Before the era of budget airlines, a daring entrepreneurial venture known as the London–Calcutta Bus Service captured the imagination of travelers. Operating primarily in the late 1950s and 1960s (and briefly revived in the 70s), this service offered an overland route connecting the United Kingdom to India.
For a fare of approximately £100 (roughly $2,700 today), passengers embarked on an epic journey averaging 50 to 70 days. The route traversed vast distances, crossing Europe, passing through the Middle East (Iran, Afghanistan), and entering India via Pakistan. Travelers endured arduous conditions, including extreme heat and rough terrain, in converted Bedford buses.
This service wasn’t just about transportation; it was an adventure. The concept eventually faded as air travel became more affordable and geopolitical tensions made the route inaccessible. Today, it remains a fascinating historical footnote, symbolizing the spirit of Hippie Trail exploration and a time when the journey was truly more important than the destination.
Leave a Reply