Is there a direct train to Darjeeling?

No, the nearest major railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP).

How far is Siliguri from Darjeeling?

It is approximately 65 kilometers and takes 3 hours by road.

Do I need a permit for Darjeeling?

No, Indian citizens do not require a permit for Darjeeling.

Which is the best airport?

Bagdogra Airport (IXB) is the nearest airport to Darjeeling.

Are shared taxis safe?

Yes, they are a common and safe mode of transport for locals and tourists.

Darjeeling

Bus Driving

Kaliyaganj to Darjeeling

Updated: 21 May 2026

The journey from Kaliyaganj to Darjeeling covers approximately 240 kilometers through the plains of North Bengal into the Himalayan foothills. You will primarily travel via NH 12 until Siliguri, then ascend via NH 10 and the Hill Cart Road. The route is scenic, passing through tea gardens and dense forests. Public transport is best accessed by reaching Siliguri first. Expect a travel time of 7 to 8 hours depending on traffic at the Siliguri junction.

Total Distance: 240 km driving distance, 185 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Private taxi from Kaliyaganj directly to Darjeeling, taking 7 hours.

Cheapest Way

Bus from Kaliyaganj to Siliguri followed by a shared taxi to Darjeeling, costing approximately 500 INR.

Compare Kaliyaganj to Darjeeling Routes

Bus

Connecting

Duration

9 hours

Avg Price

400-700 INR

Operator

NBSTC

Route

Kaliyaganj to Siliguri (Bus), then Siliguri to Darjeeling (Bus/Shared Taxi)

Board the bus at Kaliyaganj bus stand early morning to reach Siliguri by noon.

Driving

Direct

Duration

7 hours

Avg Price

3500-5000 INR

Operator

Private Taxi

Route

Kaliyaganj - Raiganj - Dalkhola - Siliguri - Kurseong - Darjeeling

Hire a dedicated taxi from Siliguri for the final hill ascent to avoid crowded shared vehicles.

Travel Tips

Carry Woolens
Temperatures drop significantly in the hills even during summer.
Motion Sickness
The road to Darjeeling is winding; carry anti-nausea medication.
Identity Proof
Always keep a government-issued ID card handy for hotel check-ins.
Cash Availability
ATMs are available in Darjeeling, but carry sufficient cash for remote areas.
Local Transport
Walking is the best way to explore the Darjeeling Mall area.

Safety Tips

Road Safety
Avoid night travel on the hill roads due to fog and narrow turns.
Health Precautions
Drink only bottled or purified water to avoid stomach infections.
Emergency Contacts
Save the local police station number for Darjeeling town.
Weather Alerts
Check for landslide warnings during the monsoon season.