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Heavy rains forced a daily closure of National Highway 10 (NH-10) until July 13. Traffic stops from 5 am to 10 am each day. This critical route links Siliguri to Gangtok and remains prone to landslides. Monsoon weather often destabilizes the steep slopes along the Teesta River. Travelers must plan mountain journeys carefully to avoid long delays at checkpoints.
The shutdown impacts tourists arriving at Bagdogra International Airport or Pakyong Airport. Those heading to Gangtok may face significant bottlenecks at Melli and Teesta Bazaar. Local authorities are prioritizing urgent road repairs during these morning hours. You should verify your flight timings before starting your uphill journey. Always keep a buffer for unexpected lane closures during the day.
NH-10 Shut Timings for Safe Gangtok Access
The National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) is managing the roadwork. They focus on clearing debris and stabilizing hilly corridors. To stay ahead, start your trip before 4:30 am. Alternatively, wait until after 10 am for the road to reopen. This strategy helps you avoid waiting in stagnant mountain traffic for hours.
| Dates | Closure Window | Target Stretch |
|---|---|---|
| July 11 to 13 | 5:00 AM to 10:00 AM | Melli to Rangpo |
| July 11 to 13 | After 10:00 AM | Single Lane Traffic |
If you are stuck, consider using alternative routes via Kalimpong or Mungey. The Melli to Kalimpong road often remains open for light vehicles. However, these detours can add two hours to your total travel time. Always check live status updates from the Sikkim Police social media pages. This ensures you have the latest information on recent landslide blocks.
Route Detours and Travel Tips for Sikkim
Hotel guests should request late check-outs if they plan to travel after 10 am. Many properties in Gangtok offer flexible rescheduling due to monsoon weather conditions. Communication with your driver is essential for a smooth transit. If your flight is early, consider staying in Siliguri one night before. This reduces the risk of missing your departure from Bagdogra.
Safety remains the top priority for all commuters in the North Bengal hills. Heavy machinery is working hard to stabilize the slopes along the highway. Please carry extra water and dry snacks during your journey. Following these simple steps will ensure your trip to Sikkim remains pleasant. Keep a close watch on local weather alerts for further road changes.