The journey from Bagdogra to Darjeeling is bound to be exciting, with every part of the trip offering captivating and breath-taking views. However, finding the reliable Bagdogra to Darjeeling taxi fare can be challenging if you haven’t’ yet ventured through the area. Opting for the best taxi service guarantees a safe, cosy, and affordable trip so you can make the most of your visit to the 'Queen of the Hills.
Follow this 8-step process in our guide to identify a reliable taxi service for your trip from Bagdogra to Darjeeling. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a frequent traveller, by following this step you will be able to choose a service that perfectly aligns with your needs and interests.
8 Simple Steps to Find the Best Bagdogra to Darjeeling Taxi
1. Check for License and Registration:
The very first step in finding a trusted Bagdogra to Darjeeling taxi service is to make sure that the taxi service provider is licensed and registered. A licensed company can be your trusted companion because they are generally more committed to following regulations and maintaining safety standards. Also, it is crucial for individuals to request a taxi’s registration number along with driver credentials before you finalize your booking.
2. Assess the reputation of the service provider:
It is crucial for individuals to understand that a reputable and trusted taxi service provider will have positive customer reviews and testimonials. Make sure to thoroughly research online reviews or seek feedback from the past passengers in order to avoid any obstacles or inconvenience on your trip. By checking websites like Google Reviews and Tripadvisor, you can gain valuable insights into the quality of the service they provide to its customers.
3. Compare the Bagdogra to Darjeeling Taxi Fare:
Price is one of the most crucial factors to consider when booking a taxi for a trip to Darjeeling. Before confirming your booking, make sure to check the fare for the Bagdogra to Darjeeling taxi. Different services may provide different prices so it is best to request a few quotes and choose the one that perfectly aligns with your budget and preferences.
4. Consider the Condition of the Vehicle:
A condition of the vehicle plays a crucial role in the quality of your journey so it is crucial for individuals to opt for a vehicle that are well-maintained and in top-notch condition. A reliable Bagdogra to Darjeeling taxi service will maintain its vehicle, confirming that the vehicle is clean, comfortable, and in proper working condition. Stay away from taxis that look worn-out or poorly kept, as they might endanger your safety.
5. Make sure the driver has sufficient experience:
A trusted taxi service will employ highly-experienced chauffeurs who have in-depth knowledge about the Bagdogra-Darjeeling route along with the traffic rules and regulations. With an experienced driver, you can expect a safe, seamless, and hassle-free ride through the winding roads. Also, it is crucial to ensure that they are courteous and familiar with the area’s shortcuts, roads, and iconic attractions.
6. Check for Additional Services and Amenities:
A large number of Bagdogra to Darjeeling taxi service offer extra comforts and features such as Wi-Fi, air conditioning or bottled water for its passengers. Even though these amenities might not be important, they certainly will enhance the comfort of your journey. If you are looking for such comfort and facilities for your trip to Darjeeling, make sure that the taxi service you choose offers them.
7. Look for Transparency in Pricing and Charges:
A trusted taxi service should be honest and crystal clear about its pricing. Verify that the fare quoted covers all the charges such as tolls, fuels, and driver allowances in order to avoid any last-minute complications. Some taxi services might add hidden fees later, so it's crucial to clarify all details before the trip begins.
8. Ensure Safety Measures Are in Place
Safety should be your first priority when travelling especially in mountainous region like Darjeeling. A reliable taxi service will follow all the safety protocols and offer airbags, seat belts, and other safety features. Apart from that, some services may also offer emergency contact numbers in order to make sure help is easily reachable in case of any emergency.
Common Travel Missteps with Hiring a Taxi from Bagdogra to Darjeeling
At VA Cabs, we’ve served countless travelers on the scenic Bagdogra–Darjeeling route, and over the years, we’ve noticed certain avoidable mistakes that can impact comfort, cost, and timing. Here are some common ones to watch out for:
1. Leaving it Last Minute
Taxis will fill up extremely fast during peak tourist season. You will often find that you then have no choice to take price gouging or unreliable operators.
2. Not Taking the Time to Check License and Registration
Some people avoid checking their driver's licenses to verify they are legitimate taxi service providers and at times risking their safety or leaving themselves prone to scams.
3. Choosing Simply by Price
Everyone wants to get good value for their money, but just taking the lowest fare possible can have varying implications in terms of the condition of the vehicle being used or the level and professionalism of the driver.
4. Not Double Checking Inclusions
Most travelers will forget to check if the fare includes toll and parking fees, or the driver will need an allowance for food on long trips. These last minute charges can sometimes come as a surprise.
5. Not Taking into Account the Type of Vehicle
example: Hippies in sedans (good for comfort) will not work on the hills (they need a rugged SUV) - choosing the wrong type of vehicle may hinder the experience.
6. No Online Reviews
You should always check reviews by past passengers to see if there are any red flags about the reliability and professionalism of the service provider.
Conclusion
To conclude, finding a trusted taxi service provider involves close and careful evaluation of various factors like fare, reputation, the condition of a vehicle, and safety measures. By following the above-mentioned steps, individuals can make sure their trip is cozy, secure, fun, and hassle-free.
Always remember that the Bagdogra to Darjeeling taxi fare should match the quality of service and comfort you are aiming for. Always prioritize safety and quality when booking your taxi for a smooth journey to Darjeeling.
FAQ's
1. How far is Darjeeling from Bagdogra?
About 68 km - travel time is around 3.5 - 4.5 hours, subject to traffic and weather conditions.
2. Is it safe to travel in the hills by taxi?
Yes, assuming you travel in a licensed taxi and the driver is experienced. Always travel in a properly maintained taxi with seat belts.
3. Will there be stops along the way?
Yes, you will be able to stop at Teesta Bazaar for scenic river views, tea gardens, and at many small roadside stalls for momos and hot tea.
4. What is the best time to travel this route?
The best time to travel would be between October and May - you will get the clearest skies, and the views will be the best to be had this time of year, of course, if you travelling during the monsoon months (July - September) you might get lush green scenery albeit some delays due to traffic and environmental landslides.