Nearest Airport to Gangtok: Gangtok is the capital city of Sikkim. It is a popular hill station known for its scenic beauty, monasteries, and trekking routes. While Gangtok does not have an airport, it is well-connected to the rest of India through nearby airports. The nearest major airport to Gangtok is Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal.
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Nearest Airport to Gangtok:
Bagdogra Airport (IXB)
- Location: Bagdogra, West Bengal
- Distance from Gangtok: Approximately 124 kilometers (around 4-5 hours by car)
- Airport Type: Domestic
- IATA Code: IXB
Bagdogra Airport is the nearest and most commonly used airport for reaching Gangtok. It is located in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, this airport serves several major cities in India, including Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. While it is a domestic airport, it offers a variety of flight options, making it a suitable entry point for travelers heading to Gangtok.
How to Reach Gangtok from Bagdogra Airport?
- By Car: The most common mode of transport from Bagdogra Airport to Gangtok is by car or taxi. The journey takes approximately 4-5 hours depending on the road conditions and weather.
- By Helicopter: For those who prefer a quicker option, there are also helicopter services from Bagdogra to Gangtok, which take around 30-40 minutes.
Airport Facilities
- Bagdogra Airport offers different services including baggage handling, duty-free shops, and a food court. However, the facilities are more basic compared to major international airports.
Pakyong Airport (PYG)
- Location: Pakyong, Sikkim
- Distance from Gangtok: Approximately 35 kilometers (around 1-1.5 hours by car)
- Airport Type: Domestic
- IATA Code: PYG
Pakyong Airport is a recently constructed airport that is closer to Gangtok than Bagdogra. Located in the hilly terrain of Sikkim, this airport offers limited connectivity, primarily with flights to and from Kolkata. Due to its small size and limited number of flights, it may not always be a viable option for all travelers.
How to Reach Gangtok from Pakyong Airport?
- By Car: The distance from Pakyong Airport to Gangtok is around 35 kilometers, and the journey typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours by road.
Airport Facilities
- Pakyong Airport has basic amenities, including check-in counters, baggage handling, and limited refreshments.
Conclusion
- Closest Airport: Bagdogra Airport is the nearest major airport to Gangtok, located approximately 124 km away. It offers good connectivity with major cities in India.
- Alternative Option: Pakyong Airport, located closer to Gangtok (35 km), is a newer and smaller airport with limited connectivity.
For most travelers, Bagdogra Airport is the best option for flying to Gangtok, as it offers more regular flights and better connectivity. From Bagdogra, you can hire a taxi or use other transport options to reach Gangtok.