Pune, a bustling city in Maharashtra, is well connected to the rest of India and serves as a starting point for many adventurous travelers heading to Sikkim in the northeast. Sikkim, known for its stunning Himalayan landscapes and rich cultural heritage, attracts tourists seeking nature, spirituality, and trekking experiences.

This guide covers all practical ways to travel from Pune to Sikkim, including train, bus, car, and flight options. You’ll find detailed travel tips, step-by-step plans, and advice on the best times to visit, ensuring a comfortable and memorable journey to this beautiful Himalayan state.

Getting from Pune to Sikkim – Main Options

By Train

Traveling by train from Pune to Sikkim is a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers who enjoy scenic routes and don’t mind longer travel times. Since Sikkim does not have a railway station, the nearest major railheads are New Jalpaiguri (NJP) and Siliguri in West Bengal.

• Key stations and route:

  Board a train from Pune Junction (PUNE) to New Jalpaiguri (NJP), which is approximately 2,200 km away. Trains like the Pune–Kamakhya Express or Pune–Dibrugarh Express cover this route with a journey time of around 40–45 hours.

• Ticket costs and booking:

  Train fares range from INR 800 for sleeper class to INR 2,500 for AC 3-tier. Book tickets well in advance via IRCTC, especially during peak tourist seasons like spring and autumn.

• Frequency and comfort:

  Trains run 2–3 times a week on this route. AC coaches offer decent comfort, but sleeper class can be crowded. Carry your own food and water, as pantry services may be limited.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From NJP or Siliguri, you can take shared taxis or buses to Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, which is about 115 km away. The road journey takes 4–5 hours on hilly terrain.

• Scenic views and challenges:

  The train journey crosses diverse landscapes from Maharashtra’s plains to the foothills of the Himalayas. Expect delays due to congestion and weather, especially during monsoon.

By Bus

Direct bus services from Pune to Sikkim are not available due to the long distance and multiple state borders. However, you can break the journey into segments using buses and shared taxis.

• Segmented bus travel:

  Take a Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) bus from Pune to Kolkata or Siliguri. This leg can take 36–40 hours with multiple stops.

• From Siliguri to Gangtok:

  Numerous shared taxis and Sikkim Nationalised Transport (SNT) buses operate daily from Siliguri to Gangtok, covering the 115 km mountainous route in about 4–5 hours.

• Ticket prices:

  Pune to Kolkata bus fares range from INR 1,000 to 1,500 depending on the bus type. Siliguri to Gangtok shared taxis cost around INR 300–400 per person.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Long-distance buses can be tiring; opt for Volvo or deluxe buses where possible. SNT buses are reliable but may be crowded during festivals.

• Travel tips:

  Break your journey with overnight stops in Kolkata or Siliguri to avoid fatigue. Carry snacks and water, and keep your belongings secure.

By Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Pune to Sikkim is an adventurous option for those who enjoy road trips and want flexibility. The journey covers approximately 2,500 km and passes through multiple states and terrains.

• Route details:

  The most common route is via NH 53 and NH 27 passing through Nagpur, Raipur, Ranchi, and Siliguri. The final stretch from Siliguri to Gangtok involves hilly roads with sharp turns.

• Travel time and breaks:

  Expect 45–50 hours of driving spread over 4–6 days. Plan overnight stops in cities like Nagpur, Ranchi, and Siliguri to rest and refuel.

• Road conditions:

  National highways are mostly in good condition, but the mountainous roads near Sikkim require careful driving. Avoid night driving in hilly areas due to limited street lighting and wildlife crossings.

• Permits and tolls:

  Sikkim requires an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for entry, which can be obtained online or at entry points. Expect multiple toll booths along the highways, so keep cash handy.

• Vehicle preparation:

  Ensure your vehicle is serviced, carry a spare tire, and pack emergency supplies. Fuel stations are sparse in some stretches, so plan refueling accordingly.

By Flight

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Sikkim from Pune. Although Sikkim’s Pakyong Airport has limited connectivity, the nearest major airport is Bagdogra Airport near Siliguri.

• Flight options:

  Book a direct or connecting flight from Pune Airport (PNQ) to Bagdogra Airport (IXB) via Delhi, Kolkata, or Guwahati. Total flight time including layovers ranges from 6 to 10 hours.

