How many days do you need in Darjeeling from Kolkata by train?

This itinerary covers 3 days in Darjeeling from Kolkata by train, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Darjeeling from Kolkata by train?

Plan your perfect 3 days trip to Darjeeling from Kolkata by train. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Scenic Train Journey from Kolkata to Darjeeling with a 3-Day Darjeeling Exploration

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Day 1: Train Journey

Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri, India on May 15, 2025

5:30am

Early morning train departure from Kolkata

Board the Darjeeling Mail or another direct train from Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri station. The journey takes approximately 10 to 12 hours through scenic Bengal landscapes.

INR 800 to 1500, 12h0m

6:00am

Breakfast on the train

Enjoy breakfast either from the station stalls before departure or opt for onboard catering with packed meals to keep refreshed during the journey.

INR 100 to 200, 0h30m

12:00pm

Lunch on the train

Have lunch on board or bring along packed meals to savor while enjoying the countryside views.

INR 150 to 250, 0h45m

6:00pm

Arrival at New Jalpaiguri

Reach New Jalpaiguri station where you will prepare to take a cab or shared jeep for the hill ascent to Darjeeling.

INR 100, 0h30m

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Day 2: Darjeeling Arrival & Sightseeing

Darjeeling, India on May 16, 2025

7:00am

Drive from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling

Take a shared jeep or private taxi from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling. This scenic 3-hour journey ascends the Himalayas with beautiful views.

INR 700 to 1200, 3h0m

10:30am

Breakfast at Glenary's Bakery

Start your day with freshly baked pastries and a cup of Darjeeling tea at this nostalgic café open from 7am to 8pm.

INR 200, 0h45m

11:30am

Visit Tiger Hill

Experience a breathtaking sunrise and panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga mountain peak. The site opens early around 4:30am but visiting late morning allows serene views without crowds.

Free, 1h30m

1:30pm

Lunch at Kunga Restaurant

Savor authentic Tibetan and Nepali cuisine including momos and thukpa in this popular eatery open till 10pm.

INR 300, 1h0m

3:00pm

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway ride

Enjoy a short toy train ride from Darjeeling station to Ghoom station, a UNESCO World Heritage experience operational from 10am to 4pm.

INR 90, 2h0m

5:30pm

Visit Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park

Explore Himalayan wildlife at this zoo specializing in rare species like the snow leopard. Open till 5pm; an afternoon visit allows a quiet experience.

INR 60, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Park Restaurant

Dine with mixed Indian and continental options with a cozy ambiance, open till 10pm.

INR 500, 1h30m

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Day 3: Darjeeling Culture & Departure

Darjeeling, India on May 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Sonam's Kitchen

Enjoy organic and locally sourced breakfast options including fresh coffee from 7am to 11am.

INR 250, 0h45m

9:00am

Visit Peace Pagoda

Visit this serene Japanese Buddhist stupa offering tranquil views and amicable surroundings. Open from 8am to 5pm.

Free, 1h0m

10:30am

Explore the Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre

Learn about Tibetan culture, handicrafts, and resilience by visiting this centre, open from 9am to 5pm.

Free, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Glenary's Restaurant

Relish an elegant lunch with views, serving continental and Indian cuisine, open till 9pm.

INR 400, 1h0m

2:00pm

Stroll along Mall Road

Leisurely walk on the bustling Mall Road with numerous shops, cafes and scenic vistas, open all day.

Free, 2h0m

4:00pm

Drive down to New Jalpaiguri

Take a taxi or jeep back to New Jalpaiguri station to catch the evening or night train returning to Kolkata.

INR 700 to 1200, 3h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at the station or on train

Have a quick meal at New Jalpaiguri railway station or enjoy dinner packed for the train ride back to Kolkata.

INR 200 to 400, 0h45m

9:00pm

Board train to Kolkata

Begin overnight journey from New Jalpaiguri to Kolkata, a convenient and scenic travel option.

INR 800 to 1500, 12h0m

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Itinerary created by Plantrip Team May 14, 2025 AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Scenic Train Journey from Kolkata to Darjeeling with a 3-Day Darjeeling Exploration

Day 1: Train Journey

5:30am

6:00am

12:00pm

6:00pm

Day 2: Darjeeling Arrival & Sightseeing

7:00am

10:30am

11:30am

1:30pm

3:00pm

5:30pm

7:00pm

Day 3: Darjeeling Culture & Departure

8:00am

9:00am

10:30am

12:30pm

2:00pm

4:00pm

7:30pm

9:00pm

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