Gangtok, the charming capital city of the northeastern Indian state of Sikkim, is nestled in the eastern Himalayas and offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and cascading waterfalls. Situated at an elevation of 5,410 feet (1,650 meters) above sea level, Gangtok is known for its mild and pleasant climate throughout the year, making it a popular destination for everyone seeking respite from the summer heat in other parts of India. The city’s cleanliness and greenery, thanks to strict laws that prohibit the use of plastic bags and smoking in public places, are some of its most striking features.
Gangtok is renowned for its rich culture, vibrant festivals, and delicious cuisine that blends Tibetan, Nepalese, and Indian flavours. Well-maintained roads, bustling markets, and colourful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze create a unique and inviting ambience.
Gangtok serves as a gateway to popular tourist destinations in Sikkim, such as Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, and Yumthang Valley. Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in trekking, mountaineering, river rafting, and paragliding in the nearby mountains.
Now, let’s move on to the comprehensive Siliguri to Gangtok itinerary and the most suitable routes to reach Gangtok from Siliguri.
Table of Contents
- Why travel from Siliguri to Gangtok?
- Traveling from Siliguri to Gangtok by car
- Best time to take a road trip by car
- Popular routes from Siliguri to Gangtok
- How to Reach Gangtok By Flight
- How to Reach Gangtok By Train
- Places to eat along this route
- Attractions in Gangtok for Sightseeing
- Hotels and resorts – Accommodation in Gangtok
Why Travel from Siliguri to Gangtok?
Travelling from Siliguri to Gangtok is a popular route for tourists visiting Sikkim, as Siliguri serves as the nearest major transportation hub to Gangtok.
The journey from Siliguri to Gangtok is a scenic one, passing through the lush green forests and rolling hills of the Darjeeling district. The route is adorned with tea gardens, quaint villages, and breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
Travelling from Siliguri to Gangtok is a fantastic way to immerse in the natural beauty and cultural diversity of Sikkim. The journey is convenient and offers stunning views of the Himalayas, making it a sought-after route for tourists visiting this picturesque part of India. Enhance your trip experience by enjoying the sightseeing attractions along the way during your road trip from Siliguri to Gangtok. Book Savaari taxi from Shilguri to Gangtok and transform your drive into a fun-filled journey without worrying about time and expenses.
Travelling from Siliguri to Gangtok by car
Travelling from Siliguri to Gangtok by car is a popular option for tourists visiting Sikkim, as it offers flexibility and the opportunity to explore the scenic beauty of the region at one’s own pace.
The distance between Siliguri and Gangtok is approximately 114 kilometres, and the journey takes around 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The route passes through the hilly terrain of the Darjeeling district, and the road conditions can be challenging at times. It is advisable to hire a car rental service in Siliguri for a hassle-free trip.
Visitors travelling from Siliguri to Gangtok by car need to obtain a permit from the Sikkim Tourism Office. The permit is required to enter Sikkim and is checked at various checkpoints along the way. The permit can be obtained online or from the Sikkim Tourism Office in Siliguri or Gangtok.
The journey from Siliguri to Gangtok offers stunning views of the Himalayas, lush green valleys, and cascading waterfalls. Visitors can take stops along the way to admire the scenery, take photographs, and enjoy local food and beverages. To make your trip more convenient, book our taxi in Siliguri for a comfortable and hassle-free travel experience.
Overall, travelling from Siliguri to Gangtok by car is the best way to experience the calm and beauty of Sikkim at one’s own pace. Visitors should keep in mind the route conditions, obtain necessary permits, and be prepared for the altitude before embarking on the journey. Let’s uncover the best routes to travel from Siliguri to Gangtok by car.
