Lava is a serene hill station located in the Kalimpong district of West Bengal, known for its beautiful landscapes and peaceful environment. NJP, or New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, is the main gateway for travelers coming from various parts of India to reach this region.

This route from NJP to Lava is popular among tourists and nature lovers who want to explore the Eastern Himalayas. This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from NJP to Lava, including trains, buses, cars, and flights, with practical advice for a smooth journey.

Getting from NJP to Lava – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is suitable for reaching NJP, the nearest major railway station to Lava. From NJP, you will need to use road transport to reach Lava as there is no direct train connection.

• New Jalpaiguri (NJP) is well connected to major cities like Kolkata, Delhi, and Guwahati, making it the primary railhead for Lava travelers.

• Trains arrive frequently at NJP, with options ranging from express to superfast trains, offering travel times from Kolkata around 10-12 hours and fares between ₹500-₹1500 depending on class.

• After arriving at NJP, you must take a taxi or bus for the 85 km journey to Lava, as no direct trains connect to Lava itself.

• Booking train tickets via IRCTC in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons like winter and summer holidays.

• Be prepared for crowds at NJP during festivals and weekends; arriving early helps avoid last-minute rush and ensures smooth onward travel.

Bus

Buses are a popular and economical way to travel from NJP to Lava, especially for budget travelers and those who prefer scenic road journeys.

• State-run buses like NBSTC and private operators run regular services from Siliguri Bus Stand near NJP to Lava, covering about 85 km in 3-4 hours.

• Bus fares typically range from ₹100 to ₹250 depending on the type of bus, with frequent departures throughout the day from early morning to late afternoon.

• The route passes through NH10 and local roads, offering beautiful views but some narrow and winding stretches, so be prepared for a slightly bumpy ride.

• During monsoon season, landslides or roadblocks can cause delays, so check local weather and road conditions before traveling.

• Night buses are rare; it is best to travel during daylight hours for safety and to enjoy the landscape.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from NJP to Lava offers flexibility and comfort, allowing you to stop at scenic spots and travel at your own pace.

• The distance from NJP to Lava is approximately 85 km via NH10 and local roads, taking around 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• You can rent a car or taxi from Siliguri or NJP area; fares for a one-way taxi range from ₹2500 to ₹3500, including tolls and driver allowance.

• Self-driving is possible but recommended only if you are comfortable with hilly roads and narrow mountain routes common in this region.

• There are toll plazas on NH10, so keep some cash handy for toll payments during the journey.

• Plan your drive during daylight to avoid difficulties on winding roads and to enjoy stops at places like Lava Forest and Rachela.

Flight

There is no direct flight to Lava, but the nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport near Siliguri, which connects to NJP by road.

• Bagdogra Airport is about 95 km from Lava and serves domestic flights from major cities like Kolkata, Delhi, and Guwahati.

• From Bagdogra, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to NJP or directly to Lava; the road journey takes around 3 to 4 hours.

• Flight fares vary widely depending on the city of origin and booking time, typically ranging from ₹2000 to ₹6000 one way.

• Booking flights well in advance is advisable during peak tourist seasons to secure better prices and availability.

• From the airport, prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available, but fixed-rate taxis to Lava are preferred for hill travel.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

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

• Book your train ticket to NJP early via IRCTC to secure your seat and avoid last-minute issues during busy seasons.

• Upon arrival at NJP, collect your luggage and head to the taxi stand or bus terminal near the station for onward transport to Lava.

• If taking a bus, check the latest departure timings at Siliguri Bus Stand and buy tickets in advance if possible to avoid crowding.

• If hiring a taxi, negotiate the fare beforehand or use prepaid taxi counters to avoid overcharging, especially during peak tourist times.

• Carry some snacks and water for the road journey, as food options on the route are limited and may close early in the evening.

• Keep your mobile phone charged and use offline maps or GPS to track your route, as network coverage may be patchy in hilly areas.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always use prepaid taxis or trusted bus services to avoid scams common around NJP and Siliguri transport hubs.

• Drink only bottled water and eat from clean, popular eateries to avoid stomach issues during your journey.

• Book train and bus tickets online in advance during festivals like Durga Puja or Christmas to avoid sold-out situations.

• Local transport within Lava is limited; arrange for local taxis or guides in advance if you plan to explore nearby attractions.

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

• During monsoon (June to September), carry rain gear and check weather updates to avoid landslide-affected routes.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from NJP to Lava is during the autumn and spring months when the weather is clear and roads are safe. Winters are cold but dry, while monsoons bring heavy rain and occasional landslides.

Travel conditions can vary greatly with the season, so planning your trip accordingly will ensure a comfortable journey.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Christmas when roads and trains are crowded and prices surge.

• Monsoon season can cause delays due to landslides and slippery roads, so avoid June to September if possible.

• Early morning departures from NJP help you avoid city traffic and reach Lava during daylight hours for safer travel.

• Winter fog can reduce visibility on roads near NJP and Siliguri; mid-morning travel is safer during December and January.

Arrival at Lava & What to Expect

When you arrive in Lava, you will find a small but welcoming town with limited public transport options. Most visitors rely on local taxis or walking to reach their hotels or nearby attractions.

Accommodation is available near the main market area, which is the hub for food, shopping, and local guides. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are rare, so arranging transport in advance is advisable.

Conclusion

Traveling from NJP to Lava is best done by combining train and road transport. Arriving at NJP by train and then taking a taxi or bus to Lava offers a balance of comfort, cost, and convenience. Self-driving is an option for experienced drivers, while flights to Bagdogra provide an alternative entry point.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and arranging local transport will make your journey smooth and enjoyable. With this guide, you can confidently plan your trip from NJP to Lava and experience the beauty of this Himalayan destination without stress.