Darjeeling, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas in West Bengal, is a charming hill station famous for its tea gardens and panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga peak. Mumbai, the bustling financial capital of India, serves as a major starting point for travelers heading to this scenic destination. This route is popular among tourists seeking a refreshing escape from city life and nature lovers eager to explore Darjeeling’s unique culture and landscape.

In this guide, you will find detailed information on the best ways to travel from Mumbai to Darjeeling, including train, bus, car, and flight options. We cover travel times, costs, and practical tips to help you plan a comfortable and efficient journey to this enchanting hill station.

Getting from Mumbai to Darjeeling – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train from Mumbai to Darjeeling is a popular choice for those who enjoy scenic rail journeys and want to experience Indian Railways. While there is no direct train to Darjeeling, you can take a train to New Jalpaiguri (NJP), the nearest major railway station, and then continue by road.

• Key stations and route:

  Board a train from Mumbai CST or LTT to New Jalpaiguri (NJP), which is about 90 km from Darjeeling. Popular trains include the Howrah Mail and Darjeeling Mail with travel times ranging from 30 to 36 hours.

• Ticket costs and classes:

  Sleeper class tickets start around ₹600, while AC 3-tier and 2-tier range from ₹1,200 to ₹2,500. Booking via IRCTC well in advance is recommended due to high demand.

• Frequency and comfort:

  Trains run daily or several times a week. AC coaches offer comfortable overnight travel, but sleeper class can be crowded during peak seasons.

• Last leg by road:

  From NJP, take a shared jeep or taxi to Darjeeling, which takes about 3 to 4 hours on winding mountain roads. Shared jeeps are economical but can be cramped.

• Scenic views and tips:

  The train journey passes through diverse landscapes, including plains and hills. Carry snacks and water, as station facilities can be basic. Avoid traveling during monsoon due to landslide risks.

Bus

Direct bus services from Mumbai to Darjeeling are limited due to the long distance and hilly terrain near the destination. However, buses are useful for the last leg from Siliguri or NJP to Darjeeling.

• Long-distance buses:

  Mumbai to Siliguri buses are rare and not recommended for comfort; better to break the journey by train or flight.

• Local buses and shared jeeps:

  From Siliguri or NJP, frequent buses and shared jeeps run to Darjeeling. These are affordable, costing around ₹100 to ₹150 per person.

• Travel time and road conditions:

  The Siliguri to Darjeeling stretch takes 3 to 4 hours on narrow, winding roads. Roads are generally well-maintained but can be busy during tourist season.

• Booking tips:

  Tickets for local buses and jeeps are usually bought on the spot. For comfort, consider pre-booking a private taxi especially during peak season.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Mumbai to Darjeeling is an adventurous option for travelers who enjoy road trips and want flexibility. The journey covers approximately 2,100 km and takes around 40 to 45 hours of driving time.

• Route details:

  The most common route is via NH 48 to Nagpur, then NH 44 through Varanasi and Siliguri, finally ascending to Darjeeling via NH 110. The route passes through plains and mountainous terrain.

• Road conditions and tolls:

  National highways are mostly in good condition, but mountain roads near Darjeeling are narrow and winding. Expect multiple toll plazas on the plains section.

• Rest stops and fuel:

  Numerous fuel stations and eateries are available on the plains. Plan overnight stops in cities like Nagpur, Varanasi, or Siliguri to avoid fatigue.

• Driving challenges:

  Mountain roads require careful driving, especially during monsoon when landslides are possible. Avoid night driving in hilly areas.

• Permits and parking:

  No special permits are needed, but parking in Darjeeling town can be limited. Use designated parking lots and consider walking or local taxis to explore.

Flight

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Darjeeling from Mumbai. Since Darjeeling does not have its own airport, travelers fly to Bagdogra Airport near Siliguri and then continue by road.

• Flight details:

  Several airlines operate direct flights from Mumbai to Bagdogra, with flight times around 3.5 to 4 hours. Prices range from ₹3,000 to ₹7,000 depending on the season and booking time.

