How to Reach Sikkim – Complete Travel Guide by Road, Rail & Air

Sikkim is one of India’s most scenic Himalayan destinations, and reaching this beautiful state is easier than many travelers expect. Whether you’re coming by air, train, or road, this guide explains all possible routes to reach Sikkim smoothly and comfortably.

How to Reach Sikkim by Air

The nearest airport to Sikkim is Pakyong Airport (PYG), located around 35 km from Gangtok. However, flight connectivity is limited.

Alternative & Most Preferred Airport:

• Bagdogra Airport (IXB), West Bengal

• Distance to Gangtok: approx. 125 km (4–5 hours by road)

Bagdogra Airport is well-connected with major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kolkata, and Hyderabad. From Bagdogra, travellers can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach Gangtok.

This route is most commonly used by tourists booking Sikkim tour packages.

How to Reach Sikkim by Train

Sikkim does not have a direct railway station. The nearest major railway stations are:

• New Jalpaiguri (NJP) – approx. 120 km from Gangtok

• Siliguri Junction (SGUJ) – approx. 114 km from Gangtok

New Jalpaiguri is well connected with almost all major Indian cities. From NJP or Siliguri, taxis and shared jeeps are easily available to Gangtok.

How to Reach Sikkim by Road

Sikkim is well connected by road to West Bengal and the nearby northeastern states.

Popular Road Routes:

• Siliguri → Gangtok (NH10) – approx. 4–5 hours

• Bagdogra → Gangtok – approx. 125 km

Regular taxis, shared jeeps, and private vehicles operate from:

• Siliguri

• Bagdogra

• NJP Railway Station

Road journeys offer stunning mountain views, river valleys, and scenic landscapes.

How to Reach Sikkim from Major Cities

From Delhi

• Flight/Train to Bagdogra or NJP → Road to Gangtok

From Kolkata

• Direct flights to Bagdogra

Overnight trains to NJP → Taxi to Gangtok

From Bangalore / Mumbai

• Flight to Bagdogra → Road transfer to Sikkim

Important Entry Information for Sikkim

All travellers entering Sikkim must pass through Rangpo Check Post, where permits are verified. Indian tourists usually receive permits easily, while certain areas may require special permits (covered in the permits guide).

For restricted areas like Nathula Pass or North Sikkim, additional permits are required.

Best Way to Reach Sikkim (Quick Summary)

• Fastest: Flight to Bagdogra + road transfer

• Most economical: Train to NJP + shared cab

• Most scenic: Road journey from Siliguri