Gangtok To Darjeeling Distance: Routes, Stopovers, And Best Scenic Experience
Gangtok and Darjeeling, two neighboring hill stations in Eastern India, are major tourist attractions and summer retreats. Nestled in the Himalayas, both cities have beautiful monasteries, seasonal snowfalls, tea gardens, and breathtaking vistas of Mount Kanchenjunga.
Furthermore, both have been a witness to the rise of Buddhism and its various sects in India. Also, the Sherpas, Bhutias, and Gorkhas here practice their distinct cultures in both these mountain wonderlands.
Having said that, Darjeeling has a Colonial whiff as the British made it a popular summer retreat. Also, It is more cosmopolitan in nature with the presence of places like St. Andrew’s Church and Ghoom Monastery in the same landscape.
Gangtok or Sikkim, on the other hand, is more quaint and soaked in traditions (As I have felt during my visit).
Nevertheless, while Darjeeling has a $100 million industry, Gangtok this year hosted the B20 Conference under the “G20 Presidency of India.”** So, it is likely to get more prominence in the global tourism scenario.
Also, thanks to the Gangtok to Darjeeling distance of around 97 Km, many people choose a packaged tour. A Gangtok to Darjeeling packaged tour will cost you around INR 20000. The easiest route is to take a cab to Gangtok or Darjeeling from Bagdogra Airport.
Moreover, the scenic route of 4 hours (on average) has many beautiful scenic spots like Ghoom, Lamahatta, and Kalimpong.
So, traveling this route via private cars, shared taxis, and buses will be an unforgettable experience.
| **India’s G20 Presidency at Gangtok on 16th March 2023 had the theme of “Tourism, Hospitality, Pharmaceutical and Organic Farming.“ So, this conference aimed at exploring opportunities in different fields, including tourism. Further, it was a collaboration between the following entities. The Government of SikkimThe Ministry of External AffairsDepartment for Promotion of Industry and Internal TradeConfederation of Indian Industry (CII) Further, the focus of the conference was investment-friendly tourism, especially in the sectors of eco-tourism and adventure tourism. Again, with the delegates visiting the Rumtek Monastery, there was a major focus on the rich heritage of Sikkim. In addition, the state’s potential for green technology has showcased the possibilities of sustainable tourism practices. |
So, let’s explore the Gangtok to Darjeeling routes and modes of transportation in detail.
Gangtok To Darjeeling Distance And Travel Time
The Gangtok To Darjeeling map showcases the extract distance as 96.2 Km, and you can take the main route via NH10 to cover the distance in 4 hours.
Further, if you want to cover the distance the fastest, you must take a private car. However, a journey in the shared cabs or buses may take longer as they will, of course, have multiple stops.
For example, the public buses plying between Gangtok and Darjeeling District will take at least 4 and a half hours.
Moreover, if you are traveling to Gangtok to Darjeeling or Darjeeling to Gangtok distance between March to June and October to mid-December, overall it will be a hassle-free ride. (Monsoon season, July to September, can throw challenges at you while covering the Gangtok to Darjeeling distance.)
Yes, there are several bad patches on NH10 and between Kurseong to Ghoom, and you must be careful while self-driving.
However, overall, the routes are well-maintained, and in the next section, you will get to know more about your routes and rides.
Popular Routes From Gangtok To Darjeeling
There are two routes for traveling from Gangtok to Darjeeling. The primary route is via NH10. However, if NH10 is closed or you want to try an alternative route, you can travel the distance via Kalimpong.
Gangtok To Darjeeling Route Via NH10
The Gangtok to Darjeeling route via NH10 impresses with beautiful vistas of Himalayan foothills. Also, Ranipool, Signtam, and Teesta Bazaar are some added attractions throughout the route.
