Bagdogra to Darjeeling

To reach Darjeeling from Bagdogra by road, there are primarily two main routes:

Route 1- Bagdogra to Darjeeling via NH110

This route is the most direct and commonly used route. From Bagdogra Airport, travelers can take NH110 towards Siliguri. From Siliguri, follow the signs for Darjeeling and continue on NH110. The total distance is approximately 68 kilometers, and the journey takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Route 2 - Bagdogra to Darjeeling via NH110 and Hill Cart Road

Another route to reach Darjeeling from Bagdogra is via NH110 and Hill Cart Road. From Bagdogra Airport, head towards Siliguri on NH110 and continue on Hill Cart Road towards Darjeeling. This route offers stunning views of the Himalayan landscape but is slightly longer, spanning around 78 kilometers, and may take 4 to 5 hours to reach Darjeeling.

Both routes offer scenic views and are well-maintained, providing travelers with a memorable journey to Darjeeling. However, it's essential to check current road conditions and weather forecasts before embarking on the trip.

To reach Darjeeling from Bagdogra by shared taxis or private taxis, travelers have several options:

Shared Taxis: Shared taxis operate between 7:00 am to 3:00 pm and offer a cost-effective mode of transportation. Passengers share the vehicle with others, and the fare varies depending on the class of the vehicle. Conventional shared taxis typically charge around Rs. 300 per seat for a one-way journey, while luxury class shared vehicles may cost around Rs. 856 per seat.

Private Taxis: Private taxis provide a more personalized option for traveling from Bagdogra to Darjeeling. Travelers can hire small or large cars from prepaid taxi counters at Bagdogra Airport, with fares ranging from Rs. 1860 to Rs. 2400 per taxi. Alternatively, travelers can negotiate fares with local cab drivers, which can vary depending on the season, ranging from Rs. 2500 to Rs. 3500 for small cars.

Both shared and private taxis follow the same route from Bagdogra to Darjeeling, primarily via NH110 and Hill Cart Road. The journey takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Travelers should confirm fares and arrangements with taxi drivers or agencies before commencing their journey.

The nearest major railway station to Bagdogra is New Jalpaiguri (NJP) station, which is approximately 12 kilometers away.  However, there is no direct train service from NJP station to Darjeeling due to the hilly terrain. Instead, travelers can opt for alternative modes of transportation, such as taxis or the iconic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train), to reach Darjeeling from NJP station.

The Toy Train is a narrow-gauge heritage railway that offers a scenic and nostalgic journey through the picturesque landscapes of the Eastern Himalayas.

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway route covers a distance of approximately 88 kilometers and takes around 7 to 8 hours to reach Darjeeling. The train journey passes through lush green tea gardens, dense forests, and charming hillside villages, offering travelers a unique and unforgettable experience. It's advisable to book train tickets in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, as seats on the Toy Train are limited and tend to fill up quickly.

There are no direct flights to Darjeeling as the town does not have its own airport. However, travelers can fly to Bagdogra Airport (IXB), which is the nearest airport to Darjeeling, located approximately 68 kilometers away. From Bagdogra Airport, visitors can then travel to Darjeeling by road via taxi, private car rental, or shared cab. The journey from Bagdogra to Darjeeling takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Alternatively, travelers can also opt for helicopter services from Bagdogra to Darjeeling, offering a quicker but more expensive mode of transportation.