Dooars, the picturesque gateway to the northeastern states of India, lies in the northern part of West Bengal. Known for its lush tea gardens, dense forests, and wildlife sanctuaries, Dooars attracts nature lovers, adventure seekers, and wildlife enthusiasts alike. This region serves as a popular base for exploring the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas and nearby Bhutan.

This guide covers all practical ways to reach Dooars, including train, bus, car, and flight options. Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or an extended nature retreat, you will find detailed travel advice, step-by-step plans, and useful tips to ensure a hassle-free journey to this enchanting destination.

Getting from Major Cities to Dooars – Main Options

Train

Train travel is one of the most convenient and economical ways to reach Dooars, especially from Kolkata, Siliguri, and nearby cities. The region is well connected by Indian Railways with several stations serving different parts of Dooars.

• Key stations:

  New Jalpaiguri (NJP) is the main railhead near Dooars, located about 40 km away. Other stations like Hasimara, Alipurduar Junction, and Dhupguri serve various parts of Dooars and are connected by local trains.

• Travel time and cost:

  From Kolkata to NJP, trains take around 10-12 hours with fares ranging from ₹500 to ₹1500 depending on class. From Siliguri, local trains take 1-2 hours and cost under ₹100.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Several express and superfast trains run daily to NJP from major cities. Booking in advance via IRCTC is recommended during peak seasons like winter and holidays.

• Seasonal tips:

  Monsoon months can cause delays due to landslides in the region. Early morning trains offer scenic views of tea gardens and forests.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From NJP or Alipurduar, taxis and shared jeeps are easily available to reach specific Dooars destinations like Gorumara or Jaldapara National Parks.

Bus

State-run and private buses provide a budget-friendly option for reaching Dooars from nearby cities. Buses connect Siliguri, Jalpaiguri, and Cooch Behar with various points in Dooars.

• Popular routes:

  Buses from Siliguri to Hasimara, Malbazar, and Dhupguri run frequently, covering distances of 40-80 km in 2-3 hours.

• Ticket costs:

  Bus fares range from ₹50 to ₹200 depending on the distance and type of bus (ordinary or deluxe).

• Comfort and availability:

  While state buses are economical, private deluxe buses offer better comfort and air conditioning. Frequency is good during daytime but limited at night.

• Road conditions:

  National Highway 31 and State Highway 12 connect Siliguri to Dooars towns. Roads are generally in good condition but may be slippery during monsoon.

• Travel tips:

  Booking tickets a day in advance is advisable during peak tourist seasons. Avoid late-night travel due to limited bus services and safety concerns.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Dooars offers flexibility and the chance to explore offbeat spots at your own pace. The region is accessible via well-maintained highways from Siliguri and Jalpaiguri.

• Route details:

  The journey from Siliguri to Dooars destinations like Gorumara or Jaldapara is about 50-70 km via NH31 and NH717, taking 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on traffic.

• Road conditions:

  Roads are mostly smooth with scenic views of tea estates and forests. Watch out for occasional potholes and wildlife crossings.

• Car rental:

  Siliguri has multiple car rental services offering self-drive and chauffeur-driven cars. Prices start around ₹1500 per day for small cars.

• Parking and fuel:

  Most tourist spots have adequate parking. Fuel stations are available in major towns but carry extra fuel if heading to remote areas.

• Travel advice:

  Avoid night driving during monsoon due to slippery roads and poor visibility. Carry a physical map or GPS device as mobile signals can be weak in forested zones.

Flight

Though Dooars does not have its own airport, the nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport near Siliguri, which connects to major Indian cities. From Bagdogra, onward travel by road or rail is required.

• Nearest airport:

  Bagdogra Airport is approximately 90 km from Dooars and serves flights from Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and other cities.

• Flight duration and cost:

  Flights from Kolkata to Bagdogra take about 1.5 hours with fares ranging from ₹2000 to ₹6000 depending on season and airline.

• From airport to Dooars:

  Taxis and shared cabs are available at Bagdogra to reach Dooars towns. The drive takes 2-3 hours via NH31.

• Booking tips:

  Book flights well in advance during winter and holiday seasons. Check for early morning flights to avoid traffic delays on the road.

• Travel advice:

  Carry cash for taxi fares as some drivers may not accept digital payments. Confirm taxi rates before starting the journey.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary helps first-time travelers plan their journey to Dooars efficiently, covering ticket booking, transfers, and local travel tips.

• Book train or flight tickets early:

  Use IRCTC for trains to New Jalpaiguri or online portals for Bagdogra flights. Booking 2-3 weeks ahead is ideal during peak seasons.

• Reach the departure point early:

  Arrive at Kolkata or Siliguri station/airport at least 1 hour before departure to avoid last-minute rush and confirm platform or gate details.

• Arrange local transport in advance:

  Pre-book taxis or shared jeeps from NJP or Bagdogra to your Dooars destination via trusted operators or apps like Ola and Uber.

• Carry light luggage and essentials:

  Pack comfortable clothes, water bottles, and snacks. Keep a physical map or offline GPS handy for areas with poor network.

• Plan arrival time during daylight:

  Try to reach Dooars towns before sunset to navigate easily and check into accommodations without hassle.

• Keep emergency contacts handy:

  Note down local police, forest department, and hotel numbers for quick assistance if needed during your trip.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety:

  Avoid isolated forest trails alone, especially after dusk. Inform your hotel or local guides about your plans when exploring wildlife areas.

• Food and water:

  Stick to bottled water and eat at reputable restaurants or lodges to prevent stomach issues common in rural areas.

• Booking strategy:

  Use IRCTC for train tickets and official airline websites for flights. For buses, MSRTC and private operators’ counters or apps provide reliable bookings.

• Local commute:

  Shared jeeps and taxis are common for short distances. Negotiate fares beforehand or use prepaid taxi counters at NJP station.

• Luggage:

  Pack light but include rain gear during monsoon and warm clothes in winter as nights can be chilly.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Monsoon (June-September) may cause roadblocks and train delays. Winter mornings can be foggy, so plan accordingly.

Best Time & Conditions

Dooars experiences a subtropical climate with distinct seasons affecting travel comfort and accessibility. The best time to visit is during the cooler months from October to March.

Monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, making roads slippery and increasing chances of landslides. Summer months can be warm but are still pleasant compared to plains.

• Avoid traveling during peak monsoon (July-August) due to frequent road closures and train delays.

• Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light and cooler temperatures for sightseeing and wildlife spotting.

• Weekdays are less crowded; avoid weekends and festival holidays to escape traffic and accommodation shortages.

• Depart early in the day from Siliguri or NJP to reach Dooars before dark, especially in winter when daylight is shorter.

Arrival at Dooars & What to Expect

Upon arrival at New Jalpaiguri or nearby stations, travelers find a bustling transport hub with options to reach various Dooars destinations. Prepaid taxi counters and shared jeep stands are located just outside the station for easy onward travel.

Dooars towns like Malbazar, Hasimara, and Alipurduar offer basic amenities, local markets, and cozy lodges. Popular attractions include Gorumara National Park, Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary, and scenic tea gardens. Local buses and taxis can be hired for sightseeing, and many hotels provide guided tours.

Conclusion

For most travelers, taking a train to New Jalpaiguri followed by a taxi or shared jeep is the most efficient and comfortable way to reach Dooars. This option balances cost, convenience, and scenic travel, making it ideal for first-timers and nature lovers alike.

With proper planning, advance bookings, and awareness of seasonal conditions, you can confidently embark on your journey to Dooars. The region’s natural beauty and tranquil environment await your exploration, promising a memorable and refreshing travel experience.