Kurseong is a charming hill station located in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, known for its tea gardens and scenic views. Kolkata, the capital city of West Bengal, serves as a major gateway for travelers heading to the hills. This route is popular among tourists seeking a peaceful retreat from the city heat and exploring the beautiful landscapes of the Eastern Himalayas.

This guide will help you understand the main travel options from Kolkata to Kurseong, including trains, buses, cars, and flights. You will also find step-by-step travel plans, practical tips, and advice on the best time to visit Kurseong to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Getting from Kolkata to Kurseong – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and economical way to reach Kurseong from Kolkata. The journey offers scenic views and a comfortable ride, especially if you book in advance.

• The nearest major railway station to Kurseong is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), about 32 km away, connected to Kolkata by several daily trains covering approximately 560 km in 10 to 12 hours.

• Popular trains include the Darjeeling Mail and Padatik Express, departing from Kolkata Howrah station, with fares ranging from ₹300 to ₹1500 depending on class and availability.

• From New Jalpaiguri, you can take a shared jeep or taxi to Kurseong, which takes around 1 to 1.5 hours via NH31 and NH110, with fares between ₹150 to ₹400.

• Train travel can be crowded during festivals and holidays, so booking tickets early through IRCTC is recommended to avoid last-minute hassles.

Bus

Buses offer a direct and budget-friendly option for traveling from Kolkata to Kurseong, though the journey is longer and less comfortable than trains or cars.

• State-run buses by NBSTC and private operators run from Kolkata’s Esplanade bus terminal to Siliguri or Darjeeling, taking about 12 to 14 hours to cover 560 km.

• From Siliguri or Darjeeling, you can catch local buses or shared jeeps to Kurseong, which is about 30 km away and takes 1 to 1.5 hours.

• Bus fares from Kolkata to Siliguri range from ₹500 to ₹900 depending on the type of bus, with sleeper and Volvo options available on some routes.

• Buses can be crowded during peak seasons and monsoon rains may cause delays, so plan accordingly and carry water and snacks for the long journey.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Kolkata to Kurseong gives you flexibility and comfort, letting you stop at interesting places along the way.

• The distance by road is approximately 560 km via NH12 and NH27, taking around 12 to 14 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• The route passes through Bardhaman, Siliguri, and scenic areas near the foothills of the Himalayas, with several toll plazas and rest stops on NH12 and NH27.

• Fuel costs can range from ₹3000 to ₹4000 depending on your vehicle’s mileage, and it is advisable to start early to avoid city traffic and reach Kurseong before dark.

• Road conditions are generally good on national highways, but narrow and winding roads near Kurseong require careful driving, especially during monsoon season.

Flight

While there is no direct flight to Kurseong, flying to nearby airports can save travel time for some travelers.

• The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, about 35 km from Kurseong, with daily flights from Kolkata taking about 1.5 hours.

• From Bagdogra, you can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to Kurseong, which takes around 1 to 1.5 hours on NH31 and NH110.

• Flight fares between Kolkata and Bagdogra typically range from ₹2000 to ₹4000, depending on the season and booking time.

• Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available at Bagdogra airport, but shared jeeps are cheaper and preferred by budget travelers.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers going from Kolkata to Kurseong, helping you organize your journey efficiently.

• Book your train or flight tickets well in advance through IRCTC or airline websites to secure the best fares and preferred timings.

• If traveling by train, plan to arrive at Howrah station early to avoid crowd rush and find your platform comfortably.

• Upon reaching New Jalpaiguri or Bagdogra, use prepaid taxi counters or trusted shared jeep services to reach Kurseong safely and affordably.

• Carry light luggage and pack essentials like water, snacks, and a raincoat, especially during monsoon months when sudden showers are common.

• Inform your accommodation in Kurseong about your arrival time so they can assist with local transport or pick-up if available.

• Download offline maps and keep your phone charged, as network coverage can be patchy in hill areas around Kurseong.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always use prepaid taxi services or trusted shared jeeps from stations or airports to avoid overcharging and ensure safety.

• Drink bottled water and eat from clean, well-reviewed eateries during your journey to avoid stomach issues common in long Indian travels.

• Book train and bus tickets online through IRCTC and official state transport portals to avoid last-minute ticket shortages and scams.

• For local travel in Kurseong, shared jeeps and taxis are common; negotiate fares beforehand or use app-based cabs where available.

• Pack light but carry warm clothes as Kurseong’s weather can be chilly, especially in early mornings and evenings.

• During monsoon, check weather and road conditions before traveling, as landslides and roadblocks can cause delays.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Kolkata to Kurseong is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant and roads are clear. Avoid traveling during peak monsoon season due to heavy rains and possible landslides.

Winter months can be cold but offer clear skies and beautiful views, while summer is warm in Kolkata but cooler in Kurseong, making it a popular escape.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Durga Puja and Christmas when trains and buses are crowded and prices rise.

• Monsoon season from June to September can cause roadblocks and delays due to landslides in the hills.

• Early morning departures from Kolkata help avoid city traffic and reach hill stations before nightfall.

• Winter fog in the Siliguri corridor can delay trains and flights, so keep buffer time if connecting to Kurseong.

Arrival at Kurseong & What to Expect

When you arrive in Kurseong, you will find a small but welcoming town with limited public transport options. Most travelers rely on shared jeeps, taxis, or walking to reach their hotels or explore nearby attractions.

Common areas to stay include the town center and nearby tea garden areas, with options ranging from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are rare, so negotiate fares clearly before starting your journey from the station or bus stop.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Kurseong from Kolkata is by taking a train to New Jalpaiguri followed by a shared jeep or taxi. This option balances comfort, cost, and travel time well for most travelers. Flights to Bagdogra also offer a quicker alternative if you prefer air travel.

Plan your trip by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and preparing for last-mile travel in the hills. With these tips and options, you can confidently enjoy your journey from Kolkata to the serene hill station of Kurseong.