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Kalimpong, West Bengal: The Complete Guide

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Kalimpong, in West Bengal, sits 1,247 meters (4,091 feet) above sea level on a remote ridge in the Himalayan foothills, with the Teesta River at its base. The town's position provides superb views of Mount Kangchenjunga (the third highest peak in the world). Yet, much of Kalimpong's appeal is that tourists usually pass it by, in favor of more popular destinations such as Darjeeling and Gangtok in Sikkim . Nature and adventure lovers who prefer to get away from the crowds will find much on offer, though. Plan your trip there with this complete guide to Kalimpong.

Kalimpong wasn't always part of India. It originally belonged to the Kingdom of Sikkim, which was ruled by monarchs of the Namgyal dynasty. The monarchy was formally established in the 17th century by Buddhist priests, who made Phuntsog Namgyal the first chogyal (king). He was the descendant of a prince, Guru Tashi, from Tibet who had migrated to the area.

Following the death of the monarchy's second king Tensung Namgyal in 1700, there was disagreement as to who should succeed the throne. One of his children, who was unhappy with the outcome, invited the neighboring Bhutanese to invade Sikkim and intervene. The Namgyals eventually managed to reclaim much of their territory from the Bhutanese. However, this did not include present-day Kalimpong.

The Bhutanese continued to occupy and control Kalimpong until the Anglo-Bhutan War in 1865. After losing the war, the Bhutanese handed Kalimpong over to the British in the Treaty of Sinchula . At that time, Kalimpong was only a small village. The British liked the climate there, so they began to develop it as a hill station, as an alternative to nearby Darjeeling.

Kalimpong's location made it a convenient hub for trade with Tibet. As the town grew, it attracted more and more Nepalese, who came to improve their livelihoods. The area's indigenous inhabitants, the Lepchas, also flourished.

The arrival of Scottish missionaries in the late 19th century resulted in a flurry of construction—schools, churches, and hospitals were built. One man, Reverend Dr. John Anderson Graham, played a pivotal role in the town's progress by supporting and educating illegitimate children of Darjeeling tea estate workers. He also started the Kalimpong Mela, a horticultural show for local farmers. Meanwhile, his wife founded the Kalimpong Arts and Craft Center to teach vocational skills to women.

Kalimpong became part of the Indian state of West Bengal after India achieved independence from the British in 1947. However, China's invasion of Tibet in 1950 and subsequent Sino-Indian War with India in 1962 had a detrimental effect on the town's economy. India granted asylum to the Tibetans in 1959, which really angered China. Border disputes between the Chinese and Indians intensified, and this included border areas in and around Jelep Pass, connecting Sikkim to Tibet along the trade route. The pass was closed following the war and trade with Kalimpong halted.

Many Buddhist monks fled Tibet and established monasteries in Kalimpong, bringing with them important scriptures. These have become a defining part of Kalimpong's pervasive multicultural heritage, which also blends British, Nepalese, Sikkimese, Indian, and indigenous influences.

People are often surprised to learn that the Dalai Lama's second eldest brother lives in Kalimpong. He was a leader in the Tibetan resistance movement but now runs a noodle factory. Kalimpong was also thrust into the spotlight in 2006 as the setting for Kiran Desai's award-winning novel, The Inheritance of Loss . It earned her a Man Booker Prize.

Kalimpong is situated between two hills, Deolo and Durpin, in the extreme northern part of West Bengal, not far from the Sikkim border. It's about a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Darjeeling, and about three hours from Gangtok in Sikkim.

How to Get There

The closest airport to Kalimpong is Bagdogra in West Bengal, just under three hours away. A taxi from the airport to Kalimpong will cost about 2,600 rupees.

Alternatively, the nearest major railway station is New Jalpaiguri in West Bengal, about two and a half hours away. You'll be able to get a shared jeep from there to Kalimpong for about 200 rupees per person or a private taxi for about 2,200 rupees. Taxis and shared jeeps to Kalimpong also depart from nearby Siliguri Junction railway station, though this station is smaller and receives fewer trains. Buses, operated by the North Bengal Transport Corporation, are another option from both these places. They depart every hour or less and are worth considering, as they provide more leg room than the shared jeeps.

Those who prefer to self-drive can hire a vehicle from Zoomcar at Siliguri .

