How to get to Gangtok

Gangtok is the picturesque capital of the state of Sikkim, spread across the steep slopes of the Eastern Himalayas, where travelers go to visit Buddhist monasteries and admire views of Kanchenjunga. Reaching this mountain city in India is only possible via a combined journey: first by plane or train to transport hubs on the plains, and then along a breathtaking winding road by car or bus.

The fastest way to reach the mountains is to fly into the local Pakyong Airport (PYG), located approximately 30 km from the city. However, please note that flights here are often cancelled due to unpredictable weather, so many tourists choose the more reliable Bagdogra Airport near the city of Siliguri (IXB), which accepts flights from the country's major metropolises.

Alternatively, you can consider flying to Jalpaiguri or even to the international airport in Paro, if your journey covers several countries in the region. From any arrival point, the journey to Gangtok will continue by ground transport.

Due to the complex mountain terrain, there is no direct railway connection to the city of Gangtok. Travelers need to reach one of the major stations at the foothills of the Himalayas, from where the automotive part of the route begins.

The main transfer hub is the New Jalpaiguri station in the city of Jalpaiguri, where trains arrive from all over India. You can also reach the station in the city of Siliguri, located approximately 115 km from the capital of Sikkim, which will slightly shorten the transfer time.

A budget-friendly and atmospheric way to get to the state capital is to take a bus departing from the city of Siliguri. The length of the route along the winding mountain road is about 115 km, so the travel time usually takes at least 5.5 hours.

Trips are serviced by the state corporation SNT and private carriers, offering different levels of comfort. Despite the tiring serpentine road, the trip to Gangtok by bus allows you to enjoy magnificent views of the Teesta River valley.

Traveling by car or taxi is the most comfortable option, giving you the freedom to stop at observation decks. The most popular route leads from the city of Siliguri: covering the distance of 112 km along mountain roads will take about 4.5–5 hours, depending on traffic.

Transfers from the city of Jalpaiguri (about 153 km) are also in demand, from where the journey will take a little longer. For those coming from Bhutan, a scenic but long route is available from Paro covering nearly 360 km, which will take the entire daylight day (about 9.5 hours).

A trip to Gangtok requires some preparation, as the state of Sikkim has its own unique rules and climatic features. Follow these tips to make your journey as comfortable as possible.

1. Clothing and Gear. The weather in the mountains is changeable. Even in summer, be sure to bring a warm sweater, a windbreaker, and comfortable shoes for walking on hilly terrain. An umbrella or raincoat will be useful in any season.
2. City Transport. The city streets are very steep. For getting around, it is better to use local taxis or walk along the MG Marg pedestrian zone, but be prepared for physical exertion.
3. Finances. Major hotels accept cards, but it is better to always have cash rupees with you to pay for taxis, meals in small cafes, and souvenirs. ATMs may work intermittently.
4. Permits. Foreign tourists require a special Inner Line Permit (ILP) to enter Sikkim. Arrange this in advance online or at the Rangpo checkpoint upon entering the state.
5. Environmental Bans. Sikkim is India's first organic state. The use of plastic bottles and bags is strictly prohibited here, as is smoking in public places (fines are issued for violations).
6. Health. The road to the city is a mountain serpentine. If you suffer from motion sickness, take motion sickness medication in advance before traveling by car or bus.
7. Communication. English is widely spoken and is an official language, so tourists usually do not have communication problems.
8. Local Etiquette. Be sure to remove your shoes and hats when entering monasteries (gompas). Always walk around religious shrines in a clockwise direction.

Observing these simple rules and respecting local traditions will help you enjoy the peace and beauty of this amazing Himalayan corner.