Siliguri is a major city in West Bengal, acting as the gateway to the northeastern states of India. Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is a popular hill station known for its scenic beauty and cultural heritage. The route from Siliguri to Gangtok is frequently traveled by tourists and locals alike, making it an important connection.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Siliguri to Gangtok. You will learn about different transport options, step-by-step travel plans, practical tips, and what to expect upon arrival in Gangtok.

Getting from Siliguri to Gangtok – Main Options

Train

Train travel is limited between Siliguri and Gangtok because Gangtok does not have a railway station. However, trains are useful to reach Siliguri from other cities before continuing by road to Gangtok.

• Siliguri Junction and New Jalpaiguri (NJP) are the main railway stations serving the area, connecting to major cities like Kolkata, Delhi, and Guwahati with frequent trains.

• From NJP or Siliguri Junction, you must take road transport to reach Gangtok as there is no direct train service to Gangtok itself.

• Train fares to Siliguri vary widely depending on class and distance, with sleeper classes being economical and AC classes more comfortable for long journeys.

• Booking tickets through IRCTC is recommended to avoid last-minute hassles, especially during peak tourist seasons and festivals.

Bus

Buses are a popular and affordable way to travel from Siliguri to Gangtok. Both government and private operators run regular services on this route.

• State Transport buses operated by Sikkim Nationalised Transport (SNT) and West Bengal Transport Corporation (WBTC) run daily from Siliguri New Bus Stand to Gangtok, covering about 114 km in 4 to 5 hours.

• Private Volvo and deluxe buses offer more comfort and run frequently, especially during tourist seasons, with fares ranging from ₹300 to ₹700 depending on the service.

• Road conditions on NH10 are generally good, but monsoon rains can cause occasional landslides and delays, so check weather updates before traveling.

• Buses usually stop at major towns like Melli and Rangpo, where you can find food stalls and restrooms for breaks during the journey.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Siliguri to Gangtok is a flexible and scenic option, suitable for those who prefer to travel at their own pace and explore en route.

• The distance via NH10 is approximately 114 km, and the drive typically takes 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Major toll plazas on the route include the Teesta Bridge toll; toll charges are moderate and should be budgeted for.

• Fuel stations and eateries are available along the highway, especially near towns like Rangpo and Melli, making it convenient for breaks.

• During the monsoon season, landslides can block roads temporarily, so check local news and consider alternate routes if necessary.

• Self-drive car rentals are available in Siliguri, with options ranging from hatchbacks to SUVs suitable for hilly terrain.

Flight

There is no airport in Gangtok; however, helicopter services and nearby airports provide alternative travel options for faster access.

• The nearest airport is Pakyong Airport, about 35 km from Gangtok, with limited flights from Kolkata and Guwahati operated by regional airlines.

• Helicopter services from Bagdogra Airport near Siliguri to Gangtok are available, offering a quick 20-minute journey but are weather-dependent and relatively expensive.

• Bagdogra Airport is well connected to Siliguri by road, approximately 16 km away, and has frequent taxis and buses.

• Booking helicopter rides in advance is essential, especially during peak tourist seasons and bad weather periods.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers from Siliguri to Gangtok to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey.

• Step 1: Book your train ticket to Siliguri Junction or New Jalpaiguri well in advance using IRCTC to secure your preferred class and avoid last-minute rush.

• Step 2: Upon arrival in Siliguri, choose your onward transport to Gangtok—bus, taxi, or self-drive car—based on your budget and comfort preference.

• Step 3: If taking a bus, arrive early at the Siliguri New Bus Stand to get tickets and secure good seats; buses fill up quickly during holidays.

• Step 4: For self-drive or taxi, confirm the vehicle condition and negotiate fares beforehand; use trusted rental services or app-based cabs like Ola or Uber where available.

• Step 5: Start your journey on NH10, keeping an eye on weather and traffic updates; carry some snacks and water as stops are limited in hilly stretches.

• Step 6: On arrival in Gangtok, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs for local travel; avoid unmetered taxis to prevent overcharging.

Practical Travel Tips

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

• Book bus or taxi tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons like summer and festivals to avoid last-minute unavailability.

• Keep your luggage light and secure, as road travel involves multiple stops and sometimes crowded vehicles.

• Use trusted taxi services or prepaid counters at Siliguri and Gangtok to ensure safety and fair pricing, especially when traveling late.

• Carry warm clothing even in summer, as Gangtok’s weather can be cool, especially in the early mornings and evenings.

• During monsoon months (June to September), check weather forecasts and road conditions regularly to avoid landslide delays or cancellations.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Siliguri to Gangtok is during the dry months from October to May when roads are clear and weather is pleasant. Monsoon season often brings heavy rains and landslides, causing delays and roadblocks.

Winter months can be cold, but the roads remain mostly safe, though early morning fog may reduce visibility. Planning your departure during daylight hours helps avoid night driving risks on hilly roads.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Christmas when traffic increases significantly and accommodation in Gangtok fills up fast.

• Monsoon rains from June to September can cause landslides on NH10, so travel only if necessary and keep alternative plans ready.

• Early morning departures from Siliguri help you reach Gangtok before evening, reducing risks associated with night driving on mountain roads.

• Winter fog in December and January may delay road travel; check local weather reports before starting your journey.

Arrival at Gangtok & What to Expect

When you arrive in Gangtok, you will find a small but bustling town with various transport options. The main entry points are the Gangtok Taxi Stand and the bus terminus, both well connected to local areas.

Local transport includes shared jeeps, taxis, and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber, though availability may be limited compared to bigger cities. Popular areas to stay include MG Road and Deorali, which are close to markets and restaurants.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Gangtok from Siliguri depends on your budget and comfort needs. Buses offer an economical and frequent option, while self-drive or taxis provide flexibility and convenience. Helicopter services are fastest but costly and weather-dependent.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and choosing the right transport mode will ensure a smooth journey. With this guide, you can confidently travel from Siliguri to Gangtok and enjoy the beautiful landscapes and culture of Sikkim.