Darjeeling Distance From Delhi: How To Reach Darjeeling From Delhi?

The only possible reason for you to look up Darjeeling distance from Delhi is that you are planning a trip to the Queen of Hills. And wow, that sounds great! This is the perfect time to plan a trip to Darjeeling – I’ll tell you why!

1. It’s not raining in the hills now – the monsoons just bid us adieu. 
2. The area is free from tourists moving around everywhere – a summer thing here! 
3. The weather is perfect – winter slowly falling over the city with clear views of Kangchenjunga. 

And while I have talked about Darjeeling a lot in my blogs, considering I visit the area at least once every here, today I’m only going to focus on the logistics involved behind traveling to the Queen of Hills from the capital city of the country. 

On that note, in my blog, I have talked at length about:

1. Darjeeling distance from Delhi: distance overview. 

2. How to reach Darjeeling by road? 

3. How to reach Darjeeling by train? 

4. How to reach Darjeeling by air? 

5. Top pit stops between Delhi and Darjeeling.

Stay tuned.

Darjeeling Distance From Delhi: Distance Overview

Here’s a breakdown of the distance overview between Delhi and Darjeeling:

Darjeeling Distance From Delhi: How To Reach Darjeeling By Road?

For road trip enthusiasts, traveling by car or bus to Darjeeling from Delhi is an excellent option. But it is vital to note that this particular journey is going to be very long, taking up an entire day or even more, depending on the route and traffic. 

Moreover, if you are renting a private car or taking your car, you can enjoy the flexibility to stop at nearby stops and explore those destinations. 

The drive will take you 24 to 30 hours, depending on the conditions of the roads and traffic. Also, some parts of your trip will get bumpy, considering the changing terrain of the roads. 

In addition, if you want to travel by bus, then you need to take a bus to Calcutta or Siliguri first, before taking the next one to Darjeeling. Yep, there are no direct buses running between Delhi and Darjeeling. However, the journey by road is long and exhausting – but if you don’t mind, then you are in for a memorable ride! 

Advantages Of Traveling By Road:

So, there are two primary advantages of traveling by road:

1. Flexibility: Of course, choosing to travel by road usually comes with a certain level of flexibility, especially if you are traveling in your private car. So, you can stop wherever you want and explore spots along the way as well. 

2. Adventure: You can’t be a fan of road trip – and that too such long ones – without being a fan of adventure. It can get quite exciting – thrilling in fact! 

Darjeeling Distance From Delhi: How To Reach Darjeeling By Train?

If you are looking for a more comforting experience and scenic journey, then you can choose to travel by train. 

There are many train options from Delhi to New Jalpaiguri. However, the Rajdhani Express is the fastest train, completing the distance within 24 hours. Here are the details of the Rajdhani Express. (Source: IRCTC).

Some other trains plying between New Delhi and New Jalpaiguri are Tripura Sundari (14620), Mahananda Express (15484), Brahmaputra Mail (15657), etc. 

In addition, the train journey will typically take you nearly 24 to 26 hours. Also, you can easily book train tickets via the official IRCTC mobile app or website. It is vital to book your tickets well in advance, especially if you are going to Darjeeling during peak tourist season, that is, Summer and Autumn. 

Also, I think it’s fairly affordable considering train fares range from ₹800 to ₹3,500, depending on your choice of seats – Sleeper, 3AC, or 2AC. ing train fares range from ₹800 to ₹3,500, depending on your choice of seats – Sleeper, 3AC, or 2AC. 

How To Reach Darjeeling From New Jalpaiguri Junction?

Once you reach NJP or New Jalpaiguri Junction, you will have to take a private taxi or shared jeep to reach the Queen of Hills. The 70-kilometre journey will take you 3 hours or more, depending on the weather and traffic. 

While private cars will cost you between ₹2,400 and ₹3,000, a shared jeep will cost you ₹250/person. 

Advantages Of Traveling By Train:

So, there are two primary advantages of traveling by train:

1. Scenic Journey: A Journey by train will offer a beautiful opportunity to experience and enjoy the scenic countryside, the small villages, and lush greenery. 

