Bagdogra to Gangtok A Complete Travel Guide

The total distance between Bagdogra to Gangtok is approx 125 km. The nearest airport to Gangtok is Bagdogra Airport (IXB), from which one can easily avail of private and shared taxis, and buses to reach Gangtok. The drive is approximately 4.5 to 5 hours long and is a scenic walk through the beautiful lanes of Sikkim.

Being the capital of Sikkim, Gangtok is a busy city and a wonderful tourist destination. Most of the tourists come to during the summer season and come to Gangtok to get relief from the heat. Although, the best season to visit Gangtok is winter when the temperature is chilly, sometimes even less than zero, stay at the best resorts in Gangtok to witness the culture and living hood of Gangtok.

Places like Gochla Village, the famous Old Silk Road, Teesta River, Rumtek Monastery, Tsomgo or Changu Lake, Yumthang, Nathula Pass, and Himalayan Zoological Park are best experienced during winter.

1. Bagdogra to Gangtok Distance

• By Road: approx. 123 km
• By Rail: Train is not Available
• By Air: approx. 125 km

2. Bagdogra to Gangtok Route Map

Gangtok is located almost north of Bagdogra. If you are planning to reach Gangtok by car, bus or bike, here is a detailed route map to follow.

• Head north on NH27, and NH327. towards
• Turn right at Panchmukhi Air & Train Ambulance Services Pvt Ltd. Ltf, and stop at NH27. Drive past the Gravity Institute on your left.
• From Shiv Mandi, continue driving on NH10. Drive from Matigarha to Siliguri Way.
• When stopping on NH10, turn left at the traffic point. Drive past Hotel Avanti on your left.
• Turn right at Shambhavi Collection Ranipool Bazar
• Turn right
• Turn right
• Turn left at Royal Public School
• Take a sharp left
• Turn left onto Santujit Rai Road
• Take another sharp left
• Turn left
• Continue on Bhusuk Road

3. Best Time to Visit Gangtok

Summer season

The summer season in Gangtok lasts from May to June-July with relatively warm and pleasant weather. This happens even when a large number of tourists are seen thronging here in search of relief from the heat, so it is expected that there may be a little crowd here. If you are planning a vacation then this is the best time to visit Gangtok. The best places to visit in Gangtok during summer are North Sikkim and West Sikkim, which are accessible only during these months. Though the nights do get quite cold, overall the weather is welcoming. Expect daily bouts of warm sunshine combined with cool mountain air – a delightful combination.

Temperature Estimation:

• The minimum. Temperature:12 °C
• Max. Temperature:27 °C

Winter Season

Winters in Gangtok start from October to March. The weather is extremely cold, with the average day temperature being between 5 and 8 °C, while the nights see a steep drop of around 3 to 4 °C. The chances of snowfall are also quite high, and there are various snow adventures. On a clear day, you can catch sight of the giants of the snow-capped Himalayas. The weather, though quite chilly, is pleasant and enjoyable with a healthy dose of sunshine in the afternoon. Winters are also the time for some of the most famous festivals of Gangtok.

Temperature Estimation:

• The minimum. Temperature: 0-2 °C
• Max. Temperature:7-8°C

Monsoon Season

The monsoon in Gangtok starts in July and lasts till September. This is a dangerous season to visit Gangtok, as the landslides are triggered due to heavy rainfall in the prone areas. Many roads are often blocked due to landslides, making it a difficult business. However, if you think you can do it all, then a lush blanket of greenery, mist-covered valleys, and frequent rains await you. The greenery of Gangtok is at its peak during the monsoon. The weather becomes very chilly during and after the rains, with the average temperature hovering between 12 and 24 degrees. It is wise to stay in touch with the news and weather forecast for warnings.

Temperature Estimation:

• The minimum. Temperature:12 °C
• Max. Temperature:24 °C

4. Bagdogra to Gangtok by Bus

If you are traveling from Bagdogra to Gangtok by road, there are a number of private and shared taxis and buses available near the airport. The drive generally takes around 4-5 hours. It is advisable to opt for a Sikkim State Registered Vehicle instead of a West Bengal State Registered Vehicle to avoid the hassle of shifting any other vehicle from Deorali to Gangtok.