If you're headed to Kalimpong from Darjeeling, a private taxi will cost about 2,700 rupees. Shared jeeps are available too.

What to Do There

For clear mountain views, the ideal months to visit Kalimpong are during the dry season from October to May.

Standard half-day private sightseeing tours, offered by taxi drivers and local tour operators, will take you to all the main attractions toward Deolo Hill (in northeast Kalimpong) or Durpin Hill (in southwest Kalimpong). These tours can be combined into full-day tours to cover everything. Expect to pay about 1,500 rupees for a half-day tour or 2,000 for a full-day tour.

Northeast Kalimpong attractions include:

• Mangal Dham, a Hindu temple complex dedicated to Lord Krishna and Guruji Shir Mangaldasji Maharaj. It was constructed in 1993 and has captivating interiors adorned with scenes from Krishna's life.
• Thongsa Gompa, the oldest monastery in Kalimpong. It's often referred to as the Bhutanese Monastery, as it was built by the Bhutanese after they occupied Kalimpong.
• Tharpa Choling Gompa, founded in 1912 by renowned Tibetan Buddhist monk Domo Geshe Rinpoche Ngawang Kalsang who visited the area to collect medicinal plants. There's an interesting Chinese temple and museum in the compound too.
• Dr. Graham's Homes , founded in 1900 as an orphanage and school for underprivileged children. It has a small museum , open on weekdays, and an ornate church that looks like it's been lifted from the Scottish countryside.
• A large colorful statue of Lord Buddha seated on a lotus in a park.
• Sherpa Taar, a viewpoint overlooking the Teesta River that creates the border between West Bengal and Sikkim.
• Durga Mandir, a temple with a viewing gallery dedicated to Goddess Durga.
• Hanuman Tok, a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman featuring a 30 foot-tall statue (the largest in region).
• Deolo Hill, the highest point in the area at about 5,500 feet above sea level. It has panoramic views, including spectacular sunrise vistas of Mount Kangchenjunga. The tourism department has developed an 8-acre recreation park on the summit, which is popular with families. There are snack stalls and pony rides. Government-run Deolo Tourist Lodge, a sprawling British era mansion, is part of the complex and offers basic accommodations that are all about location, location. It also has a restaurant.

Southwest Kalimpong attractions include:

• Nature Interpretation Center, an ecological museum operated by the forest department not far from town.
• Gouripur House, where acclaimed Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore stayed and composed some of his works. Unfortunately, it's in ruins. Pratima Tagore House, built by his daughter-in-law in 1943, is better maintained and has a lot of memorabilia.
• Army Golf Club, a picturesque landmark golf course established and maintained by the Indian Army stationed there.
• Morgan House, another colonial British-era mansion that's been converted into a government-run hotel. It's opposite the golf club.
• Durpin Monastery (officially called Zang Dhok Palri Monastery), Kalimpong's largest monastery and the highlight on Durpin Hill. It was built in 1972, after Tibetan monks fled to Kalimpong, and consecrated by the Dalai Lama 1976. The monastery has some impressive murals and rare Tibetan Buddhist manuscripts. You can join in the daily prayers at 6 a.m. and 3 p.m.
• Jelep La Viewpoint, below Durpin Monastery, has views all the way across to Jelep Pass on the former trade route with Tibet. It's also possible to see where the Teesta, Reang and Relli rivers meet.

In addition, there are some more attractions around town.

Don't miss the local market, Haat Bazaar, which really comes to life on Saturday and Wednesday mornings. It's a fantastic place to taste local food and shop for handmade souvenir items.

To see decorative paper being handmade, drop into Gangzong or Himalayan paper factories. Both are small-scale but Gangzong is the oldest one. You can buy paper products there.

Visit the Lepcha Museum to learn about the local indigenous culture of the area. It has all kinds of exhibits ranging from old religious manuscripts to traditional musical instruments.

Marvel over the unusual design of Saint Theresa's Church, which resembles a Buddhist shrine. It was built in 1929 by Swiss Jesuits. Gothic-style MacFarlane Church, completed in 1891, is also quite magnificent. It was renovated in 2011, after an earthquake damaged its bell tower.

