Bhutan to Sikkim -Which Route is Best and Which Places Should You Not Miss?
Are you planning a trip from Bhutan to Sikkim? Well, you are going to have a great journey.
Both countries are beautiful. Both are peaceful and one of the most stunning journey combinations across South Asia.
But before you get to the pack and start travelling. You need to get to know the route to get to Sikkim from Bhutan. You need to know the transport available and places to see on the way. Here is a complete rundown.
Is There a Direct Route from Bhutan to Sikkim?
There are no direct flights or train connections between Bhutan and Sikkim. The journey is entirely by road, which is far from being a drawback is one of the highlights. The route takes you through mountain passes, river valleys, and forested hillsides that change character with every passing kilometre. Total travel time is approximately 8 to 10 hours.
The Best Route from Bhutan to Sikkim
Here is the route most travellers use:
Phuentsholing → Siliguri → Gangtok
From Phuentsholing to Siliguri
Phuentsholing is the major exit point from Bhutan into India, which is Jaigaon on the India Border. The journey to Siliguri will be approx 3 -4 hours based on border and traffic conditions. It is around 170 km approx.
From Siliguri to Gangtok
It is around 114 km approx. You need to travel to Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. You will pass through mountains, rivers and forests. Time takes nearly 4-5 hours.
Important: Border Exit and Entry Points
As you travel from Bhutan to Sikkim, you will leave Bhutan at Phuentsholing. This is Bhutan’s main land border with India.
Once in India, passing Jaigaon, you will be passing through West Bengal. Then you get to Sikkim at Rangpo, which is the primary entry checkpoint to Sikkim.
Ensure your Inner Line Permit (ILP) of Sikkim is made in advance. It is available to Indian nationals. It should be done by foreign nationals through a registered tour operator.
Bhutan to Sikkim Travel Tips
A few things to sort out before you travel:
Bhutan exit permit: This is required before you leave Bhutan. It will be done by your tour operator in Bhutan.
Sikkim Protected Area Permit (PAP): Every foreign tourist who is travelling needs to possess this permit.
Best time of year: You can either visit in autumn or in winter to enjoy the maximum. You can visit from March to May. You can visit from October to December. Avoid the monsoon months of July and August, which are heavy.
Mode of transportation: The most comfortable option is private cabs. There are cheaper shared taxis in Siliguri to Gangtok, which are readily available.
Places You Must Not Miss
It is not just a journey of arrival from point A to point B. The ways and the ways of the way are some of the incredible ones.
- Phuentsholing, Bhutan
Your last stop in Bhutan. It is a border town that is a busy place, though it has its charms.
Explore Zangto Pelri Lhakhang temple and walk around the nearby market. Here, you can afford to shop for Bhutanese handicrafts to stock before you go.
- Siliguri, West Bengal
The greatest number of travellers going in no direction pass through Siliguri. Do not commit such an error.
Siliguri is a travel centre of Northeast India. It is the ideal foundation to sleep on. Sample some local Bengali food and visit Hong Kong Market to go shopping.
You have one additional day, you should come from Siliguri to Darjeeling then you will find it worth it. The perspectives of Kanchenjunga are indelible.
- Rangpo, Sikkim
While entering Sikkim, you enter through Rangpo. Not a big town, but it’s lively market.
Through the Rangpo River, you directly enter the city. A nice place to have a mini-break and get some air into the lungs before the drive up to Gangtok.
- Gangtok, Sikkim
This is your main destination in Sikkim. The capital city is located at approximately 1,650 metres above sea level. Within Gangtok, you can explore
- MG Marg: This is one of the most popular streets. Take a walk in the evening to enjoy the vibrant area.
- Rumtek Monastery – A premier spiritual destination in Gangtok. Explore this magnificent monastery of Sikkim.
- Pelling, Sikkim – Do not miss out the stunning view of Kanchenjunga, which is only visible from Pelling. Explore the Pemayangtse Monastery and Rabdentse Ruins.
- Tsomgo Lake – Also called Changu Lake. Its colour changes with the season. It is approximately 40km from Gangtok. Enjoy the yak rides on this lake.
- Nathula Pass: It is one of the most unique destinations where you can see the Indo-Chinese Border, which has an altitude of 14,140 feet in the Eastern Himalayas.Note that a special permit is required and the pass may be closed in winter.
- Lachung and Yumthang valley, North Sikkim- Popularly known as the valley of flowers, Yumthang is a spell-binding sight when rhododendrons bloom from April to June. The drive is one of the most impressive in India.
How Long Should You Spend?
When planning a combined Bhutan and Sikkim trip, allow a minimum of 10 to 14 days. Dedicate at least 5 to 7 days to Sikkim alone to do it justice. Rushing through either destination means missing what makes them special.
Why Choose Sunshine Travels?
At Sunshine Travels, we specialise in customised Bhutan to Sikkim travel packages.
Local expertise: Expert knowledge of routes around Dooars, Darjeeling, Sikkim and Bhutan will facilitate proper planning, reasonable journey duration, offbeat locations, etc.
Variety of Vehicles: From budget cars to SUVs to tempo travellers for lone travellers to families or large groups, the fleet is well-maintained, safe and comfortable.
Transparent pricing: No hidden expenses, transparent structure of tariffs ensures your budgeting is effective and reliable.
Proficient drivers & Safe journey: Drivers who are skilled and well-versed in hill-station driving and interstate as well as cross-border navigation.
Customised Packages: Tours planned according to the traveller’s preference – sightseeing, adventurous or relaxed.
Bhutan travel facilitation: We provide all services, including documentation and transport for travelling in Bhutan from the Indian side.
Customer service: Respond to queries fast, booking made simple, and provide customer support even during the tour.
Final Thoughts
The Bhutan to Sikkim road journey is perhaps one of the most beautiful experiences. The changing landscape every kilometre and the cultural depths make the people warm to a point you can’t explain. If planned properly, it will remain a lifetime experience for you. Ready to plan your trip? Sunshine Travels will handle the whole plan for you.