Travel to Sikkim
Sikkim is well connected by rail and air via NJP station and Bagdogra Airport respectively, in West Bengal. Most volunteers travelling to Sikkim from will arrive in New Delhi or Kolkata and will overnight there. Then there are two options, a flight to Bagdogra or train to New Jalpaiguri.
On arrival at Kolkata international terminal buy a prepaid taxi stand ticket before you leave the building. This avoids harassment by rickshaw and taxi drivers offering you the “best price”. Do not give the receipt to the driver until you arrive at your destination. A taxi-ride from the airport to Sudder Street which is the main backpackers’ area costs about 200 Rps. There are many hotels in this locality; most are basic but cheap.
By Train
When traveling from Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri by train, it is advisable
to book train tickets to NJP (New Jalpaiguri) at a tourist office,
There are many tourism offies on Sudder Street, Kolkata. A small commission
will be charged, but you will avoid the need to visit the congested
booking-office at the station itself. Alternatively you can book tickets online at www.indianrail.gov.in
By Airr
Bagdogra airport is near Siliguri in West Bengal. There are daily flights from Delhi and 6 flights from Calcutta every week. This route is serviced by Jet Airways, Indian Airlines and Air Deccan and flights may be booked by your travel agent or on-line. Please check flight schedules as they change frequently.
From Bagdogra and NJP, it is a 115 km jeep ride to Gangtok and takes about 4 1/2 hrs. Jeep-taxis leave from Bagdogra Airport, NJP station and from near the Sikkim tourist office in nearby Siliguri. A single seat in a shared jeep costs around 200 rps, and a private hire 2000 rps. If travelling in a shared taxi, one can book two or more seats (at 200 rps each) to give oneself more room (highly recommended!).
Visas and Permits
