Darjeeling, often called the “Queen of the Hills,” is a mesmerizing hill station in West Bengal, known for its lush tea gardens, stunning Himalayan views, and the iconic toy train. If you’re wondering how to reach Darjeeling from Bangalore, you have multiple travel options, including flights, trains, and road trips. Since there are no direct connections, you’ll need to take a combination of transport modes to reach this breathtaking destination.
This comprehensive guide will help you plan your journey efficiently, covering all possible routes, estimated travel times, fares, and tips for a hassle-free trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest, most budget-friendly, or most scenic way to travel, this guide has you covered. Let’s explore the best ways to travel from Bangalore to Darjeeling! 🚆✈️🚗
How to Reach Darjeeling from Bangalore
Fare Table for Traveling from Bangalore to Darjeeling
| Mode of Travel | Route | Duration | Fare (Approx.) | Additional Costs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flight + Taxi | Bangalore → Bagdogra (Flight) → Darjeeling (Taxi) | 5–6 hours | ₹5,000 – ₹10,000 (Flight) | ₹2,500 – ₹3,500 (Taxi) |
| Flight + Shared Jeep | Bangalore → Bagdogra (Flight) → Darjeeling (Shared Jeep) | 6–7 hours | ₹5,000 – ₹10,000 (Flight) | ₹300 – ₹500 (Shared Jeep) |
| Train + Taxi | Bangalore → NJP (Train) → Darjeeling (Taxi) | 40–42 hours | ₹900 – ₹4,500 (Train) | ₹2,500 – ₹3,500 (Taxi) |
| Train + Shared Jeep | Bangalore → NJP (Train) → Darjeeling (Shared Jeep) | 42–44 hours | ₹900 – ₹4,500 (Train) | ₹300 – ₹500 (Shared Jeep) |
| Train + Toy Train | Bangalore → NJP (Train) → Darjeeling (Toy Train) | 46–48 hours | ₹900 – ₹4,500 (Train) | ₹1,500 – ₹2,500 (Toy Train) |
| Road (Car) | Bangalore → Darjeeling (Self-Drive) | 40–45 hours | ₹12,000 – ₹15,000 (Fuel) | ₹3,000 – ₹5,000 (Toll, Food, Stay) |
| Road (Bus + Taxi) | Bangalore → Siliguri (Bus) → Darjeeling (Taxi) | 50+ hours | ₹3,000 – ₹5,000 (Bus) | ₹2,500 – ₹3,500 (Taxi) |
| Road (Bus + Shared Jeep) | Bangalore → Siliguri (Bus) → Darjeeling (Shared Jeep) | 50+ hours | ₹3,000 – ₹5,000 (Bus) | ₹300 – ₹500 (Shared Jeep) |
Distance Between Bangalore and Darjeeling
The distance from Bangalore to Darjeeling is approximately 2,400 km. Since there is no direct flight, train, or bus from Bangalore to Darjeeling, travelers must opt for a combination of transportation modes to reach their destination.
How to Reach Darjeeling from Bangalore by Flight (Fastest Option)
Step 1: Flight from Bangalore to Bagdogra
The nearest airport to Darjeeling is Bagdogra Airport (IXB), located about 70 km from the hill station. Several airlines operate direct and one-stop flights between Bangalore’s Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) and Bagdogra.
Flight Details:
- Duration: Approx. 2.5 to 3 hours (direct flights)
- Fare: ₹5,000 – ₹10,000 (one-way, depending on the season)
- Airlines Operating: IndiGo, AirAsia, Vistara, SpiceJet
Step 2: Bagdogra to Darjeeling
Once you reach Bagdogra Airport, you can travel to Darjeeling via road or toy train.