Important Highway information – National Highway 10
| Highway Name | Hill Cart Road |
| Alternate Name | National Highway 10 |
| Highway Number | NH-10 |
| Distance | 112.3 Km |
| Starting Point | Siliguri |
| End Point | Gangtok |
| Highway Quality | Excellent |
Best Time to Visit Gangtok from Siliguri
The weather in Gangtok is mostly pleasant throughout the year, with occasional cold breezes and heat waves during the peak of winter and summer. The best time to visit is from March-end to June and from September to November. During these months, the skies are clear, and the weather is pleasant, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Below is a tabular representation of the year-round climatic conditions in Gangtok:
- Peak: March-June
- Optimal: September-November
- Avoid: June-August
Quick Facts about Siliguri to Gangtok
| Road Distance from Siliguri to Gangtok | 114 kms |
| Aerial Distance from Siliguri to Gangtok | 70 kms |
| Travel Time for Siliguri to Gangtok | 3 hours and 17 minutes |
| Travel Time for Siliguri to Gangtok By Train | 2 hours and 43 minutes |
| Best Routes | Siliguri to Gangtok Via NH 10 |
| Best time to visit | March and September |
Popular routes from Siliguri to Gangtok
Route 1: Distance and Time taken from Siliguri to Gangtok via NH 10
The approximate length of the route from Siliguri to Gangtok is 112 kilometres, and the travel time is around 3 hours. The quickest and most recommended way to reach Gangtok from Siliguri is via NH10, which is the shortest route under normal traffic conditions.
This route is also one of the most picturesque, offering scenic views and enjoyable stops along the way to make your trip more enjoyable. However, it’s important to check real-time traffic reports and live maps for the most up-to-date information on the road conditions between Siliguri and Gangtok.
Driver suggested sights/monuments/offbeat places along this route
- Coronation Bridge, Sevoke: A historic bridge over the Teesta River built in 1930 to commemorate the coronation of King George V. It’s a popular spot for photography and sightseeing, located on NH 10.
- Teesta River, Sevoke: One of the major rivers in Sikkim and West Bengal, running parallel to NH 10 for a large part of the journey. It offers scenic views and is a popular spot for rafting and other water sports.
- Banjhakri Falls, Gangtok: Nestled amidst lush greenery and rugged rocks near Gangtok, Banjhakri Falls is a mesmerizing waterfall that captivates with its sheer force and natural beauty. With facilities for boating and a small park, it’s a perfect spot for a relaxing picnic or leisurely walks, offering a refreshing and rejuvenating experience in the midst of nature.
- Rumtek Monastery, Gangtok: A famous Buddhist monastery located on the outskirts of Gangtok. It’s one of the largest monasteries in Sikkim, known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful architecture.
Popular places to eat along this Route where our customers usually stop
- Highway Inn Restaurant: Located on NH 10, approximately 18 kilometres from Siliguri, Highway Inn Restaurant is a popular eatery known for its diverse menu of Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. It’s renowned for its prompt service and reasonable prices, making it a convenient stop for travellers.
- Rangpo Tourist Lodge, Rangpo: Situated in Rangpo, about 40 kilometres from Siliguri, Rangpo Tourist Lodge is a government-run restaurant that serves traditional Sikkimese dishes such as momos, thukpa, and churpee, along with other Indian and Chinese cuisines. It’s a great place to sample local flavours and experience the authentic taste of Sikkimese cuisine.
- Café Coffee Day, Singtam: A well-known chain of coffee shops, Café Coffee Day has outlets in various towns and cities along NH 10, including Siliguri, Rangpo, and Singtam. It’s a popular stop for coffee lovers, offering a range of hot and cold beverages, sandwiches, and snacks to fuel up during the journey.
“I recently visited Highway Inn Restaurant on my road trip to Siliguri and I must say, it was a delightful experience! The restaurant had a warm and welcoming ambience, and the service was incredibly prompt. However, what truly stole the show was their Chicken Tikka Masala – a mouth-watering dish that I highly recommend to anyone who visits this place. The chicken was cooked to perfection and the masala had just the right balance of spices, making it one of the best dishes I’ve had in a long time. If you’re passing by NH 10, do yourself a favour and stop by Highway Inn Restaurant for a taste of their heavenly Chicken Tikka Masala – you won’t regret it!”
