Darjeeling, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas in West Bengal, is a renowned hill station famous for its tea gardens and panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga. Pune, a bustling city in Maharashtra, serves as a major starting point for travelers seeking a refreshing escape to the mountains. This route is popular among tourists looking for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation to enjoy Darjeeling's cool climate and scenic beauty.

In this guide, you will find detailed information on the best ways to travel from Pune to Darjeeling, covering trains, buses, flights, and self-drive options. We will also provide a step-by-step travel plan, practical tips, and advice on the best time to visit to help you plan your trip confidently.

Getting from Pune to Darjeeling – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train from Pune to Darjeeling is a popular choice for those who enjoy scenic rail journeys and want to experience Indian Railways' extensive network. Although there is no direct train to Darjeeling, you can reach nearby stations and continue by road.

• Key stations:

  Board a train from Pune Junction (PUNE) to New Jalpaiguri (NJP), the nearest major railway station to Darjeeling, approximately 615 km from Siliguri. The train journey takes around 32 to 36 hours depending on the train chosen.

• Popular trains:

  Trains like the Pune–Kamakhya Express and Pune–Guwahati Express connect Pune to New Jalpaiguri. Book tickets via IRCTC well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

• From NJP to Darjeeling:

  After arriving at New Jalpaiguri, you can hire a shared jeep or taxi for the 70 km uphill drive to Darjeeling, which takes about 3 to 4 hours on the winding NH10 route.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Trains offer sleeper and AC classes, but the long duration can be tiring. Night trains are convenient to save daytime for sightseeing.

• Seasonal tips:

  Avoid traveling during monsoon months (June to September) by train due to potential landslides near Darjeeling. Booking early is crucial during winter holidays and summer vacations.

Bus

Bus travel from Pune to Darjeeling is less common due to the long distance and multiple state crossings, but it remains an option for budget travelers who prefer road travel.

• Route and operators:

  There are no direct buses from Pune to Darjeeling. Travelers usually take buses from Pune to Kolkata or Siliguri and then board local buses or shared taxis to Darjeeling.

• Duration and cost:

  Pune to Kolkata by bus can take over 36 hours, costing ₹1500–₹2500. From Siliguri to Darjeeling, local buses or shared jeeps cost around ₹150–₹300.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Long-distance buses may be sleeper or semi-sleeper, but the journey is very long and can be uncomfortable. Frequent breaks and overnight stops are advisable.

• Travel tips:

  Booking tickets through MSRTC or private operators online is recommended. Avoid traveling by bus during winter nights due to cold and foggy conditions in the hills.

Car/Self-Drive

Driving from Pune to Darjeeling offers flexibility and the chance to explore multiple destinations en route. However, it requires careful planning due to the long distance and varied road conditions.

• Route details:

  The most common route is via NH53, NH19, and NH10, covering approximately 2,200 km and taking around 40 to 45 hours of driving time, usually split over 3 to 4 days.

• Road conditions:

  Highways like NH53 and NH19 are generally in good condition. The last stretch from Siliguri to Darjeeling involves hilly roads with hairpin bends and narrow lanes.

• Stops and accommodations:

  Plan stops in cities like Nagpur, Varanasi, and Siliguri for rest and refueling. Booking hotels in advance is advisable during peak seasons.

• Permits and tolls:

  Be prepared for multiple toll plazas and ensure your vehicle documents and permits are in order for interstate travel.

• Driving tips:

  Avoid night driving in the hills due to fog and slippery roads, especially during monsoon and winter. Carry warm clothes and emergency supplies.

Flight

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Darjeeling from Pune, especially for travelers with limited time. However, there are no direct flights to Darjeeling; the nearest airport is Bagdogra.

• Flight route:

  Fly from Pune Airport (PNQ) to Bagdogra Airport (IXB) via connecting flights in Delhi, Kolkata, or Guwahati. Total flight time including layovers ranges from 6 to 10 hours.

