Darjeeling to Gangtok Travel Guide: Darjeeling and Gangtok are among the most sought-after hill stations in Eastern India. Both destinations offer stunning views of the Kanchenjunga ranges, pleasant weather, and a range of attractions. Located approximately 100 km apart, these hill stations are often visited together. Each year, many tourists flock to these locations, especially during the summer, to enjoy the breathtaking scenery and refreshing climate. We frequently receive inquiries from readers about traveling from Darjeeling to Gangtok, so we’ve put together this comprehensive guide on planning an itinerary for both destinations.
This guide aims to assist you in planning your visit to Darjeeling and Gangtok. For additional information, check out our other resources on Sikkim and Darjeeling available on our blog.
Where Are Darjeeling and Gangtok Located?
Darjeeling is situated in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, at an elevation of 6,710 feet. Known as the “Queen of Hills,” Darjeeling’s scenic beauty is enhanced by the majestic Kanchenjunga ranges and the lush tea gardens that surround it. The town was a British settlement before India’s independence, and its colonial architecture still adds charm to this picturesque hill station.
Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is perched at an altitude of 5,410 feet in East Sikkim. This hill station is spread across a forested mountain, offering stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. Several vantage points provide a panoramic view of the Kanchenjunga ranges. Sikkim is known for its public smoking ban, which is strictly enforced in Gangtok.
Both Gangtok and Darjeeling offer numerous attractions and activities for visitors. While similar, each hill station has its unique charm. Gangtok serves as a gateway to other tourist spots in Sikkim.
Darjeeling to Gangtok – Which Should You Visit First?
Deciding whether to visit Darjeeling or Gangtok first can be a common and challenging decision when planning your trip. These hill stations are located in different states, so whether you visit Darjeeling or Gangtok first depends on your itinerary. Travel time between Darjeeling and Gangtok is approximately 4 hours by car, though this can vary. From Bagdogra or NJP to Darjeeling typically takes around 3 hours, while traveling to Gangtok takes about 4.5 hours.
If you are arriving and departing from Bagdogra or NJP, your choice of which destination to visit first may depend on your travel logistics. If you’re flying into or out of Pakyong Airport, plan accordingly.
The distance from Gangtok to Bagdogra is 126 km and to Siliguri is 122 km, with the route following National Highway NH10. Traffic congestion can be significant in areas like Matigara, Darjeeling More, Kalijhora, and Ranipool, so start your journey early to avoid missing your train or flight.
While returning from Gangtok, be mindful of vehicle restrictions. Vehicles registered in West Bengal cannot go beyond the Deorali Taxi Stand, located about 2 km from Gangtok city. You’ll need to switch to a local taxi to reach your hotel. Unlike Sikkim, Darjeeling does not have such restrictions, allowing any vehicle from Sikkim to enter.
Distance and Travel Between Darjeeling and Gangtok
The distance between Darjeeling and Gangtok is 100 km, and the travel time is approximately 4 hours under normal conditions.
How to Reach Gangtok?
From Bagdogra/NJP/Siliguri:
Travel from Bagdogra Airport, NJP Railway Station, or Siliguri town to Sevoke Road, which leads to NH10. Cross the Teesta Bridge and continue to Rangpo, the entry point to Sikkim, and then head to Gangtok, which is another 39 km from Rangpo.
You can book a reserved car from Bagdogra Airport or NJP Railway Station. Prepaid counters are available at both locations. Private taxis are also available at Pakyong Airport if you are flying into Gangtok.
From Darjeeling:
Cabs can be booked from Darjeeling to Gangtok. The journey involves traveling down to Teesta Bazar, crossing the Teesta Bridge, and continuing to Gangtok.
Tentative Fares for Reserved Cars (as of January 2024):
- Bagdogra to Gangtok: Rs 3,000 – 3,500
- NJP to Gangtok: Rs 2,800 – 3,300
- Darjeeling to Gangtok: Rs 3,000 – 3,500
- Kalimpong to Gangtok: Rs 2,700 – 3,200
- Pakyong Airport to Gangtok: Rs 1,200 – 1,500
By Shared Cabs:
Shared jeeps are available from NJP Station between 7:00 am and 3:00 pm. From Bagdogra Airport, you must go to Siliguri Stand to find shared jeeps. These jeeps, which carry 10 passengers, depart only when full. They typically drop off passengers at fixed locations like Deorali Stand or Vajra Cinema Hall Stand in Gangtok.
Shared jeeps from Darjeeling to Gangtok are available from Chowk Bazar Stand in Lower Darjeeling.
Tentative Fare for Shared Vehicles (as of January 2024):
- NJP to Gangtok: Rs 200 per person
- Siliguri to Gangtok: Rs 200 per person
- Darjeeling to Gangtok: Rs 200 per person
- Kalimpong to Gangtok: Rs 175 per person
By Buses:
Siliguri SNT Stand operates a few buses to Gangtok, with services available throughout the day. There are no night buses.
How to Reach Darjeeling?
Shared and reserved taxis are available from Bagdogra, NJP, and Siliguri. Reserved cars can be booked at NJP and Bagdogra Airport through prepaid counters.
By Car:
Tentative Fare for Reserved Cars (as of January 2024):
- NJP/Bagdogra to Darjeeling: Rs 1,800 – 2,400
- NJP/Bagdogra to Darjeeling via Mirik: Rs 3,000 – 3,500
Shared jeeps are available from NJP Station and Siliguri Stand. Beware of misleading offers from individuals outside the station. It’s better to choose vehicles directly from the stand.
Tentative Fare for Shared Jeeps (as of January 2024):
- NJP Station to Darjeeling: Rs 200
- Siliguri Bus Stand to Darjeeling: Rs 175
By Bus:
Several buses operate from Siliguri to Darjeeling throughout the day, starting at 7:00 am.
Darjeeling to Gangtok Itinerary for 6 Days/5 Nights
Day 1: Travel from NJP/Bagdogra to Gangtok. Take a prepaid taxi or shared jeep, check in to your hotel, and relax.
Day 2: Explore Gangtok with a full-day sightseeing tour. Options include 3-point, 7-point, or 10-point tours.
Day 3: Take an excursion to Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir, and Nathula Pass. This full-day trip requires permits and large vehicles.
Day 4: Journey from Gangtok to Darjeeling. Enjoy the afternoon exploring Darjeeling Mall, Mahakal Temple, Observatory, and shopping. If time permits, consider a Joy Ride on the Darjeeling Toy Train.
Day 5: Visit Tiger Hill for sunrise, then explore Ghoom Monastery, Batasia Loop, and War Memorial. Enjoy breakfast at Keventers or Glenarys. Spend the day on sightseeing tours of Darjeeling.
Day 6: Return from Darjeeling to NJP/Bagdogra for your onward journey.
Extended Itinerary for 9 Nights/10 Days
Day 1: NJP/Bagdogra to Gangtok
Day 2: Gangtok sightseeing
Day 3: Gangtok – Tsomgo Lake – Nathula Pass – Gangtok
Day 4: Gangtok – Lachen
Day 5: Lachen – Gurudongmar Lake – Lachung
Day 6: Lachung – Yumthang Valley – Gangtok
Day 7: Gangtok to Darjeeling
Day 8: Darjeeling sightseeing
Day 9: Darjeeling – Mirik sightseeing
Day 10: Darjeeling to NJP/Bagdogra
Feel free to use these itineraries as a guide for planning your trip to Darjeeling and Gangtok. For additional information, refer to our other resources on Darjeeling and Sikkim. These itineraries are based on ideal conditions with reserved cars. Shared vehicles are also an option, and shared sightseeing tours are often available during peak seasons.
