How to Reach Darjeeling – Complete Travel Guide

Darjeeling, lovingly called the Queen of the Hills, is one of India’s most picturesque hill stations. Famous for its tea gardens, panoramic views of Kanchenjunga, heritage toy train, monasteries, and colonial charm, Darjeeling attracts travelers from across the globe. Its mist-covered hills, lush landscapes, and peaceful ambiance make it perfect for families, honeymooners, and adventure seekers. Before you pack your bags, it’s important to know the best ways to reach Darjeeling for a smooth and enjoyable journey. At Make My Holiday, we make traveling to Darjeeling easy with our expert planning, cab services, and customized packages.

Traveling to Darjeeling by Air – The Fastest Option

The nearest airport to Darjeeling is Bagdogra Airport (IXB), located about 70 km away. Bagdogra is well connected with direct flights from Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, Guwahati, Bangalore, and other major cities. Some airlines also offer seasonal international connections.
Once you land, the journey to Darjeeling takes around 2.5 to 3 hours by road, offering breathtaking views of tea gardens and rolling hills. You can opt for:

✧ Private Cabs : Comfortable and convenient, especially if you’re traveling with family.
✧ Shared Jeeps : Budget-friendly but less comfortable.
✧ Make My Holiday Transfers : Pre-booked, hassle-free, and scenic with multiple photo stops.

Travel Tip : Book early morning flights to avoid traffic during the hill drive and enjoy clear mountain views.

Traveling to Darjeeling by Train – Heritage Meets Scenic Beauty

Darjeeling does not have a direct railway station. The nearest major railhead is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), located about 70 km away. NJP is connected to most Indian cities through express trains like the Rajdhani, Shatabdi, and other superfast trains.
From NJP, you can:

Take a cab (2.5 to 3 hours)
Ride the iconic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train), a UNESCO World Heritage site that winds through hills and offers an unforgettable experience (approx. 7–8 hours).

Travel Tip : The toy train gets booked quickly during peak seasons, so reserve your tickets early.

Traveling to Darjeeling by Road – A Scenic Mountain Drive

Darjeeling is connected by road to Siliguri, Gangtok, Kalimpong, and other nearby towns. The drive is an experience in itself, with winding roads, pine forests, and tea estates.

✧ From Siliguri : 65 km (approx. 3 hours)
✧ From Gangtok : 100 km (approx. 4 hours)
✧ From Kalimpong : 50 km (approx. 2 hours)

Our Make My Holiday road trip services ensure a comfortable journey with stops at scenic viewpoints.

Best Time to Visit Darjeeling

✧ Summer (March to June) : Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and tea garden visits.
✧ Autumn (September to November) : Clear skies with stunning mountain views.
✧ Winter (December to February) : Cold but beautiful, with occasional snowfall.
✧ Monsoon (July to August) : Lush greenery, but landslides can affect travel.

Why Choose Make My Holiday for Your Darjeeling Trip?

At Make My Holiday, we go beyond just booking your tickets. We provide:

✧ Seamless airport/train station transfers
✧ Custom Darjeeling tour packages (family, honeymoon, adventure)
✧ Hotel bookings, sightseeing tours, and local experiences
✧ 24/7 travel support

We take care of every travel detail, so you only focus on enjoying the mesmerizing beauty of Darjeeling.

Conclusion

Reaching Darjeeling is easy with multiple travel options—air, rail, and road. Each route offers its own charm, whether it’s a scenic drive or a nostalgic toy train ride. Make My Holiday ensures that your journey is as memorable as your destination.

Book your Darjeeling holiday today with Make My Holiday and let the mountains call you!