• Ticket costs and booking:

  Airfares vary between INR 4,000 and INR 10,000 depending on the airline and season. Book early on airline websites or aggregator platforms like MakeMyTrip or Cleartrip.

• From Bagdogra to Sikkim:

  Bagdogra is about 125 km from Gangtok. Shared taxis and private cabs are available and take around 4–5 hours on hilly roads.

• Airport facilities:

  Bagdogra has basic amenities and car rental counters. Pakyong Airport is closer but has limited flights and smaller aircraft.

• Seasonal considerations:

  Flights to Pakyong may be canceled during heavy fog or monsoon. Bagdogra offers more reliable connectivity year-round.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Pune to Sikkim, balancing comfort, time, and cost.

• Book your train or flight tickets early:

  Use IRCTC for trains or airline websites for flights. Booking 30–45 days in advance helps secure seats and better prices.

• Reach Pune station/airport early:

  Arrive at least 1 hour before departure to avoid last-minute rush. Pune station has multiple platforms, so check your train’s platform on the day.

• Prepare for the long journey:

  Carry snacks, water, and entertainment for train or bus travel. For flights, pack light but include essentials for the mountainous climate.

• From NJP or Bagdogra to Gangtok:

  Pre-book shared taxis or private cabs online or at the station to avoid overcharging. Confirm the fare before boarding.

• Obtain necessary permits:

  Apply for the Sikkim Inner Line Permit online or at entry points. Keep a printed copy handy during your travel.

• Plan your arrival time:

  Try to reach Gangtok before dusk to settle into your accommodation comfortably and avoid night travel on hilly roads.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety on hilly roads:

  If traveling by road, avoid night driving in Sikkim due to narrow and winding roads. Use local drivers familiar with the terrain.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and light snacks, especially on long train or bus journeys. Try local Sikkimese cuisine once you arrive but drink bottled water only.

• Booking strategy:

  Use IRCTC for train tickets and official airline websites for flights to avoid scams. For taxis in Siliguri and Gangtok, use apps like Ola or pre-agreed fares.

• Local commute in Sikkim:

  Shared taxis are economical and frequent. For more comfort, hire private cabs for sightseeing, but negotiate fares beforehand.

• Luggage considerations:

  Pack light and carry warm clothes as Sikkim’s weather can be chilly even in summer. Keep valuables secure during long journeys.

• Seasonal travel warnings:

  Avoid monsoon months (June–September) for road travel due to landslides. Winter months can be cold and foggy, affecting flights and roads.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Pune to Sikkim depends on weather and road conditions. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer clear skies and pleasant temperatures.

Monsoon and winter bring challenges like landslides and fog, which can delay trains and flights or make road travel risky.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals or peak holiday weekends to escape crowded trains and higher fares.

• Early morning departures from Pune help avoid city traffic and ensure timely connections.

• Plan arrival in Sikkim during daylight to navigate hilly roads safely and reach your accommodation comfortably.

• Check weather forecasts regularly during monsoon and winter to adjust travel plans if needed.

Arrival at Sikkim & What to Expect

On arrival in Sikkim, whether at Gangtok or nearby towns, travelers are greeted by crisp mountain air and stunning views of the Himalayas. Gangtok is the hub for exploring Sikkim’s cultural sites, trekking routes, and natural beauty.

Local transport includes shared taxis, private cabs, and buses connecting to popular destinations like Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, and Pelling. Accommodation ranges from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts, mostly concentrated in Gangtok and nearby towns.

Use prepaid taxis available at NJP and Bagdogra stations to avoid haggling. In Gangtok, local taxis and rental bikes are convenient for short trips. Carry cash as digital payments may not be accepted everywhere.

Conclusion

Among all options, flying from Pune to Bagdogra followed by a taxi to Gangtok is the most efficient and comfortable way to reach Sikkim quickly. It saves time and reduces travel fatigue, especially for first-time visitors.

However, adventurous travelers can opt for the train journey to New Jalpaiguri combined with road travel to experience India’s diverse landscapes. With proper planning and the tips shared here, you can confidently embark on your journey from Pune to the enchanting state of Sikkim.