Darjeeling is a famous hill station located in West Bengal, known for its tea gardens and stunning views of the Himalayas. Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is a vibrant city nestled in the mountains, popular for its monasteries and scenic beauty. Many travelers journey between these two destinations to explore the northeastern Himalayan region.

This guide will help you understand the main ways to travel from Darjeeling to Gangtok, including trains, buses, cars, and flights. You will also find step-by-step travel plans, practical tips, and advice on the best time to travel to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Getting from Darjeeling to Gangtok – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is limited between Darjeeling and Gangtok due to the hilly terrain, but you can use nearby railway stations to connect part of the journey. This option suits travelers who prefer rail travel combined with road transport.

• The nearest major railway station to Darjeeling is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), about 70 km away, connected by the famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway to Darjeeling town.

• From New Jalpaiguri, you can take a train to Siliguri or nearby stations, then continue by road to Gangtok, covering approximately 115 km by road.

• Train fares from NJP to Siliguri or nearby stations range from INR 50 to 200, depending on class, with frequent trains available daily.

• Travel time by train to NJP is around 3 to 4 hours, but the road journey from NJP to Gangtok takes about 4 to 5 hours due to mountainous roads.

• Seasonal fog and landslides during monsoon can delay trains and road transport, so plan accordingly during June to September.

Bus

Buses are a popular and economical way to travel between Darjeeling and Gangtok. Several government and private operators run regular services, suitable for budget travelers who want to experience local transport.

• Buses depart from Darjeeling’s main bus stand and reach Gangtok via National Highway 10, covering about 115 km in 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• State transport buses run by Sikkim Nationalised Transport (SNT) and West Bengal Transport Corporation (WBTC) are reliable and cost between INR 150 to 300 per ticket.

• Private shared taxis and minibusses are also common, offering more frequent departures but can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.

• Monsoon rains often cause landslides on NH10, leading to delays or cancellations, so check weather updates before traveling.

• Bus journeys include stops at roadside dhabas and rest areas where you can find local snacks and tea, important for longer trips in hilly terrain.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Darjeeling to Gangtok is a flexible and comfortable option, ideal for travelers who want to explore at their own pace and enjoy scenic views along the way.

• The distance by road is about 115 km via NH10, with a typical drive time of 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic and weather.

• Car rentals with drivers are widely available in Darjeeling, with daily rates ranging from INR 2500 to 4000 depending on vehicle type and season.

• Self-drive is possible but challenging due to narrow, winding mountain roads and occasional landslides, so experienced drivers only should attempt it.

• There are toll plazas on NH10, and you should carry cash for tolls and fuel stops, which are available at major towns en route.

• Stops at scenic points like Teesta River and Melli Bazaar offer good photo opportunities and local food options during the drive.

Flight

Direct flights between Darjeeling and Gangtok are not available due to the mountainous terrain and lack of airports in these towns. However, nearby airports can be used to shorten parts of the journey.

• The nearest airport to Darjeeling is Bagdogra Airport, about 70 km away, connected by road in 2 to 3 hours.

• From Bagdogra, you can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to Gangtok, which is approximately 125 km and takes 4 to 5 hours by road.

• Bagdogra Airport has regular flights to major cities like Kolkata, Delhi, and Guwahati, making it a good entry or exit point for air travelers.

• Flight fares vary widely but typically range from INR 2000 to 6000 depending on the route and booking time.

• Road travel from Bagdogra to Gangtok can be affected by fog and rain, so plan extra time during winter and monsoon seasons.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers moving from Darjeeling to Gangtok, helping you prepare and navigate the journey smoothly.

• Book your transport tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, using IRCTC for trains or official bus websites to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Pack light but carry essentials like water, snacks, and a raincoat, as the journey involves hilly roads and occasional stops.

• Start early in the morning to avoid traffic and reach your destination before dark, as mountain roads can be tricky at night.

• If traveling by bus or shared taxi, confirm the departure point and time the day before to avoid confusion at busy bus stands.

• Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola or Uber for last-mile travel within Gangtok to ensure fair pricing and safety.

• Keep your ID and permits ready, as Sikkim requires special permits for entry, which can be obtained online or at check posts.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry bottled water and avoid drinking tap water during the journey to prevent stomach issues common in hilly regions.

• Use only registered taxis or buses and avoid accepting rides from unauthorized drivers for safety reasons.

• Book tickets through official portals or trusted travel agents to avoid scams, especially for bus and taxi services.

• Wear comfortable shoes and carry a light jacket, as temperatures can drop quickly in the mountains even during the day.

• Keep your luggage minimal and secure, as crowded buses and shared taxis have limited space and risk of theft.

• Check weather forecasts before traveling, as monsoon rains often cause landslides and roadblocks on NH10.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Darjeeling to Gangtok is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is clear and roads are safe. Winters can be cold with occasional fog, while monsoon season brings heavy rains and landslides.

Planning your journey outside major festivals and holidays can help avoid crowded buses and higher fares. Early morning departures are recommended to enjoy daylight and avoid traffic jams.

• Avoid traveling during the monsoon season from June to September due to frequent landslides and road closures on NH10.

• Peak tourist seasons like summer holidays and Diwali can cause crowded transport and higher prices, so book early if traveling then.

• Winter months from December to February may have fog and cold temperatures, so carry warm clothing and plan for possible delays.

• Departing between 6 AM and 9 AM usually offers smoother traffic and better road conditions for the journey.

Arrival at Gangtok & What to Expect

When you arrive in Gangtok, you will find a small but busy town with several transport options to reach your accommodation. The main bus stand and taxi stands are close to the town center, making it easy to find onward transport.

Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate in Gangtok, providing safe and convenient travel within the city. Popular areas to stay include MG Road, Deorali, and Tadong, all well connected by local transport.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to travel from Darjeeling to Gangtok depends on your preferences. For comfort and flexibility, hiring a car or taxi is best, while buses offer a budget-friendly option with local flavor. Train travel is limited but can be combined with road transport for part of the journey.

Careful planning, booking tickets in advance, and checking weather conditions will help you avoid common challenges like landslides and traffic delays. With this guide, you can confidently plan your trip and enjoy the beautiful landscapes between Darjeeling and Gangtok.