Guwahati is the largest city in Assam and a major gateway to Northeast India. Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is a popular hill station known for its scenic beauty and cultural richness. Many travelers journey between these two cities for tourism, business, or connecting to other Northeast destinations.

This guide explains the main ways to travel from Guwahati to Gangtok. You will learn about trains, buses, car travel, and flights, along with practical tips to plan your trip confidently and enjoy a hassle-free journey.

Getting from Guwahati to Gangtok – Main Options

Train

Train travel is suitable if you want a comfortable and economical option to cover part of the route. However, there is no direct train to Gangtok, so you combine train and road travel.

• The nearest major railway station to Gangtok is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), about 115 km away. Guwahati to NJP trains run frequently, taking around 8 to 10 hours depending on the service.

• Popular trains include the Kamrup Express and the Saraighat Express, departing from Guwahati Railway Station. Ticket prices range from ₹300 to ₹800 for sleeper and AC classes.

• From NJP, you must hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to Gangtok. The road journey takes about 4 to 5 hours via NH10, with fares around ₹700 to ₹1200 per person.

• Train travel can be affected by fog in winter and occasional monsoon delays, so plan accordingly and book tickets early through IRCTC.

• Facilities at Guwahati and NJP stations include waiting rooms, food stalls, and prepaid taxi counters for last-mile connectivity.

Bus

Buses are a popular choice for budget travelers and those wanting direct road access. Several government and private buses connect Guwahati to Gangtok.

• State-run buses from Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) and Sikkim Nationalised Transport (SNT) operate daily from Guwahati ISBT to Gangtok, covering approximately 500 km in 12 to 14 hours.

• Bus fares range from ₹500 to ₹900 depending on the type of bus, such as ordinary, deluxe, or Volvo coaches.

• Buses usually depart in the evening or early morning to avoid heavy traffic and reach Gangtok by daybreak, which is safer on hilly roads.

• Road conditions on NH27 and NH10 are generally good but can be affected by landslides during monsoon, causing delays.

• Rest stops with food options are available at Siliguri and other towns en route, but carry water and snacks for comfort.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Guwahati to Gangtok offers flexibility and a chance to explore scenic spots on the way. It is ideal for small groups or families.

• The distance is about 500 km via NH27 and NH10, taking roughly 12 to 14 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Major towns on the route include Tezpur, Bongaigaon, Siliguri, and Rangpo, where you can stop for meals and fuel.

• Toll plazas are present on NH27 and NH10, so keep cash or FASTag ready for smooth passage.

• Driving in hilly areas near Gangtok requires caution, especially during monsoon when landslides and slippery roads are common.

• Car rentals with drivers are available in Guwahati, with daily rates ranging from ₹3000 to ₹6000 depending on vehicle type and season.

• Self-drive is possible but recommended only if you are experienced with Indian hill roads and local driving conditions.

Flight

There is no direct flight to Gangtok as it lacks an airport. The nearest airport is Pakyong Airport, about 35 km from Gangtok, but flights are limited. Flying is suitable if you want to save time on part of the journey.

• Fly from Guwahati Airport (Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport) to Bagdogra Airport near Siliguri, which is about 115 km from Gangtok.

• Flight duration is around 1 hour, with fares typically between ₹2000 and ₹5000 depending on the airline and booking time.

• From Bagdogra, you can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to Gangtok, which takes about 4 to 5 hours on NH10.

• Pakyong Airport has limited commercial flights, mostly from Kolkata and Delhi, so check availability before planning.

• Booking flights early is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons and festivals.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers making the journey from Guwahati to Gangtok. It covers key steps to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

• Book your train or bus tickets online via IRCTC or official transport websites to secure your seat and avoid last-minute hassles.

• If traveling by train, plan to arrive at Guwahati Railway Station at least 30 minutes before departure to navigate crowds and find your platform easily.

• On reaching New Jalpaiguri or Bagdogra, use prepaid taxi counters or trusted app-based cabs like Ola or Uber for safe and fair-priced rides to Gangtok.

• Carry light luggage and pack essentials like water, snacks, and warm clothing, as the hill climate can be cooler than Guwahati.

• Check weather forecasts and road conditions before starting your journey, especially during monsoon or winter months.

• Keep local currency handy for tolls, small purchases, and tipping drivers or helpers along the way.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs from stations and airports to avoid overcharging and scams common in tourist areas.

• Drink bottled water and eat at clean, popular eateries during stops to avoid stomach issues on the long journey.

• Book tickets well in advance during peak seasons like summer holidays and festivals to ensure availability and better prices.

• Local transport in Gangtok includes shared jeeps and taxis; negotiate fares beforehand or use official stands to avoid confusion.

• Pack light but include rain gear and warm clothes, as weather can change quickly in the hills.

• Be cautious during monsoon season (June to September) as landslides and roadblocks are frequent; check local news and travel advisories.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Guwahati to Gangtok is during the dry months from October to May. This period offers clear roads and pleasant weather for both road and air travel.

Avoid traveling during the peak monsoon season when heavy rains can cause landslides and road closures, making the journey risky and slow.

• Festival periods like Durga Puja and Diwali see increased traffic and higher fares, so book early or avoid these dates if possible.

• Winter months (December to February) bring fog in the plains near Guwahati, which can delay trains and flights.

• Early morning departures are best to avoid afternoon traffic jams and to reach Gangtok before dark, especially on winding hill roads.

• Summer months are popular for tourists but can be crowded; plan accommodations and transport well in advance.

Arrival at Gangtok & What to Expect

When you arrive in Gangtok, you will find a small but bustling town with narrow roads and a cool climate. The main entry points are the taxi stands near the bus terminal or the shared jeep stands.

Local transport options include shared jeeps, taxis, and rental bikes. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola are limited but available. Most travelers stay near MG Marg, the town’s central area, which has many hotels, restaurants, and shops.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Gangtok from Guwahati depends on your priorities. Train plus taxi offers a comfortable and economical option, while buses provide direct road access for budget travelers. Flights to Bagdogra combined with road travel save time but cost more.

Plan your journey by booking tickets early, checking weather and road conditions, and preparing for hill travel challenges. With proper planning, you can enjoy a safe and scenic trip from Guwahati to Gangtok and explore the beautiful Northeast with confidence.