Siliguri is one of the most important gateways to the northeast of India, and a starting point for adventures to Darjeeling, Gangtok, Bhutan, and beyond. You might be wondering how to get there, so here’s a guide covering all your options—from flights to trains and buses. If you’re working with a travel agency Siliguri, they can assist with bookings, but here’s how you can make the journey on your own.
By Plane: Quickest Way to Reach Siliguri
The Bagdogra International Airport (IXB) is the closest airport to Siliguri, situated just 14 kilometers away. It connects major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata, and Guwahati. You can also get connecting flights from Bangkok, and Druk Air operates direct flights twice weekly from Paro to Bangkok with a stop at Bagdogra.
Once you arrive at Bagdogra, taxis are readily available to take you to Siliguri, costing around ₹500. If you want to head straight to places like Darjeeling or Gangtok, direct taxis are also available from the airport. Some travelers prefer using ride-hailing apps, but keep in mind that availability can vary.
By Train: The Scenic Route to Siliguri
For those who love train travel, New Jalpaiguri Junction (NJP) is the best station to arrive at, located about a 20-30 minute drive from the center of Siliguri. NJP is one of the busiest stations in North Bengal, connecting to nearly all major cities in India, except Goa, Pune, Haridwar, and Surat.
NJP offers a range of train services, including the Rajdhani Express, Vistadome Express, Humsafar Express, AC Superfast Express, and even a Shatabdi Express train. There’s also an international train from Bangladesh, the Mitali Express, for travelers coming from Dhaka. NJP also connects the broad-gauge line to the historic narrow-gauge Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.
If you arrive at NJP, you can take a bus from North Bengal State Transport Corporation (NBSTC) to the city center, or catch a taxi. Prepaid taxi booths and ride-hailing options are available right outside the station, offering convenient transport to various parts of the city.
Alternative Train Stations in Siliguri
Apart from NJP, Siliguri Junction and Siliguri Town railway station are additional options. While mostly servicing local routes, Siliguri Junction has a few long-distance trains like the Mahananda Express from Delhi and Kanchankanya Express from Sealdah. This station is also a changeover point for broad-gauge and narrow-gauge trains.
Siliguri Town railway station, though smaller, is another local option. You may not find as many long-distance trains here, but it’s convenient for getting around the region if you’re using public transport.
By Bus: Budget-Friendly Travel to Siliguri
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to reach Siliguri, buses are a great choice. The Tenzing Norgay Bus Terminus is the main bus station in Siliguri, with regular bus services from cities like Kolkata. NBSTC operates buses from Kolkata to Siliguri, with the overnight “Siliguri Rocket” departing from Kolkata at 8 PM and reaching Siliguri around 8 AM. Another option is the Royal Cruiser Volvo bus service, which is comfortable and reliable, with AC and non-AC options.
For travelers from Bangladesh, there are regular buses from Dhaka to Siliguri under a joint agreement between Indian and Bangladeshi authorities. BRTC buses leave Dhaka at night and reach the Changrabanda border crossing in the early morning. After clearing customs, passengers board Indian buses to reach Siliguri in about three hours.
Bhutanese travelers can take buses from Phuentsholing to Siliguri, with daily services leaving at 7:30 AM and 2 PM. The journey takes around four hours. A deluxe bus service is also available for direct travel between Siliguri and Kathmandu, with a one-way fare around ₹2,000.
Other Options to Explore in Siliguri
Siliguri has become a popular stop for travelers due to its easy access to destinations in the Himalayan foothills and nearby countries. If you’re working with a travel agency Siliguri, they can help arrange your itinerary, especially if you plan to cross borders into Bhutan or Nepal.
Final Tips for Planning Your Trip
If you’re planning to visit during peak tourist seasons, be sure to book your flights, trains, or buses in advance, as tickets can sell out quickly. Taxi fares from both the airport and NJP to Siliguri are reasonable, but it’s still good to confirm the rates before you start the trip.
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