Those with a passion for horticulture should put Kalimpong's numerous plant and flower nurseries on their itineraries. Pine View Nursery is renowned for its comprehensive cactus collection and can be included on the standard southwest Kalimpong sightseeing tour. Nurseryman’s Haven is a specialist orchid nursery within Holumba Haven .

Thrill-seekers can go paragliding in Kalimpong or rafting down the Teesta River. Do be aware that paragliding isn't properly regulated and there have been casualties. Himalayan Eagle is a reputable company that offers paragliding. Check out Aquaterra Tours for rafting trips (and a multitude of other outdoor experiences).

What Else to Do Nearby

One of the best things to do is simply hike around the area and enjoy nature. Try hiking from Kalimpong to Chitrey waterfall, through the rice fields. If you're interested in local village life, Kalimpong-based NGO Mondo Challenge offers a worthwhile community-based Village Discovery Hiking Tour that supports poor rural villages. The tour has options from one to three days, and you'll get to spend time in villages with different lifestyles and traditions.

Kalimpong is the gateway to several other villages located an hour or so east of town. A day trip to Lava is recommended for bird watching. The national park has wetlands and you can go on hikes through the forest. There's also a Buddhist monastery and Samabeong Tea Estate in the vicinity. A local market is held on Tuesdays. Expect to pay about 3,500 rupees return in a taxi.

Lolegaon offers a canopy walk across hanging bridges in the forest.

More tea estates are situated further afield, about three hours east of Kalimpong. These include Ambiok Tea Estate, Mission Hill Tea Estate, Upper Fagu and Kumai Tea Estate.

There are other hiking opportunities around Pedong, a hour northeast of Kalimpong. You can stop and see the ruins of 17th century Damsang Fort, and quaint Sillery Gaon village, on the way. Expect to pay about 3,000 rupees for a return day trip.

Where to Eat

Make sure you sample the yummiest momos (a kind of dumpling) in town! Gompu's, on the main road not far from the Haat Bazaar, is famous for its plump signature pork momos. Don't like pork? There are other Tibetan dishes on the menu.

For an unforgettable view with your food, The Art Cafe is a hip place to hang out in the same area. As its name suggests, it promotes local artists. The coffee is great there too.

Stop by Lark's Provisions to pick up local specialties such as Kalimpong cheese and homemade pickles.

Where to Stay

The iconic Himalayan Hotel, which dates back to 1905 and was the first hotel in the region, has been refurbished and recently reopened as the luxurious Mayfair Himalayan Spa Resort . Its 63 guest rooms are spread over the original heritage wing and a newly constructed wing. Rates start from about 9,500 rupees per night for a double, including tax. Numerous dignitaries, and even Hollywood stars, have stayed there.

Elgin Silver Oaks is another luxury boutique heritage property. It was built in 1930 and was the home of a wealthy British jute magnate. There are 20 guest rooms. Rates start from about 12,500 rupees per night, including all meals and tax.

The Soods Garden Retreat is a popular mid-range option on the main road just before town. Rates start from 5,000 rupees per night, with breakfast included.

Holumba Haven provides basic cottages amid a tranquil garden and orchid nursery, in the same area as The Soods Garden Retreat. Expect to pay around 2,000 rupees per night.

Look no further than Mansarover Homestay , on the ridge leading to Durpin Monastery, for outstanding hospitality provided by a friendly local family. Delicious home-cooked meals are served, made from produce grown in their organic garden. Rates start from 2,200 rupees per night, including breakfast and tax.

Kalimpong Village Retreat is ideal for those who want to unwind away from it all surrounded by nature. The property is a 30 minute drive from Kalimpong town, plus a 5 minute walk from the road. Expect to pay 3,000 rupees per night for a double.

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By Air, By Road, By Train: A Complete Travel Guide To Kalimpong

By air, by road, by train: here is everything you need to know before planning a trip to kalimpong. bookmark the travel guide now.

By: Karan Kaushik Published: Jul 24, 2022 01:00 PM IST

West Bengal’s Kalimpong is one of those underrated mountain destinations that has been overshadowed by the more bustling and popular Darjeeling. If you want some more peace and a lot less traffic and crowd, Kalimpong is the place to be at. There are a number of cute homestays and colonial-era buildings to admire. By Karan Kaushik

Here’s everything you should know before planning your mountain trip to Kalimpong

The destination.

