Nestled in the picturesque hills of West Bengal, Darjeeling is a popular hill station known for its lush tea gardens, scenic landscapes, and captivating views of the majestic Kanchenjunga mountain range. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a long vacation, the question of how to reach Darjeeling is likely at the forefront of your travel plans. In this article, we will guide you through the best routes and transport options to help you reach Darjeeling with ease and comfort.
1. How to Reach Darjeeling by Air
Darjeeling is not directly connected to an airport, but the nearest major airport is Bagdogra Airport (IXB), located approximately 70 kilometers away from the town. Bagdogra is well-connected to major cities in India such as Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, with both domestic flights and occasional international flights. From Bagdogra, travelers can hire taxis, cabs, or board a shared jeep to reach Darjeeling.
Getting from Bagdogra to Darjeeling:
By Taxi: The most convenient way to reach Darjeeling from Bagdogra is by hiring a taxi, which takes around 3-4 hours depending on the road conditions. Taxis can be booked at the airport or pre-arranged with your travel agency.
By Shared Jeep: Shared jeeps are a popular and budget-friendly option. They usually depart from the airport or from the nearby Siliguri bus station. The ride takes about 3 hours.
By Private Car: If you prefer privacy and comfort, booking a private car through a travel agency is another good option. This gives you flexibility and ensures a comfortable ride through the winding mountain roads.
2. How to Reach Darjeeling by Train
For many travelers, the charm of reaching Darjeeling by train is an unforgettable experience. The nearest major railway station to Darjeeling is New Jalpaiguri Junction (NJP), situated around 75 kilometers away from the town. NJP is a major railway hub with regular trains connecting cities like Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, and Guwahati.
However, what sets Darjeeling apart is the unique Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This historic train ride offers travelers an enchanting and scenic journey through the mountains, making it one of the most special experiences when traveling to Darjeeling.
Getting from NJP to Darjeeling:
By Taxi: The most common way to travel from NJP to Darjeeling is by taxi, which can be booked at the station or arranged in advance. The journey typically takes about 3-4 hours.
By Shared Jeep: Shared jeeps also operate from NJP and offer a cost-effective option. These rides take around 3-4 hours as well.
By Toy Train: If you’re looking for a unique experience, opt for the Toy Train. The journey takes longer than by road (around 7 hours), but it’s an iconic and scenic way to travel, passing through small villages and tea gardens. The train departs from the NJP Station and reaches Darjeeling, passing through places like Kurseong and Mahanadi. Tickets should be booked in advance, as the Toy Train has limited seats and operates on specific days.
3. How to Reach Darjeeling by Road
Reaching Darjeeling by road is one of the most common ways to travel, and it offers flexibility in terms of timings and transport options. The roads leading to Darjeeling wind through the hills and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
By Private Car or Taxi: For those seeking comfort, a private car or taxi from major cities like Kolkata, Siliguri, or even from the nearest airport (Bagdogra) is a great option. This is especially ideal for families or groups who prefer a hassle-free journey. The drive from Siliguri to Darjeeling typically takes around 3-4 hours, while it may take about 12-14 hours if traveling from Kolkata, depending on traffic and road conditions.
By Shared Jeeps: Shared jeeps are a budget-friendly option for travelers who are not concerned about privacy but want to travel to Darjeeling with other passengers. These jeeps usually depart from places like Siliguri or the Bagdogra Airport. The journey is faster compared to public buses and takes around 3-4 hours.
By Bus: State-run buses and private buses also connect Darjeeling with nearby towns like Siliguri and Kolkata. Though not as comfortable as taxis or jeeps, buses are an affordable option for those on a budget. The journey from Siliguri to Darjeeling takes approximately 3-4 hours.
4. How to Reach Darjeeling from Kolkata
Kolkata, the capital city of West Bengal, is one of the main entry points for tourists heading to Darjeeling. The city is well-connected to Darjeeling by air, train, and road.
By Air: From Kolkata, you can fly to Bagdogra Airport, the nearest airport to Darjeeling. The flight duration is around 1 hour 45 minutes. Once at Bagdogra, you can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to Darjeeling, which will take about 3-4 hours.
By Train: There are direct trains from Howrah Junction (Kolkata) to New Jalpaiguri Junction (NJP), which takes approximately 12-14 hours. Once you reach NJP, you can take a taxi or shared jeep to Darjeeling.
By Road: If you’re traveling by road, you can hire a private car or take a bus. The road journey from Kolkata to Darjeeling takes around 12-14 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions.
5. How to Reach Darjeeling from Siliguri
Siliguri is another major transit point for tourists traveling to Darjeeling. The town is well-connected to Darjeeling by road and rail.
By Taxi: From Siliguri, taxis are the quickest and most convenient option. The journey takes around 3-4 hours.
By Shared Jeep: A shared jeep from Siliguri to Darjeeling is an affordable and popular choice for travelers. These jeeps depart regularly and take around 3-4 hours to reach Darjeeling.
By Bus: State-run and private buses are available from Siliguri to Darjeeling. However, buses are usually slower than taxis and jeeps, and the journey can take longer due to stops along the way.
6. Best Time to Visit Darjeeling
Darjeeling can be visited throughout the year, with each season offering a different experience. The best time to visit Darjeeling depends on your preferences for weather and activities:
Summer (March to June): The weather is pleasant, making it the ideal time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Monsoon (July to September): Though the region experiences heavy rainfall, this is the time when Darjeeling is lush and green. However, travel can be difficult due to landslides.
Autumn (October to November): This is another great time to visit, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures.
Winter (December to February): If you enjoy snowfall, the winter months bring chilly temperatures and the chance to see snow, but it may limit some travel options.
Conclusion
Knowing how to reach Darjeeling is an important part of planning your trip. Whether you choose to fly into Bagdogra, take a train from New Jalpaiguri, or enjoy the scenic drive from Siliguri, Darjeeling offers a variety of transport options that cater to every traveler’s preference and budget. The enchanting hill station, with its colonial charm and breathtaking views, is easily accessible through these routes, ensuring that you can enjoy a hassle-free journey to this beautiful corner of the Himalayas.
