Siliguri to Gangtok
Your options
Ways to make the trip
4.5–5.5 hours
₹350–450 a seat · Shared jeeps and Sumo-type vehicles leave through the day from the Sikkim jeep stand near the Tenzing Norgay Central Bus Terminus in Siliguri, and less often from NJP station. They go when full, ten passengers to a vehicle. Book the front seats for more room. They drop at the main taxi stand on the edge of Gangtok, from where local taxis go up to MG Marg.
5–6 hours
₹250–350 a seat · Sikkim Nationalised Transport (SNT) runs buses from its own stand in Siliguri to Gangtok several times a day. They are cheaper and slower than jeeps, with more space for luggage. Seats can be booked a day ahead at the SNT counter.
4–4.5 hours
₹3,500–5,000 per car · A reserved car (a small hatchback or an SUV) can be hired at Bagdogra airport, NJP station or Siliguri. Prices rise for larger vehicles and late-night arrivals. Only Sikkim-registered taxis may usually carry tourists inside Sikkim for sightseeing, so book through an agent who uses one.
Worth a stop
- Coronation Bridge at Sevoke
- Teesta Bazaar viewpoint over the river
- Rangpo checkpost (ILP for foreigners)
- Singtam market for a tea break
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
How long does Siliguri to Gangtok take?
About 4–5 hours by reserved car and 4.5–5.5 hours by shared jeep, covering roughly 114 km on NH10. Traffic at Sevoke, roadworks, and landslides in the monsoon can add several hours. Leave Siliguri by midday so you reach Gangtok before dark, especially between June and September.
Where do shared jeeps to Gangtok leave from in Siliguri?
The main stand is next to the Tenzing Norgay Central Bus Terminus on Hill Cart Road, where Sikkim-bound jeeps and SNT buses gather. Some jeeps also wait at NJP railway station. Vehicles leave when full, so mornings are best. Fares are indicative, around ₹350–450 a seat.
Do foreigners need a permit to travel from Siliguri to Gangtok?
Yes. Foreign nationals need the Sikkim Inner Line Permit, formally a Restricted Area Permit, which can be obtained at Rangpo checkpost on the way with a passport, visa and photos, or in advance at Sikkim House or the Siliguri Sikkim Tourism office. Check current status before you travel.
Is there a train to Gangtok?
Not yet. The Sevoke to Rangpo railway is under construction, and Gangtok has no rail link. The nearest major station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), about 120 km from Gangtok. From NJP you continue by shared jeep, bus or reserved car along NH10.