Sikkim Tour from Kolkata 2026: How to Reach, Permits & 5-Day Plan
9 min read
Updated 1 April 2026
How to Reach Sikkim from Kolkata
Flight to Bagdogra (1 hour, ₹2,500-6,000), then taxi/shared cab to Gangtok (125 km, 4-5 hours, ₹300 shared / ₹3,000 private). OR overnight train to NJP (8-10 hours) then taxi to Gangtok. The Pakyong Airport near Gangtok operates limited flights — check availability.
Inner Line Permit (ILP)
Indian nationals need an ILP for restricted areas (Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, North Sikkim, Silk Route). Get it in Gangtok: Tourism office at MG Marg (₹100, same-day, bring Aadhaar + photos). Your hotel can also arrange it. Kolkata doesn't have Sikkim permit offices — get it on arrival.
5-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Gangtok, MG Marg, Ropeway, Do Drul Chorten. Day 2: Tsomgo Lake + Nathula Pass (ILP needed). Day 3: Drive to Pelling (130 km, 5 hrs), Rabdentse ruins. Day 4: Skywalk, Kanchenjunga Falls, drive to Gangtok. Day 5: Rumtek Monastery, departure.
Cost estimate
Budget: ₹15,000-20,000/person (5 days). Mid-range: ₹25,000-40,000. Includes accommodation, meals, transport, permits. Excludes Kolkata-Bagdogra travel.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
No. Gangtok, MG Marg, and nearby monasteries don't need permits. ILP is only needed for Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, North Sikkim, and the Old Silk Route.
5 days minimum for Gangtok + Tsomgo + Pelling. 7-8 days if adding North Sikkim (Lachung, Yumthang). 4 days for a quick Gangtok-only trip.
Sikkim is one of India's safest states. Low crime, friendly locals, well-maintained tourist infrastructure. Solo female travelers are common and report positive experiences.