Are you excited enough to plan your next road trip to Darjeeling from Siliguri? If yes, this reading provides handy guidance to plan your upcoming trip better. Siliguri is a city in West Bengal that gives you one of the most convenient ways to reach Darjeeling, our Queen of Hills. You can avail of car rental in Siliguri from a trusted travel agency along with tour guidance for your Darjeeling trip.
In the foothills of the Himalayas, Darjeeling in India is one of the most famous hill stations praised by tourists around the world. This destination is noted for its lush tea gardens, scenic beauty, Toy Train, hilltop Buddhist temples, and panoramic views of Mount Kanchenjunga.
So, being on a road trip to Darjeeling from Siliguri is an experience coupled with adventure, stunning landscapes, refreshing mountain air, and more surprises.
However, planning a well-arranged road trip requires a careful understanding of routes, brief stops, the availability of eateries or restaurants, road conditions, etc.
Here’s a guide to help you map out a hassle-free journey from Siliguri to Darjeeling.
Choosing the Right Route
The distance between Siliguri and Darjeeling is some 77 km. Since it’s a hilly land, the route can make the journey anywhere from 3 to 4 hours long from Siliguri.
Here are two primary routes you can approach:
Route 1: NH10 via Mirik
The distance is about 78 km.
Route: Siliguri → Mirik → Sukhiapokhri → Ghoom → Darjeeling
This can be an ideal route if you’re looking for a scenic drive that takes in some beautiful scenery, with serene lakes, greenery, and tea gardens on both sides.
You can pause at the iconic Mirik Lake (Sumendu Lake), an incredible location for a leisurely walk, photography, and relaxation by the mountain air. You may book Siliguri car service from a reputable travel agency, giving expert guides for your road trip.
Route 2: NH110 via Kurseong
The distance is about 72 km.
Route: Siliguri → Kurseong → Sonada → Ghoom → Darjeeling
This route is a little bit shorter and provides breathtaking views of the undulating hills and Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary while approaching Darjeeling from Siliguri.
Don’t forget to enjoy a quick Kurseong tour. Take your tea breaks, enjoy photography, and relish the mountain charm in the region.
If you rent a car, let your service provider know about your route preferences. Sometimes, you should consider their advice because road conditions/traffic don’t remain the same all the time. Book budget car rental in Siliguri from a reliable provider.
Best Time for a Road Trip
Don’t ignore the importance of weather. It plays a crucial role in planning your road trip to Darjeeling from Siliguri. While you can visit Darjeeling all year-round destination, it is best to avoid the monsoon season.
Insights into seasons:
Summer (March to June): It is an ideal time for exploring Darjeeling since the weather remains pleasant and the skies remain clear. Daytime temperatures this time are perfect for outdoor sightseeing and outdoor activities. However, in June, you can expect rain, ranging from mild to moderate rain showers.
Monsoon (July to September): This is not a peak time for a road trip due to landslides and slippery road conditions caused by heavy rainfall. If you have a Darjeeling trip plan this time, travel during this time, then, be extra cautious.
Autumn (October to November): After the monsoon season, the weather clears up, offering crystal clear views of the Kanchenjunga, tea gardens, green hills, and the lush beauty of nature. It’s another ideal time for a scenic road trip to Darjeeling from Siliguri city.
Winter (December to February): If you love hill station visits during winter, visit Darjeeling, when the temperature can drop to freezing, with snow-capped mountains making your drive worthwhile.
Vehicles
Though driving up to Darjeeling’s spectacular hilly roads is an adventure, the hilly terrain means you must prepare yourself and your car/bike for the trip.
- Check your brakes
- Fill up a full tank of fuel in Siliguri
- Check your vehicle’s tires and spare
- Consider the engine and coolant levels
Here are some driving tips for a road trip to Darjeeling:
- Drive slow and steady as there are narrow, winding, and often steep road conditions.
- Use low gears when you climb uphill or go downhill.
- Watch out for fog, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
Things you should pack:
- Water bottle
- First aid
- Warm clothes (based on seasons)
- Comfortable footwear and socks
- Snacks
- Handkerchiefs
- Torch
- Umbrella
- Power bank
- Cap
You can carry other essential things but make sure not to pack unnecessary items.
Get all-inclusive travel assistance from car rentals in Siliguri, from luggage safety, accommodation booking, and sightseeing to transfers.
A road trip from Siliguri city to Darjeeling is an unforgettable experience filled with scenic beauty and winding roads. There are many spots along the way where you can halt, unwind, or enjoy the quiet charm of nature. With Suvidhaa Aapki, explore the best of the Darjeeling road trip from Siliguri, offering professional attention throughout.
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