WEST BENGAL

Darjeeling is a popular hill station located in the state of West Bengal, India. Here are the ways to reach Darjeeling:

1. By air: The nearest airport to Darjeeling is Bagdogra Airport, located about 68 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to Darjeeling.

2. By train: The nearest railway station to Darjeeling is New Jalpaiguri, located about 62 km away. From the station, you can take a shared jeep, private taxi, or hire a car to reach Darjeeling. The famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the "Toy Train," is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and runs from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling.

3. By road: Darjeeling is well-connected by road to major cities in West Bengal and neighboring states. You can take a private or shared taxi, bus, or drive your own car to reach Darjeeling. The journey from Kolkata to Darjeeling takes approximately 12 hours by road.

4. By shared jeep: Shared jeeps are a popular mode of transport in the region and are available from New Jalpaiguri railway station, Bagdogra airport, and Siliguri bus stand. The journey from Siliguri to Darjeeling takes about 3-4 hours by shared jeep.

It is important to note that the roads to Darjeeling can be steep and winding, and it is advisable to hire a skilled and experienced driver if you are driving your own vehicle or hiring a private taxi.

Darjeeling is a popular tourist destination in West Bengal, India, known for its stunning natural beauty, tea plantations, and rich culture. Here are some of the top tourist places to visit in Darjeeling:

1. Tiger Hill: A popular spot to watch the sunrise over the Himalayas, Tiger Hill offers breathtaking views of Mount Everest and Mount Kanchenjunga.

2. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: Also known as the "Toy Train," the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a scenic ride through the hills and tea plantations of Darjeeling.

3. Batasia Loop: Located on the way to Ghoom, Batasia Loop is a famous railway loop where the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway makes a complete 360-degree turn. It offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

4. Happy Valley Tea Estate: Darjeeling is famous for its tea plantations, and the Happy Valley Tea Estate is one of the oldest and most popular tea gardens in the region. Visitors can take a tour of the tea factory and taste some of the finest teas.

5. Japanese Peace Pagoda: Located on the slopes of the Jalapahar hills, the Japanese Peace Pagoda is a beautiful white stupa built by the Japanese Buddhist monk Nichidatsu Fujii. It offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and the town of Darjeeling.

6. Himalayan Mountaineering Institute: The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute was founded in 1954 and is a popular attraction for adventure enthusiasts. It offers courses in mountaineering, rock climbing, and other adventure activities.

7. Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park: The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is home to many rare and endangered species of animals, including the famous snow leopard, red panda, and Himalayan wolf.

These are just a few of the many tourist places to visit in Darjeeling.