Getting Around Gangtok: Walkability, Public Transit & Biking

Gangtok offers a moderately walkable environment for travelers, particularly in areas like MG Road, which is pedestrian-friendly and hosts a variety of shops and dining options. The city's compact layout in certain neighborhoods supports walking, but the steep terrain can pose a challenge. While walking in Gangtok can be enjoyable in specific zones, essential services and some attractions are dispersed across hilly areas, requiring reliance on other forms of transportation.

Gangtok's public transportation is relatively well-developed for travelers. The city provides affordable and accessible local buses, supplemented by the popular shared taxi system known as Sumos, which offers quick connections across the area. The cable car from Deorali Market to Tashiling Secretariat offers a unique travel option. While these systems provide good coverage, the steep terrain occasionally limits bus and taxi routes, requiring users to plan their journeys carefully.

Cycling in Gangtok is challenging due to its steep and hilly terrain, making it suitable mainly for recreational purposes rather than daily commuting. Although there are cycling tours available for exploring scenic routes around Gangtok, the lack of dedicated bike lanes and potential traffic concerns limit the practicality of biking for everyday travel needs.