Darjeeling, known for its breathtaking views of the Himalayas and tea gardens, is a dream destination for many. If you’re planning a trip from Delhi to Darjeeling, this guide will help you navigate the best routes and modes of transportation to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
How to reach Darjeeling from Delhi by Flight
The fastest way to reach Darjeeling from Delhi is by flight. Here’s how you can do it.
1. Take Flight from Delhi to Bagdogra
The nearest airport to Darjeeling is Bagdogra Airport (IXB), located about 70 km away. Several airlines, including IndiGo, SpiceJet, Air India, and Vistara, offer daily flights from Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi to Bagdogra. The flight duration is approximately 2-3 hours.
2. Taxi from Bagdogra to Darjeeling
Upon reaching Bagdogra, you can hire a prepaid taxi or shared cab to Darjeeling. The journey by road takes around 3 hours, winding through beautiful landscapes.
How to reach Darjeeling from Delhi by Train
Traveling by train is a scenic and economical option. Here’s how you can reach Darjeeling by train
1. Train from Delhi to New Jalpaiguri (NJP)
New Jalpaiguri is the nearest major railway station to Darjeeling, located about 73 km away. Several trains run from Delhi to NJP, including Rajdhani Express, North East Express, and Mahananda Express. The journey takes around 22-24 hours.
2. Toy Train from NJP to Darjeeling
From NJP, you can experience the famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the Toy Train. The ride taking about 7 hours. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi from NJP to Darjeeling, which takes around 3 hours.
How to reach Darjeeling from Delhi by Road
If you enjoy long drives, traveling by road from Delhi to Darjeeling can be an adventurous option. Here’s the route you can take.
1. Delhi to Darjeeling by Car
The distance between Delhi and Darjeeling is approximately 1,500 km. The drive can take about 30 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The most popular route is via NH27, passing through Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal.
2. Bus Services
Direct bus services from Delhi to Darjeeling are not available. However, you can take a bus from Delhi to Siliguri, which is around 60 km from Darjeeling, and then hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to Darjeeling.
Best Time to Visit Darjeeling
The best time to visit Darjeeling is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear. Avoid the monsoon season (July to August) due to heavy rainfall and the winter months (December to February) if you are not a fan of cold weather.
Tips for Travelers
Advance Booking : Book your flights and trains in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Local Transport: Use local taxis or shared jeeps for commuting within Darjeeling.
Weather Check: Always check the weather forecast before planning your trip, as the region can experience sudden changes in weather.
Cost of a Darjeeling Trip
Planning a trip to Darjeeling from Delhi involves several cost components, including transportation, accommodation, food, and activities. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you estimate your expenses
Transportation Costs
1. Flight from Delhi to Bagdogra
- Economy Class: ₹4,000 – ₹8,000 (one-way)
- Round Trip: ₹8,000 – ₹16,000
2. Taxi from Bagdogra to Darjeeling
- Private Taxi: ₹2,500 – ₹3,500 (one-way)
- Shared Jeep: ₹300 – ₹500 per person (one-way)
3. Train from Delhi to New Jalpaiguri (NJP)
- Sleeper Class: ₹600 – ₹1,000 (one-way)
- 3AC Class: ₹1,500 – ₹2,500 (one-way)
- Round Trip (3AC): ₹3,000 – ₹5,000
4. Toy Train from NJP to Darjeeling
- First Class: ₹1,500 – ₹2,000 per person
- Taxi from NJP to Darjeeling: ₹2,500 – ₹3,500 (one-way)
Accommodation Costs
- Budget Hotels: ₹1,000 – ₹2,500 per night
- Mid-range Hotels: ₹3,000 – ₹6,000 per night
- Luxury Hotels: ₹7,000 – ₹15,000 per night
Summary
In conclusion, whether you choose to travel by air, train, or road, reaching Darjeeling from Delhi is an exciting journey that offers a blend of convenience and adventure. Plan your trip well, and you’ll be rewarded with the stunning beauty and charm that Darjeeling has to offer.
By following this guide on how to reach Darjeeling from Delhi, you can ensure a hassle-free and memorable trip to one of India’s most picturesque hill stations.