Further, Teesta Bazaar is a wonderland of local handicrafts and silverware. So, you can try your shopping skills here.
| ⁕⁕ Dream And Travel Alert ⛔ Traffic on National Highway 10 was suspended from 16th September 2024 after a road collapse at Setijhora. This suspension was applicable until further notice or for an indefinite period. PWD, or the Public Works Department, has been assessing the condition and taking care of the reconstruction work. So, if you are traveling to Sikkim or need to take the NH 10 route, check the current traffic status and pliability of routes with your tour coordinator or hotel owner. Or, you can contact the information officers of the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department, Government of Sikkim. Here are the names and phone numbers of the Information Officers based in various districts of Sikkim. ‣ Ms. Jyoti Tamang – 7029543775 (Soreng) ‣ Mr. Ammiel Rai – 8617835919 (Namchi) ‣ Ms. Passang Diki Bhutia – 8538025879 (Gyalshing) ‣ Mr. Phugyal Ongdup Lepcha – 9002364433/ 9002055322 (Mangan) ‣ Mr. Victor Jigme Bhutia – 9635551478 (Gangtok) ‣ Mr. Arpan Rai – 7047928011 (Pakyong) |
Gangtok To Darjeeling Route Via Kalimpong
The route between Gangtok to Darjeeling via Kalimpong is longer. You will have to travel around 115 KM if you choose this route. The road to Darjeeling from Gangtok looks like this.
Gangtok
⇓⇓
Rangpo (Via NH 10)
⇓⇓
Take Right Toward Kalimpong
⇓⇓
Darjeeling (Via Peshok Road)
This journey will take you around 5 hours. However, based on weather and traffic conditions, you may expect a little delay.
Best Modes Of Transportation From Gangtok To Darjeeling
Unless you are an adventurous soul and want to travel a Gangtok – NJP – Darjeeling route via the Heritage Toy Train, traveling by road is the only transportation option between Gangtok to Darjeeling.
Nestled in the mountains, none of these tourist destinations have a proper railway station (except the Heritage Darjeeling Himalayan Railway). So, you have to take a private cab, shared taxi, or public bus.
For more fun, you can also opt for a self-drive. However, that is only applicable to seasoned drivers.
1. Take A Private Taxi Or Shared Cab From Gangtok To Darjeeling
A private taxi/cab is the most comfortable mode of transportation to reach Darjeeling from Gangtok. If you are traveling with family or your partner and have luggage, you can overlook the price chart for a hassle-free experience.
| To get private taxis from Gangtok to Darjeeling, you can contact Sikkim Darjeeling Taxi. It is a unit of the Government of India. So, you will get taxi services at a reasonable rate. Sikkim Darjeeling Taxi Contact Number: +91-89185-31897 | +91 98314-00280 Another affordable cab service from Gangtok to Darjeeling is India Taxi Booking. India Taxi Booking Contact Number: Rahul Roy, 8920866607, 7357284671 and Support Mr. Deepak 7357284671 |
You will get many types of vehicles for your Gangtok to Darjeeling travel. Based on the type of car you choose, the tentative charges per Km will be between INR 10-20.
Check out the table below for the types of vehicles available and their tentative charges.
| Type of Vehicle | Features | Vehicle Models | Tentative Charges (INR/KM) |
| SUV | 6+1 | Mahindra XUV300 and Scorpio Hyundai Creta Toyota Innova | 15 |
| Sedan | 4+1 | Honda City Toyota Yaris Hyundai Verna Maruti Suzuki Dzire | 11-13 |
| Hatchback | 4+1 | Tata Indigo Maruti Baleno Hyundai i20 Tata Tiago Hyundai Elite Maruti Alto Maruti Swift | 10 |
| AC Tempo Travelers | 12 Seater | 20 |
Cab charges are subject to change, and many agencies quote you the fare excluding charges. So, at the time of final billing, you observe a difference between the fare expected and the one you need to pay.
Moreover, after the distance, KM, or route distance, the charges per kilometer can be higher than expected. Also, make sure that you are not charged any surplus or hidden charges.
⁍ Shared Cab From Gangtok To Darjeeling
If you want to curtail your travel expenses, you can take a shared cab from Gangtok to Darjeeling. These taxis ply from the Deorali taxi stand in Gangtok and the charges per person will be around INR 200.
However, shared cabs are not frequent throughout the day. You have to reach the stand between 6-8 AM or 12-2 PM to book shared taxis. In addition, you need to be an early bird to secure a seat amidst the maddening rush.
2. Bus Services From Gangtok To Darjeeling
Are you traveling on a shoestring? You can take a public bus from Gangtok to Darjeeling district.
