Gangtok, nestled in the Eastern Himalayas, is a beautiful hill station in Sikkim, India, renowned for its scenic views, Buddhist monasteries, and vibrant culture. If you’re planning a trip to this serene city, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to reach Gangtok through various travel options.
1. Reaching Gangtok by Air: Nearest Airport
The nearest airport to Gangtok is Bagdogra Airport (IXB), located around 125 kilometers from the city. Bagdogra is well-connected to major cities like Patna, Kolkata, Delhi, Guwahati, and Mumbai. Once you land at Bagdogra, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to Gangtok, which takes about 4 to 5 hours.
Travel Tip: You can book your flights well in advance for better deals, especially during peak tourist seasons (March to June and September to November).
2. Traveling to Gangtok by Train: Nearest Railway Stations
While Gangtok does not have its own railway station, you can take a train to New Jalpaiguri Junction (NJP)/ Siliguri Junction, which is around 120 kilometers from the city. NJP is well-connected to cities like Kolkata, Delhi, and Guwahati. From NJP/Siliguri, you can take a taxi or shared jeep to reach Gangtok. The journey from NJP/ Siliguri to Gangtok usually takes 4 to 5 hours by road.
Travel Tip: Trains from major cities like Patna, Kolkata and Delhi to New Jalpaiguri/ Siliguri are frequent, so it’s advisable to book train tickets in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
Note: Siliguri and NJP are near to each other. Approximate distance between them is 5 Km.
The Scenic Option: Taking the Shared Jeep
Shared jeeps are a popular mode of transport from NJP/ Siliguri to Gangtok. They offer a more budget-friendly option and are a great way to travel with fellow tourists while enjoying the scenic views of the mountains.
3. Reaching Gangtok by Road: The Scenic Drive
Gangtok is well-connected by road from nearby cities like Siliguri, Kolkata, and Darjeeling. If you’re traveling from Siliguri, it’s a 4-5 hour drive to Gangtok. The journey offers stunning views of the Eastern Himalayas, tea gardens, and rivers, making it an unforgettable experience.
Road Options from Nearby Cities:
- From Siliguri: The distance is approximately 115 km, and the journey takes around 4 to 5 hours by taxi or shared jeep.
- From Darjeeling: The distance is around 100 km, and it takes about 4 hours by road.
- From Kolkata: If you’re traveling from Kolkata, you can take a train to NJP/ Siliguri and then continue by road to Gangtok.
Travel Tip: For a more personalized experience, consider hiring a private taxi for a comfortable ride through the hilly terrain.
Also Read: How to Reach Darjeeling: A Complete Travel Guide
4. Bus Travel to Gangtok: An Affordable Option
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, you can opt for buses operated by the Sikkim Nationalized Transport (SNT) from Siliguri or New Jalpaiguri to Gangtok. The buses are comfortable, but the journey may take a bit longer compared to taxis or jeeps. A bus journey from NJP to Gangtok typically takes 5 to 6 hours.
There are also private buses from Kolkata to Gangtok, though this option is less common than trains and flights.
5. Best Time to Visit Gangtok
The best time to visit Gangtok is from March to June and September to December when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The monsoon season (July to August) should be avoided due to the risk of landslides.
- Summer (March to June): Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing.
- Winter (October to December): Cool, with the possibility of snow on higher altitudes.
- Monsoon (July to August): Avoid visiting during this time due to heavy rainfall and the risk of landslides.
6. Top Attractions in Gangtok
Once in Gangtok, there are several must-see attractions, including:
- Rumtek Monastery: A major Buddhist monastery offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- Tsongmo Lake: A picturesque glacial lake located at an altitude of 12,310 feet.
- Nathula Pass: A high-altitude pass on the Indo-China border, offering panoramic views.
- MG Road: The bustling heart of Gangtok, lined with shops, cafes, and eateries.
Conclusion: Choosing the Best Way to Reach Gangtok
Reaching Gangtok is relatively straightforward with multiple options available, including air, train, road, and bus travel. The quickest way is to fly into Bagdogra and take a taxi to Gangtok. Alternatively, you can take a train to New Jalpaiguri and continue by road. If you’re up for a scenic road trip, traveling by taxi or shared jeep from Siliguri or Darjeeling is a wonderful experience.
Pro Tip: Be sure to check road conditions and weather forecasts, especially during the monsoon season, to ensure a smooth and safe journey.
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