At the Himalayan foothills in West Bengal, Kalimpong is a picture-perfect hill station. Much like its popular sister town, Darjeeling, but less explored, Kalimpong amazes visitors with a mix of natural beauty, history, and vibrant culture. While the magnificent Mount Kanchenjunga and other snow-capped peaks make you stop in your tracks, the hills of Durpin and Deolo on either side of the town pave the way for adventures. River Teesta flows nearby, adding to the interesting topography. Once an important town on the Trans- Himalayan trade route and in British India, Kalimpong is dotted with monasteries, churches, and old houses. A thriving horticulture industry makes this ‘bazaar town’ all the more beautiful.

Bagdogra International Airport, 70 km from Kalimpong, is the nearest. Many domestic airlines offer good connectivity between Bagdogra and major Indian cities.

Kalimpong enjoys good road connectivity with New Jalpaiguri, Siliguri, Bagdogra, Darjeeling, and Gangtok. It is best visited from New Jalpaiguri, 73 km away.

The nearest railhead from Kalimpong is New Jalpaiguri. Taxis and buses for Kalimpong are easily available. It takes around 2.5 hours to reach Kalimpong from New Jalpaiguri.

Things to do in Kalimpong

Deolo and durpin hills.

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Renowned for its panoramic views, Buddhist monasteries , and colonial-era buildings, Kalimpong is a mixed bag of history, culture, and nature. The Deolo and Durpin Dara hills offer incredible views and adventures like paragliding, trekking, and horse riding. Located in the northeast of Kalimpong, Deolo Hill is the highest point of the town and offers incredibly stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas.

Cactus Garden

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Visit Cactus Nursery, one of Kalimpong’s biggest commercial nurseries, to admire rare species of orchids and cacti set against the backdrop of imposing mountains. One of the finest of its kind in Asia, the nursery is home to almost 2,000 varieties of cacti and succulents.

Durpin Monastery

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Durpin Monastery provides a peek into Buddhist and Tibetan cultures with its exquisite architecture, Tibetan paintings, and a rare collection of Buddhist texts. Also known as Zong Dog Palri Fo Brang Gompa, the monastery houses as many as 108 volumes of the Kangyur and other holy books and scrolls that were brought here after the Chinese invasion of Tibet.

St Teresa’s Church

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In June 1924, Fr Jules Douenel arrived at Kalimpong to be the Chaplain to the Sisters of St. Joseph of Cluny and built St. Teresa’s Church in 1931. It’s one of the oldest and largest parishes in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Darjeeling. The church is an interesting example of how Bhutanese gompa architecture can be incorporated into a cathedral. Notice the wooden apostles, that are reminiscent of Buddhist monks. Similarly, the wooden carvings on the doors will remind you of the symbols of Himalayan Buddhism.

Neora valley trek

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Imagine walking through verdant greenery with soft sunlight sieving in, trying to make its way through the mesh of thick green canopy; occasional squeaks from the wildlife and the omnipresent scent of the  mountain filling up the air. The Neora Valley trek from Kalimpong gives a glimpse of this untamed wilderness that envelopes the Himalayan foothills.

The trek goes through the pristine forests of Neora Valley National Park. Spread across an area of 88 square kilometres, it reaches an elevation of 3,200 metres in the north while in the south it borders the forests of Jalpaiguri that connect it with the famous Chapramari forest, Gorumara National Park.

Best time to go

There’s always a good time to visit Kalimpong, thanks to its pleasant climate. However, the best time to visit Kalimpong is from March to May and September to December.

Feature and hero image courtesy: Shutterstock

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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Answer: Kalimpong is known for stunning valley views, Buddhists monasteries, age-old churches, and Tibetan handicrafts.

Answer: No, they are not. It takes around 2.5 hours to reach Kalimpong from Darjeeling. While Darjeeling is a bustling hill station with touristy charms, Kalimpong is a quaint hilly hamlet.

