In a landmass that boasts connectivity between distant townships and busy metros through the railway network, which is a major mode of long-distance travel, it is not difficult to assume that all parts of the landmass can be accessed via the railway network. Indian Railways, being one of the largest railway networks globally, traverses through plains, deserts, and mountains. However, there is a rare case wherein there is a destination that still cannot be accessed via the railway network.
Sikkim, a Himalayan state, is a rare case wherein this destination still exists beyond the railway map. As of today, there are no operational railway stations or active railway routes within this state, making Sikkim the only state without railway connectivity.
The lack of railway connectivity to Sikkim can be attributed to the fact that this state is characterized by challenging geography, which includes steep mountainous terrain, deep valleys, and environmentally sensitive geography. As a result, constructing railway lines through this state involves extensive tunnelling.
That being said, this isolation is only temporary. With the railway line being constructed between Sevoke and Rangpo, the state is being connected to the rail network via West Bengal. Spanning roughly 44–45 km through challenging Himalayan terrain, the project involves extensive tunnelling and bridge construction along the Teesta valley, making it one of the most complex railway projects in the country. Work is well underway, with a significant portion already completed, and the line is now expected to be ready by 2027. Once operational, it will greatly improve connectivity to Sikkim and is also planned for future extension toward Gangtok, boosting both tourism and regional accessibility.
Ways of reaching Sikkim: Practical options for the traveler
By train + road: The most popular route
The most common route for tourists is via a train journey till the nearest railway station, New Jalpaiguri (NJP). This railway station is well connected to major cities like Delhi and Kolkata. From here, the journey proceeds via the road. Shared jeeps, taxis, and buses are readily available from the city of Siliguri. The distance from here till Gangtok is around four to five hours, passing through the River Teesta.
By air + road: The fastest way in
A faster option to get to Sikkim is to fly. The state has an airport in Pakyong, 30 kilometres from Gangtok. However, flights to this airport are scarce and dependent on weather conditions. A better option would be to fly to Bagdogra Airport, which offers better connectivity to major cities in India. From Bagdogra, one can proceed to Gangtok by road, which takes around four to five hours.
By road: For the journey itself
If one loves to travel by road, Sikkim can be best enjoyed by driving in. Sikkim is well connected to West Bengal and other areas by road. Most of the routes to Sikkim begin from Siliguri.
The journey promises a gradual transition from plains to mountains, making it a popular destination for bikers and road trip enthusiasts.
The absence of railway connectivity, in a lot of ways, has helped Sikkim retain its remoteness. The experience of reaching Sikkim is not just about reaching a destination; rather, it is a journey that offers a lot. The experience includes a change in the environment, culture, and the tempo. While railway connectivity to Sikkim is a possibility, reaching Sikkim is a journey that offers a lot. The absence of railway connectivity to Sikkim might continue for a few more years.
However, the fact is that Sikkim, though India’s only state without railway connectivity, is not really difficult to reach. Sikkim, though not accessible by rail, is accessible through road and air. And maybe, the absence of railway connectivity is what makes the experience all the more worthwhile, not just reaching a destination, but making the journey worthwhile.
