Is it better to fly or take a train?

Trains are more economical, while flights save significant time.

Which is the nearest airport?

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

Are there direct buses?

Yes, WBTC and private buses operate from Esplanade to Siliguri.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes between 11 to 13 hours depending on traffic.

Is NJP the same as Siliguri?

NJP is the main railway station serving the Siliguri metropolitan area.

Kolkata

Siliguri

Train Driving

Kolkata to Siliguri

Updated: 20 May 2026

The journey from Kolkata to Siliguri covers approximately 570 km through the heart of West Bengal. Most travelers prefer the overnight train network connecting Sealdah or Howrah to New Jalpaiguri. By road, the route follows NH 12, passing through Malda and Raiganj. The landscape transitions from the Gangetic plains to the foothills of the Himalayas. It is the primary gateway for travelers heading to Darjeeling, Sikkim, or Bhutan.

Total Distance: 570 km by road, 450 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight from CCU to Bagdogra (IXB) taking 1 hour 10 minutes.

Cheapest Way

Sleeper class train ticket costing approximately 500 INR.

Compare Kolkata to Siliguri Routes

Train

Direct

Duration

10 hours

Avg Price

500 - 2500 INR

Operator

Darjeeling Mail

Route

Sealdah to New Jalpaiguri (NJP)

Book your tickets at least 60 days in advance as this route is highly popular.

Driving

Direct

Duration

12 hours

Avg Price

3000 - 5000 INR

Operator

Self-drive

Route

NH 12 via Krishnanagar, Malda, and Raiganj

The road condition near Raiganj can be patchy; plan for daylight driving.

Travel Tips

Train Booking
Always prefer the Darjeeling Mail or Padatik Express for overnight comfort.
Road Safety
Avoid driving through the Malda stretch late at night due to heavy truck traffic.
Local Transport
Use pre-paid taxi counters at NJP station to avoid overcharging by local drivers.
Weather Prep
Carry a light jacket even in summer as the foothills get chilly at night.
Connectivity
Download offline maps as network signals can be weak near the forest stretches.

Safety Tips

Night Travel
Avoid night buses if you are a solo traveler; trains are significantly safer.
Emergency Numbers
Keep the local police station numbers of Malda and Siliguri saved.
Valuables
Keep your luggage locked and under your seat during train journeys.
Hydration
Carry bottled water as highway dhabas may not always have filtered water.