• Kalimpong Travel Guide
• west bengal

Karan Kaushik

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This bustling bazaar town sprawls along a saddle-shaped mountain ridge overlooking the roaring Teesta River and is lorded over by the summit of Khangchendzonga. Smaller and more laid-back than Darjeeling, Kalimpong boasts Himalayan views, Buddhist monasteries, and a fascinating nursery industry, all linked by some fine hikes. You could easily fill three days here.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Kalimpong. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Durpin Gompa

Kalimpong’s largest monastery, formally known as Zangtok Pelri Phodang, sits atop panoramic Durpin Hill (1372m) and was consecrated by the Dalai Lama in…

On a clear day, the morning views of Khangchendzonga from this hilltop park, about 500m higher than the town centre, are simply superb. After savouring…

St Teresa’s Church

A fascinating missionary church built in 1929 by Swiss Jesuits, St Teresa's was constructed to incorporate designs from a Bhutanese gompa. The 12 wooden…

Himalayan Handmade Paper Industry

Visitors are welcome to drop into this small workshop to see traditional paper-making processes, from boiling and pulping of the local argayli (daphne)…

Tharpa Choling Gompa

Built from 1912 to 1922, the main temple of this Gelugpa-school Tibetan monastery of 50 monks contains statues of past, present and future Buddhas. Don't…

Neora Valley National Park

This birding haven lies east of Lava, a town 30km east of Kalimpong, and its luxuriant forests are home to a few red pandas and leopard cats and countless…

Lepcha Heritage Museum

This offbeat collection of Lepcha treasures could be likened to rummaging through the attic of your grandfather’s house (if he were a Lepcha elder). A…

Thongsa Gompa

A short distance below the junction of RC Mintri and Rishi Rds is this charming Nyingmapa-school monastery, also known as the Bhutanese Monastery. The…

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• 1 Understand
• 3 Get around
• 8.2 Alcohol

Kalimpong ( Nepali : कालिम्पोङ Kālimpoṅ , Bengali : কালিম্পং Kālimpaṁ ) is a hill station in the Darjeeling Hills‎ of West Bengal . It has less to see than Darjeeling but is, in comparison, quiet and pleasant to walk around and explore. The town has a number of interesting colonial-era buildings scattered around the town. The climate is ideal for growing a range of plants, particularly flowers and the area has many nurseries. The town is between two hills: Deolo and Durpin Dara, both of which provide views of Mt Kangchenjunga on a clear morning. Deolo provides the most sweeping panoramic views and also has a guesthouse, while Durpin Dara has the Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery.

Understand [ edit ]

Kalimpong was originally a trading post on the Tibet to India route. Then, from early 18th to mid-19th century, the town was successively ruled by the Sikkimese and Bhutanese kingdoms. After the Anglo-Bhutan War in 1864, the Treaty of Sinchula (1865) was signed, in which Bhutanese-held territory east of the Teesta River, which included Kalimpong, was ceded to the British East India Company. After falling under British control, the town was developed as a local administrative centre, and a number of missionary schools opened in the area. Presently, the town is populated by mostly Nepalese speaking people, with a large minority of Tibetans. There are several Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, as well as private schools and colleges scattered throughout the town and surrounding hills.

At around 1,250 metres, the town enjoys a moderate climate, which attracts people from towns at higher altitude in the winter and from the Plains in the summer.

Get in [ edit ]

Kalimpong is accessible mainly by terrain vehicle, due to the winding mountain roads. There is frequent transportation to and from nearby cities such as Darjeeling and Gangtok (Deorali Bus Stand), where one can book a 3½-hour ride by shared terrain vehicle for ₹130. Booking is not required ahead of time but is advisable if it is urgent.

Regular buses (every 20 minutes until 4PM) provide direct access to and from the Siliguri (Tenzing Norgay Bus Station) for ₹110 - ₹130 for the two and a hour-hour journey. Shared taxis - around ₹300, Private taxis - around ₹3,000. Buses and taxis also travel from New Jalpaiguri Station, with an additional cost of around ₹20-₹30. The nearest airport from Kalimpong is Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri. Taxis ply the route between the airport and Kalimpong - around ₹3,000.

Get around [ edit ]

Kalimpong is a small and walkable city. The main form of transportation within Kalimpong is taxi and auto-rickshaw. The main bus stand is close to Damber Chowk.

