At first, the road is smooth and wide, but it gradually climbs into the hills. You will see long tea gardens, tall trees, rivers, and misty views along the way. This journey makes travellers feel relaxed and happy even before reaching Darjeeling.
Most visitors travel from Bagdogra to Darjeeling by taxi or shared jeep because it is the most comfortable and affordable option. The road is scenic and safe, making the drive enjoyable for families, couples, and solo travellers. By the time you reach Darjeeling, the fresh mountain air and peaceful views make the journey worthwhile.
Darjeeling Tourism Package
Bagdogra to Darjeeling distance & Travel Time
Here are the simple distance details from Bagdogra to Darjeeling:
| Travel Type | Distance | Time to Travel |
|---|---|---|
| By Road (Taxi / Jeep / Bus) | ~70 km | 3 to 4 hours |
| Toy Train (via NJP) | ~88 km | 7 to 8 hours |
How to Reach Darjeeling from Bagdogra
Bagdogra Airport (IXB) is the nearest airport to Darjeeling. Almost all travellers reach Darjeeling by road after landing here. You need to hire a taxi or a cab to reach at your destination.
You can go from Bagdogra to Darjeeling using:
Shared Jeep
A shared jeep from Bagdogra to Darjeeling is the most popular choice for budget travelers. These jeeps usually start from Bagdogra or Siliguri. You share the ride with other passengers, which helps keep the cost low.
The journey takes about 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and weather. It is affordable and safe, but seating may feel tight during peak seasons.
Private Taxi
A private taxi from Bagdogra to Darjeeling is the most comfortable option. It is ideal for families, honeymoon couples, and travellers carrying luggage. You can stop for tea, photos, or short breaks during the drive.
The travel time is around 3 hours, and the ride feels relaxed and smooth through the hills.
Bus
Travelling by bus from Bagdogra to Darjeeling is the cheapest way to reach the hill town. Buses usually depart from Siliguri bus stand, which is near Bagdogra.
The journey may take 4 to 5 hours because buses stop at multiple stops. It is budget-friendly but less comfortable compared to taxis.
Toy Train (From NJP Railway Station)
The Darjeeling Toy Train from NJP is a slow yet distinctive experience. The train moves through tea gardens, small villages, and mountain curves.
The journey takes 7 to 8 hours, so it is best for travellers who enjoy scenic routes and have enough time. It is not the fastest way, but it creates beautiful memories.
Darjeeling Holiday Plans
Bagdogra to Darjeeling Road Journey – What You’ll See
The road journey from Bagdogra to Darjeeling is not just about reaching the hills. It is about enjoying every moment on the way. As the car starts climbing, nature slowly takes over, and the journey becomes calm and refreshing.
Along the road, you will see long stretches of green tea gardens spread across the hills. The cool mountain air feels fresh and pleasant, especially after leaving the plains. Small hill villages appear on the way, where life moves slowly and peacefully.
The road passes through forests and sharp mountain turns, making the drive exciting yet beautiful. On clear days, lucky travellers may even catch a glimpse of Mount Kanchenjunga, shining proudly in the distance.
Many travellers believe that the Bagdogra to Darjeeling road trip is the most memorable part of their entire Darjeeling tour. The views, fresh air, and peaceful surroundings make this journey truly special.
Most searched routes for Darjeeling
| Route Name | Travel Option | Time | Distance | More information |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi to Darjeeling | Flight to Bagdogra / Cab | 6–8 hours | 1,500 km | Fly from Delhi to Bagdogra (2h 10m) and take a 3-hour taxi or shared cab to Darjeeling. |
| Mumbai to Darjeeling | Flight to Bagdogra + Cab | 7–9 hours | 2,100 km | Direct flight to Bagdogra (3h) followed by a scenic 3-hour hill drive to Darjeeling. |
| New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling | Toy Train / Cab | 7–8 hours | 70 km | The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train) offers a UNESCO heritage journey through the hills. |
| Kolkata to Darjeeling | Flight / Train + Cab | 10–12 hours | 620 km | Fly or take a train to NJP/Bagdogra, then hire a cab or take a shared jeep to Darjeeling. |
| Lucknow to Darjeeling | Flight / Train + Cab | 12–14 hours | 900 km | Take a flight to Bagdogra or train to NJP, then proceed by road to Darjeeling. |
| Bangalore to Darjeeling | Flight to Bagdogra + Cab | 8–10 hours | 2,300 km | Fly to Bagdogra (via Kolkata or Delhi) and take a taxi or shared jeep to Darjeeling. |
| Chennai to Darjeeling | Flight to Bagdogra + Cab | 9–11 hours | 2,250 km | Take a flight to Bagdogra and travel by road through scenic hills to Darjeeling. |
| Siliguri to Darjeeling | Cab / Shared Jeep / Toy Train | 3–4 hours | 65 km | Road trip via Hill Cart Road or scenic toy train ride through Kurseong. |
| Jamshedpur to Darjeeling | Train + Cab | 14–16 hours | 620 km | Take a train to NJP and then a cab or toy train to Darjeeling. |
| Bhopal to Darjeeling | Flight / Train + Cab | 14–16 hours | 1,400 km | Fly via Delhi/Kolkata to Bagdogra and continue by road to Darjeeling. |