Jalpaiguri Junction is a significant railway station located in the state of West Bengal, India. It serves as a crucial transit point for travelers heading towards the Dooars region and the nearby hill stations of Darjeeling and Kalimpong. The station boasts three platforms, facilitating the movement of numerous trains linking it to major cities across India.
### How to Reach by Road
Reaching Jalpaiguri by road is quite feasible, as it is well-connected by a network of national highways and state routes. The station is located around 3 km from the town center,...
more... making it easily accessible from various entry points.
- **From Siliguri:** Jalpaiguri is about 30 km away from Siliguri, and you can take NH27 (previously NH31) to reach there. Various taxi services operate frequently between these two cities, and it usually takes around 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic.
- **From Bagdogra Airport:** The nearest airport is Bagdogra (approximately 45 km away). You can hire a taxi or take a shared cab directly to Jalpaiguri, which takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.
### Nearby Bus Stations
Jalpaiguri has a well-organized bus terminal that caters to intra and inter-state bus services. The **Jalpaiguri Bus Stand** is the primary bus station, offering frequent buses to destinations such as Siliguri, Bengal, and Bhutan. Additionally, there are local auto-rickshaws available for local transport.
### Lodging Facilities
Numerous lodging options are available around Jalpaiguri catering to a range of budgets. Some notable ones include:
1. **Hotel Royal Sarovar** - Known for its comfortable amenities and strategic location, making it a popular choice for visitors.
2. **Himalayan Oaktree** - A boutique hotel that provides a cozy and homely environment.
3. **Hotel Jalpaiguri** - A budget-friendly option that offers essential amenities and is conveniently located.
4. **Shivam Lodge** - An affordable lodging choice for backpackers and budget travelers.
### Prominent Vegetarian Food Facilities
Jalpaiguri offers a variety of vegetarian dining options to suit different palates. Noteworthy vegetarian food establishments include:
1. **Shreebhagwati Restaurant** - A popular spot among locals serving delectable vegetarian dishes, known for its thalis.
2. **Bengal Sweet House** - A sweet shop and eatery where you can relish local snacks and desserts.
3. **Maa Tara Restaurant** - Offers an extensive vegetarian menu with a focus on local flavors and dishes.
4. **Tandoor House** - Known for its vegetarian tandoori dishes and a pleasant ambiance.
### Relative Safety
In terms of safety, Jalpaiguri is generally considered to be a safe town for both locals and travelers. Common precautions should still be taken, such as avoiding venturing out at odd hours, keeping your belongings secure, and being vigilant about your surroundings. The presence of local law enforcement and the relatively low crime rate enhance the sense of security, making Jalpaiguri a welcoming destination for tourists.
Visitors looking to explore the stunning landscapes of the Dooars or travel further to the serene hills will find Jalpaiguri a convenient and enriching base. The station's accessibility, combined with the diverse lodging and food options, make it a favorable stop on your journey.