How to reach Darjeeling from Chennai? Must Read Before You Start

Ah, Darjeeling! The Queen of the Hills welcomes you with its beautiful panoramas, blooming tea gardens, and charming Victorian architecture. But the journey to this Himalayan paradise would seem daunting for those living in Chennai. Don’t be afraid, fellows on the road! This guide will give you all the necessary information for planning an easy trip from Chennai to Darjeeling.

Here in this blog, I will discuss how to reach Darjeeling from Chennai. There are a couple of options available:

  • Avail a train from Chennai to NJP or Siliguri. You can book up to Howrah or Sealdah and then to NJP
  • Book any flight from Chennai to Bagdogra
  • Alternatively, book a flight to Kolkata and then to Bagdogra or go by train from Kolkata to NJP
Chennai to Darjeeling Road
Chennai to Darjeeling Road

Distance of Darjeeling from Chennai

Chennai to DarjeelingDistance
Distance between Chennai to
Darjeeling by Road
2400 km
Distance between Chennai to
Darjeeling by Flight
1800 km
Travel time by train37 hrs
Chennai Airport NameChennai International Airport
Darjeeling AirportBagdogra Airport
Chennai Darjeeling Distance

By Air

Chennai to Bagdogra flight
Chennai to Bagdogra flight

You can book plane tickets directly from Chennai International Airport to Bagdogra Airport, the nearest to Darjeeling. Some of the flights are…

Flight nameMAAIXBTimeApprox Fare
IndiGo10.00 am12.35 pm2 hr 35 min8,534
IndiGo2.40 am10.55 am8 hr 15 min (one stop)9,495
AirAsia10.05 pm08.15 am10 hr 10 min12,425
Flight from MAA to IXB

In this way, the aerial view of the Eastern Himalayas. Take a taxi to Darjeeling

By Rail

Chennai to New Jalpaiguri train
Chennai to New Jalpaiguri train

Those who prefer a train journey for cost reduction may go for it. Board train from Chennai Railway Station to New Jalpaiguri Jn. It takes about 22-24 hours to reach. Some of the trains are…

Train No.Chennai (Perambur)NjpTime Takes
3.35 pm15.35 pm04.10 am36 hr 35 min
GUWAHATI EXP
#12509
05.25 19.55 pm38 hr 30 min
Train timetable Chennai CTL to NJP

There are many trains from Chennai to Howrah or Sealdah like Coromandel Exp, MAS Howrah Superfast, and TPJ Howrah Exp, then book a train to New Jalpaiguri

Then book a cab or share a taxi to Darjeeling about 70 km. It will take around 3 hrs. The road will certainly fascinate you with its surroundings

By Road

Chennai to Darjeeling distance is approx 2300 km and by road it takes around 32 hr to reach. Taxi fare is around 25000/-.

How many days are needed

If you are coming from Chennai, it is recommended to plan for at least 7 days in Darjeeling and must try Sikkim also

Non-Tourist activities in Darjeeling Tour

  • Visit the nearby tea garden and meet workers there. Ask them how they collect tea leaves and learn how to pluck them. Involve yourself with them. You can spend a joyful time with them
  • It would help if you visited the Buddhist Monastery. The calm and peaceful ambiance certainly inspires you. Click some unique pictures here
  • Talk to unknown people even the workers of hotels and restaurants. You will certainly know something about their cultures
  • Rent a bike and drive yourself on unknown hill roads to explore nature as well as yourself
  • Meet artists and teachers here who will inform you of the trends with the history of Darjeeling

Conclusion

Reaching Darjeeling from Chennai is an adventure as you journey from the southern coast to the northeastern Himalayan region. Whether you choose to take a flight or ride in a train or car, the experience is sure to be memorable.

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Q.1: Are there direct flights from Chennai to Bagdogra?

Ans. Yes, there are direct flights from Chennai International Airport (MAA) to Bagdogra Airport (IXB). You can check online with various airlines for availability and schedules.

Q.2: Can I take a train from Chennai to Darjeeling?

Ans: There is no direct train from Chennai to Darjeeling. But the nearest rail station is NJP. You can book a cab to Darjeeling

Q.3: What is the distance between New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling, and how can I reach Darjeeling from there?

Ans: The distance between New Jalpaiguri (NJP) and Darjeeling is around 70 kilometers (approximately 43 miles). To reach Darjeeling from NJP, you can hire a taxi, take a shared jeep, or opt for a scenic ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

Q.4: When is the best time to visit Darjeeling from Chennai?

Ans: The best time to visit Darjeeling is during the spring and summer months, from March to June, and in the autumn, September to November.

Q.5: How long does it take to reach Darjeeling from Chennai by air and road?

Ans: The flight from Chennai to Bagdogra takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours. After landing at Bagdogra, it will take around 3 to 4 hours to drive to Darjeeling, depending on traffic and road conditions. So, the total travel time can vary but generally falls within 7 to 8 hours.

Q.6: Are there any COVID-19-related travel restrictions or guidelines to consider?

Ans: No, there are no such restrictions now

Sharing Is Caring:

North Bengal's offbeat magic is my muse. I find adventure in whispering waterfalls, vibrant village life, and breathtaking Himalayan vistas. Join me as I delve deeper, seeking stories and experiences beyond the mainstream, from Darjeeling's tea havens to the unexplored corners of this incredible region

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