Guwahati to Darjeeling

To travel from Guwahati to Darjeeling by flight, the most common route is to fly from Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (Guwahati) to Bagdogra Airport, which is the nearest airport to Darjeeling. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. From Bagdogra Airport, which is located about 65 kilometers away from Darjeeling, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach your destination.

The journey from Bagdogra to Darjeeling usually takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. It's advisable to book your flight in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability and better fares. Bagdogra Airport is well-connected with major cities in India, including Guwahati, making it a convenient option for travelers heading to Darjeeling from the northeastern region.

To reach Darjeeling from Guwahati by road, you would typically take National Highway 27 (NH27) and National Highway 17 (NH17). The approximate distance is around 500 kilometers, and the journey usually takes about 10-12 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Route:  The route involves driving from Guwahati towards Siliguri via NH27

This is a major highway with good road conditions for most of the journey. Once you reach Siliguri, you'll switch to NH17, which leads directly to Darjeeling. However, this stretch of the road, especially the ascent towards Darjeeling, can be challenging due to steep inclines, sharp turns, and occasionally rough patches. It's advisable to drive cautiously and preferably in daylight, as visibility may be limited at night. Additionally, monsoon season (June to September) can bring heavy rainfall, which may cause landslides and make the road conditions more treacherous. It's recommended to check the weather forecast and road conditions before embarking on your journey.

Guwahati to Darjeeling Taxi/Cabs

The cab fare from Guwahati to Darjeeling can vary depending on several factors such as the type of vehicle, the taxi operator, and any additional services provided. On average, for a sedan or hatchback car like a Tata Indica or similar, the fare may range from ₹8,000 to ₹10,000 for a one-way trip.

For a larger vehicle like an SUV or a sedan with more comfort features, the fare could be higher, typically ranging from ₹10,000 to ₹15,000 for a one-way journey. These fares are subject to change based on factors like fuel prices, seasonal demand, and any additional services requested.

It's advisable to check with multiple taxi operators or online platforms to compare fares and choose the option that best fits your budget and preferences. Additionally, considering the distance and travel time involved, it's recommended to ensure that the vehicle is in good condition and the driver is experienced with long-distance journeys.

Traveling from Guwahati to Darjeeling by train involves a scenic journey through the lush landscapes of northeastern India. The most common route is to take a train from Guwahati to New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) in Siliguri, which serves as the gateway to Darjeeling.

Several trains connect Guwahati to NJP, including the Kamrup Express, Saraighat Express, and Brahmaputra Mail, among others. The duration of the train journey varies depending on the train you choose, but it typically takes around 12-14 hours to reach NJP from Guwahati.

Once you reach NJP, you'll need to continue your journey to Darjeeling by road. From NJP, Darjeeling is approximately 70 kilometers away, and the drive takes around 4-5 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic. You can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep from NJP to Darjeeling.

Siliguri to Darjeeling By Train

Alternatively, you can take the Darjeeling Toy Train from Siliguri. This narrow-gauge railway operates between New Jalpaiguri, located about 8 kilometers from Siliguri, and Darjeeling. The journey offers a unique and scenic experience as the train chugs along the picturesque route, winding through lush tea gardens, charming villages, and verdant forests. Travelers can board the Toy Train from New Jalpaiguri Railway Station and enjoy a leisurely ride to Darjeeling, savoring the beauty of the Himalayan landscape along the way.