Sikkim Nationalized Transport (SNT) offers state-run bus services from Siliguri to Gangtok and will drop you off at Deorali, from where a state-registered taxi must be hired.

5. Drive to Gangtok from Bagdogra

The drive from Bagdogra to Gangtok takes around 4-5 hours. Bengal State Registered Vehicles and Sikkim State Registered Vehicles are available to take you to Gangtok. But the former will drop you at Deorali, from where a Sikkim state-registered vehicle must be hired. Therefore, give preference to a vehicle registered in the state of Sikkim from Bagdogra itself.

Private taxis from Bagdogra to Gangtok cost around Rs 3,000 for a small one and Rs 3,500 for a big one. A shared jeep can accommodate up to 10 people per person and may be better if you are traveling alone. The cost per person comes to around Rs 200.

6. Bagdogra to Gangtok by Train

The nearest railway station to Gangtok is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), which is about 120 km from Gangtok. The station is well connected to major cities of the country like Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, and Mumbai with a good frequency of trains. From New Jalpaiguri, you can board a state transport bus or hire a shared or private taxi to reach Gangtok.

7. Bagdogra to Gangtok by Air

Bagdogra is the nearest airport to Gangtok at a distance of about 125 km. The airport is well connected to other major cities of the country such as Mumbai, Bangalore, Delhi, and Kolkata with a good frequency of flights. It is also well connected to neighboring countries like Bhutan. A helicopter facility is also available from Bagdogra to Gangtok, and it takes only 20 minutes. This service is provided by Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation. From Bagdogra airport, you can hire private or shared cabs and pick you up in Gangtok, which is a 4-5 hour drive.

• Bagdogra to Gangtok by Helicopter

Yes, it’s possible to travel from Bagdogra to Gangtok by helicopter. Bagdogra airport has helicopter service operated by Pawan Hans, which connects Bagdogra with Gangtok, the capital of the Indian state of Sikkim.

Here are some more things to know about the Bagdogra-Gangtok helicopter service:

1. Schedule: The helicopter service operates on a daily basis and the schedule may vary depending on weather conditions and other factors. It’s a good idea to check the schedule in advance and book your tickets accordingly.
2. Duration: The flight duration is around 20-25 minutes, which is much shorter than the 4-5 hours journey by road.
3. Booking: Tickets can be booked online on the Pawan Hans website or through authorized agents.
4. Fare: The fare for the Bagdogra-Gangtok helicopter service is generally higher than the fare for the same journey by road.
5. luggage : passenger are allowed to carry the minimal luggage like Handbag,Laptop bags, small purse, etc.
6. Safety: The helicopter service is operated by a reputed company and follows all necessary safety precautions, however always check for the company certification and reviews before taking the trip.

It’s important to note that Helicopter service can be affected by weather conditions, so it’s a good idea to have a backup plan in case of cancellation or delay.

Important Links

• Gangtok temperature (Link)
• Gangtok weather (Link)
• The temperature of Gangtok (Link)
• Hotels in Gangtok (Link)
• Mayfair Gangtok (Link)
• Gangtok airport (Link)
• Bagdogra to Gangtok Distance (Link)
• Darjeeling to Gangtok Distance (Link)
• Siliguri to Gangtok Distance (Link)

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Frequently Asked Questions About Gangtok

Q. Can we go to Gangtok in 3 days?

A – Day-wise Itinerary:
Day 1 – Arrival, Gangtok City. Day 2 – Approach attractions and waterfalls. Day 3 – Long Drive, Tsomgo Lake. Day 4 – Souvenir shopping, departure.

Q. What is Gangtok famous for?

A – The capital of Sikkim, Gangtok is a hill resort and one of the most popular places to visit in North-East India. It is known for its natural beauty and the alluring views of Mount Kangchenjunga, the third-highest peak in the world.

Q. Is one day enough for Gangtok?

A – Gangtok can be visited in a day, but if you are planning to go north, enjoy 3 nights and 4 days to its fullest.

Q. Which is better Darjeeling or Gangtok?

A – On a personal note, I would suggest Darjeeling over Gangtok, mainly because of the scenic beauty and spectacular view of the Kangchenjunga ranges that it offers. More of a colorful life can be enjoyed in a hill station in Darjeeling. It also offers excellent options for dining and shopping.

