Darjeeling, often referred to as the “Queen of the Hills,” is one of India’s most loved hill stations. Nestled in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas in West Bengal, Darjeeling is famous for its scenic beauty, sprawling tea gardens, colonial charm, and the majestic view of the Kanchenjunga. If you’re planning a trip from Delhi to this stunning hill town, this detailed guide on how to reach Darjeeling from Delhi will help you plan a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Why Visit Darjeeling?
Before we get into the travel details, here’s a quick snapshot of what makes Darjeeling worth visiting:
- Mesmerizing Himalayan Views – Especially the sunrise from Tiger Hill.
- Toy Train Ride – A UNESCO World Heritage Site experience.
- Lush Tea Gardens – Iconic for their rich flavor and scenery.
- Cool Weather – A perfect escape from Delhi’s scorching summers.
- Rich Cultural Blend – Tibetan, Nepali, and British colonial influences.
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Now, let’s explore the various ways you can travel from Delhi to Darjeeling.
1. Delhi to Darjeeling by Air (Fastest Option)
Flying is the quickest and most convenient way to reach Darjeeling from Delhi.
Step-by-Step Route:
- Step 1: Flight from Delhi to Bagdogra Airport (IXB)
- Duration: ~2.5 hours
- Airlines: IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, Vistara
- Frequency: Multiple daily flights
- Duration: ~2.5 hours
- Step 2: Bagdogra to Darjeeling by Road
- Distance: ~70 km
- Duration: 2.5 to 3.5 hours
- Transport: Private taxis, shared cabs, and pre-booked cars are available from the airport.
- Scenic Route: This road journey offers beautiful views of tea gardens and winding hill roads.
- Distance: ~70 km
Pro Tip:
Book a window seat on the flight for a glimpse of the Himalayas if weather permits.
2. Delhi to Darjeeling by Train (Budget-Friendly)
For those who prefer rail journeys or are traveling on a budget, trains are a great option.
Step-by-Step Route:
- Step 1: Train from Delhi to New Jalpaiguri (NJP)
- Trains:
- North East Express (12506)
- Mahananda Express (15484)
- Brahmaputra Mail (15956)
- DBRT Rajdhani Express (12424)
- North East Express (12506)
- Duration: ~24–30 hours
- Boarding Station: New Delhi (NDLS) or Anand Vihar (ANVT)
- Destination Station: New Jalpaiguri (NJP)
- Trains:
- Step 2: NJP to Darjeeling by Road or Toy Train
- By Road:
- Distance: 75 km
- Time: 3 to 4 hours by taxi or shared jeep
- Distance: 75 km
- By Toy Train (Darjeeling Himalayan Railway):
- Train: NJP–Darjeeling Toy Train
- Duration: ~7 hours
- Note: Runs based on weather and track conditions
- Train: NJP–Darjeeling Toy Train
- By Road:
Pros:
- Economical
- Offers scenic and immersive travel
Cons:
- Time-consuming
- Trains can be delayed
3. Delhi to Darjeeling by Road (For Adventure Lovers)
Traveling entirely by road from Delhi to Darjeeling is long but thrilling for adventure seekers.
Route:
- Delhi → Lucknow → Gorakhpur → Siliguri → Darjeeling
- Total Distance: ~1,500 km
- Estimated Time: ~30–35 hours (without long stops)
Ideal For:
- Bike riders or road trip enthusiasts
- Travelers exploring multiple destinations en route
Important Tips:
- Plan halts and overnight stays.
- Avoid night driving in hill areas.
- Check vehicle condition before the journey.
4. Delhi to Darjeeling via Package Tours
If you want a hassle-free journey, you can opt for travel packages offered by agencies like IRCTC, MakeMyTrip, Yatra, or Thomas Cook.
Benefits:
- Pre-arranged transport, hotel, and meals
- Guided sightseeing
- Great for families and senior citizens
Recommended Route: Flight + Road Combo
For most travelers, especially tourists with limited time, the best and most time-efficient option is:
Delhi → Bagdogra (Flight) → Darjeeling (Cab/Taxi)
It offers comfort, speed, and scenic charm without the exhaustion of long travel.
Cost Breakdown: Travel from Delhi to Darjeeling
| Mode | Approx. Cost (One-Way) | Time Taken |
| Flight + Taxi | ₹4,000–₹8,000 | ~6 hours |
| Train + Taxi | ₹1,200–₹2,500 | ~30 hours |
| Full Road Trip | ₹6,000–₹10,000 | ~35 hours |
| Tour Package | ₹12,000–₹25,000 (all-inclusive) | 4–7 days package |
Best Time to Visit Darjeeling
- Summer (April to June): Ideal for sightseeing and escaping Delhi’s heat.
- Autumn (September to November): Clear views of Kanchenjunga, fewer tourists.
- Winter (December to February): Cold and snowy; carry heavy woolens.
- Monsoon (July to August): Not recommended due to landslides and roadblocks.
Tips for a Smooth Trip
- Book Early – Especially during peak seasons and holidays.
- Keep ID Proofs Handy – For flights, trains, and hotel check-ins.
- Carry Light Woolens – Even in summer, evenings can be chilly.
- Be Ready for Hill Travel – Take motion sickness medication if needed.
- Hire Local Cabs – For Darjeeling sightseeing, use local taxi unions.
Places to Explore Once You Reach Darjeeling
- Tiger Hill – For an epic sunrise over the Himalayas.
- Batasia Loop – A picturesque railway loop with a war memorial.
- Himalayan Mountaineering Institute – Founded by Tenzing Norgay.
- Darjeeling Zoo – Home to red pandas and snow leopards.
- Happy Valley Tea Estate – Explore tea processing and taste fresh brews.
- Ghoom Monastery – One of the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in the region.
- Darjeeling Mall Road – For shopping and trying momos and thukpa.
Conclusion
Reaching Darjeeling from Delhi is not just about getting from point A to B; it’s part of the adventure itself. Whether you choose the speed of air travel, the budget-friendliness of trains, or the thrill of a road trip, the journey is filled with diverse experiences. Once you arrive, Darjeeling will welcome you with cool mountain air, panoramic views, and warm hospitality.
So, pack your bags and set off to this Himalayan gem. Now that you know how to reach Darjeeling from Delhi, your dream vacation is just a ticket away!
FAQs on Reaching Darjeeling from Delhi
Q1. Is there a direct flight from Delhi to Darjeeling?
No, the nearest airport is Bagdogra (IXB), about 70 km from Darjeeling.
Q2. Can I take a direct train from Delhi to Darjeeling?
No direct train goes to Darjeeling. You must travel to New Jalpaiguri (NJP) and then go by road or take the toy train.
Q3. Is the toy train from NJP to Darjeeling worth it?
Yes, it offers a unique heritage experience and beautiful views, though it is slower than road travel.
Q4. Is it safe to travel to Darjeeling during monsoons?
Monsoon travel can be risky due to landslides and slippery roads. It’s best to avoid this season.