• Bagdogra to Darjeeling transfer:

  From Bagdogra Airport, taxis and shared jeeps are available to Darjeeling, taking about 3 hours. Pre-booking a taxi is advisable for comfort.

• Airport facilities:

  Bagdogra is a small airport with basic amenities. Ola and Uber services are limited; prefer prepaid taxis or hotel pickups.

• Best booking practices:

  Book flights at least 2-3 weeks in advance to secure good fares, especially during peak tourist seasons like summer and winter holidays.

• Seasonal considerations:

  Flights may be delayed during heavy fog in winter or monsoon rains, so allow buffer time in your itinerary.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Mumbai to Darjeeling, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.

• Book your train or flight tickets early:

  Use IRCTC for trains or airline websites/apps for flights. Early booking secures better prices and availability.

• Reach the departure point early:

  Arrive at Mumbai CST or airport at least 1 hour before departure to avoid last-minute rush and check-in delays.

• Pack smartly for the climate:

  Darjeeling can be chilly, so carry warm clothes even if traveling from hot Mumbai. Also pack snacks and water for long journeys.

• Arrange local transport in advance:

  Pre-book a taxi from NJP or Bagdogra to Darjeeling to avoid waiting and inflated fares. Confirm pickup times with your hotel if possible.

• Plan rest stops if driving:

  If self-driving, schedule overnight halts in major cities to rest and refuel. Avoid night driving in hilly areas for safety.

• Stay connected and informed:

  Keep mobile data active for navigation and booking updates. Check weather and road conditions before starting the mountain leg.

Practical Travel Tips

• IRCTC booking tips:

  Use the official IRCTC website or app for train tickets. Tatkal tickets can help if you miss early booking but are costlier.

• Food and water safety:

  Carry bottled water and avoid street food during transit. Darjeeling has good eateries but drink only boiled or bottled water.

• Local commute:

  Use shared jeeps or prepaid taxis in Darjeeling. Ola and Uber are limited; negotiate fares beforehand if hailing local taxis.

• Luggage handling:

  Pack light due to multiple mode changes. Keep valuables and documents handy during transfers.

• Seasonal travel warnings:

  Avoid traveling during heavy monsoon (July-September) due to landslide risks. Winter fog can delay flights and trains.

• Safety precautions:

  Darjeeling is generally safe, but keep an eye on belongings in crowded places and avoid isolated areas after dark.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Mumbai to Darjeeling depends on weather and tourist seasons. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and clear views, while winter is cold but less crowded.

Monsoon season brings heavy rains and landslides, making travel risky. Summer is peak tourist time, so expect higher prices and crowded transport.

• Avoid peak Mumbai traffic hours when leaving, especially early mornings and evenings on weekdays.

• Plan to reach Darjeeling during daylight to navigate mountain roads safely and enjoy scenic views.

• Travel outside major festivals like Durga Puja and Christmas to avoid crowds and inflated fares.

• Check weather forecasts for Bagdogra and Darjeeling before booking flights to avoid delays due to fog or rain.

Arrival at Darjeeling & What to Expect

Upon arrival in Darjeeling, whether by road from NJP or Bagdogra, travelers are greeted by cool mountain air and stunning views of tea gardens and hills. The town is compact, with narrow streets bustling with tourists and locals.

Local transport includes shared jeeps, taxis, and walking. Popular stay areas include Chowrasta and Mall Road, close to shops and eateries. Prepaid taxis are available at NJP and Bagdogra airports, and hotel pickups can be arranged in advance.

Conclusion

Among the options, flying from Mumbai to Bagdogra followed by a taxi to Darjeeling is the most efficient and comfortable way to travel, especially for those with limited time. It significantly reduces travel time compared to trains or road trips.

However, train travel offers a unique experience for those who enjoy long journeys and scenic routes. With proper planning and advance bookings, you can confidently choose the mode that suits your preferences and budget to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Darjeeling.