How to Go to Darjeeling from Kolkata

How to Go to Darjeeling from Kolkata: A Journey to the Queen of Hills

Darjeeling, often referred to as the “Queen of Hills,” is a charming hill station located in the Indian state of West Bengal. Renowned for its breathtaking views, lush tea gardens, and pleasant climate, Darjeeling is a popular destination for travelers seeking respite from the bustling city life. If you’re wondering, “How to go to Darjeeling from Kolkata?”, this article will provide you with a comprehensive guide on various travel options to reach this picturesque destination.

1. How to Go to Darjeeling from Kolkata by Train and Road:

One of the most popular and scenic ways to reach Darjeeling from Kolkata is by combining train and road travel. The journey involves taking a train from Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri (NJP) and then continuing your journey to Darjeeling by road.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to go to Darjeeling from Kolkata by train and road:

• Step 1: Start by booking a train ticket from Kolkata (usually Howrah or Sealdah railway stations) to New Jalpaiguri (NJP). New Jalpaiguri is the nearest major railway station to Darjeeling.
• Step 2: Board the train at your chosen departure station in Kolkata. The train journey offers picturesque views of rural Bengal, tea gardens, and the Himalayan foothills. The journey to NJP takes approximately 8 to 9 hours.
• Step 3: Upon arriving at New Jalpaiguri, you’ll find various options to continue your journey to Darjeeling. The most common choice is to hire a shared taxi or take a scenic ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the “Toy Train,” which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Step 4: The road journey from NJP to Darjeeling is approximately 70 kilometers and takes around 2 to 3 hours, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas and lush forests.
• Step 5: Once you arrive in Darjeeling, you can immerse yourself in its beauty, explore tea gardens, and visit local attractions.

2. How to Go to Darjeeling from Kolkata by Air and Road:

For those who prefer a quicker mode of travel, flying from Kolkata to Bagdogra Airport and then continuing the journey to Darjeeling by road is an option.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to go to Darjeeling from Kolkata by air and road:

• Step 1: Book a flight from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (Kolkata) to Bagdogra Airport (Siliguri).
• Step 2: Upon landing at Bagdogra Airport, complete the necessary airport procedures.
• Step 3: From Bagdogra Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-booked cab to Darjeeling. The road journey is approximately 70 kilometers and takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.
• Step 4: Enjoy the scenic ride as you ascend the winding roads to reach Darjeeling, nestled in the Himalayas.
• Step 5: Once you arrive in Darjeeling, you can explore its charm, visit the famous Tiger Hill for sunrise views, and savor a cup of locally grown tea.

3. How to Go to Darjeeling from Kolkata by Road:

Traveling from Kolkata to Darjeeling by road is a great option for those who enjoy road trips and want to explore the scenic beauty of the journey. This route takes you through picturesque landscapes and offers the flexibility to make stops along the way.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to go to Darjeeling from Kolkata by road:

• Step 1: Ensure that your vehicle is in good condition for a long journey and that you have all the necessary documents, including your driver’s license and vehicle registration.
• Step 2: Start your road trip from Kolkata and follow National Highway 27 (NH27), which connects Kolkata to Siliguri, the gateway to Darjeeling. The journey is approximately 600 kilometers and takes around 12 to 14 hours.
• Step 3: Enjoy the scenic journey as you pass through West Bengal, Jharkhand, and enter the beautiful state of Sikkim before reaching Siliguri.
• Step 4: Once you arrive in Siliguri, you can continue your journey to Darjeeling, which is approximately 80 kilometers away, taking around 3 to 4 hours.
• Step 5: Upon reaching Darjeeling, you can explore the town’s attractions, including the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park and Batasia Loop.

4. How to Go to Darjeeling from Kolkata by Bus:

Traveling from Kolkata to Darjeeling by bus is an economical option for those who prefer not to drive. Several private bus operators offer services on this route, providing a comfortable and cost-effective way to reach Darjeeling.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to go to Darjeeling from Kolkata by bus:

• Step 1: Start by booking your bus ticket in advance. You can book your ticket online through bus booking websites or visit a local travel agency.
• Step 2: Depart from Kolkata on the scheduled date from the designated bus terminal, such as Esplanade or another location depending on the bus operator.
• Step 3: Enjoy the bus journey as you make your way to Darjeeling. The journey typically takes around 12 to 14 hours, so be sure to carry essentials like water, snacks, and entertainment to keep you comfortable during the ride.
• Step 4: Once you arrive in Darjeeling, you can explore the town’s charm, visit the Peace Pagoda, and take in the panoramic views of the Himalayas.

5. How to Go to Darjeeling from Kolkata by Train and Air Combination:

For travelers who want to experience both train and air travel, you can opt for a combination of these modes of transportation. This approach allows you to enjoy the scenic train journey and then take a flight to Bagdogra Airport for a quicker arrival in Darjeeling.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to go to Darjeeling from Kolkata by train and air:

• Step 1: Start by booking your train ticket from Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri (NJP) as mentioned in the “Train and Road” section.
• Step 2: Follow the train journey to NJP.
• Step 3: Upon arriving at NJP, you can choose to take a flight from Bagdogra Airport (Siliguri) to reach Darjeeling more quickly. The flight takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes.
• Step 4: Once you arrive at Bagdogra Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-booked cab to Darjeeling.
• Step 5: Enjoy the scenic road journey as you ascend the hills to reach Darjeeling, where you can explore its picturesque surroundings and attractions.

In Conclusion:
How to go to Darjeeling from Kolkata offers various transportation options to suit different preferences and schedules. Whether you choose to travel by train, air, road, bus, or a combination of these modes, your journey to Darjeeling promises an enchanting and memorable experience in the lap of the Himalayas. Once you arrive in Darjeeling, you can explore its tea gardens, visit monasteries, and witness the stunning sunrise over the snow-capped peaks, making your trip a memorable adventure in this scenic hill station.