Are you expecting to travel to the hills? Then you may think Which place is costly, Darjeeling or Gangtok? Both are stunning destinations. Both have beautiful scenery, cultural appeal, and upcoming adventures.
But as for the expenses – yes, there are differences. This blog compares the Darjeeling vs Gangtok tour cost in detail. Still, starting from hotels and up to the choice of food, places of interest, and things to do will be indicated. Well, if you are a would-be traveler, then read on.
Most importantly, it will assist you in creating a more effective budget. Most importantly, you will understand what to anticipate. In other words, we are unbundling the total cost.
So, let us try to find out which one of these hill stations is cheap, or, at least, which offers better value for your money.
1. Travel Cost: Getting There
Darjeeling Travel Cost
Nearest airport: Bagdogra (70 km)
Nearest railway station: NJP (New Jalpaiguri)
Most people travel to and from Darjeeling through Siliguri. Taxis and shared jeeps are also available. The average travel cost is:
Shared jeep: ₹250–₹400
Private taxi: ₹2500–₹3000
Toy train (optional): ₹1000–₹1500
Gangtok Travel Cost
Nearest airport: Pakyong (35 km) or Bagdogra (125 km)
Nearest railway station: NJP
There are not so many airports in Gangtok, and most people prefer to travel via Bagdogra or NJP. The cost includes:
Shared jeep: ₹300–₹400
Private taxi: ₹3000–₹3500
Permit (if traveling via Tsomgo/Nathula): ₹200–₹300
Which is Cheaper?
Darjeeling wins here. Travel is easier and cheaper. Hence, in case of a low budget, Darjeeling proves to be more affordable when you arrive at the destination.
2. Hotel Costs: Where to Stay?
Darjeeling Hotel Cost:
There is accommodation ranging from budget to the top end in Darjeeling. Conceivable accommodation types start from cheap and cheerful hostels to opulent hotels.
Budget hotels: ₹600–₹1200
Mid-range hotels: ₹1500–₹3000
Luxury hotels: ₹4000–₹8000
Homestays are being developed to be more popular today. Hence, overall, budget travelers will be able to save more.
Gangtok Hotel Cost:
In general, Gangtok hotels are slightly more costly to a certain extent. That is to say, it is, on average, 10-15 percent more expensive.
Budget hotels: ₹800–₹1500
Mid-range hotels: ₹1800–₹3500
Luxury hotels: ₹5000–₹9000
Homestays are common here too. But whenever there is a peak or high demand, their rates go up dramatically.
Which is Cheaper?
Darjeeling again takes the lead. There is greater variation, and cheaper options are available. For this reason, accommodation prices in Darjeeling are relatively cheap for travelers.
3. Food Cost: Eating in the Hills
Darjeeling Food Cost
People can afford to enjoy food items sold on the streets.
- Momos: ₹30–₹50
- Thukpa: ₹60–₹100
- Tea/coffee: ₹20–₹30
- Restaurants (per meal): ₹150–₹300
Bakeries like Glenary’s offer snacks at reasonable rates. However, it is more than possible to have a good meal while admiring the scenery without breaking the bank.
Gangtok Food Cost
Gangtok’s food is a little more sophisticated than Darjeeling, Sikkim. Modern cafés can be easily recognized, but they can be rather expensive.
- Momos: ₹40–₹70
- Thukpa: ₹80–₹120
- Cafes (per meal): ₹200–₹350
- Local cuisine (per meal): ₹250–₹400
Nevertheless, food is available in street markets and MG Marg and is relatively cheap.
Which is Cheaper?
Darjeeling is again more budget-friendly. The food is relatively cheap, and restaurants that offer various meals are very common. Thus, the cost of daily feeding is relatively low.
4. Sightseeing Expenses
Darjeeling Sightseeing Cost
Popular tourist spots include:
Tiger Hill
Batasia Loop
Peace Pagoda
Himalayan Mountaineering Institute
Rock Garden
Most of these places have almost no entry charges. Altogether, traveling in a shared taxi costs about 300–400 INR daily. Private sightseeing cabs cost ₹1200–₹2000.
The toy train ride and the ropeway trip are additional:
Toy train: ₹1000 (round trip)
Ropeway: ₹200–₹250 per person
Gangtok Sightseeing Cost
Top attractions include:
Tsomgo Lake
Nathula Pass
Tashi View Point
Hanuman Tok
Rumtek Monastery
Permission is needed for some locations. Costs include:
- Permit for Nathula: ₹200–₹300
- Shared cabs: ₹400–₹600
- Private cabs: ₹2500–₹3500
Some monasteries and lakes charge little amounts of money for entry fees.
