Gangtok is located amidst the Eastern Himalayas, 5,600 feet above sea level, which is also the capital of Sikkim. Gangtok offers a rich heritage, vibrant culture, and picturesque scenery. Gangtok has something for everyone, be it adventure, photography, or cultural enthusiasm.
There are a number of ways to reach Gangtok, either by rail or air or by road. Numerous tourists visit Gangtok from different parts of India to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes and serene tranquillity.
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By Road
If you are looking to visit Gangtok, choosing the road transport will offer you a scenic journey. After reaching Siliguri from NJP via train or from Bagdogra Airport via flight, one can reach Siliguri junction, from where they can choose either bus service or book a private or shareable cab to travel to Gangtok.
The well-connected network of roads allows a smooth travel experience along with sceneries, alongside flowing river Teesta and local cuisines. There are also a number of state buses that run between Gangtok and Siliguri and have the highest number of buses operating.
| Ordinary Bus | Bus Fare: 150 |
| Bus Timing: 6:30 AM, 7:15 AM, 9:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 10:30 AM, 11:00 AM,10:30 AM, 11:30 AM, 12:30 PM, 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 2:30 PM, 3:00 PM and 3:30 PM. | |
| AC Deluxe Bus | Bus Fare: 250 |
| Bus Timing: 10:30 AM | |
| AC Super DeluxeBus | Bus Fare: 280 |
| Bus Timing: 8:00 AM, 1:30 PM | |
A distance of 114 km long scenic route via NH31A will help the visitors reach the destination within 4 hours and 30 minutes. There are also a number of rental bike services for the adventure-loving person, who can hire bikes starting at 1500 per day.
Also read: Romantic Places to Explore in Sikkim
By Rail
The nearest railway station that connects Gangtok is the New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP), situated at a distance of 9.5 km from the center of Siliguri. Visitors after reaching NJP can opt for private taxis to reach Gangtok via the NH31A. There are a number of trains that connect Siliguri with metropolitan cities like Kolkata, Mumbai, Pune, Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and others. Some of the major railways that help connect these cities comprise Guwahati Vande Bharat Express, Dibrugarh Rajdhani Special, Kaziranga Express, and others.
Hence, the travel time from major cities may take up to 18 to 24+ hours and more, followed by a 4-5 hours cab or bus journey to reach Gangtok. However, there is an ongoing railway project that will help in reaching Gangtok within a short time, with the Sevok and Rangpo tunnel. The distance from Rangpo and Gangtok is 37.6 km via NH10, which can be covered by car within a duration of around 1 hour 17 minutes. This will help in facilitating the travel by railway routes in a better manner.
By Air
The fastest means to reach Gangtok is via flight service, which will be the fastest and most convenient means. The nearest airport to Gangtok is Pakyong Airport located in Pakyong, Sikkim, which is located at a distance of 26.9 km from Gangtok and has a travel time of 1 hour 12 minutes under normal traffic conditions. This flight service connects flights with Kolkata and Delhi on a regular basis.
There is also Bagdogra Airport (IXB) that is in operation throughout the year and can be considered in case one fails to get tickets to Pakyong airport. Being the second busiest airport, the airport helps in connecting to different cities across India. After reaching Bagdogra Airport, one can choose to travel from the Airport via taxi to Gangtok or travel to Tenzing Norgay Bus stand, either by Siliguri Road (14.2 km) or Noukaghat Road (19.4 km).
Also read: Buddhist Monasteries in Sikkim
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to go to Gangtok?
The best way to go to Gangtok is via air. Pakyong Airport is the nearest airport to Gangtok It is situated at a distance of 26.9 km and will take around 1 hour and 19 minutes to reach. After reaching the airport you can opt for private cab services to reach Gangtok.
Can we reach Gangtok by train?
There is no direct rail route to reach Gangtok by train, however, you can travel to New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP), and from there you can book a private taxi or shareable taxi and travel to Gangtok. In the upcoming time, you can also travel to Rangpo using the Sivok-Rangpo channel, which is expected to be in operation from December 2024.
How to go to Gangtok by air?
There is no airport at Gangtok, however, the nearest operational airport is Pakyong airport. You can fly to Pakyong airport either from Delhi or Kolkata and from there you can travel to Gangtok using a cab.
Is 2 days enough for Gangtok?
If you are focused on exploring Gangtok the 2 days are enough, as it will offer you local visits to places around Gangtok such as Tashi viewpoint, Enchey Monastery, Ganesh Tok, Hanuman Tok, Do Drul Chorten, and others. You can also experience the aerial view of Gangtok from the ropeway ride. You can also enjoy the local cuisines and experience the nightlife.
Is Gangtok costly?
Gangtok can be considered as a moderately considered city of Sikkim. The high popularity and remote location increase the costs of different activities in Gangtok. However, you can purchase winter clothes and alcoholic beverages at a comparatively lower cost.
Which month is ice in Gangtok?
You can find ice in Gangtok during the winter season, which is between the end of December and mid-February.
How much does the Gangtok trip cost?
In general, a 3 to 4-day Gangtok trip would cost around ₹7500 to ₹17500 per person or more which may change based on your accommodation, food, and activities that you intend to participate in during your stay in Gangtok.