2. Affordability: Traveling by train is usually more cost-effective than flying. 

3. Comfortable: Traveling by train is more comforting and relaxing, especially if you book an AC coach. 

Darjeeling Distance From Delhi: How To Reach Darjeeling By Train?

The most convenient and fastest way to reach Darjeeling from Delhi is by air. Just like Darjeeling doesn’t have a train station, it also lacks an airport. And the nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, 70 kms away from the hill station. 

So, the major airlines all have direct flights between Bagdogra and Delhi, including Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and GoAir. But if you ask me, always go for Indigo – and nothing else. It will take you 2 hours and 30 minutes to reach Bagdogra. 

While booking yout flight, please do so well in advance since the prices tend to fluctuate a lot, especially during peak seasons. Also, prices tend to vary – from ₹4,500 to ₹8,000 – for one-way tickets. 

How To Reach Darjeeling From Bagdogra Airport?

Once you reach Bagdogra Airport, you will have to take a private taxi or shared jeep to reach the Queen of Hills. The 70-kilometre journey will take you 3 hours or more, depending on the weather and traffic. 

While private cars will cost you between ₹2,400 and ₹3,000, a shared jeep will cost you ₹250/person. 

Advantages Of Traveling By Air:

So, there are two primary advantages of traveling by air:

1. Time-Saving: undoubtedly, flying by air can save a lot of time, making it one of the quickest ways to reach the Queen of Hills. 

2. Comfortable: Since it takes a little more than 2 hours, direct flights are super convenient and comfortable for anyone with a limited amount of time. 

Top Pit Stops Between Delhi And Darjeeling:

The major cities between Darjeeling and New Delhi are Alwar, Patna, Gwalior, Lucknow, and Agra. Moreover, the most popular city on this route is Agra – it is only 2 hours from New Delhi, and around 15 hours from Darjeeling. 

On that note, let’s look at the major stops between Delhi and Darjeeling:

1. Alwar:

Located in Rajasthan, Alwar is famous for its architectural marvels and rich history. The beautiful city is home to the Alwar City Palace, a must-visit palace built in 1793 that blends architectural styles. 

Moreover, the Palace has a museum inside – you can stop by and spend time looking at precious manuscripts. In addition, you will find the Moosi Maharani Chhatri shrine nearby – the shrine is decorated with sandstone and marble. 

Also, if you love adventure, then look for the steep trail that leads to another historic spot – the Bala Qila fort with its latticed balconies and intricate marble pillars. 

2. Agra:

Nestled on the beautiful banks of the Yamuna in Uttar Pradesh, Agra is only a few hours from Delhi – it is 330 kms away from Lucknow and 230kms from New Delhi. 

Moreover, this vibrant destination blends modernity and tradition, showcasing the city’s rich history and heritage through cultural practices and stunning architecture. 

Agra is also home to iconic historical landmarks like Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, and Taj Mahal. Agra is the perfect place to stop along the way for all architects and history enthusiasts alike. 

3. Gwalior:

Located at the heart of India, Madhya Pradesh, Gwalior is home to stunning temples and palaces. The city is also home to the famous intricately carved temple of Sas Bahu Ka Mandir and the famous Gwalior Fort. 

The best part of Gwalior Fort is its location – atop a huge, sandstone plateau that offers beautiful, panoramic views of the entire city. Moreover, inside the walls of the fort lies another historical wonder, Gujari Mahal Palace, an archaeological museum that features 15th-century artifacts. 

4. Lucknow:

Lucknow, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh, is home to historical landmarks and cultural heritage. The Bara Imambara shrine from the 18th century, and the Rumi Darwaza are notable attractions. 

Moreover, you can also visit the Bhool Bhulaiya – explore the intricate maze made up of narrow tunnels and reach the upper balconies for city views. In addition, you can check out the Victorian Husainabad Clock Tower that stands tall as a symbol of victory. 

5. Patna:

Patna, the capital city of Bihar, is located along the banks of the Ganges. Famous for its historical and cultural landmarks, Patna is home to the Patna Museum that has a casket containing Buddha’s ashes. 

Also, you can visit the Bihar Museum to check out ancient artifacts like coins and bronze sculptures. In addition, you can spend some time visiting Golghar – it’s a colonial granary that has a nice, domed structure.