Darjeeling

The Queen of Hills — toy trains, tea gardens, and Kanchenjunga views.

verifiedLast verified: August 21, 2026

Getting There

• From Kolkata: Overnight train (Darjeeling Mail) Sealdah → NJP, sleeper ~₹375, ~10 hrs. Then shared jeep NJP → Darjeeling (~₹300/seat, 3.5 hrs).
• From Siliguri: NBSTC bus (~₹103, ~3h45m), shared jeep (~₹275–300/seat), or private cab (~₹2,500–3,800).
• Toy train: NJP → Darjeeling passenger service (~7.5 hrs, ~₹340–1,400 by class) runs on select days — book on IRCTC well ahead; cancellations happen in monsoon.

Typical Budgets

• Backpacker: ₹1,000–₹1,700/day — budget hotel (~₹800–1,400/night), shared sightseeing, Mall Road eateries.
• Mid-range: ₹2,200–₹3,800/day — heritage hotel, joyride tickets, café meals.

Practical Tips

• The Darjeeling–Ghum joyride (steam ~₹1,100–1,600, diesel ~₹630–1,000) books out in season — reserve on IRCTC before you arrive.
• Tiger Hill sunrise by shared jeep costs ~₹300–400/person; leave by 4 AM.
• Walk the Mall Road–Chowrasta stretch in the evening; most viewpoints are free.
• Carry a light rain layer even in spring — weather flips fast.

What I Wish I Knew

The toy train is an experience, not transport. If you’re short on time, take the shared jeep up and the joyride for the romance.

Permits & Notes

• No permits needed for Indian or foreign visitors in Darjeeling town.