Planning a trip to Darjeeling and wondering about the most convenient way to reach the Queen of Hills from New Jalpaiguri (NJP) station? Let me share my firsthand experience of taking a shared car service, one of the most popular transportation options for this route.
Getting Started at NJP Station
My journey began early morning at NJP station. Upon exiting the station, I encountered numerous taxi operators calling out destinations like Nepal, Gangtok, Kalimpong, and Darjeeling. While the standard fare from NJP to Darjeeling is typically ₹300, and ₹250 if departing from Siliguri, prices can vary based on timing and availability.
Booking Tips and Precautions
It's crucial to exercise caution when booking your ride. While many brokers might approach you offering immediate departures, it's wise to wait and book directly with legitimate operators. I opted for a Tata Sumo with a clear “Darjeeling” board display. Though the fare was slightly higher at ₹350 due to the early morning timing and limited vehicle availability, I decided to proceed rather than wait for more options.
The Journey Begins
We departed from NJP around 6:15 AM, an ideal time as the roads through Siliguri were practically empty. However, our journey encountered an unexpected delay when our vehicle got a puncture, resulting in an hour-long wait for repairs. Thanks to our driver's efforts and assistance from another driver, we were soon back on track.
Scenic Route and Breakfast Stop
The route from Siliguri to Darjeeling offers breathtaking views as you leave the city behind and enter the hills. We made a breakfast stop at Eight Mile, approximately an hour away from Darjeeling. Here, I enjoyed authentic chicken momos for ₹100 per plate. The restaurant area also featured clean restroom facilities, making it an ideal break point.
Final Stretch to Darjeeling
The final leg of our journey faced the famous “Darjeeling jam” - the local term for traffic congestion. Despite the delay, the stunning hillside views made the wait worthwhile. We finally reached the Clock Tower area around 11:00 AM, from where I walked to my hotel.
Travel Tips for Your Journey
- Standard fares: ₹300 from NJP, ₹250 from Siliguri
- Early morning departures might cost extra but offer emptier roads
- Book directly with operators displaying clear destination boards
- The journey typically includes a breakfast stop at Eight Mile
- Factor in potential delays due to traffic, especially during peak tourist season
Despite any challenges along the way, Darjeeling's charm makes the journey worthwhile. Whether you're visiting in warm or cool weather, this hill station remains a beloved destination for travelers from all over.
Remember to book your accommodation in advance and keep some flexibility in your schedule to account for potential delays.
The journey from NJP to Darjeeling by shared car not only offers an economical travel option but also provides an authentic local experience with spectacular views along the way.
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