Along with the public buses, you will also get private and Government of Sikkim Transport Department undertaking vehicles. The tables below have the timings of the Gangtok to Siliguri buses.
| Public Bus from Gangtok to Siliguri | |
| Type of Bus | Timing |
| Ordinary | 6 AM |
| Ordinary | 7 AM |
| Express (A/C) | 8 AM |
| 10 AM | |
| A/C Coach | 11 AM |
| Express | 1.30 PM |
| A/C Coach | 9:00 AM |
The bus fares and timings are shared according to the latest update of the Government of Sikkim Transport Department.
| Private and Government of Sikkim Transport Department Undertaking Buses Timing (Gangtok to Siliguri) | |
| 6:30 AM | |
| 7:30 AM | |
| 8:30 AM | |
| 1:00 PM (Siliguri/Panitanki) | |
| 2 PM |
To know more about the availability of public and Sikkim Transport Department undertaking buses and their charges, you can call 03592 202773 (Government of Sikkim Transport Department Helpline Number).
Gangtok To Darjeeling Self-Drive
Self-driving has emerged as another option for Gangtok to Darjeeling travel in recent times. A popular name in self-drive car services, Zoom Car, offers its services from Siliguri.
You can rent a car from the wide variety of car models available, and the charges are on an hourly basis. To contact Zoom Car in Siliguri, you can download the app on your phone.
Having said that, consider self-drive as an option only when you are confident and have experience in driving in the hills.
Gangtok To Darjeeling Route: Top Scenic Stops Along The Way
The 97 KM route between Gangtok to Darjeeling is filled with tourist attractions. Here, I have curated the Dream and Travel favorites.
Further, here are some brief descriptions and some lodging options for you in case you want to spend a day or two in these quaint spaces.
1. Pakyong
Stay At: Yakten Village Homestay (078722 01379)
Pakyong, a city in Sikkim, is famous for Rumtek Monastery, the biggest in the state, and Shanti View Point. Pakyong also has Kartok Monastery and many beautiful hiking trails.
Further, Pakyong is a hotspot for organic farming in Sikkim.
2. Rangpo
Stay At: K K Homestay (079085 96756)
Rangpo is close to the border of West Bengal and Sikkim and it is a picturesque town running along the Teesta River.
Further, Rangpo is about to have the first railway station in Sikkim, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid its foundation stone on 27th February 2024.
3. Lamahatta
Stay At: Yolmo Homestay & Resort (062974 47499/ 097359 67178/ 093821 86544/ 078723 41696)
Lamahatta is one of the best offbeat destinations near Darjeeling. Lamahatta is famous for the Lamahatta Eco Park, which teaches the importance of balance and codependence among nature, wildlife, and human beings.
Further, a hub of dhupi and pine forests, Lamahatta will offer you tranquility and the ideal corner for introspection.
4. Kalimpong
Stay At: Windsongs Homestay (086706 60180/ 070018 20910/ 096794 77067)
Kalimpong in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal has a rich history. As an important trade route, it allowed access to Central Tibet through the nearby Jelepla Pass.
Further, the British wanted to develop Kalimpong as an alternative to Darjeeling, and the town had many improvements thanks to the endeavors of Scottish missionaries here.
Today, Kalimpong has many places of attractions like the Pine View Nursery, Lepcha Museum, Durpin Monastery, Changey Waterfall, etc.
5. Ghoom
Stay At: Homestay Sumnima (06295 858 367)
Ghoom is a quaint place, and this misty municipality in Darjeeling has the beautiful Ghoom Monastery and the heritage Toy Train.
Further, from Ghoom, you can take a Toy Train ride to reach Darjeeling. If you are an adventurous soul and time is not a constraint, this can be an alternative route from Gangtok to Darjeeling.
So, are you traveling to Ghoom this winter? Then, don’t miss the Ghum Winter Festival 2024.
This festival will take place between 30th November to 8th December 2024. You can call 7908187479 to learn more about the festival.
| If you are looking for a longer detour on the way from Gangtok to Darjeeling, you can visit Namchi on the way. Namchi, one of the best places to visit in Sikkim is the cultural hub of the state. However, it is most famous for the Samdruptse Monastery housing the tallest statue of Guru Padmasambhava or Guru Rinpoche. |
The Gangtok To Darjeeling Route: Break For Tea And Refreshment
When traveling from Gangtok to Darjeeling, you can stop at the following eateries and tea stalls along Peshok Road or Teesta Bazaar.
- Peshok Restaurant (07947143927)
- Hotel Arpita (07947149109)
- Ashok Restro N Garage (07942683835)
With the month of December knocking on the door, the stage is set for Darjeeling and Gangtok travel. So, enjoy your vacation in the Eastern Himalayas this winter. Bon Voyage!