Mohit Sharma
Siliguri to Gangtok Road Condition via Route 1:
This is the fastest route to travel from Siliguri to Gangtok and is used by most travelers. This route has standard highway tolls and the road conditions are better since there are no road closures.
Route 2: Distance and Time taken from Siliguri to Gangtok via NH 12A
The approximate distance between Siliguri and Gangtok via NH 12A is 135 kilometres, which takes about 4 hours and 10 minutes to reach the destination. This expressway is the longest route and an alternative route to NH 10 with medium to low traffic conditions. This expressway starts from Sevoke town near Siliguri and passes through Kalijhora, Kurseong, Sonada, and Jorethang before reaching Gangtok.
Driver suggested sights/monuments/offbeat places along this route
- Batasia Loop, Ghoom: Batasia Loop in Ghoom is a scenic railway loop that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Eagle’s Crag, Kurseong: Eagle’s Crag is a vantage point that provides a panoramic view of the rolling hills, lush greenery, and the town below.
- North Bengal Science Centre, Matigarahat: This centre in Matigarahat is an educational facility that houses various interactive exhibits, planetarium shows, and science demonstrations.
- Rainbow Waterfall, Kalej Valley Tea Garden: Rainbow Waterfall is a picturesque waterfall that cascades down a rocky terrain, creating a mesmerizing rainbow-like effect in the mist.
Driver Suggested popular places to eat along this route
- Kettle & Keg, Kurseong: Located in Kurseong, this popular restaurant serves a variety of cuisines, including Indian, Continental and Chinese. The place is known for its scenic views and cosy ambience.
- The Lounge, Kalimpong: Located in Kalimpong, this popular cafe offers snacks, sandwiches, and beverages. It has a cosy ambience, making it a great place to relax and unwind.
- The Orchid, Rangpo: Located in Rangpo, this restaurant serves traditional Sikkimese food along with Indian and Chinese cuisine. The restaurant has a warm ambience and is known for its hospitality, along with the delicious food.
Siliguri to Gangtok Road Condition via Route 2:
This is a slightly longer and slower route to travel from Siliguri to Gangtok. This route also has standard highway tolls and the road conditions are better since there are no road closures.
Most Preferred Route from Siliguri to Gangtok by Savaari Customers
Both the above routes are good for traveling from Siliguri to Gangtok. However, the route via Rangpo has better food options along the way. If you want to save time and still have a scenic drive, then the route via NH10 is your best option
Other means of travelling from Siliguri to Gangtok
By Flight
Siliguri has an airport, the Bagdogra Airport, which is about 16 km from the city centre. However, there are no direct flights from Siliguri to Gangtok as Gangtok does not have an airport. The nearest airport to Gangtok is the Pakyong Airport, about 33 km away.
You can take a flight from Bagdogra Airport to Kolkata and then a connecting flight to Pakyong Airport. Flight time from Bagdogra to Kolkata is around 1 hour and 30 minutes, and from Kolkata to Pakyong is around 1 hour, but schedules may vary. You can hire a reliable cab in Gangtok for a convenient ride to your hotel.
By Train
Siliguri has a major railway station, the New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. However, there are no direct trains from Siliguri to Gangtok as Gangtok does not have a railway station. The nearest railway station is the New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station.
You can take a train to NJP Railway Station from Siliguri and then a taxi or bus to Gangtok. The distance between New Jalpaiguri Railway Station and Gangtok is around 120 km, taking about 3-4 hours by road. Trains such as Darjeeling Mail, Kanchenjunga Express, and North East Express connect Siliguri and New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, but schedules may vary, so it’s advisable to check and book tickets in advance.
