How To Reach Darjeeling

A popular tourist destination, Darjeeling attracts tons of glob trekkers from all over the world, eager to explore the Himalayan charm. Enveloped by snow-white mountains, thick towering deciduous alpine forests and extensive tea plantations, Darjeeling is truly West Bengal's premier tourist destination. As you gaze through Darjeeling's scenery and marvel at its natural bounties, don't skip the chance to sample some the finest quality tealeaves handpicked from its aromatic tea gardens. While strolling around the hill-station, stop to stare at the colonial-styled ziggurats that bear the influence of British India and the colorful prayer flags that remind you of Buddhist dominance over the land. As you explore the city's extravagance, make a quick jaunt to the shopping streets to pick up colorful souvenirs for yourself and stopover at the local eateries and sample the steaming brew and yummy Tibetan fare. Since the place is a significant tourist destination in India, Darjeeling is well connected to other major cities. Read the article to know more on how to reach Darjeeling.

Traveling To Darjeeling

By Air
Darjeeling does not have an airport of its own. The closest airfield is located in Bagdogra near Siliguri, which is 90 km away from the hill-station. The airport is connected to the cities of Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati and Patna by domestic airlines like Jet Airways, Indian Airlines, Spice Jet, Kingfisher and Air Deccan. International travelers can avail connecting flights from Kolkata or Delhi. Once you arrive at the airport, you can board a local bus, hire a taxi or rent a jeep that will take you to Darjeeling in matter of two or three hours. Although commuting through air may seem to be an expensive affair as compared to traveling by road, nevertheless boarding a flight would make your journey hassle-free.

By Rail
The nearest railhead to Darjeeling is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station that is situated just 88 km away from the city. Apart from that, Darjeeling is also connected to Siliguri railway station. If you plan to commute through rail, then you can take any train that makes a halt at New Jalpaiguri or Siliguri railway station. On reaching either of the stations, you can hire a taxi to reach Darjeeling. However, if you wish to be a little more adventurous and explore the scenic landscape of Darjeeling as you travel along, then boarding the toy train that plies regularly from Darjeeling to Siliguri and New Jalpaiguri would serve your needs.

By Road
Although the place does not have great transport facility, the roads connecting Darjeeling are well maintained and connect the hill-station to different towns in West Bengal. Both state and national highways interlink the city to tourist hotspots and important cities nearby. In order to promote tourism, there are several buses and taxis that shuttle from Darjeeling to Siliguri, Kurseong, Kathmandu, Gangtok, Bagdogra on a regular basis. Does not matter if you prefer rail or airway to road, nothing can match the absolute thrill of driving down the scenic routes in Darjeeling.

Local Transport
Whether you wish to do some rubbernecking or just explore the countryside, hiring a taxi, jeep, auto or a tourist vehicle would take you anywhere within the city. For more adventure hearts, you can hire land rovers or jeeps and drive down the tea gardens or explore the hillscape. What's more, for more budget-conscious tourists, there are shared matadors and minibuses that will take you to your chosen destination in cheap prices.