Siliguri to Kalimpong
Your options
Ways to make the trip
2.5–3 hours
₹200–250 a seat · Shared jeeps leave from stands near Siliguri Junction and along Hill Cart Road from early morning to mid-afternoon, once full. They drop you at the Kalimpong motor stand in the centre of town. The front seats beside the driver go first, so arrive early to get one.
3–3.5 hours
₹150–200 a seat · North Bengal State Transport Corporation buses run from the Tenzing Norgay Central Bus Terminus in Siliguri several times a day. They are slower and less frequent than jeeps but cheap and roomy for bags.
2.5–3 hours
₹3,000–4,000 per car · Book a small car or SUV from NJP station, Bagdogra airport or Siliguri. The fare covers one way to your hotel in Kalimpong. SUVs such as a Bolero or Innova cost more but handle the hill section better with a full load.
Worth a stop
- Coronation Bridge at Sevoke
- Teesta riverside at Rambi or Teesta Bazaar
- Chitre viewpoint over the Teesta
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
Where do shared jeeps to Kalimpong leave from in Siliguri?
Most leave from jeep stands near Siliguri Junction and along Hill Cart Road, with some from near the Tenzing Norgay bus terminus. They run from early morning until about mid-afternoon and depart when full. Ask locally on the day, since stands sometimes shift. Fares are about ₹200–250 a seat, indicative.
Can I get a shared jeep to Kalimpong directly from NJP or Bagdogra?
Shared jeeps to Kalimpong mostly start in Siliguri town, not at NJP or Bagdogra. From NJP, take an auto or local taxi to Siliguri Junction area for about ₹200–300 and change there. From Bagdogra, a reserved car straight to Kalimpong is often simpler, at about ₹3,200–4,000, indicative.
Is the Siliguri to Kalimpong road safe?
Yes, in normal weather. It is a busy two-lane highway along the Teesta, then a winding climb of about 15 km to the town. Railway construction and landslides cause delays, especially between June and September. Travel in daylight, avoid evening drives in the monsoon, and ask your driver about the road each morning.
How long does it take in the monsoon?
On a good day still 2.5–3 hours, but slides on NH10 can add hours or close the road for a day or more. Drivers then use the route via Malbazar, Gorubathan and Lava, about 120 km and 4.5–5 hours. Keep a spare day at the end of your trip in July and August. Check current status before you travel.