Is a permit required for Gangtok?

No, Gangtok city does not require a permit, but restricted areas like Nathu La do.

Which is the nearest airport?

Pakyong Airport is the nearest, though Bagdogra is more frequently used.

Are taxis available at NJP?

Yes, a large fleet of shared and private taxis operates from NJP station.

Is the road to Gangtok safe?

Yes, it is well-maintained but requires cautious driving during rains.

What is the best month to visit?

October and November offer the best weather and mountain views.

Mallarpur

Gangtok

Train Driving

Mallarpur to Gangtok

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Mallarpur to Gangtok covers roughly 480 km. You must first take a train from Mallarpur station to New Jalpaiguri (NJP). From NJP, you hire a shared or private taxi to reach Gangtok. The route passes through the scenic Teesta River valley. Expect a total travel time of 12 to 14 hours depending on traffic at Sevoke. This route is the primary gateway for tourists entering Sikkim.

Total Distance: 480 km by road, 380 km straight-line.

Fastest Way

Train to NJP followed by a private taxi, taking approximately 12 hours total.

Cheapest Way

Train to NJP followed by a shared taxi to Gangtok, costing around 800 INR total.

Compare Mallarpur to Gangtok Routes

	Train Direct to NJP	Driving Direct
Duration	7 hours	5 hours
Avg Price	300-900 INR	2500-4000 INR
Operator	Kanchenjunga Express	Private Taxi
Route	Mallarpur to New Jalpaiguri Junction	NJP to Gangtok via NH 10
Tip	Book your tickets in advance via IRCTC as this route is high-demand.	Shared taxis are available at the NJP station exit gate.

Travel Tips

Permits
Carry original ID proofs for Tsomgo Lake and Nathu La permits.
Clothing
Always carry a heavy jacket even in summer as temperatures drop rapidly.
Cash
Keep sufficient cash as ATMs can be unreliable in remote areas.
Motion Sickness
The road to Gangtok is winding; carry anti-nausea medication.
Connectivity
Prepaid SIM cards from other states often do not work in Sikkim.

Safety Tips

Altitude Sickness
Acclimatize for a day before heading to higher altitudes like Tsomgo.
Road Safety
Avoid traveling on NH 10 during heavy monsoon due to landslide risks.
Emergency
Save the contact number of your hotel and local taxi union.
Night Travel
Avoid driving on mountain roads after sunset due to poor visibility.