Planning a Darjeeling Trip from Kolkata
Planning a Darjeeling trip from Kolkata can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. This detailed itinerary will help you travel smoothly, explore the best places, enjoy authentic local food, and manage your budget without stress.
Day 0: Kolkata to Siliguri – Overnight Journey
The journey begins from Kolkata to Siliguri, the gateway to the hills. You can choose between a train or a bus, depending on your comfort and budget.
If you prefer traveling by train, an evening departure works best. Trains usually leave around 7:50 PM from Sealdah Station and reach Siliguri by early morning, between 8 and 9 AM. The average cost of a sleeper or AC seat is around ₹1200, making it a comfortable overnight option.
Another budget-friendly choice is traveling by bus. Buses generally start operating after 10:00 PM from Babu Ghat or Dharamtala Bus Stand. Ticket prices begin at around ₹650, and the buses arrive near Siliguri Railway Station by morning.
Both options reach Siliguri at a similar time, so you can choose whichever suits your travel style.
Day 1: Siliguri to Darjeeling – Mountain Journey
After arriving in Siliguri, take some time to freshen up and eat something. Just outside the railway station, cross the local market to reach the main road, where shared cabs for Darjeeling are easily available.
Shared cabs from Siliguri to Darjeeling usually cost around ₹250 per person, though it’s always good to negotiate. The journey takes approximately four to four and a half hours, winding through scenic mountain roads. Along the way, the cab may stop at viewpoints where you can enjoy the cool mountain air, sip hot tea, and admire the endless stretches of tea gardens. Don’t miss the chance to try momos or thukpa during short breaks.
Once you reach Darjeeling, check in to your hotel and rest. We stayed at Darjeeling Guest House, which offered clean rooms, helpful staff, and a terrace with beautiful night views of the town. Tiger Hill is about 11 kilometers away, and the average room cost was around ₹1200 per night.
After some rest, head out in the evening to explore the town.
Where to Eat in Darjeeling
Darjeeling has some incredible places to eat, and two of them are absolutely unmissable.
Glenary’s Bakery is an iconic spot that instantly transports you to another era. The old-world charm, warm interiors, and delicious food make it a place you’ll want to visit again and again.
Another must-visit is Sonam’s Kitchen, known for serving some of the best authentic local food in Darjeeling.
While you’re in town, make sure to try local favorites like momos, thukpa, churpee, aloo dum, and, of course, authentic Darjeeling tea.
Day 2: Darjeeling Sightseeing and Tiger Hill Sunrise
Day two begins early with a visit to Tiger Hill. Wake up around 4:00 AM and take a cab to the sunrise point. The cab usually costs around ₹350 per person. Watching the first rays of sunlight hit the Kanchenjunga range is a truly mesmerising experience and one of the highlights of any Darjeeling trip.
After sunrise, spend the day exploring Darjeeling’s famous attractions. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the Toy Train, offers one of the most memorable experiences in the region. A ride ticket costs around ₹1400 per person and is well worth it.
You can also visit the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, popularly known as the Red Panda Park, where entry costs ₹50. Nearby is the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, where you can explore exhibits for free or try climbing activities for around ₹250.
Other popular spots include Happy Valley Tea Estate, Batasia Loop, Darjeeling Ropeway, Ghoom Monastery, and Rock Garden. Entry fees vary, but most are quite affordable.
For sightseeing, hiring a private cab for the day is recommended and usually costs around ₹1500. Shared cabs are cheaper at around ₹400 but allow limited time at each location.
In the evening, stroll along Mall Road, enjoy local food, shop for souvenirs, and soak in the relaxed hill-station vibe before returning to your hotel for the night.
Day 3: Darjeeling to Kolkata – Return Journey
On the final day, take a shared cab back from Darjeeling to Siliguri, which costs around ₹250 per person. From Siliguri, you can return to Kolkata by train or bus. Bus fares are usually around ₹800, while train tickets typically cost under ₹1000.
If You Are Traveling from Delhi
If you are coming from Delhi, the easiest option is to take a flight to Bagdogra, which costs around ₹6000 on average. From Bagdogra Airport, shared cabs to Darjeeling are easily available at approximately ₹250 per person.
Best Time to Visit Darjeeling
The best time to visit Darjeeling is from March to May, when the weather is pleasant and the skies are mostly clear. Another excellent period is October to November, which offers the best mountain visibility.
You only need two to three days to cover the major attractions in Darjeeling comfortably.
Final Thoughts
This Kolkata to Darjeeling itinerary is ideal for first-time travelers who want a balanced mix of budget clarity, local food experiences, scenic mountain routes, and peaceful Himalayan vibes. If you’re looking for a short yet fulfilling escape to the mountains, Darjeeling is a destination that never disappoints.
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