Welcome to Sikkim
Sikkim warmly welcomes all travellers, whether arriving from within India or across the globe.
With enhanced air, rail, and road connectivity, reaching the heart of the Himalayas is now more seamless than ever—ensuring your journey is as enchanting as the destination.
By Air ✈️
Almost all modes of air travel lead to Sikkim, either directly or via regional gateways.
The state boasts its own airport while relying on the well-established airport at Bagdogra (West Bengal) for wider connectivity.
-
Bagdogra Airport (IXB), West Bengal: 124 km from Gangtok, connects to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore, etc.
-
Sikkim Helicopter Service: 20-minute ride between Gangtok and Bagdogra. Also offers mountain flights over Mt. Khangchendzonga, Siniolchu & Yumthang Valley.
By Rail 🚆
Sikkim doesn’t have its own railway station, but nearby railheads in West Bengal provide excellent connectivity.
-
New Jalpaiguri (NJP): 125 km from Gangtok. Connects to Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, etc. Easily accessible by taxi, jeep or SNT bus.
-
Other Stations: Siliguri Junction (114 km), Alipurduar Junction.
-
Booking Assistance: Rail bookings available at SNT offices in Sikkim.
By Road 🚗
Sikkim’s road network is both scenic and efficient. The drive through lush valleys and hills is a journey in itself.
Major Highways:
- NH-10: Siliguri → Gangtok (via Melli, Rangpo)
- NH-717A: Bagrakote → Pakyong → Gangtok
- NH-717B (Old Silk Route): Rhenock → Zuluk → Sherathang
- NH-310: Ranipool → Changu → Nathu La Pass
- NH-310A: Tashi View Point → Mangan
Bus & Taxi Services:
- Sikkim Nationalised Transport (SNT): Govt. buses from Gangtok to Siliguri, NJP, Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Namchi, Pelling, etc.
- Private Operators: Shared jeeps, taxis, and coaches available throughout the day.
Self-Drive & Private Vehicles:
- Carry valid documents (license, RC, insurance).
- Hire local drivers for remote/high-altitude travel.
Popular Routes:
| Route |
Distance |
Estimated Time |
| Bagdogra/NJP → Gangtok | ~124 km | 4–5 hrs |
| Kalimpong → Gangtok | ~75 km | 3 hrs |
| Darjeeling → Gangtok | ~98 km | 4 hrs |
| Siliguri → Namchi | ~95 km | 4 hrs |
| Gangtok → Pelling | ~117 km | 5–6 hrs |
Permit Requirements 🛂
For Indian Nationals:
- Inner Line Permit (ILP): Required for North Sikkim, Tsomgo Lake, Nathula, Dzongu.
- Where to Get: Rangpo, Melli checkposts.
- Documents: Valid photo ID (Aadhaar, Voter ID, etc.).
For Foreign Nationals:
- RAP/PAP: Mandatory for protected areas (North Sikkim, Tsomgo, Nathula, Dzongu, etc.).
- Must be obtained via authorized tour operators.
Travel Advisory 📌
- Weather: Avoid travel during heavy monsoon (July–September) due to landslides.
- Altitude Caution: Acclimatize before visiting high-altitude places like Nathula & North Sikkim.
- Best Time to Visit: March–June & October–December.
- Essentials: Carry valid ID, passport-sized photos, and pre-book transport & hotels in season.
Traveling to Sikkim is more than just reaching a destination—it’s a soulful journey through the Himalayas.
From the first glimpse of Mt. Khangchendzonga to the warm smiles of locals, Sikkim offers timeless beauty that stays with you long after the journey ends.