See [ edit ]

• 18.966791 72.801472 1 Kalimpong Art Gallery .  
• 27.06328 88.470114 2 Lepcha Museum .  
• 27.061849 88.466256 3 Nature Interpretation Centre ( Forest Museum ).  
• 27.087568 88.508069 4 Kalimpong Science Centre .  
• Sericulture Research Institute .  
• Tashi Takgye ( Colour House ), 10th Mile, Rishi Road ( Near Power Station ), ☏ +91 9434007076 .  
• 27.07242 88.47685 5 Mangal Dham , Reply Road . A tribute to Guru Mangaldasji, whose samadhi lies in the ground floor of the dham .  

Do [ edit ]

• Kalimpong is beginning to form a small hiking industry – look around for flyers in hotels for local tour operators.
• 27.04678 88.46279 1 Army Golf Course ( 27 Div Golf Course ).  
• Buddha Pada ( Japanese temple ), 12th Mile , ☏ +91 89272 43259 , [email protected] . An institute built in the Japanese minimalist style. Conducts workshops and classes in meditation, classical Indian dance, cinema, and other wisdom-based art forms. Accommodation available. Cafe and dining hall. ( updated Dec 2022 )
• 27.06067 88.4673 2 Children Park .  
• Paragliding . Delo Hill. ₹3,000 for short flight, ₹5000 for long flight. ₹500 extra for GoPro video. (as of December 2023). Open: 11AM.
• 27.0796 88.4308 3 Triveni Camping ( Triveni Siliguri ), Teesta Bazar , ☏ +917001608599 , [email protected] . 9AM - 8PM . A confluence of two rivers, the river Rangeet with its deep green and crystal clear water, meets with the forceful mountain stream Teesta at a point called Teesta Triveni. ₹1500 per person per night . ( updated Jan 2023 )

Buy [ edit ]

Most of the Tibetan shops are on 10th Mile Rishi Road, and R.C. Mintri Road.

The Haat Bazar ( weekly bazzar ) , just off Relly Road, down the hill from the bus stand, occurs every Wednesday and Saturday and is a vibrant market with mainly clothing and vegetable stands. Food stands serve plates of momo for ₹50 (2023), as well as a delectable local pasta.

Don't hesitate to bargain -- you can haggle quite a bit. Or if you are adventurous, just walk a bit more to the wholesale market (just around the corner from the main street). Its fixed price, but you won't get a better deal anywhere else in town.

To buy clothes all you have to do is to visit R.C. Mintri road full of marwadis. Don't leave Kalimpong without tasting locally made lollipops.

• Tashi Takgye (Colour House) 03552-256897/9434007076, at 10th Mile, Rishi Road, about 1km from Damber Chowk. This is a fixed price shop with extremely reasonable prices. You can get paintings, statues, wall hanging, knives, porcelain, crystal, thankhas, dragons, items made from bone, masks, souvenirs, etc. It's the wholesale supplier/importer/exporter for the northern region. Prices here are usually 2-3 times cheaper than anywhere else in the region.
• Thangka House on 10th Mile, Rishi Road. This shop sells small souvenirs, and beautiful art such as thangkas and authentic hand paintings. They also have postcards and an assortment of prints for sale, which are cheaper than the hand paintings.

Eat [ edit ]

Kalimpong produces the only aged cheese made in India. It has the texture of a hard European cheese and a mild, Parmesan-like flavour

• Gompu's For the best momo. You can also get a very decent lunch or dinner at this place. Open until 9PM.
• A.B.C. Restaurant You can try other Tibetan/Chinese dishes like Thukpa (noodles), R.C. Mintri Road.
• Sagar, Evergreen (on the Main Road)
• Unique, Shikhar, Mohan Daju
• Rigyal Restaurant in Malli Road, 30 m downhill from the traffic point, local food with a hygienic kitchen
• China Garden is the place for Chinese food, tucked in near the bus stop. They make great Mei Foon and their Chicken Drumsticks are worth the inevitable queue during tourist season. Hit the place before 8PM as this town shuts down early.
• The Soods Garden Retreat For Indian food and drinks, open till 10PM.
• Himamlayan Hotel You'd miss something if you didn't spare time for a quiet, very British afternoon cup there.
• Cafe Refuel A good place for an English style breakfast and snacks in the outskirts of the town.
• King Thai A good place for affordable drinks and food.

Drink [ edit ]

Coffee [ edit ].

