IRCTC Launches Scenic Rail Tour to North East in 2025

Train running in the Hills

If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up to the sight of snow-capped Himalayan peaks, sipping tea in colonial-era towns, or exploring Buddhist monasteries nestled in the hills, this travel deal is for you. IRCTC’s all-new Darjeeling & Gangtok Rail Tour Package brings you a complete North Bengal and Sikkim experience in just 7 days — with zero planning stress!

Running every Friday from Patna’s Rajendranagar Terminal, this 6-night, 7-day itinerary blends scenic train rides, iconic sightseeing, hotel stays, and delicious meals — all wrapped into one affordable and well-managed tour.

Let’s break it down!

Why Darjeeling & Gangtok?

Darjeeling, known as the “Queen of the Hills,” is perched high in the Himalayas and offers postcard views of Mt. Kanchenjunga, endless green tea estates, colonial charm, and fresh mountain air.

Gangtok, the charming capital of Sikkim, is a colourful hill town famous for its monasteries, flower gardens, high-altitude lakes, and breathtaking viewpoints.

Together, they make for the perfect hill station escape — relaxing, rejuvenating, and full of culture and natural beauty.

The Route: Train + Car = Smooth Travel

Your trip begins every Friday at 11:15 PM from Rajendranagar Terminal (Patna) aboard train number 13246. You’ll travel in Comfort Class (3AC) overnight and reach New Jalpaiguri (NJP) near Siliguri by Saturday noon.

From there, a private car takes you on a scenic uphill drive to Darjeeling.

On your return, train number 13247 departs from Siliguri on Wednesday at 3:25 PM, and you’ll be back in Patna by early Thursday morning.

No tiring bus rides, no uncertain bookings — just smooth and seamless travel.

Day-wise Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

Day 1 (Friday): Patna to Siliguri (Train Journey)

  • Board the overnight train at 11:15 PM from Rajendranagar Terminal.
  • Rest and relax as you journey towards the hills.

Day 2 (Saturday): Siliguri to Darjeeling

  • Reach NJP by 12:45 PM.
  • Transfer to Darjeeling via a scenic 3-hour drive.
  • Check into your hotel, enjoy the evening at leisure.
  • Overnight stay in Darjeeling.

Day 3 (Sunday): Darjeeling Local Sightseeing

  • Early morning drive to Tiger Hill to witness the magical sunrise over Mt. Kanchenjunga.
  • Visit Ghoom Monastery, Batasia Loop.
  • After breakfast: Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Zoological Park, Tenzing Rock, Tibetan Refugee Centre, Tea Garden (outer view), and Japanese Temple.
  • Enjoy a relaxed walk on the famous Darjeeling Mall in the evening.
  • Overnight stay in Darjeeling.

Day 4 (Monday): Darjeeling to Gangtok

  • After breakfast, drive to Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim.
  • Check into the hotel and enjoy lunch.
  • Visit Hanuman Tok, Ganesh Tok, and the Flower Exhibition Centre.
  • Overnight stay in Gangtok.

Day 5 (Tuesday): Trip to Tsomgo Lake & Baba Mandir

  • Half-day excursion to the stunning Tsomgo Lake (12,400 ft) and Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial (13,200 ft).
  • Return to Gangtok and enjoy a relaxed evening.
  • Overnight stay in Gangtok.

Day 6 (Wednesday): Gangtok to Siliguri

  • Morning is free for packing or shopping.
  • Transfer to Siliguri station (SGUJ).
  • Board return train 13247 at 3:25 PM.
  • Overnight train journey.

Day 7 (Thursday): Arrival in Patna

  • Arrive at Rajendranagar Terminal at 4:40 AM.
  • Tour ends with memories for a lifetime!

What’s Included in the Package?

✅ Confirmed 3AC train tickets (Patna–Siliguri–Patna)
✅ Deluxe hotels in Darjeeling and Gangtok (4 nights total)
✅ Daily breakfast and dinner (MAP meal plan)
✅ All sightseeing by exclusive AC car
✅ Pickup/drop and intercity transfers
✅ Travel insurance
✅ All government taxes

What’s Not Included?

❌ Personal expenses (laundry, room heater, tips, etc.)
❌ Lunches, drinks, or snacks
❌ Optional activities (e.g., toy train ride, rafting)
❌ Entrance fees to monuments/parks
❌ Any cost due to delays from landslides, strikes, etc.
❌ Pickup/drop facility at Patna Railway Station

Tariff: Affordable for All

Occupancy Type Price per Person

  1. Single Occupancy ₹56,600
  2. Double Occupancy ₹32,090
  3. Triple Occupancy ₹25,670
  4. Child (5–11 yrs) with bed ₹12,830
  5. Child (5–11 yrs) without bed ₹10,590
  6. Group of 4 (Double Occupancy) ₹23,840 per person

Prices include train fare, hotels, food, insurance, and all transfers.

Cancellation Policy

Plans changed? Here’s the cancellation policy:

  • Cancel 15+ days before departure: ₹250 per person
  • Cancel 8–14 days before: 25% deduction
  • Cancel 4–7 days before: 50% deduction
  • Cancel less than 4 days before: 100% deduction
  • Cancellations must be done on the official IRCTC Tourism website.

Contact Details:

Patna Office: Biscomaun Towers, 4th Floor, West Gandhi Maidan, Patna – 800001
Phone: 0612-2205801, 7003125136, 7003125159, 8595937731
Email: tourismpatna@irctc.com

Gaya Facilitation Centre: Near Platform No.1, Gaya Junction
Phone: 8595937723, 8595937687
Email: gautam4985@irctc.com

Final Thoughts: Why You Shouldn’t Miss This Trip

Whether you’re a family looking for a relaxed vacation, a couple wanting a romantic escape, or a solo explorer itching to discover the Northeast, this package makes it all easy and affordable.

With confirmed train travel, comfortable hotels, great food, and all major tourist spots covered, it’s a complete Himalayan holiday on rails.

So pack your woolens, charge your camera, and get ready to make unforgettable memories in the Queen of the Hills and beyond. Book your Darjeeling–Gangtok Rail Tour with IRCTC today!

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