How to Reach Darjeeling From Delhi
How to Reach Darjeeling from Delhi: Complete Travel Guide
Darjeeling, nestled in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas in West Bengal, is one of India’s most loved hill stations. Famous for its breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga, lush tea gardens, cool weather, and the iconic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train), it attracts thousands of tourists every year.
If you are based in Delhi or planning your journey from the capital, you might be wondering: How to reach Darjeeling from Delhi? This guide covers every possible way — by train, flight, air, car, and bus — to help you plan a smooth trip.
👉 For more details about Darjeeling attractions, sightseeing, and travel tips, check out: Darjeeling Travel Guide
1. How to Reach Darjeeling from Delhi by Flight (By Air)
The fastest and most convenient way to travel from Delhi to Darjeeling is by flight. While Darjeeling itself does not have an airport, the nearest one is Bagdogra Airport (IXB), located about 70 km away.
- Step 1: Delhi to Bagdogra by flight
Daily flights are available from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) to Bagdogra. The average flight duration is about 2.5 hours. Airlines like IndiGo, Vistara, SpiceJet, and Air India operate on this route. - Step 2: Bagdogra to Darjeeling
From Bagdogra Airport, you can hire a private taxi (₹2,500–₹3,500) or take a shared cab (₹500–₹700 per person) to reach Darjeeling in 3–3.5 hours. The drive through tea gardens and winding mountain roads is itself a beautiful experience.
✔️ Best For: Travelers who want to save time and prefer comfort.
✔️ Travel Time: 6–7 hours (including airport transfers).
2. How to Reach Darjeeling from Delhi by Train
Another popular option is to travel by train, especially for budget-friendly trips. Darjeeling does not have a direct railway station, so you need to reach New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station, about 62 km from Darjeeling.
- Step 1: Delhi to New Jalpaiguri (NJP)
You can board several long-distance trains from New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) or Anand Vihar (ANVT) to NJP. Some popular trains include:- Rajdhani Express (fastest, 20 hours)
- North East Express (26 hours)
- Brahmaputra Mail (28 hours)
- Step 2: NJP to Darjeeling
- Toy Train (Darjeeling Himalayan Railway): A UNESCO World Heritage ride, taking 7 hours. Offers scenic views but moves slowly.
- Taxi/Shared Jeep: Takes 3 hours and is more convenient for most travelers.
✔️ Best For: Budget travelers, train lovers, and those who want to experience the Toy Train.
✔️ Travel Time: 24–30 hours (train) + 3–7 hours (to Darjeeling).
3. How to Reach Darjeeling from Delhi by Car (Self-Drive / Taxi)
For adventurous travelers who enjoy road trips, driving from Delhi to Darjeeling is possible. It is a long journey but scenic once you reach the hills.
- Distance: 1,500 km
- Travel Time: 27–30 hours (without long breaks)
- Suggested Route: Delhi ➔ Lucknow ➔ Gorakhpur ➔ Siliguri ➔ Darjeeling
- Road Conditions: Good highways until Siliguri; after that, winding mountain roads.
Tips:
- Break your journey into 2–3 days with overnight stops.
- Ensure your car is serviced, as hilly terrains demand good brakes and tires.
- Carry snacks, water, and essential medicines.
✔️ Best For: Road trip enthusiasts, families, and bikers.
✔️ Travel Time: 3–4 days with breaks.
4. How to Reach Darjeeling from Delhi by Bus
Although not very popular due to distance, bus travel is another option for budget-conscious travelers. There is no direct Delhi to Darjeeling bus, but you can reach Siliguri first and then continue to Darjeeling.
- Step 1: Delhi to Siliguri by Bus
Long-distance Volvo and state-run buses operate from Delhi ISBT to Siliguri. The journey takes around 30–34 hours. - Step 2: Siliguri to Darjeeling
From Siliguri Bus Stand, you can take a local bus or shared jeep to Darjeeling, which takes about 3–4 hours.
✔️ Best For: Extreme budget travelers who don’t mind long hours.
✔️ Travel Time: 34–38 hours.
5. Comparison: Best Travel Option from Delhi to Darjeeling
| Mode of Travel | Approx. Time | Approx. Cost (₹) | Comfort Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flight + Taxi | 6–7 hrs | 5,000–8,000 | ★★★★★ | Time-saving, families |
| Train + Taxi | 28–35 hrs | 2,500–4,000 | ★★★★☆ | Budget-friendly |
| Car (Self-drive) | 27–30 hrs (non-stop) | Fuel & tolls (10,000–12,000) | ★★★★☆ | Road trip lovers |
| Bus | 34–38 hrs | 2,000–3,000 | ★★☆☆☆ | Budget solo travelers |
6. Travel Tips for Delhi to Darjeeling Trip
- Book Early – Flights and trains to Bagdogra/NJP fill up quickly during peak tourist season (April–June, October–December).
- Travel Light – Carry layers of clothing. Darjeeling weather can be unpredictable.
- Stay Hydrated – Long journeys can be tiring; keep water and snacks handy.
- Local Transport in Darjeeling – Use taxis or shared jeeps for sightseeing. Don’t miss the Toy Train ride.
- Best Time to Visit – April to June (pleasant weather, tea gardens in bloom) and October to December (clear mountain views).
How to Reach Darjeeling from Delhi – FAQ
1. What is the best way to reach Darjeeling from Delhi?
The fastest and most comfortable way is by flight to Bagdogra Airport (nearest to Darjeeling) followed by a 3-hour taxi ride.
2. Is there a direct train from Delhi to Darjeeling?
No, there is no direct train. You need to travel from Delhi to New Jalpaiguri (NJP) and then take either a toy train or taxi/shared jeep to Darjeeling.
3. Which is the nearest airport to Darjeeling?
The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (IXB), around 70 km from Darjeeling.
4. How much time does it take to reach Darjeeling from Delhi by train?
The train from Delhi to New Jalpaiguri (NJP) takes 20–28 hours, and then an additional 3–7 hours (by taxi or toy train) to reach Darjeeling.
5. Can I drive from Delhi to Darjeeling by car?
Yes, the road trip is around 1,500 km and takes 27–30 hours (without long breaks). It’s best done in 2–3 days with stops in between.
6. Are buses available from Delhi to Darjeeling?
There is no direct bus to Darjeeling. You can take a Delhi–Siliguri bus (30–34 hours) and then continue to Darjeeling by taxi, jeep, or bus.
7. How far is Darjeeling from Bagdogra Airport?
Darjeeling is about 70 km from Bagdogra Airport and takes 3 – 3.5 hours by road.
8. What is the cheapest way to reach Darjeeling from Delhi?
The cheapest way is by train from Delhi to New Jalpaiguri and then taking a shared jeep to Darjeeling.
9. What is the best season to travel from Delhi to Darjeeling?
The best time is April–June (pleasant weather, tea gardens in bloom) and October–December (clear views of Kanchenjunga).
10. Is the Darjeeling toy train worth taking?
Yes, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train) is a UNESCO World Heritage experience offering stunning views of the Himalayas, though it’s slower compared to road travel.
Conclusion
Now you know exactly how to reach Darjeeling from Delhi by train, flight, air, car, or bus. The best option depends on your budget, comfort, and time. Flights are the fastest, trains are economical, cars offer adventure, and buses suit budget backpackers.
Whichever route you choose, the reward is the same — the serene beauty of Darjeeling, the aroma of fresh tea gardens, and the breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga.
👉 Want a complete guide to Darjeeling’s attractions, tea gardens, and local culture? Visit: Darjeeling Travel Guide