Ways to Reach Sikkim: Complete Travel Guide (Air, Train & Road)
Planning a trip to Sikkim? Whether you're heading to Gangtok, North Sikkim, or exploring hidden gems, reaching this Himalayan paradise is easier than ever. While Sikkim doesn’t have direct connectivity like major metro cities, a combination of air, rail, and road makes travel smooth, accessible, and scenic.
Let’s explore all the best ways to reach Sikkim.
✈️ By Air: Fastest Way to Reach Sikkim
Pakyong Airport
- Located about 35 km from Gangtok
- One of India’s highest airports
- Limited flights due to weather conditions
Bagdogra Airport
- Nearest major airport (~125 km from Gangtok)
- Well connected to Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and other cities
- Most preferred option for travelers
From Bagdogra to Gangtok:
- Taxi: 4–5 hours
- Shared cabs available from Siliguri
Pro Tip: Bagdogra is more reliable, while Pakyong offers a scenic landing experience.
🚆 By Train: Budget-Friendly Option
New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station
- Nearest railway station to Sikkim
- Located in Siliguri (~120 km from Gangtok)
- Well connected to major Indian cities
From NJP to Gangtok:
- Shared taxis (most common)
- Private cabs
- Travel time: 4–5 hours
Best For: Budget travelers and long-distance journeys.
🛣️ By Road: Scenic & Flexible
Sikkim is well connected by road, especially from West Bengal.
Popular Routes:
- Siliguri → Gangtok (NH10)
- Darjeeling → Gangtok
- Kalimpong → Gangtok
Travel Time: 4–6 hours depending on traffic and weather
Travel Options:
- Shared taxis (economical and frequent)
- Private cabs (comfortable and flexible)
- Self-drive (recommended only for experienced drivers)
Highlight: The drive along the Teesta River is one of the most scenic journeys in India.
🧭 Route Summary
| Mode | Entry Point | Distance to Gangtok | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air | Bagdogra / Pakyong | 35–125 km | Fastest |
| Train | NJP | ~120 km | Budget |
| Road | Siliguri/Darjeeling | 110–125 km | Scenic |
📌 Important Travel Tips
- Indian nationals do not need permits for Gangtok
- Permits are required for North Sikkim (Lachen, Lachung, etc.)
- Best time to visit: March–June and October–December
- Avoid monsoon season (July–September) due to landslides
🌄 Final Thoughts
Reaching Sikkim is not just about getting there—it’s part of the experience. Whether you fly over the Himalayas, take a train through lush tea gardens, or drive alongside the Teesta River, each route offers a unique journey.
For most travelers, the best route is:
Flight to Bagdogra → Taxi to Gangtok
Train to NJP (New Jalpaiguri) → Taxi to Gangtok