• Art Cafe , Sharma Building, Rishi Road, Chotta Bhalukhop ( Lower part of town, opp Kalimpong Library ), ☏ +91 97495 48034 . F-W 9AM-7PM . A very hip cafe. Large outdoor seating area. View over mountains. Excellent coffee and cakes. Pizza and pasta. Fast and friendly service.  
• Roxberry The Street Outlet , D.B.Giri Road . 9:30AM-8:30PM . Chic cafe, serving espresso-based coffees, pizza, pasta, burgers, and sandwiches. Professional and quick service.  
• Tara Cafe , shop no. 8, Big Will Mart D.B.Giri Road . 9:30AM-8:30PM . Bright and airy cafe. Serves standard espresso-based coffees, pizza and pasta. Friendly service.  

Alcohol [ edit ]

There are a few bars in town, or just buy something from the liquor shop around the main stand near the bazaar.

• Melting Point , Opp. Kanchan Hall , ☏ +919593888088 . Branch of the Melting Point Pelling, West Sikkim.  

Sleep [ edit ]

• Homestay Trinity , Off Seva Sadan Road ( 5 minutes drive from main motor stand towards Seva Sadan Hospital ), ☏ +91 3552-258681 , [email protected] . Spacious, clean and well lit rooms. THe amenities feature an audiophile room with meticulously chosen equipments and fine Jazz collections. The Reading room houses a great (not pop) collection of fiction and non-fiction book. The food is made with organic vegetables from their own kitchen garden. US$50 . ( updated Mar 2015 )
• Holumba Guest House . One of the better deals in town. It is a botanical garden boasting exotic orchids with guest cottages. Full board is available as well as many services including arranging tours of the local area. ₹500-2000 .  
• Morgan House ( 3 km away from Downtown, taxi fare from the market to Morgan House is ₹40 one way or you can walk ). This is one of the best places to sleep. It's the government tourist lodge, and you can get reservations from Kolkata and stay in this sprawling mansion from the 1930s, though there are reports that the quality is waning.  
• The Orchid Retreat .  
• Soods Garden Retreat , Reshi Road , ☏ +91 9733123113 . 8½ miles (14 km) out of town  
• G P Lodge , 10 mile , ☏ +91 7890947710 . Check-in: noon , check-out: 11:30AM . 900 to 2500 .  
• Kalimpong Village Retreat ( KVR ), Kafley Goan, Lower Eechay ( Just 7 km from town, near Shivalaya ), ☏ +91 97754- 48485 , +91 94140- 66260 , [email protected] . Check-in: noon , check-out: 11AM . Situated on a 6-acre (2½ ha) farm in the scenic village of lower Eechay. Surrounded by a variety of trees, lush terraced paddy fields and traditional village houses. The farm overlooks the Relli river and the hills of Lava, a popular birding destination. US$50 . ( updated Mar 2016 )

Go next [ edit ]

• Darjeeling — 50km
• Deolo Hill — 6km, provides the most sweeping panoramic views and also has a guesthouse.
• Lava — 35km
• Pedong — This town is an hour by taxi (₹300), is a real off-the-track destination. The town's main monastery is over 150 years old and can act as a base for hikes through the hills and surrounding villages.
• Rishop — 27 km
• Sikkim — three hours to Gangtok
• Siliguri — a major transportation hub and shopping and business destination. Buses depart from Kalimpong bus station to Tenzing Norgay Bus Station every 20 minutes until 4PM - ₹110-₹130 for the two and a half hour journey. Shared and private jeeps also ply to route from the same location - approx ₹300 and ₹2,800/₹3,000 respectively. Add ₹20-₹30 to the fare for New Jalpaiguri Station.

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Here’s a complete travel guide to the picture-perfect Kalimpong

• Posted on January, 12, 2023

• Kalimpong – A perfect gateway to Heaven

The hill station of Kalimpong in West Bengal is one of the most famous tourist sites in the area, spread around a saddle-shaped ridge and overlooking the flowing River Teesta. Surrounded by snow-capped Himalayas and crowned by the summit of Kanchenjunga (Khangchendzonga), the world’s third-highest mountain, it entices visitors who are coming by the best travel offers with its gorgeous vistas and colonial charm.

It, around 65 kilometers from Siliguri, is famous for its Buddhist temples, Tibetan handicrafts, and churches for tourists looking for affordable India packages online . According to legend, when the nearby Lepcha tribesmen weren’t engaged in agricultural duties, they enjoyed field games. As a result, the name Kalimpong, which means “the ridge where we play,” was coined.