• From Bagdogra to Darjeeling:

  Bagdogra is about 70 km from Darjeeling. You can hire prepaid taxis or shared jeeps at the airport for a 3 to 4-hour scenic drive uphill.

• Airlines and booking:

  Airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet operate connecting flights. Book tickets early on platforms like MakeMyTrip or Cleartrip for better fares.

• Comfort and convenience:

  Flights save significant travel time and reduce fatigue. Early morning flights are preferable to avoid delays and traffic on the road to Darjeeling.

• Seasonal considerations:

  Flight prices may surge during festivals and holidays. Weather conditions in winter may cause occasional delays at Bagdogra.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Pune to Darjeeling, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.

• Book your train or flight tickets early:

  Use IRCTC for trains or airline websites/apps for flights. Early booking secures better seats and prices, especially during peak seasons.

• Pack smartly for hill weather:

  Darjeeling can be chilly, so carry warm clothes, rain gear, and comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain.

• Reach Pune station or airport early:

  Arrive at least 1.5 hours before departure to avoid last-minute rush. Pune station has good facilities and taxis; Pune airport offers Ola and Uber services.

• Plan your onward journey from NJP or Bagdogra:

  Pre-book shared jeeps or taxis to Darjeeling to avoid haggling and ensure availability, especially during tourist season.

• Stay hydrated and carry snacks:

  Long journeys can be tiring. Carry bottled water and light snacks, but avoid eating street food during transit to prevent stomach issues.

• Use local apps for cabs in Darjeeling:

  Apps like Ola and Uber have limited coverage, so rely on prepaid taxis or hotel-arranged transport for local sightseeing.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety first:

  Darjeeling's roads are narrow and winding; always use seat belts in taxis and avoid night travel in the hills. Keep emergency numbers handy.

• Book tickets via official platforms:

  Use IRCTC for trains and airline websites or trusted portals for flights to avoid scams and ensure reliable bookings.

• Local commute in Darjeeling:

  Shared jeeps are economical for short distances. For convenience, negotiate taxi fares beforehand or use hotel transport services.

• Carry cash and digital wallets:

  While digital payments are growing, many small shops and taxis in Darjeeling prefer cash. Keep small denominations handy.

• Food and water safety:

  Drink bottled water and eat at reputed restaurants to avoid illness. Darjeeling offers delicious local cuisine worth trying cautiously.

• Seasonal packing:

  Winters can be cold; monsoon brings heavy rains and landslides. Pack accordingly and check weather updates before travel.

Best Time & Conditions

Darjeeling is best visited during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and skies are clear. Winters are cold but less crowded, while monsoon season can disrupt travel due to landslides.

Planning your journey during these favorable months ensures comfortable travel and better sightseeing experiences.

• Avoid traveling during peak festival weekends like Durga Puja and Christmas to escape heavy crowds and inflated prices.

• Start early morning journeys to avoid traffic jams on NH10 and enjoy daylight views of the hills.

• Steer clear of monsoon months (June to September) due to slippery roads and frequent landslides on the route to Darjeeling.

• Winter mornings can be foggy, so allow extra travel time and carry warm clothing.

Arrival at Darjeeling & What to Expect

Upon arrival in Darjeeling, travelers are greeted by cool mountain air, lush tea gardens, and stunning views of the Himalayas. The town is compact, with popular areas like Mall Road and Chowrasta offering shops, cafes, and cultural experiences.

Local transport includes shared jeeps, taxis, and walking for short distances. Prepaid taxis are available at the main entry points, and many hotels offer pick-up services. Nearby attractions include Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, all accessible via local transport.

Conclusion

Among the various options, flying to Bagdogra and then taking a taxi to Darjeeling is the most efficient and comfortable way to travel from Pune, especially for those with limited time. It significantly cuts down travel duration and reduces fatigue, allowing you to enjoy the hill station sooner.

However, train journeys offer a unique experience for those who enjoy rail travel and have more time. With proper planning and the tips provided, you can confidently choose the best mode of transport to suit your preferences and make your trip to Darjeeling from Pune memorable.