How to reach Darjeeling?

Situated around 700 km from Kolkata, this hill station is among India’s most picturesque.

At 2,710 feet above sea level, Darjeeling is situated in the Indian state of West Bengal. Situated around 700 km from Kolkata, this hill station is among India’s most picturesque. The closest railway station to Darjeeling is Siliguri Station. The captivating dawn, the unspoiled splendour of the Himalayas, the breathtaking vista of the snow-capped peaks, the serenity of the verdant hills drenched in breathtaking views, the city offers this and more.

Exotic pine woods, miles of undulating hills filled with green tea plantations, magnificent crimson rhododendrons and white magnolias, and vibrant blue fairies, the queen of hill stations is Darjeeling. Kangchenjunga is breathtakingly beautiful at sunrise. This lovely hill station in India is the perfect place to spend a romantic honeymoon. Every visitor, traveller, photographer, or artist will find something to enjoy in Darjeeling.

 

Darjeeling: Nearest railway station

New Jalpaiguri Junction (NJP): Nearest railway station to Darjeeling (73 km)

The most popular mode of transportation to Darjeeling is via train. Train travel offers the opportunity to see picturesque villages and stunning tea gardens perched on hillside vistas. New Jalpaiguri Junction is the nearest railway station to Darjeeling (NJP).

Details

  • Station code: NJP
  • Zone: Northeast Frontier 
  • Station Grade: A
  • Number of platforms: 8

Facilities: NJP provides everything you need for your travels, including restaurants, shops, waiting places, ATMs, and high-speed Wi-Fi.

Transportation hub: NJP is a handy transportation hub for seeing the area since it is the meeting place for cabs, buses, and trains.

Proximity to Bagdogra Airport: NJP provides quick access to flights to major cities and is just 15 km distant.

Commercial Activity: NJP is thriving because of the local businesses that serve both locals and tourists, from quaint cafés to busy markets.

Local Significance:  NJP is a bustling town with a rich cultural history and a welcoming atmosphere for guests; it’s more than simply a transportation hub.

 

Other nearest railway station to Darjeeling

Aluabari Road (AUB): Nearest railway station to Darjeeling (128 km)

In the Katihar railway division of the Northeast Frontier Railway zone, Aluabari Road Junction railway station is a junction railway station on the Katihar–Siliguri section of the Howrah–New Jalpaiguri line. It is located in Islampur, Uttar Dinajpur district, West Bengal, India, next to National Highway 27 (India). The Alubari–Siliguri branch line and the New Farakka–New Jalpaiguri line are connected at this railway station. At Aluabari Road Junction railway station, there are 35 express and passenger train stops in a day.

Facilities: AUB has standard facilities including ticket counters, food stands, bathrooms, and waiting areas, although being smaller than NJP.

Local transit: AUB may be reached by bus and cab, which also opens up the surrounding towns and villages and their natural beauties.

Commercial presence:  AUB has quaint little stores and marketplaces that provide daily necessities and a window into local life, even if they are not very busy.

Tourist gateway: AUB is well situated to discover undiscovered treasures and off-the-beaten-path adventures, surrounded by picturesque scenery and tea gardens.

 

Dhupguri (DQG): Nearest railway station to Darjeeling (140.5 km)

One of the main train stations serving the West Bengali city of Dhupguri in the Jalpaiguri district is Dhupguri Railway Station, which is located halfway between New Jalpaiguri and New Cooch Behar. The station is located on the Northeast Frontier Railway’s Barauni–Guwahati line in the New Jalpaiguri–New Bongaigaon segment. The station is located on the railway division Alipurduar.

Facilities: Dhupguri station has standard facilities such ticket desks, food booths, bathrooms, and waiting areas. With its colonial-era architecture and sense of antiquity, it also has a distinct appeal.

Local transit: DQG is connected to other locations by buses and taxis, so you may visit the charming rural communities.

Commercial presence: A few basic-needs stores that highlight fresh fruit and everyday necessities provide a window into the way of living in the area.

Tourist gateway: Perfect for nature hikes, birding, and homestays in peaceful settings, Dhupguri is a sanctuary for off-the-beaten-path activities.

 

How to reach Darjeeling?

By train

Darjeeling Railway Station is managed by the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR). The nearest train station to Darjeeling is New Jalpaiguri Junction (NJP), which has connections to major hubs in Kolkata, Delhi, Guwahati, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar, and Cochin.

By road 

Regular buses, shared jeepneys, and private taxis are the ways to get from Siliguri (Main Bus Station of Siliguri) and Kolkata to Darjeeling. It’s around 70 kilometres from Siliguri to Darjeeling. There are also buses from adjacent places such as Kurseong and Kalimpong. The mountains on both sides are stunning, and the road system is adequate.

By air

The nearest airport to Darjeeling is Bagdogra Airport. The distance between the airport and Darjeeling city is 76 kilometres. From Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Guwahati, and Kolkata, there are direct flights. To get to Darjeeling from the airport, hire a private cab. Driving from Bagdogra Airport to Darjeeling takes around three hours.

Things to explore in Darjeeling

Tiger hill

Address: Tiger Hill Upper Darjeeling, Darjeeling 734101 India

At 2,590 meters, Tiger Hill is a well-known viewpoint that provides a captivating panoramic view of the magnificent Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world.

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

The “Toy Train,” also known as the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, is a must-see sight and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Batasia Loop

Address: West Point, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734102

The Batasia Loop, which is a wonderful engineering feat and a treat for nature enthusiasts, is located on the route to Ghum.

