How to Reach Darjeeling in 2025: By Train, Flight & Road
Perched high in the Eastern Himalayas, Darjeeling, often called the “Queen of the Hills,” is one of India’s most beloved hill stations. Known for its rolling tea gardens, breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga, colonial charm, and cool weather, Darjeeling has been a favorite getaway for generations of travelers.
The good news? In 2025, getting to Darjeeling has become simpler, faster, and more flexible. Whether you’re traveling solo, planning a family holiday, or taking a spontaneous road trip with friends, there’s a perfect route to match your style and budget.
This detailed guide will break down all the travel options — train, flight, road, and the famous toy train — along with pro tips, sample itineraries, costs, and insider hacks to make your journey as smooth as possible.
1. By Train – The Classic Route
For decades, taking a train to New Jalpaiguri (NJP) has been the most popular way to reach Darjeeling. NJP is located about 70 km from Darjeeling town and is a major railway junction in North Bengal, connecting to most major cities across India.
Popular Trains to NJP
| Train Name | Origin City | Frequency | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Darjeeling Mail | Kolkata (Sealdah) | Daily | Budget and regular travelers |
| Padatik Express | Kolkata (Sealdah) | Daily | Comfortable overnight journey |
| Rajdhani Express | Delhi | 4 days a week | Fast and premium option |
| Kanchankanya Express | Sealdah | Daily | Great for backpackers |
| Kamrup Express | Guwahati | Daily | Northeastern travelers |
Most trains reach NJP early morning or late evening, giving you enough flexibility to start your onward journey.
From NJP to Darjeeling
Once you arrive at NJP, you’ll need to cover the last 70 km uphill stretch to reach Darjeeling. Here are your options:
| Mode | Cost (₹) | Travel Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shared Jeep | 400–500 per person | 3–4 hours | Budget travelers |
| Private Taxi | 3,000–4,000 per vehicle | 3–3.5 hours | Families or groups |
| Toy Train (DHR) | 1,500–2,000 | 6–7 hours | Heritage lovers |
Pro Tip:
Shared jeeps are frequent and cheap, but they can be cramped. If you’re traveling with family or have a lot of luggage, book a private cab in advance for comfort.
Why Train Travel is a Great Choice
- Affordable: Especially for families or group travel.
- Scenic Journey: Watch the changing landscape as you move from plains to hills.
- Easy Availability: Multiple trains daily from Kolkata and Delhi.
- Flexible Timings: Early arrivals let you reach Darjeeling by afternoon.
Sample Itinerary – Kolkata to Darjeeling by Train
- Day 1: Board the Darjeeling Mail from Sealdah (10 PM).
- Day 2 Morning: Reach NJP by 8 AM. Take a private taxi (3.5 hours) and check into your hotel by noon.
- Day 2 Afternoon: Enjoy a relaxed stroll around Chowrasta and Mall Road.
2. By Flight – The Fastest Way
If you’re short on time or prefer comfort, flying to Bagdogra Airport (IXB) is the fastest way to reach Darjeeling. The airport is just 65 km from Darjeeling, and the road trip offers lovely views of tea gardens and small hill towns.
Airlines Operating to Bagdogra in 2025
- IndiGo – Direct flights from Delhi, Bangalore, and Kolkata.
- Air India – Premium connections from major metros.
- SpiceJet & Akasa Air – Budget-friendly options from Mumbai, Guwahati, and Patna.
- Vistara – Comfortable flights with extra legroom from Delhi and Mumbai.
Some seasonal flights also connect Bagdogra to Kathmandu and Bangkok, making it convenient for international travelers.
From Bagdogra to Darjeeling
| Mode | Cost (₹) | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shared Taxi | 500–600 per person | 3–3.5 hours | Economical but less comfortable. |
| Private Taxi | 3,000–3,500 | ~3 hours | Best for families or luxury travelers. |
| Pre-booked Transfer | 3,500–4,000 | ~3 hours | Hotels and travel agents provide this for hassle-free travel. |
Pro Tip:
During peak tourist seasons (March–June and October–November), book taxis in advance as last-minute prices can rise sharply.
Why Choose Flights
- Saves 10–12 hours of train travel.
- Perfect for weekend trips or business travelers.
- Comfortable and reliable for those who prefer shorter journeys.
Sample Itinerary – Bangalore to Darjeeling by Flight
- Day 1 Morning: Take a direct flight from Bangalore to Bagdogra (~2.5 hours).
- Day 1 Noon: Hire a taxi and reach Darjeeling by 3 PM.
- Day 1 Evening: Relax with a cup of Darjeeling tea overlooking the Kanchenjunga range.
