Pelling is a beautiful hill town located in the West Sikkim district of India. Siliguri, a major city in West Bengal, serves as the gateway to Sikkim and is the most common starting point for travelers heading to Pelling. This route is popular among tourists seeking serene mountain views and cultural experiences in Sikkim.

This guide will help you understand the main travel options from Siliguri to Pelling, including train, bus, car, and taxi. You will also find a detailed travel plan, practical tips, and advice on the best time to visit Pelling for a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Getting from Siliguri to Pelling – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is suitable if you want to reach Siliguri first, as there is no direct train to Pelling. Siliguri is well connected by rail, but from there, you need to use road transport to reach Pelling.

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

• Train fares to Siliguri vary widely depending on the class, ranging from INR 200 to INR 1500, with travel times from Kolkata about 10-12 hours.

• From NJP or Siliguri Junction, you must hire a taxi or take a bus to Pelling, as no direct train service exists beyond this point.

• Trains can be crowded during festivals and holidays, so booking tickets early via IRCTC is recommended to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Arrival at NJP station offers easy access to taxis and buses; the station has basic amenities and food stalls for travelers.

Bus

Buses are a popular and economical way to reach Pelling from Siliguri. State-run and private buses operate regularly, but the journey can be long and winding due to hilly terrain.

• West Bengal Transport Corporation (WBTC) and Sikkim Nationalised Transport (SNT) run buses from Siliguri to Pelling, departing from Tenzing Norgay Bus Terminus and SNT Bus Stand.

• The journey covers approximately 115 kilometers and takes around 5 to 6 hours depending on road conditions and traffic.

• Bus fares range from INR 150 to INR 300, making it a budget-friendly option for solo travelers and backpackers.

• Buses can get crowded during peak tourist seasons and weekends, so arriving early at the bus stand is advisable to secure a seat.

• Roads can be slippery and narrow during monsoon months, so bus travel may be slower and less comfortable in that season.

• There are several roadside dhabas and small eateries along NH10 and NH717A where you can stop for refreshments during the journey.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Siliguri to Pelling offers flexibility and comfort, especially if you want to explore nearby attractions on the way. The route is scenic but requires careful driving on hilly roads.

• The distance between Siliguri and Pelling by road is about 115 kilometers via NH10 and NH717A, with an approximate driving time of 4 to 5 hours.

• You can rent a car or hire a private taxi from Siliguri; self-drive options are available from major rental companies in Siliguri city.

• Toll plazas are present on NH10, so keep some cash handy for toll payments during the journey.

• Driving yourself allows stops at places like Rabdentse Ruins and Khecheopalri Lake, which are popular tourist spots near Pelling.

• Road conditions are generally good but can be challenging during monsoon due to landslides and fog, so check weather updates before starting your trip.

• Fuel stations are available in towns along the route, but it is wise to fill up in Siliguri before heading into the hills.

Taxi

Hiring a taxi is a convenient and comfortable way to reach Pelling from Siliguri, especially for groups or families. It offers door-to-door service and flexibility in travel time.

• Prepaid taxis and private cabs can be booked from Siliguri railway stations, bus stands, or through app-based services like Ola and Uber, though availability may vary.

• The taxi fare for Siliguri to Pelling ranges from INR 2500 to INR 3500 depending on vehicle type and negotiation, with a travel time of around 4 to 5 hours.

• Most taxis use NH10 and NH717A, passing through towns like Sevoke and Jorethang, with scenic views along the way.

• It is advisable to confirm the fare and vehicle condition before starting, as some taxis may not be well-maintained for hilly terrain.

• Taxi drivers often act as informal guides and can suggest stops or detours to interesting local sites.

• During peak tourist seasons, booking taxis in advance is recommended to avoid last-minute price hikes or unavailability.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers going from Siliguri to Pelling. It covers key steps to make your journey smooth and stress-free.

• Book your train ticket to Siliguri Junction or New Jalpaiguri well in advance through IRCTC to avoid last-minute unavailability and ensure a confirmed seat.

• Upon arrival at Siliguri, collect your luggage and head to the taxi stand or bus terminus depending on your preferred onward transport to Pelling.

• If taking a bus, arrive early at Tenzing Norgay Bus Terminus or SNT Bus Stand to secure a seat and check the bus schedule, as timings may vary seasonally.

• For taxi or car rental, negotiate the fare clearly and confirm the vehicle’s condition, especially the brakes and tires, for safe hill driving.

• Carry some snacks, water, and warm clothing as the journey involves winding roads and changing weather conditions.

• Keep your phone charged and have offline maps or GPS ready, as mobile network coverage can be patchy in some hilly stretches.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry a photo ID and keep your train or bus tickets handy, as ticket checks are common on Indian trains and buses.

• Drink bottled water and avoid street food during the journey to prevent stomach issues, especially when traveling through remote areas.

• Book your transport tickets online or at official counters to avoid scams or inflated prices common at busy stations.

• Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs with fare estimates to avoid overcharging by local drivers unfamiliar with standard rates.

• Pack light but include rain gear and warm clothes, as weather in Pelling can be unpredictable, especially during monsoon and winter.

• Be cautious with your luggage during bus or taxi transfers, as theft or loss can occur in crowded places like Siliguri bus stands.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Siliguri to Pelling depends on weather and tourist seasons. Avoiding peak traffic and harsh weather will make your trip more comfortable.

Monsoon months from June to September bring heavy rains and landslides, which can delay road travel and make driving risky. Winter months are cold but offer clear skies and good visibility.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Durga Puja and Diwali when trains and buses are crowded and prices rise.

• Early morning departures are best to avoid afternoon fog and traffic jams on hill roads, especially in winter.

• Summer months from March to May are pleasant but can be crowded with tourists, so book transport and accommodation early.

• Check weather forecasts and road conditions before starting, as landslides or roadblocks can occur during monsoon.

Arrival at Pelling & What to Expect

When you arrive in Pelling, you will find a small town with limited but sufficient transport options. The main entry point is the Pelling bus stand or taxi drop-off points near the town center.

Local transport includes shared jeeps and taxis that can take you to hotels or nearby attractions. Many hotels offer pickup services if informed in advance. The town has basic amenities, local markets, and eateries serving traditional Sikkimese cuisine.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Pelling from Siliguri is by hiring a private taxi or self-driving, as these options offer flexibility, comfort, and the chance to explore en route. Buses are economical but slower and less comfortable, while train travel is limited to reaching Siliguri only.

Planning your trip with advance bookings, checking weather conditions, and preparing for hilly terrain will ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. With this guide, you can confidently plan your travel from Siliguri to Pelling and look forward to the stunning landscapes and cultural richness that await you in Sikkim.