Q. Is Gangtok expensive?

A – An important pilgrimage site, Gangtok is also a major center of tourism in the state. Due to a lack of budget transport options, hilly terrain, and many other factors, a trip to Gangtok can be costly for budget travelers.

Q. Is Gangtok safe for travelers?

A – Yes, Gangtok is safe for travelers. But due to the road leading to Gangtok, it is better to be cautious during the journey.

Q. Is Nathula Pass open now?

A – First of all, you should note that Nathula is open only from Wednesday to Sunday of the week. It is closed to the public on Mondays and Tuesdays. The best time to visit is from May to October when the daytime temperature ranges between 10 to 15 degrees Celsius.

Q. Which transport is used in Sikkim?

A – The Sikkim government has fixed-rate buses; Sikkim Nationalized Transport (SNT) operates between Siliguri and Gangtok from its bus terminal in Siliguri. There are buses from New Jalpaiguri (NJP) to Gangtok. To reach Gangtok many tourists get off by train and New Jalpaiguri, which is at a distance of 124 km.

Q. Is Sikkim an Indian state?

A – Sikkim is a state in Northeast India. It is one of the fastest-growing, multi-ethnic, and multilingual Indian states. It is bordered by Tibet to the north and northeast, Bhutan to the east, Nepal to the west, and West Bengal to the south. Sikkim is also located close to the Siliguri Corridor of India near Bangladesh.

Q. How do I reach Bagdogra from Gangtok?

A – The best way to reach Bagdogra from Gangtok is by taking a taxi or hiring a car. The distance between the two places is approximately 124 km and the journey takes around 4-5 hours by road.

Q. What is the best time to visit Gangtok?

A – The best time to visit Gangtok is between the months of April and June and September to December, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.

Q. What are the popular tourist attractions in Gangtok?

A – Some popular tourist attractions in Gangtok include Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial, Rumtek Monastery, Tashi View Point, and Saramsa Garden.

Q. Are there any direct flights from Bagdogra to Gangtok?

A – There are no direct flights between Bagdogra and Gangtok. The nearest airport to Gangtok is Bagdogra and one can reach Gangtok from there by taking a taxi or bus.

Q. How can I get a permit to visit Nathula Pass?

A – To visit Nathula Pass, you will need to obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP), which can be obtained from the District Magistrate’s office in Gangtok. The permit can also be obtained online through the Sikkim government’s official website.

Q. Is it safe to travel from Bagdogra to Gangtok?

A – Generally yes, it’s safe to travel from Bagdogra to Gangtok. However, it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take safety precautions as one would when traveling to any other unfamiliar place.

Q. Are there any ATMs in Gangtok?

A – Yes, there are several ATMs located throughout Gangtok. You will find them in the city center, near tourist attractions and also in many hotels and restaurants.

Q. Can I hire a taxi from Bagdogra airport to Gangtok?

A – Yes, there are many taxi operators at Bagdogra airport that you can hire for the journey to Gangtok.

Things to know about Bagdogra to Gangtok

Here are a few things you might want to know about traveling from Bagdogra to Gangtok:

1. Distance and travel time: The distance from Bagdogra to Gangtok is about 124 kilometers, and the journey takes about 5-6 hours by road, or about an hour by air.
2. Cost: The cost of traveling from Bagdogra to Gangtok will depend on your mode of transportation. A one-way flight from Bagdogra to Gangtok starts at around INR 2,500-3,000, while a one-way taxi ride costs around INR 5,000-6,000. Bus tickets start at around INR 500-600, but the journey takes longer and is likely to be less comfortable.
3. Documents: If you are planning to travel by air, you will need to present a valid government-issued ID, such as a passport, driver’s license, or voter ID card. If you are planning to travel by road, you will need to carry your driver’s license and vehicle registration documents.
4. Weather: The weather in Gangtok is generally cooler than in Bagdogra, as Gangtok is located at a higher altitude. The temperature in Gangtok ranges from about 10-20 degrees Celsius in the winter months (December-February) to about 20-30 degrees Celsius in the summer months (March-May).
5. Things to do in Gangtok: Gangtok is a popular tourist destination, and there are many things to see and do in the city. Some popular attractions include Tsomgo Lake, the Rumtek Monastery, and Nathula Pass. You can also go trekking or visit the local marketplaces to sample some of the local cuisines.

