Lachung is a place of breathtaking beauty in Sikkim, India. This charming hill town, adorned with snow-capped peaks, pristine lakes, and vibrant prayer flags, beckons travelers seeking serenity and adventure. But reaching this paradise requires a bit of planning. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate your journey to Lachung, covering routes, travel modes, travel tips, and essential permits.

Getting There: The Gateway to Lachung

Since Lachung doesn’t have its own airport or train station, reaching this paradise involves a combination of travel modes. The most common entry point is Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, which boasts good air and rail connectivity.

1. By Air:

Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport (IXB) in Siliguri, West Bengal, is the closest airport to Lachung, approximately 125 kilometers away.

Connectivity: Major airlines operate regular flights to Bagdogra from Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and other metropolitan cities in India.

Onward Journey: From Bagdogra, you’ll need to hire a taxi or pre-book a car rental to reach Gangtok, a scenic drive of around 4-5 hours.

Travel Tip: While Bagdogra is the preferred option, some travelers choose to fly into Pakyong Airport (PKY) near Gangtok. However, Pakyong has limited flight options compared to Bagdogra.

2. By Train:

Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station in Siliguri, West Bengal, is the nearest railhead to Lachung, at a distance of approximately 191 kilometers.

Connectivity: NJP is well-connected to major Indian cities like Kolkata, Delhi, and Guwahati.

Onward Journey: From NJP, take a taxi or shared cab to reach Gangtok. This journey takes around 5-6 hours.