Air Travel: Darjeeling

Airport Information

Bagdogra Airport IXB

The nearest airport to Darjeeling is Bagdogra Airport (IXB). It resides approximately 90 kilometers (56 miles) from Darjeeling town. This airport acts as the main air gateway to Darjeeling, Sikkim, and the Dooars region.

Airlines and Routes

Bagdogra Airport mainly handles domestic flights within India.
Several major Indian domestic airlines operate regular services: IndiGo, SpiceJet, Vistara, Air India, Akasa Air.
These airlines connect Bagdogra with major Indian cities like Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai. For flight deals, check Dollar Flight Club.

International Connections & Pricing

Bagdogra Airport has no direct international flights from major global hubs. Travelers from outside India typically fly into one of India's large international airports.

Considerations

International hubs include Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi or Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) in Kolkata.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations: Flight prices vary throughout the year. Higher during peak tourist seasons (Oct-Nov and Mar-May) and major Indian festivals. Prices drop during monsoon.
Booking flights several months in advance for peak periods is advisable. Compare options on Skyscanner.

Airport Facilities

Bagdogra is a relatively small airport. It offers basic facilities and services for travelers: a few food stalls and cafes, ATMs for cash withdrawal, pre-paid taxi counters, and limited retail shops. The airport can become crowded during peak hours.

Transfers to Darjeeling

The journey from Bagdogra Airport to Darjeeling is scenic but winding. It takes approximately 3-4 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic. Pre-paid taxi counters are available at the airport exit, costing INR 2,500-3,500 for a private vehicle. Shared jeeps are economical. Opt for a private taxi for convenience after a long flight.

Shared Jeep Option

A more economical choice. Take a local taxi or auto-rickshaw from Bagdogra Airport to Siliguri (Junction or Main Bus Stand/Taxi Stand), about 30-45 minutes. From Siliguri, find shared jeeps to Darjeeling. Shared jeeps cost INR 250-350 per person. They are budget-friendly but can be crowded and may take longer due to stops.

Airport Transfer Recommendations

Private Taxi Benefits

Direct ride to your accommodation.
Greater comfort after a flight.
No transfers needed in Siliguri.
Suitable for travelers with more luggage.

Shared Jeep Considerations

Significantly lower cost per person.
Can be crowded.
May take longer due to multiple stops.
Less space for large luggage.

International Flight Planning

Connect via Major Hubs

Fly into Delhi (DEL), Kolkata (CCU), or Mumbai (BOM) first.

Domestic Connection

Take a connecting domestic flight from the hub to Bagdogra (IXB).

Allow Ample Time

Factor in time for customs and transfer to your domestic flight in India.

Land Transportation

Train Connections NJP

The nearest major railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP). NJP resides near Siliguri, approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles) from Darjeeling.

NJP Details

NJP is a well-connected railway station with services to most parts of India, including Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai. Many express trains stop at NJP.
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train): A UNESCO World Heritage Site. A daily service operates from NJP to Darjeeling. However, this journey is very slow, taking approximately 7-8 hours and frequently sees delays.
Most tourists prefer the "Joy Ride" on the Toy Train within Darjeeling. If you wish to experience the full NJP-Darjeeling journey, view it as a scenic adventure rather than efficient transport.

Bus Options & Border Crossings

Regular bus services connect Siliguri with Darjeeling.

Transit & Neighbors

Long-Distance Bus: Both state-run buses (North Bengal State Transport Corporation) and private buses operate on this route. Buses are generally slower than shared jeeps due to more stops and winding road conditions. Shared jeeps are often preferred for their speed and directness.
Nepal Border: The nearest major border crossing to Nepal is Kakarbhitta (Nepal) / Panitanki (India), located near Siliguri. This crossing is used by travelers between Darjeeling and Nepal. Ensure the correct visa for both countries.
Bhutan Border: The nearest major border crossing to Bhutan is Phuentsholing (Bhutan) / Jaigaon (India), also accessible from Siliguri. Bhutan has specific visa procedures.

Self-Driving Considerations

Self-driving is not recommended for tourists in Darjeeling.

Reasons & Advice

Road Conditions: Roads leading to and within Darjeeling are steep, narrow, and winding. They often see heavy traffic, including many shared jeeps.
Parking: Parking in Darjeeling town is extremely limited and difficult to find.
Driving Style: Indian driving can appear chaotic to foreign drivers. Drivers use horns frequently.

Road Conditions and Safety

The main roads connecting Siliguri/NJP to Darjeeling are the Hill Cart Road and Rohini Road.

Navigating the Terrain

Winding Roads: These roads feature sharp turns and steep inclines.
Landslides: During the monsoon season (June-September), landslides pose a significant risk. These can cause road closures, diversions, or long delays. Always check local reports on road conditions during this period.
Traffic Jams: Traffic jams are common, especially during peak tourist seasons and holidays. Plan extra travel time.

Important Self-Drive Notes

Hiring a car with a driver is a practical option.
Arrange through your hotel or local tour operators.
The driver is familiar with local roads. Consider DiscoverCars.com for driver options if available.

Self-driving is not advisable for tourists.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) with your home country's license is needed if you insist.
Ensure vehicle is suitable for mountain terrain.

Sea/River Arrivals

Inland Destination

Darjeeling resides as an inland mountain destination.

No Sea/River Access

Sea or river arrivals are not applicable for reaching the town itself.
The town's geographical position high in the Himalayas precludes direct water access.
Focus on air and land transport for travel plans.

Nearest Waterways

While the Teesta River flows nearby, it is not a navigable route to Darjeeling town.

River Activities

The Teesta River offers opportunities for rafting and other river-based activities.
These activities typically occur downstream, far from Darjeeling town.
Transport to these activity sites happens via road from Darjeeling or Siliguri.

Main Access

Air travel to Bagdogra Airport is the most common and fastest way.

Road Connections

Road networks connect Darjeeling to nearby cities and plains, mostly via shared jeeps or taxis.

Rail Links

New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station offers extensive rail connections across India.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Procedures

No specific exit fees or taxes levy when departing from Bagdogra Airport or New Jalpaiguri (NJP) railway station beyond what is included in your flight or train ticket price.

Air Departure Bagdogra

Allow a minimum of 3-4 hours for travel from Darjeeling to Bagdogra Airport. This accounts for winding roads, potential traffic, and unforeseen delays.
Arrive at Bagdogra Airport at least 2 hours before your domestic flight's scheduled departure.
Plan for a timely check-out from your accommodation. Settle any bills the evening before or early on your departure morning to avoid rush.

Train Departure NJP

Departing from NJP Railway Station needs attention to travel time and station procedures.

Train Departure Details

Allow 2.5-3.5 hours for travel from Darjeeling to NJP.
Arrive at NJP Railway Station at least 30-60 minutes before your train's departure.
Ensure a smooth check-out from your hotel, similar to airport departure.

Airport/Station Facilities for Departing Travelers

Bagdogra Airport Facilities

Offers basic waiting areas, a few food stalls, and restrooms. It is a small airport, so do not expect extensive shopping or dining options.

NJP Railway Station Facilities

Has basic waiting areas, food vendors, and restrooms. Platforms can be crowded, especially during peak travel times.

General Advice

Confirm your flight or train status before heading to the airport or station. Factor in potential traffic delays, especially during peak tourist season.

Departure Planning

Allocate sufficient time for transfers and check-in procedures to ensure a relaxed departure experience.

Air Travel