Is there a direct train to Gangtok?

No, Gangtok does not have a railway station; the nearest is New Jalpaiguri.

Do I need a permit for Gangtok?

Indian citizens do not need a permit for Gangtok, but restricted areas require one.

How far is Siliguri from Gangtok?

It is approximately 115 km and takes 4 hours by road.

Which is the best airport for Gangtok?

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

Can I drive my own car to Gangtok?

Yes, but ensure your vehicle documents are updated and you have a valid driving license.

Gangtok

Train Driving

Pathsala to Gangtok

Updated: 21 May 2026

The journey from Pathsala to Gangtok spans approximately 450 kilometers through the scenic landscapes of Lower Assam and North Bengal. You will primarily travel along NH 27, passing through Bongaigaon and Alipurduar before reaching Siliguri. From Siliguri, the final leg involves a steep climb via NH 10 to reach the capital of Sikkim. Trains are available from nearby stations like Barpeta Road to New Jalpaiguri. This route offers a transition from the plains of the Brahmaputra valley to the rugged Himalayan foothills.

Total Distance: Driving distance 450 km, straight-line air distance 380 km.

Fastest Way

Private taxi from Pathsala to Gangtok takes about 12 hours depending on traffic at the Bengal-Sikkim border.

Cheapest Way

Train from Barpeta Road to NJP followed by a shared jeep to Gangtok costs approximately INR 900.

Compare Pathsala to Gangtok Routes

Train

Connecting

Duration

10 hours

Avg Price

INR 600 - 1200

Operator

Kamrup Express

Route

Barpeta Road to New Jalpaiguri (NJP), then taxi to Gangtok.

Book your NJP to Gangtok shared taxi in advance at the station pre-paid booth.

Driving

Direct

Duration

12 hours

Avg Price

INR 5000 - 8000

Operator

Private Taxi

Route

Pathsala - Bongaigaon - Alipurduar - Siliguri - Gangtok via NH 27 and NH 10.

Ensure your vehicle has a valid permit for entering Sikkim.

Travel Tips

Permits
Foreign nationals require an Inner Line Permit to enter Sikkim.
Clothing
Carry heavy woolens even in summer as temperatures drop significantly at night.
Cash
Carry sufficient cash as ATMs can be unreliable in remote stretches of the highway.
Motion Sickness
The winding roads of NH 10 can cause nausea; keep medication handy.
Connectivity
Prepaid mobile connections from other states often do not work in Sikkim; carry a postpaid SIM.

Safety Tips

Road Conditions
NH 10 is prone to landslides during the monsoon; check weather reports before starting.
Night Travel
Avoid driving on the mountain stretches after sunset due to poor visibility.
Emergency
Keep the contact number of the local police station in Gangtok saved.
Health
Acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness if traveling to higher points like Nathu La.