Sikkim helicopter to Gangtok

joneall

Another question concerning my trip to Gangtok in October. (3 days in Gangtok in October).

We're thinking about taking the helicopter from Bagdogra to Gangtok, partly to save time (and nerves?) and partly for the view. Any comments? Is the drive "interesting"? I don't mean perilous, I mean worth seeing. Any experience with the various tours by helicopter offered from Gangtok?

Should I refer the chopper well in advance?

Thanks again for all your comments.

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John

cool blue

I took the helicopter from Bagdogra to Gangtok a couple of years ago (also in October) and although I had been quite nervous about it, it was truly spectacular. We travelled back by road as we were calling in at Namche and Kalimpong on the way back to Siliguri. The drive was also spectacular - I am glad we had both experiences.

I think it would be worth while booking in advance as it is only a 5 seater.

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karthik_mitta

Book in advance.. but know that its not very reliable and keeps getting cancelled all the time. Make sure you are open for road travel and have a back up ready... (back up being Jeep stand at Bag airport )

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KM

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joneall

Great recommendations. Especially since they are what I had already thought about doing.

Is it better to reserve the helicopter by calling the company directly or through a local agency?

How far ahead must one reserve a car?

Thanks a million!

shashank.aggarwal

I don't think you need to book one in advance..Bagdogra to Gangtok is a very hot sector and there are numerous cabs standing right in the parking of the airport..once you exit the gate of the airport, you will automatically be asked for one..

You can have a shared Jeep Or take the entire cab..depends on your comfort level and availability..

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joneall

I just tried to call them to reserve a helicopter and was told that the number does not exist. I found the number on 2 different web sites, including Sikkiminfo.

It was +91-3592-222634. Any suggestions?

Thank a lot in advance.

tacita

this issue was covered at length in this thread:

Sikkim helicopter contact details

i wasn't able to take the helicopter, despite having a reservation made on my behalf by a travel agent. (i, too, had trouble reaching the company.) apparently, a larger group had hired the chopper for a more profitable route.

that being said, i recommend that you go by road. driving was a far better and more interesting way to go, and i was, in retrospect, glad the helicopter didn't work out.

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