Is Malda safe for tourists?

Yes, it is a popular historical destination and safe for visitors.

Hire a local taxi from Malda town for a day trip to Gour.

Are there hotels in Malda?

Yes, there are several budget and mid-range hotels available.

Is it better to take a train?

Yes, trains are faster and more comfortable than buses.

What is Malda famous for?

It is famous for its historical ruins and mango production.

Train Driving

Panighata to Malda

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Panighata to Malda covers approximately 230 kilometers through the heart of North Bengal. You can travel via NH 12, which connects Siliguri to Malda. Trains are highly efficient, with several daily services from New Jalpaiguri (NJP) to Malda Town. The route passes through the plains of Uttar Dinajpur. Expect a travel time of 6 to 7 hours depending on your chosen mode.

Total Distance: 230 km driving distance; 190 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Train takes 5 hours, significantly faster than road travel.

Cheapest Way

Train from NJP to Malda Town is the most cost-effective.

Compare Panighata to Malda Routes

	Train Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	5 hours	7 hours
Avg Price	200-600 INR	4000-5500 INR
Operator	Teesta Torsa Express	Private Taxi
Route	New Jalpaiguri (NJP) to Malda Town (MLDT).	Panighata - Siliguri - Islampur - Raiganj - Malda via NH 12.
Tip	Trains are the most reliable way to reach Malda from North Bengal.	The road is mostly flat but can be busy with heavy vehicle traffic.

Travel Tips

Train Booking
Book your train tickets in advance to ensure a seat on popular routes.
Road Conditions
NH 12 is undergoing expansion; expect some diversions and construction work.
Local Cuisine
Try the famous 'Fazli' mangoes if visiting during the summer season.
Accommodation
Stay near Malda Town station for easy access to transport and sightseeing.
Language
Bengali is the primary language, but Hindi is widely understood.

Safety Tips

Traffic
Be cautious of heavy truck traffic on NH 12 during the night.
Personal Safety
Keep your bags locked and secure while traveling on public transport.
Emergency
Keep the contact number of your hotel and local taxi services.
Hydration
Carry water as the region can get quite hot during the day.