Planning a mountain trip to Darjeeling, Gangtok, Pelling, or North Sikkim? Then you’ve probably wondered why the same taxi cannot take you across all destinations, whether it’s an NJP to Darjeeling taxi, a Darjeeling to Gangtok taxi, or a Gangtok to North Sikkim taxi. You’re not alone. Almost every traveler faces this confusion. Sikkim and West Bengal have separate taxi unions, and each region allows only its own registered vehicles to operate.
Why One Taxi Cannot Cover All Routes?
A West Bengal taxi (WB number plate) can take you from NJP to Darjeeling, Siliguri to Darjeeling, or Bagdogra to Darjeeling, but it cannot enter Gangtok or North Sikkim for sightseeing. On the other hand, a Sikkim taxi (SK number plate) can cover Gangtok local sightseeing, Tsomgo Lake, Nathula, and North Sikkim, but it cannot do Darjeeling local tours.
Sikkim and Darjeeling fall under different states:
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Darjeeling- West Bengal (controlled by local taxi unions)
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Gangtok and the rest of Sikkim- Sikkim Government Taxi Union
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North Sikkim- High-restricted, permit-based zone
1. Darjeeling taxis cannot enter North Sikkim or operate in Gangtok
Sikkim has strict rules for tourist vehicles due to:
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Hill safety regulations
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Local livelihood protection
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Permit-based tourism
So even if you book a Darjeeling taxi, it cannot take you to North Sikkim, Nathula, Lachung, Lachen, Gurudongmar Lake, or run local Gangtok sightseeing.
2. Sikkim taxis cannot run the Darjeeling sightseeing
A Sikkim taxi will not be allowed to:
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Do the Darjeeling sightseeing
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Pick passengers from the Darjeeling taxi stand
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Operate inside the Darjeeling local routes
3. North Sikkim has its own restricted taxi stand
Only authorized operators with:
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Commercial vehicles
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Sikkim driver’s license
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Permit clearance from Tourism & Police
That’s why travelers must change taxis at the Gangtok taxi stand for North Sikkim and Darjeeling & Gangtok for intercity transfers.
Read More…Siliguri to Sikkim Cab fare and Travel tips (Updated 2025)
Sightseeing Covered by Darjeeling & Sikkim Taxis
Darjeeling Sightseeing (Darjeeling taxi)
- Tiger Hill
- Batasial Loop
- Ghoom Monastery
- Rock Garden
- Tea Gardens
- Japanese Peace Pagoda
- Himalayan Mountaineering Institute
Explore…The Unexplored Beauty of Darjeeling: Explore the Hidden Corners of the Queen of Hills
Gangtok Sightseeing (Sikkim taxi)
- MG Marg
- Tashi View Point
- Bakthang Falls
- Hanuman Tok
- Ganesh Tok
- Ropeway
- Namchi and Chardham
- Rumtek Monastery
Explore…Gangtok MG Marg: What to Shop, Eat & Experience in 2025
Taxi Fare Guide for Sikkim and Darjeeling
Taxi fares in the Darjeeling and Sikkim region vary depending on season, road conditions, demand, and vehicle type. At NortheastCab, we ensure clear, upfront pricing with no hidden charges, making your hill journey safe, smooth, and fully hassle-free.
- The New Jalpaiguri Station/Bagdogra to Darjeeling cab fare is approximately 3500/- to 4000/-
- The Bagdogra to Sikkim cab fare is approximately 4500/- to 5000/-
- Cab prices may adjust based on route, weather, and union guidelines.
- Travel Tips: Taxi fares may increase during peak seasons, and prices can vary depending on cab size (WagonR, Sumo, Innova, Ertiga). Larger and premium vehicles typically have higher seasonal fare hikes, so early booking ensures better rates and guaranteed availability.
Read More…Darjeeling vs Gangtok 2026: Which Is Better to Visit?
Why Book with NortheastCab?
Your Trusted Partner for Safe, Smooth & Hassle-Free Himalayan Travel. When it comes to navigating the hills of Sikkim, Darjeeling, Gangtok, Pelling, and North Sikkim, choosing the right taxi service can make or break your trip. At NortheastCab, we ensure every journey is comfortable, reliable, and memorable, backed by professionalism, transparency, and years of local expertise. We provided 24/7 Support, clean, comfortable, permitted commercial vehicles, regional, and experienced drivers. Book your Sikkim or Darjeeling Tour Package with Tripjyada for the best prices, premium cars, and a seamless travel experience.
From the moment you land at Bagdogra Airport or reach NJP Railway Station until your trip ends, we ensure smooth coordination, safe hill driving, comfortable vehicles, hassle-free itinerary management, and complete transparency.