Sikkim has no major railway station of its own and only a small airport, so most travellers arrive via West Bengal and continue by road. Understanding the options will help you plan smoother arrivals and departures.
By Air
Bagdogra Airport (IXB), West Bengal
The main gateway for Sikkim, with flights from Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Guwahati and other cities.
- To Gangtok: about 125 km, 4–5 hours by road.
- To Pelling: about 135–140 km, 5–6 hours.
- To Darjeeling: about 70 km, 3 hours.
Pakyong Airport (PYG), Sikkim
About 30 km from Gangtok. Flights are limited and can be affected by weather and visibility. Check schedules carefully and keep a backup plan via Bagdogra.
By Train
New Jalpaiguri (NJP)
The main railway station for Sikkim and Darjeeling, with trains from Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati and other cities.
- To Gangtok: about 120 km, 4–5 hours.
Siliguri Junction
Another nearby station with fewer long-distance trains.
A railway line into Sikkim (to Rangpo) has been under construction; check whether services have started when you plan.
By Road
The main road into Sikkim is National Highway 10, running from Siliguri along the Teesta river via Sevoke, Rangpo and Singtam to Gangtok. Monsoon landslides can cause delays or diversions via alternate routes such as Kalimpong.
Options
- Private taxi: the most comfortable and flexible option.
- Shared taxi (sumo/jeep): budget-friendly; leaves from Siliguri, NJP and Bagdogra when full.
- Buses: state and private buses run between Siliguri and Gangtok.
Helicopter
A helicopter service between Bagdogra and Gangtok has operated at times, weather permitting, with limited seats. Check current availability.
Getting Around Sikkim
- Local taxis in Gangtok: fixed routes and rates.
- Private vehicles: for sightseeing and intercity travel.
- Permit-registered vehicles: required for North Sikkim, Tsomgo, Nathula and Zuluk.
- Shared jeeps: connect towns like Pelling, Ravangla, Namchi and Lachung.
Approximate Travel Times from Gangtok
- Tsomgo Lake: 2–2.5 hours
- Lachung: 6–7 hours
- Lachen: 6–7 hours
- Pelling: 5–6 hours
- Ravangla: 3 hours
- Darjeeling: 4–5 hours
Tips
- Plan arrival flights to land by midday so you reach Gangtok before dark.
- Keep buffer time before departure flights, especially in the monsoon.
- Carry ID for check posts at Rangpo and elsewhere.
- Motion-sickness remedies help on winding roads.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the nearest airport to Sikkim?
Pakyong is closest to Gangtok, but Bagdogra has far more flights and is the main gateway.
Which railway station is nearest to Gangtok?
New Jalpaiguri (NJP), about 120 km away.
How long does it take from Bagdogra to Gangtok?
About 4–5 hours by road.
Are shared taxis available to Gangtok?
Yes, from Siliguri, NJP and Bagdogra.
Do I need special vehicles in Sikkim?
Permit-registered local vehicles are required for protected areas like North Sikkim and Tsomgo.
Plan Your Trip with On Travel
We arrange airport and station pickups from Bagdogra and NJP, plus all transport within Sikkim.
- Phone / WhatsApp: +91 9220564155
- Email: info@ontravel.in
Plan Your Trip with On Travel
Ready to go? These itineraries cover the places in this guide and can be customised to your dates and budget:
- Gangtok & Darjeeling Heritage Tour – 4 Nights / 5 Days
- Darjeeling, Gangtok & Lachung – 5 Nights / 6 Days
- Sikkim Explorer – Gangtok & Pelling, 5 Nights / 6 Days
- Darjeeling, Gangtok & Lachung Grand Tour – 7 Nights / 8 Days
Browse all Sikkim tour packages.
Related reading: Sikkim Trip Cost · Sikkim Food Guide · Monasteries of Sikkim
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