Jaigaon is a bustling border town in West Bengal, located near the India-Bhutan border. It serves as the gateway for travelers heading to Bhutan’s Phuentsholing and attracts many visitors for trade and tourism.

This route is commonly traveled by tourists, traders, and locals due to its strategic location and connectivity. This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Jaigaon using different transport modes, along with practical travel tips and step-by-step planning advice.

Getting from Major Cities to Jaigaon – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train to Jaigaon is popular for its affordability and comfort. The nearest railway station is Hasimara, which connects well with major cities like Kolkata and New Jalpaiguri.

• Hasimara Railway Station is about 8 km from Jaigaon and is well connected to Kolkata, Siliguri, and New Jalpaiguri via daily trains, making it a convenient rail option for travelers.

• From Hasimara station, you can take shared autos or taxis to Jaigaon; the fare usually ranges between ₹50 to ₹100, and the journey takes around 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.

• Train travel duration from Kolkata to Hasimara ranges from 8 to 10 hours, with fares between ₹300 to ₹700 for sleeper and AC classes, offering a comfortable overnight journey.

• During monsoon, train delays are common due to track maintenance near the Dooars region, so plan accordingly and check IRCTC updates before booking.

• Hasimara station has basic amenities and food stalls, but it is advisable to carry water and snacks for longer waits or connections.

Bus

Buses are a widely used option for reaching Jaigaon, especially from Siliguri and nearby towns. State-run and private buses operate regularly, offering flexible schedules.

• West Bengal Transport Corporation (WBTC) and North Bengal State Transport Corporation (NBSTC) run direct buses from Siliguri to Jaigaon, covering approximately 165 km in 5 to 6 hours.

• Bus fares from Siliguri to Jaigaon typically range from ₹150 to ₹350 depending on the type of bus, such as ordinary, deluxe, or Volvo services.

• Bus terminals in Siliguri like Tenzing Norgay Bus Terminus have frequent departures, but buses can get crowded during weekends and festival seasons, so book tickets early.

• Road conditions on NH17 and NH317 are generally good, but during monsoon, landslides and waterlogging can cause delays, especially in hilly sections.

• There are several rest stops with food stalls along the route, including at Hasimara and Alipurduar, offering local snacks and tea.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Jaigaon offers flexibility and comfort, ideal for travelers who prefer to explore at their own pace. The roads are scenic, passing through the Dooars region.

• The route from Siliguri to Jaigaon via NH17 and NH317 covers about 165 km and takes around 4.5 to 5.5 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Car rentals and self-drive options are available in Siliguri, with daily rates starting from ₹1500 for small cars, making it a convenient choice for groups or families.

• Be prepared for toll plazas on NH17 and NH317, with toll charges totaling around ₹150 to ₹250 for the entire journey.

• Driving during monsoon requires caution due to slippery roads and occasional landslides; check weather and road updates before starting.

• Fuel stations are available en route at regular intervals, including in Hasimara and Alipurduar, ensuring no long stretches without refueling options.

Flight

While Jaigaon does not have its own airport, the nearest airports provide convenient access for travelers coming from distant cities.

• Bagdogra Airport near Siliguri is the closest airport, approximately 165 km from Jaigaon, with regular flights connecting to Kolkata, Delhi, and other major cities.

• From Bagdogra Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to Jaigaon, which takes about 4.5 to 5 hours by road, with fares ranging from ₹1500 to ₹2500.

• Advance booking of taxis is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid last-minute price surges or unavailability.

• Bagdogra Airport has good facilities including car rentals, prepaid taxi counters, and app-based cab services like Ola and Uber for onward travel.

• Flight fares to Bagdogra vary seasonally, with cheaper rates during off-peak months and higher prices during festivals and holidays.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers to Jaigaon, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey.

• Book your train or bus tickets in advance through IRCTC or official transport websites to secure your seat and avoid last-minute rush, especially during weekends and holidays.

• If traveling by train, arrive at your departure station at least 30 minutes early to navigate ticket counters and platform changes comfortably.

• Upon arrival at Hasimara station or Siliguri bus terminal, use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs to reach Jaigaon safely and avoid overcharging by local drivers.

• Carry sufficient water and light snacks for the last leg of the journey, as local food options may be limited or closed during odd hours.

• Keep your ID and travel documents handy, as you may need them at the Bhutan border near Jaigaon for verification and permits.

• Use offline maps or GPS apps to track your route and communicate with drivers, which helps in avoiding wrong turns and unnecessary delays.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always use prepaid taxi services or trusted app-based cabs like Ola or Uber in Siliguri and Jaigaon to ensure fair pricing and safety during local travel.

• Drink only bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach issues, and try local snacks from hygienic stalls to enjoy authentic flavors safely.

• Book your train and bus tickets at least a week in advance during peak tourist seasons like winter and festivals to avoid sold-out situations.

• Carry light luggage and keep valuables close, as crowded buses and trains can be targets for pickpockets, especially near busy stations.

• Be prepared for sudden weather changes; carry rain gear during monsoon and sunscreen during summer for a comfortable journey.

• Local buses and shared autos are available for short distances within Jaigaon but confirm fares before boarding to avoid confusion.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Jaigaon is during the winter months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and roads are dry. Summer can be hot, and monsoon brings heavy rains that may disrupt travel plans.

Planning your trip outside major festivals like Durga Puja and Diwali helps avoid heavy traffic and fully booked transport services.

• Avoid traveling during the monsoon months of June to September due to frequent landslides and waterlogging on NH17 and NH317, which can cause delays and hazards.

• Peak traffic occurs during winter holidays and Bhutanese festivals, so book tickets and accommodations well in advance to secure availability.

• Early morning departures are recommended to avoid traffic jams and reach Jaigaon before dusk, especially if traveling by road.

• Fog in the Dooars region during late winter mornings can reduce visibility on roads and rail tracks, so allow extra travel time during this period.

Arrival at Jaigaon & What to Expect

Upon arrival in Jaigaon, you will find a busy town with a mix of Indian and Bhutanese cultures. The town acts as a commercial hub with many shops, hotels, and eateries catering to tourists and traders.

Local transport options include shared autos, cycle rickshaws, and app-based cabs for short distances. Prepaid taxi stands are available near bus stops and Hasimara railway station for safer travel. Popular areas to stay include the main market and areas close to the Bhutan border for easy access.

Conclusion

Traveling to Jaigaon is straightforward with multiple options including train, bus, car, and flights to nearby airports. The train to Hasimara followed by a short taxi ride is often the most efficient and economical choice for many travelers.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and using prepaid transport services will help you enjoy a smooth journey. With this guide, you can confidently plan your trip to Jaigaon and experience the unique charm of this border town.