3. By Road – Scenic Drives
For adventure lovers and road-trip enthusiasts, driving to Darjeeling offers an unmatched experience. The curving mountain roads, dense forests, and tea estates along the way make the journey just as memorable as the destination.
Popular Road Routes
| Starting Point | Distance | Travel Time | Route Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Siliguri | 65 km | ~3 hours | Easiest and most common route |
| Kalimpong | 50 km | ~2 hours | Scenic, via Lopchu Tea Estate |
| Gangtok | 100 km | ~4 hours | Mountainous but very scenic |
| Mirik | 40 km | ~2 hours | Short and peaceful drive |
Modes of Road Travel
- Shared Jeeps (₹200–₹500 per person): Frequent and budget-friendly but can be crowded.
- Private Taxis (₹3,000–₹4,000): Comfortable and ideal for families.
- Self-Drive Cars or Bikes: Perfect for those confident with steep, narrow roads.
Pro Tips for Road Trips
- Start early in the morning to avoid traffic and afternoon fog.
- Keep motion-sickness medication handy for twisty roads.
- Drive cautiously during monsoon as landslides are common.
Sample Itinerary – Siliguri to Darjeeling Road Trip
- Start: 7 AM from Siliguri.
- Stop 1: Kurseong for breakfast (~1 hour from Siliguri).
- Stop 2: Batasia Loop for photos.
- Arrive: Darjeeling by noon and check into your hotel.
4. Toy Train – The Heritage Experience
A trip to Darjeeling feels incomplete without experiencing the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR), a UNESCO World Heritage Site fondly called the Toy Train.
This slow yet magical journey winds through tiny mountain villages, tea estates, and sharp curves, offering a nostalgic charm you won’t find anywhere else.
Toy Train Routes & Fares
| Route | Duration | Cost (₹) | Experience |
|---|---|---|---|
| NJP – Darjeeling | 6–7 hours | 1,500–2,500 (diesel) | Full scenic journey |
| Siliguri – Darjeeling | 6–7 hours | 1,500–2,500 | Slightly less crowded |
| Darjeeling – Ghum – Darjeeling Joy Ride | 2 hours | 3,500+ (steam engine) | Short nostalgic ride |
Highlights
- Batasia Loop: A spiral track with stunning mountain views.
- Ghum Station: India’s highest railway station.
- Charming Villages: Witness daily life in the hills as you pass by.
Pro Tip:
Book your toy train tickets at least 2–3 weeks in advance during peak seasons like April–June and October–November.
5. Best Travel Option by Traveler Type
| Traveler Type | Best Option | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Travelers | Train to NJP + Shared Jeep | Affordable and reliable |
| Luxury Travelers | Flight to Bagdogra + Private Taxi | Fast and comfortable |
| Adventure Lovers | Self-drive or Bike Trip via Siliguri | Scenic and flexible |
| Leisure Travelers | Toy Train Ride + Private Taxi Combo | Unique, relaxed experience |
6. Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey
- Book Early: Trains, flights, and toy train tickets sell out fast during peak months.
- Check Weather: Rain or fog may delay flights or block roads, especially during monsoon.
- Travel Light: Compact luggage is easier to manage in shared jeeps and trains.
- Carry Essentials: Snacks, water, and motion-sickness pills for hilly roads.
- Plan Buffer Time: Especially if you have tight connections between flights and taxis.
7. Approximate Travel Costs (One-Way)
| Mode | Cost (₹) | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Train + Shared Jeep | 1,000–1,500 | 5–6 hours |
| Flight + Private Taxi | 5,000–7,000 | 3–4 hours |
| Road (Self-Drive) | 2,000–3,000 (fuel & permits) | 3–4 hours |
| Toy Train | 1,500–3,500 | 6–7 hours |
8. Quick FAQs
Q1. Which is the fastest way to reach Darjeeling?
Flight to Bagdogra, followed by a taxi — total time: ~3 hours.
Q2. Is the toy train worth it?
Yes! It’s a unique experience filled with scenic beauty and heritage charm.
Q3. Can I self-drive to Darjeeling?
Yes, but only if you’re confident handling steep, narrow, and winding roads.
Q4. What’s the most budget-friendly option?
Train to NJP + Shared Jeep — total cost under ₹1,500 per person.
Final Thoughts
In 2025, reaching Darjeeling has never been easier or more versatile. Whether you choose the classic train route, the quick flight option, a scenic road trip, or the nostalgic toy train ride, every route adds its own flavor to your journey.
Pick the route that matches your travel style, budget, and time, and get ready to enjoy the breathtaking beauty and warm hospitality that Darjeeling offers.
Because in Darjeeling, the journey isn’t just a way to get there — it’s the start of the magic.
