Lachen

• Approximate Distance: Bagdogra Airport to Gangtok – 124 km
• Travel Time: 4-5 hours by car
• Travel Tip:  While Bagdogra Airport remains the primary gateway, Sikkim boasts a relatively new airport closer to Gangtok – Pakyong Airport (PKY).  Consider this option if it aligns with your flight options, potentially reducing your road travel time to Gangtok.

By Train:  

New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) in Siliguri, West Bengal, is the nearest major railway station to Lachen, well-connected to major Indian cities. From NJP, you can hire taxis or board shared jeeps to reach Gangtok.

• Approximate Distance: NJP Railway Station to Gangtok – 190 km
• Travel Time: 6-7 hours by car
• Travel Tip:  While the train journey offers a unique perspective of the region, the longer travel time compared to air travel should be factored in.

Road Trip to Lachen:

Unveiling the Enchanting Landscape

Having reached Gangtok, the final leg of your journey to Lachen unfolds through a captivating road trip. Here are the travel options available:

Shared Taxis: Shared taxis are a budget-friendly option, operating from designated taxi stands in Gangtok. However, be prepared for a longer travel time due to frequent stops to pick up and drop off passengers.

Private Taxis:  Hiring a private taxi offers greater flexibility and comfort. Negotiate the fare beforehand, ensuring it includes the entire journey to Lachen.

Pre-Booked Car Service: Tour operators often offer pre-booked car services with experienced drivers familiar with the mountain roads. This can be a convenient choice, especially if you have luggage or require assistance with permits.

• Approximate Distance: Gangtok to Lachen – 107 km
• Travel Time: 4-5 hours
• Travel Tip:  The road to Lachen winds through breathtaking mountains and picturesque villages.  Enjoy the scenic beauty, but be aware that road conditions can vary, with some stretches being narrow or bumpy.

Additional Considerations for a Smooth Journey

Here are some additional factors to keep in mind for a smooth journey to Lachen:

• Seasonality: The best time to visit Lachen is during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) months. Winters can be harsh with heavy snowfall, potentially restricting access.
• Accommodation: Book your accommodation in Lachen well in advance, especially during peak tourist season. Homestays and small hotels offer a unique cultural experience.
• Clothing: Pack comfortable clothes suitable for mountain weather. Temperatures can vary significantly, so pack layers and be prepared for rain or occasional snowfall.
• Altitude Sickness: Lachen is situated at an elevation of approximately 8,700 feet (2,650 meters).  Altitude sickness can occur, especially for those unacclimatized to high altitudes. Symptoms may include headache, dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath.  Here’s how to manage it:
• Ascend gradually. Avoid strenuous activities immediately upon arrival. Consider spending a night in Gangtok (at a lower altitude) to acclimatize before proceeding to Lachen.
• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout your journey to aid acclimatization.
• Avoid alcohol and smoking. These substances can worsen altitude sickness symptoms.
• Carry basic medication. Pack pain relievers and medications for nausea if needed.
• Local Cuisine: Sikkimese cuisine offers a delightful blend of Indian and Tibetan influences. Popular dishes include momos (steamed dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), and phaphra (buckwheat pancakes). Be prepared for a predominantly vegetarian cuisine, with meat dishes being less common.
• Respecting Local Culture: Sikkim is a land steeped in rich cultural traditions. Dress modestly, especially when visiting monasteries or religious sites. Be mindful of local customs and refrain from taking photographs where prohibited.
  • Approximate Distance: Bagdogra Airport to Gangtok – 124 km
  • Travel Time: 4-5 hours by car
  • Travel Tip:  While Bagdogra Airport remains the primary gateway, Sikkim boasts a relatively new airport closer to Gangtok – Pakyong Airport (PKY).  Consider this option if it aligns with your flight options, potentially reducing your road travel time to Gangtok.

  By Train:  

  New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) in Siliguri, West Bengal, is the nearest major railway station to Lachen, well-connected to major Indian cities. From NJP, you can hire taxis or board shared jeeps to reach Gangtok.

  • Approximate Distance: NJP Railway Station to Gangtok – 190 km
  • Travel Time: 6-7 hours by car
  • Travel Tip:  While the train journey offers a unique perspective of the region, the longer travel time compared to air travel should be factored in.

  Road Trip to Lachen:

  Unveiling the Enchanting Landscape

  Having reached Gangtok, the final leg of your journey to Lachen unfolds through a captivating road trip. Here are the travel options available:

  Shared Taxis: Shared taxis are a budget-friendly option, operating from designated taxi stands in Gangtok. However, be prepared for a longer travel time due to frequent stops to pick up and drop off passengers.

  Private Taxis:  Hiring a private taxi offers greater flexibility and comfort. Negotiate the fare beforehand, ensuring it includes the entire journey to Lachen.

  Pre-Booked Car Service: Tour operators often offer pre-booked car services with experienced drivers familiar with the mountain roads. This can be a convenient choice, especially if you have luggage or require assistance with permits.

  • Approximate Distance: Gangtok to Lachen – 107 km
  • Travel Time: 4-5 hours
  • Travel Tip:  The road to Lachen winds through breathtaking mountains and picturesque villages.  Enjoy the scenic beauty, but be aware that road conditions can vary, with some stretches being narrow or bumpy.

  Additional Considerations for a Smooth Journey

  Here are some additional factors to keep in mind for a smooth journey to Lachen:

  • Seasonality: The best time to visit Lachen is during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) months. Winters can be harsh with heavy snowfall, potentially restricting access.
  • Accommodation: Book your accommodation in Lachen well in advance, especially during peak tourist season. Homestays and small hotels offer a unique cultural experience.
  • Clothing: Pack comfortable clothes suitable for mountain weather. Temperatures can vary significantly, so pack layers and be prepared for rain or occasional snowfall.
  • Altitude Sickness: Lachen is situated at an elevation of approximately 8,700 feet (2,650 meters).  Altitude sickness can occur, especially for those unacclimatized to high altitudes. Symptoms may include headache, dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath.  Here’s how to manage it:
  • Ascend gradually. Avoid strenuous activities immediately upon arrival. Consider spending a night in Gangtok (at a lower altitude) to acclimatize before proceeding to Lachen.
  • Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout your journey to aid acclimatization.
  • Avoid alcohol and smoking. These substances can worsen altitude sickness symptoms.
  • Carry basic medication. Pack pain relievers and medications for nausea if needed.
  • Local Cuisine: Sikkimese cuisine offers a delightful blend of Indian and Tibetan influences. Popular dishes include momos (steamed dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), and phaphra (buckwheat pancakes). Be prepared for a predominantly vegetarian cuisine, with meat dishes being less common.
  • Respecting Local Culture: Sikkim is a land steeped in rich cultural traditions. Dress modestly, especially when visiting monasteries or religious sites. Be mindful of local customs and refrain from taking photographs where prohibited.