Siliguri (NJP and Bagdogra) to Gangtok
Your options
Ways to make the journey
4.5–5.5 h
Shared Sumos, Boleros and similar vehicles leave from the SNT stand area and Panitanki More in Siliguri and from outside NJP station, filling up through the morning. Ten seats is the usual load, so ask for a front or middle-row seat and pay for it on the spot. Drop-off in Gangtok is near the Deorali or central taxi stands, not at your hotel. Leave by early afternoon to avoid arriving in the dark.
5–6 h
Sikkim Nationalised Transport runs buses from its Siliguri terminal on Hill Cart Road to Gangtok several times a day, with ordinary and better-class options. It is the cheapest seat and the most stable ride for those who get carsick in jeeps. Buy tickets at the counter or online where available, and confirm departure times a day ahead, as schedules change.
4–5 h
Reserve at the Bagdogra prepaid counter, at NJP, or through your hotel or tour planner. A reserved car lets you stop at the Coronation Bridge, the Teesta riverside at Melli and Rangpo, and drops you at your door. For four people with bags it costs little more than four jeep seats with extra luggage charges. Agree the fare and any parking charges before you start.
Worth a stop
- Coronation Bridge at Sevoke
- Teesta river views around Melli
- Rangpo checkpost (foreigners get their Sikkim permit here)
- Singtam bazaar
- Ranipool
Questions people ask
Good to know
How long does it take from Bagdogra to Gangtok
Plan on 4.5–5.5 hours for the roughly 125 km from Bagdogra airport, and 4–5 hours from NJP or Siliguri. Traffic in Siliguri, checks at Rangpo and roadwork on NH10 can add time. In the monsoon, landslides can close the highway for hours or force a detour of 2–3 hours via Kalimpong. Check current status before you travel.
How much is a shared jeep from Siliguri to Gangtok
Expect around ₹400–600 a seat, indicative 2026, from the SNT stand area or Panitanki More in Siliguri and from outside NJP station. Jeeps leave when full, mostly in the morning and early afternoon. Large bags may cost extra on the roof. The SNT bus is cheaper at about ₹275–500 a seat but takes a little longer.
Do foreigners need a permit to go from Siliguri to Gangtok
Yes. Foreign nationals need a Restricted Area Permit, also called the Sikkim Inner Line Permit, to enter Sikkim. It is free and can be applied for online or obtained at the Rangpo checkpost on the way, and at Sikkim Tourism offices. Carry your passport, visa and photos. Indian nationals do not need a permit to enter Sikkim. Check current status before you travel.
Is there a train or flight to Gangtok
Not yet. The Sevoke–Rangpo railway is under construction and is targeted for about 2027, and it will stop at Rangpo, about 40 km below Gangtok. Pakyong Airport near Gangtok has no scheduled commercial flights as of 2026. For now, fly to Bagdogra or take a train to NJP, then drive. Check current status before you travel.