The Union government has been working on restarting flights, with a proposed Pakyong-Guwahati service, but travelers should check for the latest airline and Airports Authority of India updates before making plans. So, is the airport at Pakyong still useful for a Sikkim trip? Sure, but mostly as a key airport to watch; for now, it’s Bagdogra Airport that’s the pragmatic air portal for those heading to Gangtok.
Where is Pakyong Airport situated?
Pakyong Airport is situated close to Pakyong town in East Sikkim, about 30 km from Gangtok by road, according to Airports Authority of India information. The airport sits at an elevation of approximately 4,646 feet above sea level and covers about 201 acres.
Pakyong Airport at a Glance
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Airport | Airport at Pakyong |
| Airport code | PYG |
| Location | Pakyong, East Sikkim |
| Distance from Gangtok | Around 30 km by road |
| Elevation | About 4,646 ft |
| Commercial operations | Currently suspended |
| Alternative airport | Bagdogra Airport |
Distances and flight schedules can vary depending on the route, road conditions and operational updates.
Planning your arrival in Sikkim? Explore our Sikkim Tour Packages to find trip options for Gangtok and other popular destinations across the region.
What flights are available from Pakyong Airport?
This is the most important thing to check before you plan your journey. Earlier, Pakyong Airport used to have commercial flights connecting Sikkim to cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Guwahati, with SpiceJet being the major airline operating at the airport. But commercial operations were suspended in June 2024 when services were affected by adverse weather and operational challenges. Efforts are on to bring back air connectivity in 2026. The Union Civil Aviation Ministry has reviewed the resumption of operations, including a proposed nine-seater Pakyong–Guwahati route under the UDAN regional connectivity scheme.
Airports Authority of India has said the airport is ready to support operations if airlines decide to operate from there. So don’t assume that a flight you see in an old travel article or search result is currently operating. The Airports Authority of India itself advises passengers to check flight schedules with respective airlines as schedules are tentative. If flights resume in the future, Pakyong could once again become a convenient option for travelers wanting to reach Sikkim without the longer road journey from Bagdogra.
Before finalising your flights, plan the rest of your holiday too. Browse our Sikkim Tour Packages to organise your sightseeing and road transfers around your confirmed arrival arrangements.
How to Get to Gangtok from Pakyong Airport?
Getting to Gangtok from Pakyong is pretty straightforward when flights are running. The airport is located about 30 km from Gangtok, and the drive is through winding mountain roads with scenic views of the surrounding hills.
1. Cab
The best option is a private taxi if you are traveling from the airport in pakyong to Gangtok. Taxis will take you directly from the airport to your hotel in Gangtok, so this is a comfortable option. This is a good option for families, couples, and travelers with luggage. Actual travel time will vary due to traffic, weather, and road conditions, so it is better not to make a tight sightseeing schedule immediately after landing.
2. In a Carpool
Depending on the prevailing transport situation, shared taxis and local transport may also be available. They tend to be cheaper than a private vehicle, but less convenient if you have a lot of luggage or want a direct hotel drop-off.
3. Private Transport
If you are traveling as a group, it could be worthwhile pre-arranging a private vehicle. You are more flexible and do not have to wait for other passengers.
Need a comfortable transfer and a well-planned holiday? Explore our Sikkim Tour Packages to plan your Gangtok stay, local sightseeing, and onward travel.
How to Reach Sikkim If There Are No Pakyong Flights?
Most of the air travelers should plan their journey through Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal as commercial flight services in Pakyong are currently suspended. The main operational airport for reaching Gangtok and other parts of Sikkim is Bagdogra. If you are at Bagdogra, you can proceed by road. The journey from Bagdogra to Gangtok normally takes several hours depending on traffic, weather, and road conditions. The drive goes through mountains and foothills, making it a part of the Sikkim experience.
Another popular option is to go by train to New Jalpaiguri (NJP) and then hire a taxi or other road transport to Gangtok. NJP is the main railroad station for tourists coming to Sikkim. At present, the more reliable option for travelers from Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and other major Indian cities is to fly to Bagdogra and then take a road transfer.
Why is Pakyong Airport Special?
The Airport at pakyong is not merely a transport facility. Its location and engineering make it an interesting part of Sikkim’s modern travel infrastructure. The airport was built on a steep Himalayan landscape, and a lot of engineering work was required to stabilize the terrain.
The Airports Authority of India has called it the first greenfield airport built in the northeast under the Regional Connectivity Scheme.