Which is Cheaper?
Darjeeling wins once more. The cost per day is lower. Gangtok sightseeing comprises permits and long drives hence it is expensive than Darjeeling.
5. Shopping Cost
Darjeeling Markets
The centers like Mall Road provide:
- Local teas
- Handicrafts
- Woollen clothes
- Tibetan souvenirs
Prices are rather affordable, particularly when bargaining takes place. For instance:
Tea packets: ₹150–₹500
Scarves: ₹200–₹400
Keychains/souvenirs: ₹50–₹100
Gangtok Markets
Like any other state, its most popular markets are MG Marg and Lal Bazaar. Items include:
- Local wines
- Organic spices
- Sikkimese art
- Handmade goods
The prices are somewhat higher than in Darjeeling. For this reason, you can overspend on similar items.
Which is Cheaper?
Darjeeling is cheaper for shopping. Supermarkets in Darjeeling also boast of having great items but are more expensive when it comes to prices from the streets.
6. Activities and Fun
Darjeeling Activities:
- Toy train rides
- Ropeway ride
- Hiking to Tiger Hill
- Tea garden walks
- Zoo and mountaineering institute
Most activities cost ₹100–₹1000. In other words, they are relatively cost-effective or, in other words, cheap.
Gangtok Activities
- Yak rides at Tsomgo Lake
- Cable car ride
- Day treks
- Monastery visits
- Local festivals
These may cost more. For instance, a ride in a yak at Tsomgo is available at ₹300 – ₹500. Cable car service charges are ₹200-₹250 per head.
Which is Cheaper?
Darjeeling again is the winner. There are many more free or inexpensive opportunities. Therefore, the entertainment does not have to cost a lot of money.
7. Local Transport
Darjeeling Transport:
- Shared jeeps: ₹20–₹40
- Private taxi: ₹300–₹500 (short rides)
Walking is usual when it comes to nearby places.
Gangtok Transport:
- Shared taxis: ₹30–₹50
- Private cabs: ₹400–₹700 (short rides)
Local buses are rare
Which is Cheaper?
Darjeeling is also more manageable on foot and appears to be less expensive as well. On the other hand, need more taxis, which are available in Gangtok.
8. Permit Costs (Only Gangtok)
Some areas in Gangtok are restricted and therefore require permits.
- Nathula Pass
- North Sikkim (Lachen, Lachung)
- Tsomgo Lake
Permit charges range from ₹200–₹300. Also, you should also see that it is essential to carry with you photos & ID. Darjeeling does not require permits.
Which is Cheaper?
Darjeeling—because there are no additional permit charges. Therefore, no hidden fees!
9. Budget Summary: Per Day Comparison
| Category | Darjeeling (₹) | Gangtok (₹) |
| Stay | 1000 | 1500 |
| Food | 400 | 600 |
| Sightseeing | 500 | 1000 |
| Transport | 100 | 200 |
| Activities | 500 | 700 |
| Total/day | 2500 | 4000 |
Note: These are average prices per person.
10. Best Value for Money?
For budget traveling, Darjeeling comes out as the most effective. It offers:
- Cheaper stays
- Lower food prices
- Affordable transport
- Minimal permit hassles
Gangtok, however, offers more modern vibes and organized travel. But then again, if comfort is valued over price, Gangtok is still good.
Final Verdict: Which Is More Costly?
Thus, Gangtok is more expensive than Darjeeling. From accommodation places such as hotels to transport, every aspect is slightly expensive. Darjeeling, on the other hand, is relatively cheaper and gives you value for your money.
Hence, if you want to travel for a bit of money, Darjeeling will be the best choice for you to consider. However, if you are willing to spend a little extra for a more glamorous experience, Gangtok is also a must-visit place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Darjeeling cheaper than Gangtok?
Yes, it is cheaper here more so in terms of accommodation, local meals, transport, and places of interest to visit.
Which is better for a budget trip—Darjeeling or Gangtok?
Darjeeling is better for budget travel. You can explore more for less money.
Is it necessary to have a permit to visit Gangtok?
Yes, some of the places that require permits are Nathula Pass and North Sikkim.
Are hotels in Gangtok costly compared to other hotels?
Generally, yes. As compared to Darjeeling, the hotels in Gangtok are slightly expensive, being 10–20% higher.
Which has better local food?
Both offer great food. However, Darjeeling Street food is cheaper and very delicious, as well as easily accessible and convenient for one’s palate.
