Is a passport needed?

No, Indian citizens do not need a passport, but a valid ID is mandatory.

What is the nearest airport?

Pakyong Airport is the nearest, but Bagdogra is more reliable.

Driving is possible but the route is long and requires mountain driving experience.

Is it cold in Gangtok?

Yes, it is generally cool to cold throughout the year.

Are there direct buses?

No, you must change at Siliguri or NJP.

Gangtok

Train

Nainbagh to Gangtok

Updated: 22 May 2026

Traveling from Nainbagh to Gangtok involves crossing the northern plains of India. You must first reach Dehradun to catch a train to New Jalpaiguri (NJP). From NJP, you can hire a shared taxi or take a bus to reach the capital of Sikkim, Gangtok. The final leg of the journey offers stunning views of the Teesta River as you ascend into the Himalayas.

Total Distance: 1550 km by road, 1200 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight from Dehradun to Bagdogra (IXB) followed by a 4-hour taxi to Gangtok.

Cheapest Way

Train to New Jalpaiguri followed by a shared taxi to Gangtok.

Compare Nainbagh to Gangtok Routes

Train

Connecting

Duration

36 hours

Avg Price

2000-4000 INR

Operator

Nanda Devi Express to Delhi, then Brahmaputra Mail

Route

Dehradun to New Jalpaiguri via Delhi

NJP is the main railhead for Sikkim; book your taxi from there in advance.

Travel Tips

Permits
Carry valid ID proof for inner-line permits required for certain areas in Sikkim.
Motion Sickness
The road from NJP to Gangtok is winding; carry medication if you are prone to motion sickness.
Cash
Carry sufficient cash as ATMs can be unreliable in remote areas.
Clothing
Layer your clothing as temperatures drop significantly at higher altitudes.
Local Etiquette
Respect local customs and Buddhist traditions when visiting monasteries.

Safety Tips

Road Conditions
Landslides can occur during the monsoon; check weather reports before traveling.
Altitude
Acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness when visiting high-altitude lakes.
Taxi Safety
Use registered taxi counters at NJP station for your safety.
Emergency
Keep the contact details of your hotel in Gangtok handy.