Sikkim, the breathtaking Himalayan state, is a popular destination for travelers from Kolkata who seek natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences. If you’re planning a trip and wondering how to reach Sikkim from Kolkata, this guide provides a detailed breakdown of the various travel options available.
In This Article
1. How To Reach Sikkim From Kolkata By Air: The Fastest Route
The quickest way to reach Sikkim from Kolkata is by flight.
Flight Route:
- Kolkata to Bagdogra Airport (IXB): Bagdogra, located in West Bengal, is the nearest airport to Sikkim. Direct flights from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) in Kolkata take about 1.5 hours.
- Bagdogra to Gangtok: After landing at Bagdogra, you have the following options:
- Helicopter Service: The Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation (STDC) operates a 20-minute helicopter service to Gangtok. However, this depends on weather conditions and availability.
- Taxi or Shared Cabs: You can hire a private taxi or take a shared cab to reach Gangtok in about 4–5 hours.
2. How To Reach Sikkim From Kolkata By Train: Budget-Friendly Option
There is no direct train to Sikkim, as the state does not have a railway station. However, you can travel by train from Kolkata to the nearest railheads and then continue by road.
Train Route:
- Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri (NJP) or Siliguri Junction:
- Several trains run daily from Howrah (HWH) and Sealdah (SDAH) to New Jalpaiguri (NJP), which is the closest major railway station to Sikkim.
- Popular trains include Darjeeling Mail, Padatik Express, and Kanchankanya Express.
- The journey takes 10–12 hours.
- NJP/Siliguri to Gangtok:
- From NJP, you can take a shared cab, private taxi, or bus to Gangtok, which takes about 4–5 hours.
3. How To Reach Sikkim From Kolkata By Road: A Scenic Journey
If you love road trips, you can travel from Kolkata to Sikkim by bus or private vehicle.
Bus Services:
- Kolkata to Siliguri: Government and private buses operate overnight services, taking 12–14 hours.
- Siliguri to Gangtok: From Siliguri, regular buses, shared jeeps, and private taxis are available, covering the distance in 4–5 hours.
Self-Drive Option:
- Distance: About 700 km
- Route: Kolkata → Malda → Siliguri → Gangtok
- Time Required: 16–18 hours (excluding breaks)
- Road Condition: National Highway 10 (NH10) connects Siliguri to Gangtok, offering stunning mountain views but with some challenging terrain.
Best Time to Travel
- Spring (March to May): Pleasant weather, blooming flowers.
- Autumn (September to November): Clear skies, and great views of the Himalayas.
- Winter (December to February): Snowfall in higher regions.
- Monsoon (June to August): Landslides can disrupt travel, so avoid if possible.
However, you can travel to Sikkim at any time you want. The weather should be perfectly fine during all the seasons and tourists can enjoy the beautiful scenic beauties of the charming city at any time of the year.
Check Out: Kharibari Rajarhat: A Lakeview Point Near New Town, Kolkata
Final Thoughts
Traveling from Kolkata to Sikkim is convenient with multiple options available, depending on your budget and time constraints. Whether you choose air, train, or road, each route offers a unique experience. Plan your trip wisely, book tickets in advance, and get ready to explore the mesmerizing beauty of Sikkim!
Ashiq Nur Is A Writer, Content Developer, Travel Adventurer, Medical Professionalised & Founder Of TravelWanna. He Is A DRx By Profession But An Intense Desire For Writing From Childhood Made Him Choose The Writing Career. Ashiq Lives In Dehradun, UK & He Is Currently Working On Completing His Debut Novel.
