Is there a direct train?

No, there is no direct train from Kumarghat to Gangtok.

Which is the nearest airport?

Pakyong Airport is the nearest to Gangtok.

Indian citizens do not need a permit for Gangtok city.

Yes, shared taxis are a standard and safe mode of transport.

Yes, SNT buses operate from Siliguri to Gangtok.

Gangtok

Train Driving

Kumarghat to Gangtok

Updated: 23 May 2026

The journey from Kumarghat to Gangtok covers approximately 750 km across the Northeast. You must first board a train like the Kanchanjunga Express from Kumarghat to New Jalpaiguri. From New Jalpaiguri, you will hire a shared or private taxi to reach Gangtok. The route passes through the scenic landscapes of Assam and West Bengal. Expect a total travel time of 22 to 26 hours depending on train connections. This route is the primary lifeline connecting Tripura to the Himalayan foothills.

Total Distance: Driving distance 750 km, straight-line air distance 420 km.

Fastest Way

Train to NJP followed by private taxi, taking roughly 22 hours.

Cheapest Way

Train to NJP followed by shared taxi, costing approximately 1800 INR total.

Compare Kumarghat to Gangtok Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	20 hours	4 hours
Avg Price	1200-2000 INR	1500-3000 INR
Operator	Kanchanjunga Express	Sikkim Nationalised Transport
Route	Kumarghat to New Jalpaiguri Junction	New Jalpaiguri to Gangtok via NH 10
Tip	Book your tickets at least 60 days in advance due to high demand.	Shared taxis are available right outside the NJP railway station.

Travel Tips

Permits
Carry original ID proof for inner line permits if visiting restricted areas.
Clothing
Pack heavy woolens even in summer as Gangtok temperatures drop at night.
Cash
Keep sufficient cash as ATMs can be unreliable in remote stretches.
Motion Sickness
Carry medication for motion sickness as the road to Gangtok is winding.
Connectivity
Prepaid SIM cards from other states may not work; carry a postpaid connection.

Safety Tips

Road Safety
Avoid traveling on NH 10 during heavy monsoon due to landslide risks.
Health
Stay hydrated to prevent altitude sickness at higher elevations.
Emergency
Save local police and taxi union helpline numbers.
Night Travel
Avoid driving on mountain roads after sunset for safety reasons.