Because it is in the mountains, weather can play a big part in the flight operations. Fog, rain, wind, and changing Himalayan weather conditions can impact flights, which is one of the reasons why travelers should always check the status of their flight before heading to the airport.
Sightseeing near Pakyong Airport
If you are arriving in Pakyong by air when commercial flights start again, you can combine your airport transfer with a visit to nearby sights. Dikling Monastery is 1 km away from the airport and Kartok Monastery is 2 km away from the airport. Yakten is nearby for a quieter village experience away from the busier tourist centers. Another main draw for travelers wanting to explore further afield is Rumtek Monastery, to the east of Pakyong. The Pakyong region also houses the Saramsa garden and the Sikkim science center.
Things to Know Before You Travel
Here are a few things to remember before you include Pakyong in your itinerary:
- Check the latest flight status: Pakyong has periods of suspended operations, so old schedules can mislead you.
- Be flexible: Weather on the mountain can change quickly and could affect flight operations.
- Arrange your road transfer: If you are traveling from Pakyong or Bagdogra, it is advisable to pre-book a taxi, especially in the peak travel seasons.
- Buffer time: Mountain roads in Sikkim can experience traffic, rain, landslides, and road maintenance.
- Keep essentials with you: Keep medicines, identification documents, and important things in your hand luggage.
- Permissions check: Certain areas of Sikkim, particularly border zones that are under protection, need permits. Check the latest rules before you travel.
Which is better, Airport pakyong or Bagdogra or Gangtok?
With regular commercial flights, Pakyong has a major geographical advantage in that it is much closer to Gangtok than Bagdogra. The road transfer from Pakyong is a lot shorter, making it particularly attractive to travelers wanting to cut down on driving time. However, availability is more important than distance. With commercial services suspended, Bagdogra is the more reliable option for air travelers at present. Once regular flights are resumed, the airport could become the preferred airport for travelers finding a suitable direct connection.
Still deciding how to plan your arrival? First confirm the latest flight availability, then explore our Sikkim Tour Packages to plan the road journey, accommodation, and sightseeing that follow.
Smart Way to Plan Your Sikkim Arrival
Pakyong Airport is an impressive piece of infrastructure that has made a huge difference to Sikkim’s connectivity. Its stunning mountain location and proximity to Gangtok and shorter road transfer make it an attractive alternative to Bagdogra when regular commercial flights are available.
However, as of now, travelers are advised against booking a Sikkim holiday on the assumption that Pakyong flights are operating. Please check the latest schedules of the Airports Authority of India and airlines before booking your tickets. If no Pakyong service is available, then Bagdogra Airport and then a road journey to Gangtok remains the most practical option. And once the skies over Pakyong are busy again, the airport could again offer one of the most convenient – and certainly one of the most scenic ways to start a Sikkim holiday.
Ready to plan your Sikkim holiday? Explore our Sikkim Tour Packages with Sikkim Darjeeling Tourism to organise your Gangtok stay, road transfers, and sightseeing itinerary. Remember to verify current flight availability before finalising your travel plans.
What is the airport code for Pakyong Airport?
The airport code for Pakyong Airport is PYG. The airport is located near Pakyong town in Sikkim.
How far is Pakyong Airport from Gangtok?
Pakyong Airport is approximately 30 km from Gangtok by road. Actual journey time depends on traffic, weather, and road conditions.
Are commercial flights operating from Pakyong Airport?
According to the information covered in this guide, commercial flight operations were suspended in June 2024. Travellers should check the latest Airports Authority of India and airline announcements before booking, as flight availability can change.
Which airport should I use to visit Gangtok if Pakyong flights are unavailable?
Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal is the practical alternative for most air travellers. From Bagdogra, you can continue to Gangtok by road using a taxi or pre-arranged transfer.
How can I travel from Bagdogra Airport to Gangtok?
You can hire a private taxi or arrange a pre-booked road transfer from Bagdogra Airport to Gangtok. The journey takes several hours, depending on traffic, weather, and road conditions.
Can I travel from Pakyong Airport to Gangtok by taxi?
Yes, a private taxi is a convenient option when travelling from Pakyong to Gangtok, provided you have a reason to be at the airport and suitable transport is available. Confirm current transport arrangements before travelling.
What are the attractions near Pakyong Airport?
Nearby attractions mentioned in this guide include Dikling Monastery, Kartok Monastery, Yakten, Saramsa Garden, and the Sikkim Science Centre. Rumtek Monastery can also be considered when planning a wider sightseeing itinerary.
