Darjeeling to Mirik
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Ways to make the journey
2–2.5 h
Jeeps for Mirik leave from the Chowk Bazaar motor stand in Darjeeling, mainly in the morning. The road climbs to Ghum, then follows the ridge through Lepchajagat and Sukhiapokhri, with the Nepal border close on the right, before dropping through tea gardens to the lake. Return jeeps leave Mirik in the morning too.
2 h
Most people do Mirik as a day trip by reserved car with stops at Lepchajagat, the Pashupatinagar border market, a tea garden and Bokar Monastery. One-way transfers onward to Siliguri via Mirik are popular on the last day: drive Darjeeling to Mirik, see the lake, and reach NJP or Bagdogra by evening.
Worth a stop
- Lepchajagat forest
- Sukhiapokhri
- Pashupatinagar border market
- Gopaldhara tea garden
Questions people ask
Good to know
How far is Mirik from Darjeeling
About 49 km, roughly 2 hours by car via Ghum, Lepchajagat and Sukhiapokhri. Shared jeeps from the Chowk Bazaar stand take 2–2.5 hours and cost ₹150–250, indicative 2026. A reserved day trip costs ₹3,500–4,500 per car.
Is Mirik worth a day trip from Darjeeling
Yes, if you like lakes, tea gardens and a slower pace. The drive itself, through Lepchajagat's forest and along the Nepal border, is half the pleasure. Many families prefer to do Mirik on the way down to Siliguri on their last day, which saves a separate day.
Can I visit Pashupatinagar on the way to Mirik
Indian citizens can usually cross on foot into Pashupatinagar, the Nepali border market near Sukhiapokhri, with ID. Foreign nationals need a valid Nepal visa and must use an official crossing. Rules and timings change, so carry ID and check current status before you travel.
What is the best time to visit Mirik
October to April for clear skies and calm lake walks, with orange season from November to January. March to May is pleasant and green. Monsoon, June to September, brings heavy rain and slips on the roads, though the tea gardens are at their greenest.