How To Reach Gangtok From Kolkata
Are you planning a trip to Gangtok from Kolkata? The capital city of Sikkim, Gangtok is a beautiful hill station surrounded by lush green hills and snow-capped mountains. It is a popular tourist destination known for its scenic beauty, adventure activities, and rich culture. In this article, we will guide you on how to reach Gangtok from Kolkata.
By Air
The nearest airport to Gangtok is Bagdogra airport located in West Bengal. It is well-connected to major cities in India, including Kolkata. There are several flights operated by airlines such as IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Air India. The flight duration from Kolkata to Bagdogra is around 1 hour and 20 minutes. From Bagdogra airport, you can hire a taxi or take a shared taxi to reach Gangtok which is around 126 km away.
By Train
The nearest railway station to Gangtok is New Jalpaiguri station located in West Bengal. It is well-connected to major cities in India, including Kolkata. There are several trains operated by Indian Railways, including the Darjeeling Mail, Kanchenjunga Express, and Howrah-Dibrugarh Express. The train journey from Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri takes around 12-14 hours. From New Jalpaiguri, you can hire a taxi or take a shared taxi to reach Gangtok which is around 120 km away.
By Road
Gangtok is well-connected by road to major cities in India, including Kolkata. The distance between Kolkata and Gangtok is around 720 km via NH 27. There are several private and government buses operated by Sikkim Nationalized Transport (SNT) from Kolkata to Gangtok. The bus journey takes around 18-20 hours depending on the traffic and road condition. You can also hire a taxi or self-drive to reach Gangtok from Kolkata.
Best Time to Visit Gangtok
The best time to visit Gangtok is from March to June and from September to December. During this time, the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities. The monsoon season (July-August) should be avoided as there are chances of landslides and roadblocks.
Things to Do in Gangtok
Gangtok offers a wide range of activities for tourists, including:
- Visit the famous monasteries such as Rumtek Monastery, Enchey Monastery, and Tsuk La Khang Monastery.
- Take a cable car ride to witness the panoramic views of the city.
- Explore the local markets and shop for souvenirs and handicrafts.
- Visit the famous tourist spots such as Nathula Pass, Tsomgo Lake, and Banjhakri Falls.
- Indulge in adventure activities such as trekking, river rafting, and paragliding.
Conclusion
Gangtok is a beautiful destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. It is well-connected to major cities in India, including Kolkata. You can choose any mode of transportation, including air, train, or road, depending on your convenience and budget. We hope this article helps you plan your trip to Gangtok from Kolkata.