By Taxi:
- Duration: 3 to 4 hours
- Fare: ₹2,500 – ₹3,500 (private taxi), ₹500 (shared cab)
By Shared Jeep:
- Available at Siliguri Junction and Bagdogra Airport
- Fare: ₹300 – ₹500 per person
By Toy Train:
- Route: New Jalpaiguri (NJP) to Darjeeling
- Duration: 6–7 hours
- Fare: ₹1,500 – ₹2,500
How to Reach Darjeeling from Bangalore by Train (Budget-Friendly Option)
While there is no direct train from Bangalore to Darjeeling, you can take a train to New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station, the nearest major railhead to Darjeeling (88 km away).
Step 1: Train from Bangalore to New Jalpaiguri
You can board a train from Yesvantpur Junction (YPR) or KSR Bengaluru City Junction (SBC) to NJP. The journey takes approximately 35 to 40 hours.
Popular Trains:
- Guwahati Express (12509) – Departs from Yesvantpur, runs on Thursdays
- New Tinsukia Express (22501) – Departs from Bengaluru Cantt, runs on Fridays
- Humsafar Express (12503) – Runs weekly
Train Fare:
- Sleeper Class (SL): ₹900 – ₹1,200
- AC 3-Tier (3A): ₹2,500 – ₹3,000
- AC 2-Tier (2A): ₹3,500 – ₹4,500
Step 2: NJP to Darjeeling
Once you reach NJP, you can travel to Darjeeling via road or toy train.
By Road:
- Private Taxi: ₹2,500 – ₹3,500
- Shared Jeep: ₹300 – ₹500 per person
- Buses Available from Siliguri Bus Stand
By Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train):
- Route: NJP to Darjeeling
- Duration: 6–7 hours
- Fare: ₹1,500 – ₹2,500
How to Reach Darjeeling from Bangalore by Road (For Adventure Seekers)
If you love long drives and road trips, traveling from Bangalore to Darjeeling by car can be an unforgettable experience.
Best Route:
Bangalore → Vijayawada → Visakhapatnam → Bhubaneswar → Kolkata → Siliguri → Darjeeling
Road Trip Details
- Distance: Approx. 2,400 km
- Travel Time: 40–45 hours (non-stop driving)
- Best Stopovers: Vijayawada, Bhubaneswar, Kolkata, Siliguri
- Fuel Cost: ₹12,000 – ₹15,000 (one way)
Bus Travel Option:
- No direct Bangalore to Darjeeling bus available
- You can take a bus from Bangalore to Siliguri and then travel by cab or shared jeep to Darjeeling
- Total travel time: 50+ hours
Best Time to Visit Darjeeling
Before planning your trip, consider the best season for visiting Darjeeling:
- Summer (March–June): Pleasant weather, best for sightseeing
- Monsoon (July–September): Risk of landslides, not ideal for travel
- Autumn (October–November): Clear skies, stunning mountain views
- Winter (December–February): Snowfall in higher areas, very cold
For the best experience, visit between March–June or October–November.
Travel Tips for a Hassle-Free Journey
- Book Flights & Trains in Advance: Darjeeling is a popular tourist destination, and tickets get sold out quickly.
- Carry Warm Clothes: Even in summer, Darjeeling can be chilly, especially in the evenings.
- Keep Cash Handy: Many places in Darjeeling have limited digital payment options.
- Choose Shared Taxis for Budget Travel: They are economical and readily available.
- Avoid Monsoon Season: Heavy rainfall can lead to landslides and roadblocks.
- Try the Toy Train: The scenic journey offers breathtaking views of the mountains and tea gardens.
- Stay Hydrated & Carry Snacks: The journey, especially by road, can be long and tiring.
Conclusion
Reaching Darjeeling from Bangalore is an exciting journey with multiple travel options. The fastest way is by flight to Bagdogra, followed by a road trip to Darjeeling. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, taking a train to New Jalpaiguri (NJP) and then a cab or toy train is ideal. Road trips are best for those who love adventure and have plenty of time.
No matter which route you take, Darjeeling’s breathtaking landscapes, lush tea gardens, and the majestic Kanchenjunga will make your trip worthwhile. Plan wisely, pack smart, and enjoy your journey to this mesmerizing hill station!