How to reach Gangtok: The Best Ways to Get There
Getting to Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is like going on a fun adventure! There are different ways to get there. The closest airport is Bagdogra Airport, which is about 124 kilometers away. From there, you can take a taxi or a shared taxi that will take you to Gangtok in about 4 to 5 hours. If you like trains, the nearest big train station is New Jalpaiguri, and you can easily find a taxi or share a ride to reach Gangtok from there. If you enjoy road trips, you can also take a bus from nearby places like Darjeeling or Siliguri, and you will see beautiful views of the mountains along the way. No matter how you choose to travel, the amazing sights of the Himalayas will make your trip exciting and fun!
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Top Activities in Sikkim Modes of Transportation to Gangtok
1. By Air
The quickest way to reach Gangtok is by flying. The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (IXB), located approximately 124 kilometers away. From Bagdogra, you can take a taxi or a shared cab to reach Gangtok, which usually takes around four to five hours. Several airlines operate flights to Bagdogra from major cities in India. The stunning views during the approach will make the flight all the more enjoyable!
2. By Train
While Gangtok does not have a railway station, the closest major railhead is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), about 117 kilometers away. NJP is well-connected to various cities across India. Once you arrive at NJP, you can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to Gangtok. The scenic route through the hills makes the journey an unforgettable experience.
3. By Road
If you’re feeling adventurous and enjoy long drives, you can consider driving to Gangtok yourself. The roads leading to Gangtok are generally well-maintained, and the views along the way are incredibly rewarding. However, ensure you’re familiar with mountain driving and check the weather conditions, as they can change rapidly in this region
Local Transportation in Gangtok
In Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim, there are many different ways to get around because the city is in the hills. You can take shared taxis, which are a cheap and easy way to travel on the twisty roads. If you want to be more comfortable or go directly to a place, you can hire a private taxi. There are also local buses that are a good option for getting to different parts of the city without spending too much money. Auto-rickshaws are another fun way to travel around. Sometimes, there can be landslides or road work, so it’s a good idea to check on the road conditions before you go. Even though it can be tricky to get around because of the hills, there are still plenty of ways to explore this beautiful place!
Tips for a Smooth Journey to Gangtok
1. Plan your trip during the right season: The best time to visit Gangtok is from March to May and from October to mid-December. Avoid the monsoon season as landslides are common during this time.
2. Get the necessary permits: If you’re an international tourist, you’ll need a Protected Area Permit (PAP) or Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to visit certain areas in Sikkim. Make sure to obtain these permits in advance.
3. Pack appropriate clothing: Gangtok’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s best to pack layers and prepare for rain and sunshine. Also, don’t forget to carry comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city on foot.
4. Acclimatize to the altitude: Gangtok is high, so it’s important to take it easy for the first couple of days to acclimatize. Drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous activities initially.
5. Book accommodations in advance: Gangtok is a popular tourist destination, so booking your accommodations in advance is advisable to avoid any last-minute hassles.
6. Respect the local culture: Sikkim has a rich and diverse culture, so it’s important to respect the local customs and traditions. Be mindful of local etiquette and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
7. Stay updated on local news and advisories: Before and during your trip, stay informed about local news, weather updates, and any travel advisories that may affect your journey to Gangtok.
Conclusion
Getting to Gangtok, the beautiful capital of Sikkim, is easy and fun! You can fly to Bagdogra Airport, which is about 124 kilometers away. There are many flights from big cities in India to Bagdogra. Once you arrive, you can take a taxi or a special car to enjoy the pretty drive through the mountains to reach Gangtok. If you like trains, you can go to New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, which is the closest train station. From there, you can also take a taxi or bus to get to Gangtok. The trip has lots of twisty roads, green hills, and stunning views, making it a special part of your adventure. If you want to save money, you can take local buses or shared taxis, which makes exploring this lovely place even more exciting.
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People also ask about How to reach Gangtok
The nearest airport to Gangtok is Pakyong Airport (PYG), which is located about 35 kilometers away. However, the major airport is Bagdogra Airport (IXB) in West Bengal, approximately 124 kilometers from Gangtok. Taxis and shared vehicles are available from Bagdogra and Pakyong to transport travelers to Gangtok.
Gangtok does not have a railway station. The closest railway stations are New Jalpaiguri (NJP) and Siliguri Junction, both located around 120 kilometers away. From these stations, you can hire a taxi or book a shared vehicle to get to Gangtok. The journey typically takes around 4 to 5 hours.
Absolutely! Driving to Gangtok can be a scenic adventure. If you’re coming from Siliguri, you’ll travel via the NH10 highway, which is mostly well-paved and offers breathtaking views. However, it’s important to check local weather conditions and road statuses, especially during monsoons when landslides may occur. Also, make sure you have the necessary permits if you’re traveling from outside India.
Travelers from India do not require special permits to enter Gangtok. However, foreign tourists will need to apply for an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to visit Sikkim. This can be obtained online or through designated government offices, so ensure you have this ready before your trip.
The best time to visit Gangtok is from March to June and from September to December. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, making it suitable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The monsoon season (June to September) can bring heavy rainfall, which may lead to landslides and transportation disruptions.
Yes, Gangtok offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses. It’s advisable to book your stay in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, to secure the best deals and availability. Popular areas to stay include MG Road, which is lively and centrally located, making it easy to explore the city and its attractions.