrooms: The academic area is equipped with modern lecture halls, seminar rooms, and classrooms, all designed to offer the best learning experience. These spaces are fitted with the latest technological tools to assist students and professors in their teaching and learning processes.
2) Residential Area
The residential area in IIT Kharagpur is home to the hostels for undergraduate (UG), postgraduate (PG), and research students, as well as faculty and staff housing. The hostels are spread out across the campus, providing a comfortable and convenient living environment for students.
- Undergraduate Boys’ Hostels: The UG boys’ hostels are located in a designated area known as the PAN Loop, which includes popular hostels like Patel, Azad, Nehru, MMM, LBS, RP, and more. These hostels are well-equipped with essential amenities, including Wi-Fi, common rooms, and recreational facilities, ensuring that students have a comfortable stay.
- Undergraduate Girls’ Hostels: The girls’ hostels are located separately from the boys’ hostels, ensuring safety and security. Hostels like SN/IG and MT provide a nurturing environment for female students to thrive academically and socially.
- PG & Research Scholars’ Hostels: Postgraduate students and research scholars are provided accommodation in hostels like RLB, Gokhale, BCR, and BRH, which are designed to cater to the specific needs of higher-degree students, such as a quieter and more conducive environment for research and study.
3) Recreational & Sports Facilities
The campus features several recreational and sports facilities for students, which help them maintain a balanced lifestyle. These facilities are designed to promote physical fitness, social interaction, and relaxation after intense academic pursuits. Some of the key facilities include:
- Jnan Ghosh Stadium & Tata Sports Complex: These large sports complexes host a variety of indoor and outdoor sports, including cricket, football, athletics, badminton, basketball, and tennis. The facilities are also used for inter-IIT sports meets, cultural festivals, and other events.
- Swimming Pool & Fitness Centers: IIT Kharagpur has a well-maintained swimming pool, along with gyms and fitness centers that cater to students looking to stay in shape and relax after their studies.
- Tagore Open Air Theatre: This iconic outdoor venue with a capacity of around 6,000 people is used for cultural events, performances, and major festivals like Spring Fest and Kshitij. It is an essential part of the student experience at IIT Kharagpur, offering a place for relaxation and entertainment.
4) Essential Services
To meet the day-to-day needs of its students, IIT Kharagpur provides a wide array of essential services on campus, including:
- Banks & ATMs: Several banks, including SBI and HDFC, have branches on campus, offering banking services like withdrawals, deposits, and loans. There are also multiple ATMs available for students’ convenience.
- Hospitals & Medical Facilities: IIT Kharagpur provides medical care through the B.C. Roy Technology Hospital, which is equipped to handle common illnesses, emergencies, and specialized healthcare needs.
- Food Courts & Restaurants: The campus has several food courts, cafeterias, and restaurants that serve a wide variety of meals, ranging from local delicacies to international cuisine.
Conclusion
IIT Kharagpur stands as a symbol of excellence in education, research, and innovation. From its humble beginnings in 1951 to becoming an Institute of Eminence, it has continuously evolved to offer top-tier academic programs across various fields. The institute’s rich history, combined with its vibrant campus life and world-class infrastructure, makes it a prime choice for students seeking to excel in their careers. Whether it’s through rigorous academics, state-of-the-art facilities, or extensive networking opportunities, IIT Kharagpur prepares its students for success in a rapidly changing world.
As one of India’s leading educational institutions, it remains dedicated to nurturing the leaders of tomorrow, offering an environment where students can grow intellectually, socially, and professionally. For those eager to embark on a transformative educational journey, IIT Kharagpur offers a path to success and beyond.
