Darjeeling, nestled in the Himalayas, is famous for its stunning views and rich culture. This small town offers beautiful tea gardens, old colonial buildings, and views of Mount Kanchenjunga, one of the highest mountains in the world.
People love Darjeeling for its cool weather, great lookout points, and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The town is a mix of Tibetan, Nepali, and British influences, seen in its food, festivals, and everyday life. It’s a perfect place for anyone looking for peace or adventure surrounded by nature.
| Mode of Transport | Route/Details |
|---|---|
| By Air | Nearest airport: Bagdogra (70 km). Hire a taxi or take a bus to Darjeeling. |
| By Train | Nearest station: New Jalpaiguri (NJP). Take a taxi or the scenic Toy Train to Darjeeling. |
| By Road | Siliguri to Darjeeling (70 km, 3 hours) by taxi or bus. Regular buses available from nearby cities. |
| By Toy Train | Toy Train from NJP to Darjeeling offers a scenic, unique experience. |
Reaching Darjeeling by Air
Nearest airport details
Bagdogra Airport is the closest airport to Darjeeling. It connects to major cities like Kolkata, Delhi, and Guwahati. The airport is about 96 kilometers from Darjeeling and offers easy access for those exploring the Eastern Himalayas.
See Also – How To Reach Nainital: Ultimate Traveler’s Guide
When you arrive, you can choose from several transport options, such as pre-paid taxis, private cabs, and shared vehicles, right outside the terminal. The drive to Darjeeling usually takes around three hours, depending on traffic. If you want a unique experience, consider taking a helicopter ride. It’s a thrilling way to see the landscape from above.
Reaching Darjeeling by Rail
Nearest railway station and train services
To reach Darjeeling by train, head to New Jalpaiguri (NJP) station near Siliguri. It’s about 88 kilometers away from Darjeeling and connects to major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Bengaluru.
From NJP, you can catch the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the ‘Toy Train’. This train ride is quite the experience; it winds through stunning mountain scenery on its way up to Darjeeling, making the 7-hour trip feel like a journey back in time. Plus, there are special tourist quotas on trains from big cities, making it easier to get a spot.
Reaching Darjeeling by Road
Major connecting highways
Major highways like National Highway 10 link Darjeeling with Kolkata and nearby areas. It’s the main road for travelers heading to Darjeeling from these regions. Starting from Kolkata, the route covers about 651 kilometers. It takes you through various landscapes and busy towns.
Read Also – How To Reach Shimla By Train, Air, And Road In Himachal Pradesh
| City | Distance to Darjeeling | Mode of Transport |
|---|---|---|
| Kolkata | 615 km | By train (to NJP), then by taxi or Toy Train |
| Delhi | 1,500 km | By flight (to Bagdogra), then by taxi |
| Siliguri | 70 km | By road (taxi or bus) |
| Bagdogra | 70 km | By taxi or bus |
| Guwahati | 530 km | By train (to NJP) or flight (to Bagdogra), then by taxi |
| Patna | 480 km | By train (to NJP), then by taxi or Toy Train |
On NH10, the road conditions change, especially as you get close to the mountainous areas near Darjeeling. If you come from different places, smaller state highways and rural roads also lead to NH10. This makes reaching Darjeeling easily from multiple locations, including Gangtok and Kalimpong. The drive up to this beautiful hill station is quite an experience.
Conclusion
In summary, getting to Darjeeling is easy and you can choose from several ways, each offering a unique view of the area. You can fly into Bagdogra Airport, take a memorable train ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway from NJP station, or enjoy a scenic drive along National Highway 10. Each option suits different tastes and needs, making sure everyone can find their best route to this charming place.
Deepak Sharma is a passionate writer and avid traveler who specializes in uncovering the beauty and history of India’s attractions and temples. A graduate of Delhi University, Deepak has a deep-rooted love for his country and its rich cultural heritage.