Is there a direct train to Gangtok?

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

Do I need a permit for Gangtok?

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

What is the best airport for Gangtok?

Bagdogra Airport is the primary gateway for travelers visiting Gangtok.

How long is the taxi ride from Bagdogra?

The drive from Bagdogra to Gangtok typically takes 4 to 5 hours.

Are there buses from Siliguri to Gangtok?

Yes, Sikkim Nationalized Transport buses operate daily from Siliguri to Gangtok.

Gangtok

Flight

Sadu Chiru to Gangtok

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Sadu Chiru to Gangtok spans approximately 850 km through the scenic Northeast corridor. You must first travel to Imphal to catch a flight to Bagdogra, the nearest airport to Sikkim. From Bagdogra, a taxi or shared jeep is required to cover the final 125 km to Gangtok. The route traverses NH 27 and NH 10, offering views of the Teesta River. Expect a total travel time of 12 to 15 hours depending on flight connections.

Total Distance: 850 km by road, 450 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight from Imphal to Bagdogra followed by a 4-hour taxi ride to Gangtok.

Cheapest Way

Bus from Imphal to Siliguri followed by shared taxi to Gangtok, costing approx 3500 INR.

Compare Sadu Chiru to Gangtok Routes

Flight

Connecting

Duration

14 hours

Avg Price

8000-12000 INR

Operator

Air India

Route

Imphal Airport to Bagdogra Airport via Kolkata

Book your Bagdogra to Gangtok taxi in advance at the airport pre-paid counter.

Travel Tips

Permits
Ensure you carry valid ID proof for inner line permits if visiting restricted border areas in Sikkim.
Clothing
Pack heavy woolens even in summer as temperatures drop significantly in the higher altitudes of Gangtok.
Currency
Carry sufficient cash as ATMs can be unreliable in remote stretches between Siliguri and Gangtok.
Health
Consult a doctor regarding altitude sickness medication before traveling to high-altitude zones.
Connectivity
Pre-download offline maps as mobile network signals fluctuate frequently on the mountain roads.

Safety Tips

Road Safety
Avoid traveling on mountain roads during heavy monsoon rains due to the risk of landslides.
Taxi Safety
Always use government-approved pre-paid taxi counters at Bagdogra airport.
Emergency
Keep the contact numbers of local police stations in Gangtok saved in your phone.
Health Safety
Drink only bottled or purified water to avoid water-borne illnesses during transit.