Things to do while traveling from Bagdogra to Gangtok

Here are a few things you could do while traveling from Bagdogra to Gangtok:

1. Visit the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the “Toy Train,” is a narrow-gauge railway that runs from New Jalpaiguri (near Siliguri) to Darjeeling. The train journey takes about 7 hours and offers stunning views of the Himalayas and the surrounding tea plantations.
2. Stop at the Changu Lake: Changu Lake, also known as Tsomgo Lake, is a glacial lake located about 40 kilometers from Gangtok. The lake is situated at an altitude of 3,753 meters and is a popular tourist destination. You can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to visit the lake, and you can also enjoy a Yak ride around the lake.
3. Visit the Temi Tea Estate: The Temi Tea Estate is located in the South Sikkim district and is the only tea estate in Sikkim. The tea estate is home to a tea factory, where you can watch the tea-making process and sample some of the local tea. The tea estate is located about 35 kilometers from Gangtok and can be reached by taxi or shared jeep.
4. Stop at the Mangal Dham Temple: The Mangal Dham Temple is a Hindu temple located in Namchi, the district headquarters of South Sikkim. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is a popular tourist destination. The temple is located about 75 kilometers from Gangtok and can be reached by taxi or shared jeep.
5. Visit the Namchi Monastery: The Namchi Monastery, also known as the Char Dham, is a Buddhist monastery located in Namchi. The monastery is home to a large statue of the Buddha and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. The monastery is located about 75 kilometers from Gangtok and can be reached by taxi or shared jeep.

Facts about Bagdogra to Gangtok

1. Distance: The distance between Bagdogra and Gangtok is approximately 124 km.
2. Journey time: The journey from Bagdogra to Gangtok by road takes around 4-5 hours.
3. Mode of transport: The best way to reach Gangtok from Bagdogra is by taking a taxi or hiring a car.
4. Permits: Nathula Pass, a popular tourist destination in Gangtok, requires an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to visit, which can be obtained from the District Magistrate’s office in Gangtok or the Sikkim government’s official website.
5. Weather: The best time to visit Gangtok is between April and June and September to December when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
6. Popular tourist attractions: Some popular tourist attractions in Gangtok include the Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial, Rumtek Monastery, Tashi View Point, and Saramsa Garden.
7. Safety: Generally, it is safe to travel from Bagdogra to Gangtok but as with any unfamiliar place, it is always wise to be aware of your surroundings and take safety precautions.
8. ATMs: There are several ATMs located throughout Gangtok in the city center, near tourist attractions and also in many hotels and restaurants.

More things to know about Bagdogra to Gangtok

1. Road conditions: The road conditions from Bagdogra to Gangtok are generally good, but the journey can be winding and mountainous, so it is important to take precautions and drive carefully.
2. Altitude: Gangtok is located at an altitude of 1,437 meters (4,715 feet) above sea level, which can cause altitude sickness in some people, so it is important to take it easy and allow your body to acclimatize to the altitude.
3. Accommodation: Gangtok offers a variety of accommodation options, including budget-friendly hotels, mid-range resorts, and luxury hotels. There are also homestays available for a more traditional and authentic experience.
4. Local currency: The local currency in Gangtok is the Indian Rupee (INR). Currency exchange facilities are available at the airport, banks, and hotels. It’s also a good idea to carry some small denominations of cash and change as many local shopkeepers may not have change for larger denominations.
5. Food: Gangtok offers a variety of delicious local cuisine and also international food options. Some popular dishes include momos, thukpa, chow mein, and dumplings. You can also find Indian, Chinese, Tibetan, and Continental cuisine.
6. Shopping: Gangtok is known for its vibrant markets where you can buy traditional handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Some popular items to buy include thangkas, prayer flags, carpets, woolen items, and handicrafts made from bamboo and cane.
7. Mobile network: Mobile network coverage is available in Gangtok but it can be weak in some areas. It’s a good idea to carry a local SIM card for better connectivity.
8. Emergency contact: In case of any emergency, you can contact the local police by dialing 100, or the tourist police at 03592-202756 or 1091. It’s also a good idea to inform your embassy of your travel plans.