Happy Valley Tea Estate

Address: 3725+HC5, Lebong Cart Rd, Chauk Bazaar, Near, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734101

Tea lovers and aficionados should not miss a visit to the Happy Valley Tea Estate in Darjeeling, the birthplace of tea.

Mahakal temple

Address: Chauk Bazaar, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734101, India.

For both Hindus and Buddhists, the Mahakal Temple, perched atop Observatory Hill, is a hallowed site of prayer. 

Chowrasta Square

Address: 27V8+VXM, N C. Goenka Rd, Chauk Bazaar, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734101

Chowrasta Square, commonly referred to as The Mall, is the hub of Darjeeling tourism and an excellent place to begin exploring the abundance of nearby attractions. 

Ghum Monastery

Address: Tamang Buddhist Monastery Rd, Darjeeling 734102 India.

Ghum Monastery, also known as ancient Ghoom Monastery and Yiga Choeling Monastery, constitutes one of the oldest monasteries in Darjeeling.

Japanese Peace Pagoda 

Address: West Point, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734102, India

The Darjeeling Peace Pagoda is one of numerous memorials throughout the globe created by the Buddhist monk Nichidatsu Fujii. After the terrible death toll from World War II, the monument was built in 1954 as a symbol of global peace.

 

Where you can stay in Darjeeling?

The English Cottage

The English Cottage’s interior design, with its hardwood flooring, ceilings, and décor pieces, will surprise you and remind you of the basic settings seen in rural areas. The English cottage’s location in Darjeeling is one of its most appealing features; within one kilometre are the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and Zoological Park, Happy Valley Tea Estate, and Mahakal Mandir. Less than 7 kilometres separate Tiger Hill, Ghoom Monastery, and Japanese Peace Pagoda from this location.

Singalila Jungle Lodge

This is the location to book your stay if you’re seeking honeymoon cottages in Darjeeling. The property is perfect for couples and families alike. There are family rooms and suites to choose from. 

Darjeeling Blossoms Eco-Tourism

This Teesta Bazar location is perfect for anyone seeking a straightforward but filling stay. This is one of those accommodations that will guarantee you the best possible getaway from the busy city life. Although the rooms have a straightforward appearance, the needs have not been compromised. You are welcomed into a more relaxed atmosphere here that makes you feel at home.

The Elgin

The Elgin Darjeeling, a luxurious historical hotel, is conveniently close to several major attractions. This hotel offers well-decorated rooms with all the conveniences of contemporary life.

 

Darjeeling: Residential impact

The residential landscape in Darjeeling conveys a sense of uniqueness and scarcity. Situated within gently undulating tea gardens, heritage bungalows provide stunning vistas but are in high demand. With their convenience and planned expansion, modern flats are becoming more and more popular as they gradually ascend the hills. Strict restrictions on land use ensure the careful balancing act between growth and the town’s distinct identity. Due to the strong demand and limited availability, prices have consistently increased by 10% to 15% per year, making Darjeeling a desirable destination for affluent purchasers and a profitable market for boutique developers.

 

Darjeeling: Commercial impact

Darjeeling’s commercial scene reflects the town’s twin roles as a popular tourist destination and historical site. Tea lovers and gift hunters may be found at the quaint cafés and stores that line the meandering alleyways. There’s been a recent surge in eco-friendly and sustainable accommodation alternatives, which has led to the growth of homestays and boutique hotels. The town’s attractiveness is maintained by restricting larger hotels to certain areas. The yearly appreciation of commercial real estate has been consistent, averaging 8–12%, drawing investors seeking profits from the tourist industry. However, regulated expansion is ensured, avoiding unbridled commercialization, thanks to strict rules and an emphasis on maintaining the town’s uniqueness.

 

Price range of properties in Darjeeling

Location Size Type Price
Ashiyana Heights, Matigara, Siliguri 1207 sqft 2 BHK ₹ 39.83 L
Nanikuthirapartment, Hakim Para, Siliguri 1225 sqft 3BHK ₹ 46 L
Salbari, Siliguri 57000 sqft Residential Plot ₹ 60.0 L

Source: housing.com

 

FAQs

What is the ideal number of days to spend exploring Darjeeling?

You must allot two to three days to see all of Darjeeling's well-known locations. Tiger Hill, the Darjeeling Ropeway, monasteries, and other excellent tourist sites are all located near the lovely hill station.

What has made Darjeeling well-known?

The majority of visitors choose Darjeeling as their destination, earning it the nickname Queen of Hills. Travelers from all over the nation are drawn to it by its charming homes, old woods, and breathtaking scenery.

What dish is Darjeeling renowned for?

If you want to sample some of the authentic, traditional Darjeeling cuisine, there are many of well-known delicacies to choose from. Thukpa, Churpee, Chaang, and many more delicacies are among them.

What is the name of the Darjeeling railway station?

Darjeeling Railway Station is located in Darjeeling, West Bengal. DJ is the Darjeeling station code.

How can I take a train from Darjeeling?

The two nearest train stations are Siliguri and New Jalpaiguri, with the exception being Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Station, which is located 88 kilometres from New Jalpaiguri Railway Station.

When is the ideal time to visit Darjeeling?

Darjeeling's busiest travel months are March through May and September through November. The best time of year to visit Darjeeling is from December to February. June to September is Darjeeling's low season.

Which train in Darjeeling is well-known?

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, the Toy Train or DHR is well-known in Darjeeling

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at [email protected]

 

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