Travelling from Bagdogra Airport to Darjeeling

Getting Ready for Your Adventure: Travel Guide from Bagdogra Airport to Darjeeling Town

Welcome to the enchanting journey from Bagdogra Airport to the picturesque town of Darjeeling. Nestled amidst the lush hills of the Indian state of West Bengal, this route promises breathtaking views, cultural experiences, and memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you're a solo traveller, a family, or a group of friends, this travel guide will ensure you make the most of your journey.

Bagdogra Airport to Darjeeling Travel Distance might be different than what Google map tells you.

If you search distance from Bagdogra to Darjeeling you might find it to be 68 Km and travel time between 2 to 3 hours depending on season and time of day you are traveling.

In reality, there are at least two other routes which you might also want to consider and this is the reason why. The standard route to Darjeeling is known as Rohini Road, this route is wider and most traffic follows this route. This makes the route crowded and less scenic. You may alternatively try the Pankhabari road, which will also take a similar time and the travel distance from Bagdogra Airport to Darjeeling would remain the same at about 65 km. But this route is less crowded and more beautiful. The third route is via Mirik. This is suggested if you arrive during the morning hours of the day and does not have any plans in Darjeeling during the afternoon. You may travel from Bagdogra to Darjeeling via Mirik. The driver will halt at Mirik next to Mirik Lake and you can visit the beautiful Mirik Lake and enjoy your journey more. There are several tourist attractions on this route such as Nepal border Pashupati market, beautiful tea garden landscape etc. Travel through this route would be about 85 km and would take 3.5 to 4 hours.

Our Bagdogra to Darjeeling taxi service

As you arrive at Bagdogra Airport, you will find our driver waiting for you outside with your name placard. The driver's number is shared with the guest normally about 6 hours before arrival time. We will help you board the awaiting vehicle and take you to Darjeeling town.

We have been serving guests on this route for more than 20 years now. All our drivers are locals and are well-trained and highly experienced.

Navigating the Path: Transportation Options from Bagdogra to Darjeeling

The vehicles we provide for your journey from Bagdogra Airport to Darjeeling are the following:

Small Car: This is a convenient option and offers a personalized experience if you are part of a group of a maximum of 3 passengers and are not carrying a lot of luggage. The small cars can be either a hatchback or a sedan and these are relatively comfortable as well as less expensive choice. Our small cars fleet includes Maruti Suzuki Alto, Maruti Suzuki Dzire, Tata Indica and similar other vehicles.

Innova Crysta: This is considered a luxury travel option and is also the most expensive choice for travelling from Bagdogra to Darjeeling. The Innova Crysta can accommodate a maximum of 7 passengers.

Other MUVs: These include a variety of semi-luxury vehicles such as Scorpio, Xylo, the Older version of Innova etc.

Tata Sumo: If you are part of a group of 8 passengers, then this is the only option you have. Tata Sumo is the only non-air-conditioned vehicle that we offer.

Exploring the Route: Route description

The original road to Darjeeling from the plains was known as the Hill Cart Road, a reminder of the British time when bullock carts used to ply on this hilly road. The road was later renamed after Tenzing Norgey, the famous mountaineer. However the old name stuck and it is still referred to by its original name by most people. It is also the National Highway 110 (previously State Highway 55). This historical road is rarely used by tourists nowadays as some shorter routes have come up over the years. The most popular route is known as the Rohini Road. From the Airport to Rohini is about an hour's drive and 30 km. At Rohini, we start climbing the hills and with a steep climb within half an hour, we will reach an altitude of about 5000 feet to reach Kurseong (about 15 km). From Kurseong we will follow the Hill cart road, the inclination is no longer stiff and on a clear day, you will get mesmerizing views of the surrounding hills including views of Mt. Kanchenjunga. About an hour's drive and 25 km later you will reach Ghum, the highest rail station in India. Once you cross Ghum you are on the outskirts of Darjeeling town, though the main town market area is further 7 km away. This last 7 km can be congested during busy hours as this is the main road entering the hill station.

Most of Darjeeling Hotels are accessible by vehicle, however, there is an area which is completely out of bounds for all motorised transportation. Talk to your hotel beforehand regarding vehicle approach to the hotel to avoid last-moment hindrances.

Must-See Stops en Route from Bagdogra to Darjeeling

As you ascend into the hills, you'll encounter captivating sites and attractions along the way:

Kurseong: Make a stop in this charming town known for its tea gardens and the iconic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.

Ghoom: Visit the Ghoom Monastery, one of the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in the region.

Batasia Loop: Marvel at the engineering wonder of the Batasia Loop, a spiral railway track offering panoramic views.

Tea Plantations: Admire the lush tea plantations that make the Darjeeling region famous.

Planning Your Timeline: Estimated Travel Duration from Bagdogra to Darjeeling

The journey from Bagdogra to Darjeeling typically takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. It's advisable to plan your travel during daylight hours to enjoy the scenic beauty to the fullest.

Packing Tips for the Journey: Essentials for a Comfortable Travel Experience

Warm Clothing: Due to the higher altitude, Darjeeling tends to be cooler, so pack layers and warm clothing.

Rain is also common in Darjeeling at any time of the year. Don't forget to carry a small umbrella.

Comfortable Shoes: Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring the local attractions.

Camera and Binoculars: Don't forget your camera to capture the breathtaking views, and binoculars to appreciate the panoramic landscapes.

Travel Essentials: Carry essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and any necessary medications.

Arriving in Style: Navigating Your Arrival and First Impressions at Darjeeling Town

Upon arrival in Darjeeling, you'll be greeted by cool mountain air and stunning views. Check in to your chosen accommodation, which could be a cosy hillside cottage, a charming guesthouse, or a luxurious hotel. Take some time to relax and soak in the serene atmosphere.

Flexible Travel: Dealing with Unexpected Changes and Delays Along the Route

While the journey is usually smooth, weather conditions and road closures can occasionally cause delays. Maintain flexibility in your travel plans and use any unexpected breaks as opportunities to explore the surrounding beauty.

Documenting Your Adventure: Tips for Capturing Memorable Moments

Darjeeling's landscapes are a photographer's dream. Capture sunrise views, local interactions, and charming architecture. Don't forget to put down your camera at times to fully immerse yourself in the experience.

Darjeeling to Bagdogra Return Journey

For your return journey from Darjeeling to Bagdogra, remember to keep some extra time in your hand. Bagdogra airport is often crowded during peak season and it might take some extra time to get inside and check in. Add to this the traffic snarl that may occur while entering or exiting Darjeeling town during peak season. We strongly recommend starting a minimum of 5 hours before your flight departure time from Darjeeling. If it is tourist season and you want a relaxed travel experience, we would recommend a 7-hour gap. Our vehicles will also pick you up from Darjeeling and drop you off at the airport.

Local Sight Seeing at Darjeeling

The typical local sightseeing of Darjeeling town includes an early morning visit to Tiger Hill, a visit to monasteries, The Darjeeling Zoo, and the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute among other places. This is typically known in the tourism circle as the 3+7 point sightseeing. It takes the better part of a day to cover these places. Talk to our transport consultants to book your sightseeing activity. If you are staying in Darjeeling for several days, you might as well wish to go to the nearby attractions outside of town on a day visit. Our consultants will also help you with this by planning and providing you with the vehicle.