| Train Name | Departure | Arrival | Duration |
| 12343 – DARJEELING MAIL | 10:05 PM | 10:35 PM | 30 minutes |
| 13175 – KANCHENJUNGA EXPRESS | 06:35 AM | 07:15 AM | 40 minutes |
| 12505 – NORTH EAST EXPRESS | 06:25 PM | 06:50 PM | 25 minutes |
| 13141 – TESTA TORSA EXPRESS | 07:30 AM | 08:05 AM | 35 minutes |
Price comparison for choosing different travel means
| Means of transportation | Time taken via each of these means | Price |
| Siliguri to Gangtok by train | 40 minutes | Rs. 175 to Rs. 1255 |
| Siliguri to Gangtok by bus | 4 hours | Rs. 330 |
| Siliguri to Gangtok by flight | 18 hours | Rs. 17,533 |
| Siliguri to Gangtok by cabs | 3 hours | Rs. 5933 |
Though taking the bus from Siliguri to Gangtok is the cheapest option, the comfort and convenience provided by booking a cab are incomparable. Choosing a car rental service like Savaari gives you all the mobility and privacy you need, without digging deep into your pockets. It is a convenient way to get around without resorting to the hassles of public congestion and the various stops that come with public transportation. When you take a road trip with Savaari, you can take several detours, learn about cultures, and experience local cuisine. You can opt for a round trip on all routes or a one-way drop, where you will be charged only for the distance travelled and save half of the total round-trip cost, with no extra charge and no cancellation. You can explore everything that comes on the way to your destination comfortably and make the most of your road trip.
Popular sightseeing attractions in Gangtok
Here are some popular sightseeing attractions in Gangtok:
- Tsomgo Lake: Also known as Changu Lake, Tsomgo Lake is a high-altitude lake located about 38 km from Gangtok. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, it’s a breathtaking natural wonder and a popular tourist spot.
- Nathula Pass: Located at an altitude of 4,310 meters on the Indo-China border, Nathula Pass is a scenic mountain pass that offers panoramic views of the Himalayas.
- Hanuman Tok: Hanuman Tok is a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is located about 11 km from Gangtok. Situated at an elevation of 7,200 feet, it offers breathtaking views of Gangtok City and surrounding mountains.
- Tashi Viewpoint: Tashi Viewpoint is a popular viewpoint located about 8 km from Gangtok. It offers panoramic views of the majestic Kanchenjunga mountain range and the surrounding valleys, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers.
- Enchey Monastery: Enchey Monastery is a famous Buddhist monastery located about 3 km from Gangtok. Known for its unique architectural style and serene ambience, it’s a must-visit place for those interested in spirituality and culture.
Savaari’s customer recommends – popular places to eat in Gangtok
Gangtok offers a diverse culinary experience with a wide range of dining options. Here are some popular places to eat in Gangtok:
- Roll House
- Cafe Live & Loud
- Taste of Tibet
- The Coffee Shop
- Baker’s Cafe
Hotels and resorts in Gangtok
| Hotel Name | Address | Phone Number |
| Mayfair Spa Resort and Casino | This luxurious resort is located at Lower Samdur Block, Ranipool, Gangtok, Sikkim 737135. | +91 92328 55022 |
| The Elgin Nor Khill | This beautiful heritage hotel is located at Paljor Stadium Road, Gangtok, Sikkim 737101. | 03592 205 637 |
| Lemon Tree Hotel | This modern hotel is located at Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Road, Near Sikkim University, Deorali, Gangtok, Sikkim 737102. | +91 9911701701 |
| The Royal Plaza | This luxurious hotel is located at Upper Syari, Deorali, Gangtok, Sikkim 737102. | 03592 280 232 |
Nearby road trips from Gangtok
| Destination | Distance | Duration |
| Gangtok To Pelling | 117 Kms | 4 hr 8 mins |
| Gangtok To Darjeeling | 98 Kms | 5 hrs 7 mins |
| Gangtok To Ravangla | 65 Kms | 4 hrs 53 mins |
Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim, is a perfect destination for travellers seeking stunning architecture, fascinating museums, and breathtakingly tranquil scenery. Make Gangtok your final stop on your next road trip from Siliguri and experience a stress-free and enjoyable journey with the Savaari’s booking app.
Highway updates
