Lava is a serene hill station located in the Kalimpong district of West Bengal. It is known for its beautiful landscapes, rich biodiversity, and peaceful environment. Kolkata, the capital city of West Bengal, serves as the main gateway for travelers heading to Lava.

This route from Kolkata to Lava is popular among nature lovers and adventure seekers. This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel, including trains, buses, cars, and flights, along with practical tips to plan your trip confidently.

Getting from Kolkata to Lava – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a comfortable and popular option for many travelers. While there is no direct train to Lava, you can take a train to nearby stations and continue by road.

• The nearest major railway station to Lava is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), approximately 120 km away. Trains from Kolkata to NJP take around 10 to 12 hours, with fares ranging from ₹500 to ₹1500 depending on the class.

• Several daily trains connect Kolkata’s Howrah Station to NJP, including the Darjeeling Mail and Padatik Express, offering frequent and reliable services.

• From NJP, you can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to Lava, which takes about 4 to 5 hours via NH10 and NH717, passing through scenic routes and small towns.

• Train travel is generally comfortable but can be crowded during festivals and holidays, so booking tickets early through IRCTC is advisable.

Bus

Buses are a budget-friendly way to reach Lava, though the journey involves multiple changes and can be long. This option suits travelers who prefer road travel and want to experience local transport.

• Direct buses from Kolkata to Lava are not available, but you can take a bus to Siliguri or Kalimpong from Esplanade Bus Terminal, which takes about 12 to 14 hours.

• From Siliguri or Kalimpong, shared jeeps or local buses run frequently to Lava, with travel times of 3 to 4 hours and fares between ₹150 and ₹300.

• State transport buses operated by NBSTC and private operators run on these routes, but services may be limited during monsoon due to landslides.

• Bus travel can be crowded and less comfortable, especially during peak tourist seasons, so plan accordingly and carry water and snacks.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Kolkata to Lava is a flexible and scenic option. The route covers around 600 km and takes approximately 12 to 14 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

• The most common route is via NH12 to Siliguri, then NH10 and NH717 to Lava, passing through towns like Bardhaman, Malda, and Kalimpong.

• Driving allows stops at rest areas, local eateries, and sightseeing spots like Dooars and Teesta River, enhancing the travel experience.

• Road conditions are generally good on national highways, but the hilly roads near Lava can be narrow and winding, requiring careful driving.

• Toll plazas are present on the highways, and fuel stations are available en route, but it’s advisable to fill up in major towns to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Self-drive is ideal for groups or families who want to travel at their own pace and carry luggage comfortably.

Flight

Flying is the fastest way to cover most of the distance, but there is no airport in Lava. The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport near Siliguri, about 120 km from Lava.

• Flights from Kolkata to Bagdogra take about 1.5 hours, with multiple daily flights operated by airlines like IndiGo and Air India.

• From Bagdogra Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to Lava, which takes around 4 to 5 hours on hilly roads.

• Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available at Bagdogra, but shared jeeps are cheaper and more common among locals.

• Booking flights early can help secure better fares, especially during tourist seasons and festivals.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers from Kolkata to Lava, helping you navigate the journey smoothly.

• Book your train or flight tickets early via IRCTC or airline websites to avoid last-minute price hikes and unavailability.

• Arrive at Kolkata Howrah Station or Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport at least 1 hour before departure to manage check-in and boarding comfortably.

• If traveling by train, reach New Jalpaiguri station and arrange a taxi or shared jeep to Lava; confirm vehicle availability in advance during peak seasons.

• For bus travelers, purchase tickets from Esplanade Bus Terminal to Siliguri or Kalimpong, then switch to local transport for Lava; keep cash handy for local fares.

• If driving, plan your route using GPS and check weather and road conditions, especially during monsoon, to avoid landslides and delays.

• Carry essential items like water, snacks, and a first-aid kit, and keep mobile chargers and offline maps ready for the hilly stretch to Lava.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always use prepaid taxis or trusted app-based cabs at airports and railway stations to avoid overcharging and ensure safety.

• Carry bottled water and avoid drinking tap water during the journey to prevent stomach issues common among travelers in India.

• Book train and flight tickets well in advance through official portals like IRCTC and airline websites to secure confirmed seats.

• Local transport in hilly areas can be irregular; confirm timings with locals or your accommodation to avoid waiting long hours.

• Pack light but include warm clothes, as temperatures in Lava can drop, especially at night, even in summer.

• During monsoon (June to September), check weather updates regularly as landslides can disrupt road travel; consider flexible travel plans.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Lava is from October to May when the weather is pleasant and roads are safer. Monsoon season brings heavy rains that can cause landslides and delays.

Winter months can be cold, so pack accordingly. Avoid traveling during major festivals like Durga Puja in Kolkata, as transport can be crowded and expensive.

• Avoid traveling during the monsoon season (June to September) due to frequent landslides and slippery roads in the hills.

• Peak tourist seasons are from October to March; book transport and accommodation early to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Early morning departures from Kolkata help avoid city traffic and reach destinations with daylight for safer road travel.

• Fog in winter mornings near Siliguri and Kalimpong can slow down road travel; plan extra time for these stretches.

Arrival at Lava & What to Expect

When you arrive in Lava, you will find a small, peaceful town surrounded by forests and hills. The main arrival points are local bus stops or taxi stands, usually located near the town center.

Local transport options include shared jeeps and taxis that can take you to nearby attractions or your accommodation. Most hotels and guesthouses offer pick-up services if informed in advance.

Accommodation options range from budget homestays to mid-range resorts, mostly clustered near the main market area. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are limited, so cash payments are common.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Lava from Kolkata is by taking a train to New Jalpaiguri followed by a taxi or shared jeep for the hill journey. This option balances comfort, cost, and travel time well for most travelers.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and preparing for hilly road travel will help you enjoy a smooth and memorable trip. With this guide, you can confidently plan your journey from Kolkata to Lava and experience the natural beauty of this charming hill station.