How to Reach Darjeeling from Delhi: A Complete Guide

Darjeeling, known for its mesmerizing views, serene tea gardens, and rich cultural heritage, is one of India's most popular hill stations. Whether you're a nature lover, adventure enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Darjeeling offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. For those planning to visit this beautiful town from Delhi, there are several ways to get there, whether by train, flight, or a combination of both. This guide will provide you with all the information you need on how to reach Darjeeling from Delhi, including the best options for travel by train and flight.

1. How to Reach Darjeeling from Delhi by Train

Travelling by train from Delhi to Darjeeling is one of the most scenic and budget-friendly options. However, there isn’t a direct train to Darjeeling. To reach the hill station, you will need to travel via New Jalpaiguri (NJP), the nearest major railhead to Darjeeling, which is about 70 kilometers away. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to reach Darjeeling by train:

A. Step 1: Book a Train from Delhi to New Jalpaiguri (NJP)

There are several trains from Delhi to New Jalpaiguri. Some popular options include:

North East Express (12506) – Departs from Anand Vihar Terminal (ANVT) and takes approximately 25-26 hours to reach NJP.

Brahmaputra Mail (14056) – Departs from Delhi Junction and takes about 28 hours to NJP.

Mahananda Express (15484) – Departs from Delhi Junction and reaches NJP in around 31-32 hours.

You can book tickets via the Indian Railways website (IRCTC) or through online travel portals. Ensure that you book your train well in advance, as seats can get filled quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons.

B. Step 2: From New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling

Once you reach New Jalpaiguri, you have several options to travel to Darjeeling:

Toy Train (Darjeeling Himalayan Railway): The most scenic and famous way to reach Darjeeling is by the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR), also known as the Toy Train. The journey takes about 6-7 hours and provides breathtaking views of the mountains. It operates from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Shared Jeep/Taxi: If you prefer a quicker option, you can hire a shared jeep or taxi from NJP to Darjeeling. This journey takes about 3-4 hours and offers beautiful views along the way. It’s a cost-effective option if you are traveling in a group.

Private Taxi: If you want more comfort and flexibility, hiring a private taxi is another option. The journey is similar to that of a shared jeep, but you’ll have more privacy and convenience.

2. How to Reach Darjeeling from Delhi by Flight

If you’re looking to reach Darjeeling quickly and comfortably, flying is the best option. Though Darjeeling doesn’t have its own airport, the nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (IXB), located about 70 kilometres away. Here's a detailed guide on how to reach Darjeeling by flight:

A. Step 1: Book a Flight from Delhi to Bagdogra

Several airlines operate daily flights between Delhi and Bagdogra. Some of the major airlines include:

IndiGo

SpiceJet

Air India

Vistara

The flight duration from Delhi to Bagdogra is approximately 2-2.5 hours. You can book tickets directly from the airlines’ websites or through travel portals like MakeMyTrip, Goibibo, or Cleartrip. Prices for flights can vary depending on the time of booking, season, and availability, so it’s advisable to book in advance.

B. Step 2: From Bagdogra to Darjeeling

Once you land at Bagdogra Airport, you have multiple options to reach Darjeeling:

Private Taxi: The most comfortable and flexible way to travel from Bagdogra to Darjeeling is by hiring a private taxi. The journey takes around 3-4 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The route is scenic, with winding roads offering beautiful views of tea gardens and the Himalayas.

Shared Jeep: A more affordable option is to take a shared jeep from Bagdogra to Darjeeling. Shared jeeps operate from Siliguri, which is about 12 km from Bagdogra. You can either take a taxi from the airport to Siliguri and then hop on a shared jeep or taxi to Darjeeling.

Prepaid Taxi: Bagdogra Airport also offers a prepaid taxi service, which provides a hassle-free way to reach Darjeeling. The rates are fixed, so you won’t have to worry about negotiating prices.

3. Combining Train and Flight for the Best Experience

If you have time but also want to avoid the long train journey from Delhi, you can combine both train and flight options for a comfortable yet scenic experience. Here’s how:

Flight to Bagdogra + Toy Train to Darjeeling: You can take a flight from Delhi to Bagdogra and then experience the iconic Toy Train from New Jalpaiguri (which is close to Bagdogra) to Darjeeling. This will give you the best of both worlds—a quick journey to the region and a leisurely ride through the mountains.

4. Road Trip: How to Travel to Darjeeling by Road

If you love road trips, travelling by car from Delhi to Darjeeling can be an exciting and adventurous experience. Though the journey is long (about 1,500 km), it can be a great way to explore the diverse landscapes of North India and the foothills of the Himalayas.

A. Route from Delhi to Darjeeling

The most common route for a road trip from Delhi to Darjeeling is:

Delhi – Lucknow – Patna – Siliguri – Darjeeling

The road conditions are generally good, but it’s important to be prepared for long stretches of driving. The journey can take around 30-35 hours of non-stop driving, so it’s recommended to plan stopovers in cities like Lucknow, Patna, or Siliguri to rest and explore these places along the way.

B. Car Rentals and Self-Drive

If you don’t want to drive your own car, you can rent a car or book a self-drive vehicle from car rental companies in Delhi. Make sure the car is in good condition and prepared for hill driving as the roads to Darjeeling can be steep and winding.

5. Tips for Traveling to Darjeeling

Book in advance: Whether you’re booking a train, flight, or taxi, it’s always a good idea to make reservations in advance, especially during peak seasons (April to June and October to December).

Travel light: If you’re taking the Toy Train, be mindful of luggage restrictions. It’s best to travel light.

Check weather conditions: The weather in Darjeeling can be unpredictable. Check the forecast before your trip and pack accordingly.

Stay hydrated: The high altitude of Darjeeling can cause dehydration, so make sure to drink plenty of water during your journey.

Conclusion

Travelling from Delhi to Darjeeling offers multiple options depending on your time, budget, and preference. Whether you choose the scenic train route, a quick flight, or a mix of both, Darjeeling promises an unforgettable experience. Now that you know how to reach Darjeeling from Delhi, all that’s left is to pack your bags and get ready to explore this beautiful hill station!