Sikkim continues to be India’s only state without a single operational railway station, forcing residents and tourists alike to rely heavily on road and air travel for connectivity. The mountainous Himalayan terrain has long posed significant engineering challenges that delayed rail integration into the national network.
The state’s transport infrastructure depends on NH10 and other hill roads, which link it with neighbouring West Bengal and the rest of the country. Air travel via Pakyong Airport and the nearby Bagdogra International Airport in West Bengal also remains a crucial travel option for many.
However, efforts are underway to bring rail connectivity to Sikkim. The Sivok–Rangpo rail project involving extensive tunnelling and bridge construction, aims to extend the railway line from West Bengal into Sikkim, eventually transforming passenger and freight movement in the region. This project is seen as a vital step toward ending the state’s current isolation from India’s rail network.
Until full rail access is established, Sikkim’s dependence on road and air transport will continue, with the state’s scenic highways offering both essential mobility and breathtaking views for travellers heading to destinations like Gangtok, Nathula Pass and other Himalayan attractions.
