Amit Khanna
Sameer Staff answered 4 months ago
Reaching Sikkim for first-time visitors involves a combination of travel modes, as Sikkim does not have its own airport or major railway station. Here’s a detailed guide on how to get there:
1. By Air
Bagdogra Airport (IXB): The nearest airport to Sikkim is Bagdogra, located about 125 kilometers from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. It is well-connected with major Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai.
From Bagdogra to Gangtok: You can take a shared taxi, private cab, or a helicopter service (if available) from Bagdogra Airport to Gangtok. The journey by road takes approximately 4-5 hours.
2. By Train
New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP): The nearest major railway station is New Jalpaiguri, situated around 115 kilometers from Gangtok.
From NJP to Gangtok: Similar to the airport, you can travel from NJP to Gangtok by shared taxi, private cab, or bus. The road journey takes about 4-5 hours.
3. By Road
From Siliguri: Siliguri, located about 114 kilometers from Gangtok, is a common transit point. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from Siliguri to Gangtok. The road journey typically takes 4-5 hours.
From Kolkata or Delhi: If traveling from Kolkata or Delhi, you can drive to Siliguri or take a train to NJP or a flight to Bagdogra and then continue to Gangtok by road.
4. By Bus
State Transport Buses: Sikkim Nationalised Transport (SNT) and other private operators run buses between Siliguri, NJP, Bagdogra, and Gangtok. Buses are available in various categories, including luxury and regular services.
Tourist Buses: Several travel agencies offer tourist bus services from major cities to Sikkim. These services can be pre-booked online or through travel agencies.
5. Permits
Inner Line Permit (ILP): Indian tourists visiting Sikkim require an ILP, which can be obtained online or at the entry points to Sikkim.
Protected Area Permit (PAP): Foreign nationals need a PAP to visit Sikkim. This permit can be obtained from the Indian Missions abroad or from the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) in India.
6. Tips for First-Time Visitors
Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance for added safety and convenience.
Road Conditions: Be prepared for winding roads and variable weather conditions. Road travel in Sikkim can be challenging, especially during the monsoon season or winter.
Local Transport: In Gangtok and other towns, local taxis and shared cabs are the primary modes of transport. Make sure to check the local transportation options for getting around.
Altitude Considerations: Sikkim’s high altitude might cause altitude sickness. It’s advisable to acclimate gradually and stay hydrated.
Weather: Check the weather conditions before your trip as heavy rains or snow can affect travel plans.
These details should help you plan your journey to Sikkim efficiently.
Nidhi Staff answered 3 months ago
Reaching Sikkim involves a combination of air, train, and road travel. Here’s a detailed guide on how to get to Sikkim:
1. By Air
Bagdogra Airport (IXB) is the nearest major airport to Sikkim, located approximately 125 kilometers (78 miles) from Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim.
Domestic Flights: Several airlines operate flights from major Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai to Bagdogra.
From Bagdogra to Gangtok: You can take a taxi, shared jeep, or bus. The journey takes about 4-5 hours.
Pakyong Airport (PYG) is a small airport located around 35 kilometers (22 miles) from Gangtok.
Limited Flights: Pakyong Airport has limited flights from Kolkata and Delhi. It’s closer to Gangtok compared to Bagdogra, but options may be fewer.
2. By Train
New Jalpaiguri (NJP) is the nearest major railway station to Sikkim, located about 150 kilometers (93 miles) from Gangtok.
Trains: New Jalpaiguri is well-connected to major Indian cities like Kolkata, Delhi, and Mumbai.
From NJP to Gangtok: You can take a taxi, shared jeep, or bus. The journey usually takes about 5-6 hours.
3. By Road
Direct Access: Sikkim is well-connected by road to neighboring states like West Bengal and Bhutan.
From Bagdogra/NJP to Gangtok: Shared jeeps, taxis, and buses are available for the journey from Bagdogra or New Jalpaiguri to Gangtok.
From Siliguri: Siliguri, located about 114 kilometers (71 miles) from Gangtok, is another common starting point. You can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep from Siliguri to Gangtok.
Road Conditions: The roads to Sikkim can be winding and hilly. Travel times can vary depending on weather conditions and traffic.
4. By Shared/Private Taxi
Options: Private taxis and shared jeeps are popular for traveling between major cities and Sikkim.
Booking: These can be booked online, through travel agencies, or at airports and railway stations.
5. Travel Permits
Inner Line Permit (ILP): Indian tourists need an ILP to enter Sikkim. This can be obtained online or from the Sikkim Tourism Office.
Protected Area Permit (PAP): Foreign nationals require a PAP to visit Sikkim. This permit can be obtained from the Sikkim Tourism Office or Indian missions abroad.
Travel Tips
Weather Conditions: Road conditions can be affected by weather, especially during the monsoon and winter seasons. Check weather forecasts before traveling.
Booking in Advance: Booking transportation and permits in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons.
Sikkim’s accessibility has improved over the years, making it easier for travelers to reach this beautiful and serene region. Whether you choose to fly, take the train, or travel by road, the journey to Sikkim promises to be scenic and rewarding.