So, you’re in Jalpaiguri, and you need to get to Lataguri? Whether you’re off to explore Gorumara National Park, staying at a jungle resort, or just taking a short trip, there’s a bunch of ways to get there. Some fast, some cheap, some scenic – depends how much time, money, and patience you got.
How far is Lataguri from Jalpaiguri?
First things first. Jalpaiguri and Lataguri aren’t too far apart. Roughly 35-40 km, depending on which route you take. On a good day, without those infamous traffic hold-ups, you can reach Lataguri in under an hour. But this is North Bengal – roads can surprise you.
Best Ways to Reach Lataguri From Jalpaiguri
You got four major options:
- By Car (Hired Taxi or Private Vehicle)
- By Bus
- By Train (Sort of, but not really)
- By Bike (If you’re up for it)
1. Taking a Car or Taxi – Fast, Comfortable & Pricey
The most straightforward option – grab a cab from Jalpaiguri and head straight to Lataguri. This works if you’re carrying luggage, traveling with family, or just don’t feel like dealing with public transport.
How much does a taxi cost from Jalpaiguri to Lataguri?
- A small sedan (Swift Dzire, Etios, etc.) will cost ₹1,500-₹2,000 one way.
- A bigger SUV (Innova, Xylo, etc.) costs around ₹2,500-₹3,500.
- If you’re lucky and find a shared taxi, you could pay as low as ₹200-₹400 per seat.
How long does it take?
- 40-50 minutes (if the traffic doesn’t act up).
- In peak season (December to March), expect more delays due to tourist traffic.
Best Route for a Smooth Ride
- Take the NH17 (Jalpaiguri – Lataguri Road) – fastest, but gets busy.
- Alternatively, Jalpaiguri – Maynaguri – Lataguri route offers a scenic drive through tea gardens.
2. Bus from Jalpaiguri to Lataguri – Cheap but Inconsistent
Now, let’s talk about the bus situation. If you’re looking for the most budget-friendly way, this is it.
Types of Buses You Can Get
- WBSTC (West Bengal State Transport Corporation) buses – Cheap, but infrequent.
- Private minibuses – Slightly more expensive, but more regular.
- Shared Tata Magic or Bolero Vans – Faster, frequent, and a lifesaver when no bus is available.
Bus Fare from Jalpaiguri to Lataguri
- Government Bus: ₹50-₹80 per person.
- Private Bus: ₹80-₹120 per person.
- Shared Tata Magic Van: ₹100-₹150 per person.
Travel Time
- Buses take around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the stops.
- Shared vans take about 1 hour (fewer stops).
Where to Catch a Bus?
- Jalpaiguri Main Bus Stand near Nathani More.
- If you don’t find one, head towards Kadamtala More—some buses start from there.
3. Train? Not Really, But a Hack Exists
If you thought you could just grab a train from Jalpaiguri to Lataguri, sorry to disappoint. Lataguri doesn’t have a railway station.
But Wait – There’s a Workaround
- Take a train from Jalpaiguri Road (JPE) or Jalpaiguri Junction (JPG) to New Mal Junction (NMZ).
- From New Mal Junction, take a shared auto, Tata Magic, or hire a cab to Lataguri.
- The train ride itself takes 20-30 minutes, but waiting time + last-mile transport can take another 1-1.5 hours.
Is this Worth It?
- If you’re a train enthusiast, sure, why not.
- If you’re looking to save money, maybe – train tickets cost ₹20-₹50.
- If you want quick travel, avoid this method.
4. By Bike – For the Adventurous Ones
Got a bike? This is actually one of the best ways to reach Lataguri.
Why?
- The roads are gorgeous – You pass through lush tea gardens, open fields, and forest stretches.
- Flexibility – Stop wherever you want. Take a tea break at Murti River, maybe?
- Costs Almost Nothing – Just ₹150-₹200 worth of fuel and you’re there.
Best Route for a Bike Ride
- Jalpaiguri – Maynaguri – Lataguri (Better roads, smoother ride).
- Jalpaiguri – Kranti – Lataguri (More offbeat, fewer vehicles, nice views).
🚨 Safety Tip: Avoid riding after 6 PM, especially in monsoon. Wild animals have been spotted near the Gorumara stretch at night.
Final Thoughts – What’s the Best Way?
| Mode | Cost (₹) | Time (Hours) | Comfort | Reliability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi | ₹1,500-₹3,500 | 0.75-1 | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Bus | ₹50-₹120 | 1.5-2 | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
| Train + Auto | ₹20-₹200 | 1.5-2.5 | ★★★☆☆ | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Bike | ₹150-₹200 | 1-1.5 | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
Extra Tips for Your Journey
✅ Carry Cash – Many local taxis & buses don’t take online payments.
✅ Ask Locals – If you get lost, ask shopkeepers or tea stall owners for directions.
✅ Check Train Timings – If you take the train option, check IRCTC before heading to the station.
✅ Avoid Late Night Travel – Roads after 7 PM can be deserted, especially near forested areas.
So, which way sounds best for you? If you’re short on time, get a taxi. If you’re budget-conscious, take a bus. If you love adventure, ride a bike. Whatever way you choose, Lataguri is waiting for you!