By train[edit]

New Jalpaiguri (NJP) in Siliguri is the nearest station on the main inter-city line. Direct trains to NJP run from Delhi (approx. 27 hours) several times daily. From Kolkata's (Sealdah railway station), the best train is the Darjeeling Mail (circa 12 hours) running nightly at 10:05PM. There is also a train from Howrah Station called Paharia Express, departing from Howrah Station at 9:55PM and arriving at New Jalpaiguri at 8:45AM.

From NJP, the famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR), known as the 'Toy Train', completes the journey to Darjeeling. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway was the first, and still the most outstanding, example of a hill passenger railway. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This route is popular with tourists as it passes through picturesque mountain scenery and has been the subject of many articles. The line has a series of zigzags and loops to gain height and even runs straight up several village main streets!

Seats on the DHR Toy Train sell out in peak season, so make reservations up to one month in advance. The train departs New Jalpaiguri at 9AM and arrives in Darjeeling at 3:30PJ, but only on certain days of the week. The train is diesel-hauled now and is reliable and punctual.

The steam 'Joy' train operates from Darjeeling to Ghum via the Batasia Loop, four times a day – enquire at Darjeeling station. Steam trains cost ₹2200 and diesel trains cost ₹1200. See the DHR website^{[dead link]}.

A steam train also operates between Siliguri and 'Agony Point' above Tindharia most Saturdays and Sundays. Enquire at Siliguri station.

There is also a daily 'School Train' departing Kurseong at 6:15AM and arriving at Darjeeling at 8:45AM. It leaves Darjeeling at 4PM and arrives at Kurseong at 6:30PM. This is still hauled by a steam engine and is one of the world's last 'day to day' steam trains. Its schedule is frequently changed and it often runs hours late.