Darjeeling, commonly known as the “Queen of the Hills” is an enchanting town located in the lower Himalayas. With stunning vistas of Kanchenjunga, the third-tallest peak globally Darjeeling offers a stunning landscape to its visitors. In that way, it is a fascinating mix of nature’s beauty, colonial leftovers, and lively cultural practices. The town is known for its lush green tea plantations, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and a fascinating history of British colonial impact that visitors can discover at their own pace.
Where is Darjeeling Located?
Darjeeling, the Queen of the Hills is located in the state of West Bengal. Surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful culture, Darjeeling is a thriving tourist destination.
How to Reach Darjeeling by Train, Air or Taxi
By Train
One of the most beautiful and memorable experiences will be the journey to Darjeeling by train. The closest main railway station is New Jalpaiguri(NJP), located about 88 kilometers away from Darjeeling. NJP is connected to all major cities in India, including Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore and Guwahati.
You have two main options from NJP:
- Toy Train: From NJP to Darjeeling, the famous narrow-gauge Toy Train is available, giving wonderful views of the hills, tea gardens, and forests. It takes about 7-8 hours, though slow, but highly memorable. It passed through some of the most iconic spots like Ghoom, which is the highest railway station in India, and then the very famous Batasia Loop.
- Shared Taxis or Private Vehicles: You may also avail a shared taxi or a private vehicle from NJP. The road journey is about 3-4 hours long, depending on the traffic and weather. Of course, you’ll be blown away with winding roads and by the scenery that comes through crossing small towns and villages, giving you a feel for the local lifestyle.
By Air
The nearest airport to Darjeeling is situated in Bagdogra, about 70 kilometers away. However, the city of Bagdogra has regular flights from major Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai, operated by several airlines.
You can reach Darjeeling from Bagdogra by:
- Taxi or Private Car: One can hire taxis which are readily available outside the airport. The drive to Darjeeling is about 3-4 hours long. On the way, this route turns very scenic with views of lush green tea gardens, rivers, and rolling hills of the Himalayas.
- Helicopter Service: You can also use the helicopter services from Bagdogra to Darjeeling, which is quicker and more luxurious, and from high above, you get to see the beauty of the landscape. But the service depends on their availability and the weather conditions.
Best Time to Visit Darjeeling
Though being an all-year destination, the best time to visit Darjeeling depends on the priority of the visit. The following are a few:
Spring
This happens to be one of the best times to visit, as the temperature varies from 10°C to 20°C. The weather is at its best during the spring season, with hills adorned by blooming rhododendrons and magnolias. Excellent time for outdoor activities like trekking and sightseeing, this attracts more people to visit during this time.
Autumn—September to November
This is the other best time with clear skies and views of snow-capped peaks looking magnificent. The temperature becomes quite comfortable, which makes it apt for roaming about in the town and the nearby attractions. The famous Darjeeling Tea also starts getting harvested during this period, offering a chance to visitors to experience the tea culture.
Winter (December to February)
For those who like the cold, winters are cold with the temperature often dipping below freezing point. The mountains, caps covered with snow, will be a delight and, if you’re lucky, you might get to see it snow. However, due to the snowing, some of the roads will be closed, so plan accordingly.
Monsoon
Torrential rains pour over Darjeeling during the monsoon season, often causing landslides and blocking roads. Though the town is lush green, this isn’t the best time for sightseeing. However, if you love the rain or just prefer a quieter time, then this could be your time to visit.
Best Tourist Places Near Darjeeling Railway Station
In case you have some time to roam before getting to your hotel if traveling by train, here’s what you can do around the station:
Batasia Loop
Situated 5 km from Darjeeling Railway Station, the Batasia Loop is an engineering marvel. It is a spiral railway track where the Toy Train makes a complete loop. From here, one can get panoramic views of the surrounding hills and the Kanchenjunga range. Here, one comes across a beautiful garden and a war memorial in honor of Gorkha soldiers.
Ghoom Monastery
8 km from the station is Ghoom Monastery, also known as the Yiga Choeling Monastery, one of the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in Darjeeling. It has a beautiful environment, suitable for meditating and sitting in silence with the presence of a 15-foot-high statue of Maitreya Buddha.
Chowrasta, or Mall Road
This place is the heart of Darjeeling, and only a short walk or drive from this station. This non-vehicular area is ideal for a leisurely promenade, shopping, or simply relaxing in a classic café while enjoying the view of the mountain.
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Museum
Situated right there at the very station of Darjeeling, it contains lots of history and importance dealing with the Toy Train. A must-visit for railway enthusiasts, those interested in the heritage of the region, and people who just love trains.
Conclusion
From the fun of riding the Toy Train and visiting historic monasteries to soaking in the beauty of nature, Darjeeling offers something for everyone. It is well-linked by trains and flights and has multiple attractions waiting to be discovered. It retains the top position in every traveler’s chart for reasons as diverse as adventure, culture, and tranquility.
Also Know- How to Reach Lakshadweep by Train, Air Or Ship
