How to Reach

How to Reach

Rangpo is the main entry point to Sikkim by road, located at the border of West Bengal and East Sikkim. While it doesn’t have its own airport or railway station, Rangpo is easily accessible from major transport hubs like Siliguri, Bagdogra, and New Jalpaiguri (NJP). Here's a complete guide on how to reach this important gateway town.

 By Air: Nearest Airports

✅ 1. Bagdogra Airport (IXB), West Bengal

•  Distance from Rangpo: ~95 km
•  Travel Time: 3–4 hours by road
•  Well-connected to: Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai

 Tip: Bagdogra is the most convenient airport for reaching Rangpo and entering Sikkim.

✅ 2. Pakyong Airport (PYG), Sikkim (Limited Flights)

•  Distance from Rangpo: ~40 km
•  Travel Time: 1.5–2 hours by road
•  Connectivity: Direct flights from Kolkata and Delhi (subject to weather)

 Tip: Choose Pakyong only if you're confident about clear weather, as flights may be delayed or cancelled during bad weather.

 By Train: Nearest Railway Stations

✅ 1. New Jalpaiguri (NJP), West Bengal

•  Distance from Rangpo: ~85 km
•  Travel Time: 3–4 hours
•  Major trains from: Kolkata, Delhi, Guwahati, Chennai, Mumbai, Bengaluru

✅ 2. Siliguri Junction

•  Distance from Rangpo: ~90 km
•  Ideal for short connections or local trains

 Tip: NJP is the preferred railhead for all Sikkim-bound travel.

 By Road: Direct & Scenic Access

 From Siliguri/NJP/Bagdogra

•  Distance: ~90–95 km
•  Time: 3 to 4 hours
•  Route: Siliguri → Sevoke → Kalijhora → Melli → Rangpo
• Transport Options:
  • Private taxi (₹3,000–₹4,000 approx.)
  • Shared Sumo/Jeep from Siliguri SNT stand or NJP (budget-friendly)
  • Pre-booked tourist vehicles through travel agencies

 Note: Roads are scenic but winding—carry motion sickness meds if needed.

 By Bus

• Regular SNT (Sikkim Nationalised Transport) buses and shared jeeps run from:
  • Siliguri to Rangpo
  • NJP to Rangpo
  • Kalimpong to Rangpo
•  Affordable and reliable but less frequent than taxis

 Permit Check at Rangpo

•  Rangpo is the official entry checkpoint to Sikkim.
• Indian nationals only need to show valid ID.
• Foreign nationals must have an Inner Line Permit (ILP), available at Rangpo gate or online.
• Always carry government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar, passport, driver’s license).

 Tip: Keep copies (physical/digital) of your ID for easy check-in at hotels and checkpoints.

 Best Time to Travel to Rangpo

• ✅ October to May – Clear skies, good road conditions, perfect for sightseeing
• ❌ June to September – Monsoon brings landslides and travel delays (though lush and green)

✅ Summary: How to Reach Rangpo

Getting to Rangpo is easy and scenic—it's the first warm welcome you receive before stepping into the serene world of Sikkim. Whether you’re traveling from the plains of Bengal or onward to Gangtok, Rangpo is your first step into the Himalayas.

 Rangpo isn’t just a stop—it’s the start of your Sikkim adventure!