Gangtok is primarily accessed via Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal and New Jalpaiguri (NJP) railway station in Siliguri. The city also has its own airport, Pakyong, though its operation can be subject to weather conditions.
By Air:
The nearest major airport is Bagdogra Airport (IXB) in West Bengal, approximately 125 kilometers from Gangtok. A taxi or private car journey from Bagdogra to Gangtok typically takes around 4 hours and costs between INR 2,776 and INR 4,600. Shared taxis are also available, with fares ranging from INR 300 to INR 500 per person, taking 4 to 5 hours. A helicopter service operates daily between Bagdogra and Gangtok, reducing travel time to 20-35 minutes for approximately INR 3,500 per person, subject to weather conditions.
Pakyong Airport (PYG), located about 30-35 kilometers from Gangtok, offers limited flights, primarily from Kolkata, but its operations can be seasonal due to weather.
By Train:
New Jalpaiguri (NJP) railway station in Siliguri, West Bengal, is the closest major railhead, approximately 117-129 kilometers from Gangtok. Taxis and private cars are readily available outside the station for the 4 to 5-hour journey to Gangtok. Shared jeeps from NJP to Gangtok cost around INR 250 per person.
By Road:
Regular bus services are operated by Sikkim Nationalised Transport (SNT) and private companies from Siliguri to Gangtok. The journey by bus typically takes 4 to 5 hours, with fares starting from INR 270 to INR 475.
Shared jeeps and taxis are widely accessible from Siliguri. A shared jeep from Siliguri to Gangtok costs between INR 300 and INR 500 per person and takes approximately 4 to 5 hours.
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