Darjeeling · Gangtok · Kalimpong
North Bengal & Sikkim from Patna
Tea gardens, mountain views and cool weather: the favourite hill holiday for families and honeymooners from Patna.
Overview
When Patna gets hot, the hills of North Bengal and Sikkim are the closest escape. Darjeeling is known for its tea gardens, the toy train and views of Kanchenjunga. Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is clean, lively and a base for high-altitude day trips. Quieter options such as Kalimpong and Pelling suit travellers who want slower days.
This region is the most requested hill destination for honeymoon and family tours from Patna, usually planned for five to seven days.
How to reach
- By train: the usual route is an overnight train from Patna to New Jalpaiguri (NJP), followed by a road transfer to Darjeeling or Gangtok.
- By air: Bagdogra is the nearest major airport.
- By road: Siliguri can be reached from Patna by highway in a long day's drive. Hill roads beyond Siliguri are best done in daylight.
Best time to visit
March to May and October to early December are the best months, with clearer skies and comfortable days. Winter (December to February) is cold and good for those who enjoy it. The monsoon from June to September brings heavy rain and occasional landslides, so it is usually avoided.
Things to do
- Darjeeling: sunrise at Tiger Hill, a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Batasia Loop, tea estates and the Mall
- Gangtok: MG Marg, Rumtek Monastery and viewpoints around the town
- Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir: a high-altitude day trip from Gangtok that requires a permit
- Kalimpong: flower nurseries, monasteries and quiet viewpoints
- Pelling: close views of Kanchenjunga, Pemayangtse Monastery and the skywalk
Popular routes
| Route | Distance | Drive time | Enquire |
|---|---|---|---|
| Patna to Siliguri | approx. 470 km | 9 to 10 hrs | Get fare |
| Siliguri / NJP to Darjeeling | approx. 70 km | 3 hrs | Get fare |
| Siliguri / NJP to Gangtok | approx. 115 km | 4 to 4.5 hrs | Get fare |
| Darjeeling to Gangtok | approx. 100 km | 4 hrs | Get fare |
Distances and drive times are approximate and change with route, traffic and season.
Vehicle options
Choose a vehicle by the number of people travelling. We confirm the exact model and fare in the quote.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best way to reach Darjeeling from Patna?
Most travellers take an overnight train to New Jalpaiguri and a cab from there. A direct road trip is possible but long. We can plan either option.
Are permits needed for Sikkim?
Indian travellers do not need a permit for Gangtok itself, but places such as Tsomgo Lake and Nathula need permits arranged in advance with identity documents. Rules can change, so we confirm them while planning.
How many days should I plan for Darjeeling and Gangtok?
Five to six days, excluding travel from Patna, covers both towns without rushing.
Plan your North Bengal & Sikkim trip from Patna
Send your dates and group size. We reply with a plan and a quote.