The city was once a hub of trans-Himalayan trade between India and Tibet, with merchants ferrying goods through the Jelep la Pass on the Sikkim-Tibet border. The city is also known for its educational institutions, the majority of which were founded during the British era. Until the nineteenth century, the region around Kalimpong was ruled in succession by the Sikkimese and Bhutanese kingdoms.

• How to land in Kalimpong:

It, a scenic and tranquil hill station in West Bengal, is approximately 3 hour drive from both Darjeeling and Siliguri. Pleasant weather, lush greenery, snow-capped Himalayas, and delectable local cuisine provide ample opportunities for tourism with the best travel offers here. Kalimpong’s exclusive tourist attractions include the Science Centre, Deolo Hill, and the Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Buddhist monastery. It is easily accessible from any part of the country via various modes of transportation.

How to Fly to Kalimpong The nearest airport to Kalimpong is Bagdogra, which is located near Siliguri. It is located 79 kilometers from town. This airport is linked to Kolkata, Delhi, and Guwahati. So you would simply understand how to get to Kalimpong. International passengers can take connecting flights from major cities such as Kolkata via cheap flight tickets to Kolkata or Delhi.

How to Get to Kalimpong by Rail The boundary rail is New Jalpaiguri, which is around 77 kilometers distant from It. This is an important railway station in north Bengal that also acts as a gateway to rural northeastern India. From this railway station, you can easily catch trains to several Indian cities.

How to Get to Kalimpong by Road This is well connected to Sikkim and other major Indian cities. The city of Kalimpong is served by direct bus services from neighboring states. Private tourist buses are also available from Kalimpong to Bagdogra (79 km) and Siliguri (70 km). Darjeeling and Gangtok, two beautiful tourist destinations, are only 50 and 75 kilometers away from the town, respectively.

• Major Festivities of Kalimpong:-

Because of its diverse population, Kalimpong hosts a number of festivals and events. People booking affordable flight tickets to India see and enjoy it with great zeal and fanfare. Kalimpong hosts the following festivals:

• Lepcha: It’s the Bhutia New Year. Organizers organize fairs and events along the Teesta River.
• People observe Maghe Sankranti in January. It marks the end of the ill-fated month of Poush and is devoid of religious ceremonies.
• Holi: Holi is a colorful festival celebrated in February where people smear color on each other.
• Losar is a three-day festival commemorating the Tibetan New Year. They have decorated the monasteries to commemorate this festival.
• Dashain, also known as Durga Puja, is a popular Nepalese festival that lasts 15 days. Observe during the months of September and October.
• Diwali: This is a very important festival all over the country. he lighting of lamps and diyas marks it. Observers observe it between the months of October and November.
• Favorite hotspots in Kalimpong:
• Climb to the Deolo hills for spectacular views

Deolo Hills, at an elevation of around 2000 m, offers a spectacular panoramic view of Kalimpong to travelers coming via last minute flights . Designated viewing areas along the ridge edges offer the best views of the sunset and sunrise. The hills are also an excellent location for trekking and hiking. If you enjoy adventure, you should definitely include a visit here on your list of things to do in Kalimpong.

• Pump yourself up with river rafting at Teesta River

The Teesta River, with its lush surroundings, is the best choice for Rafting in Kalimpong. Rafting trips on the Teesta River generally begin at Melli Bridge and end at Geilkhola in Kalimpong. Prepare for the excitement and roller coaster rapids of the Teesta River as you explore the mesmerizing beauty of India’s North East region. River rafting is one of the most exciting things to do in Kalimpong. Make sure you don’t miss out on the high adrenaline rush and all the fun.

• Nature Interpretation Centre – A museum for nature lovers

This forest department-established and managed center conduct research on the impact of human activities on the environment. The museum contains information, pictures, photographs, and books on ecology and the environment. Visiting the museum here is one of the best things to do in Kalimpong, especially for nature lovers.

• Explore the wilderness at Neora Valley National Park

The West Bengal district of Kalimpong established the Neora Valley National Park in 1986. It is one of the richest ecological zones in eastern India, spanning an area of 88 square kilometers. It receives its name from the river Neora that runs through it. Many portions of the park are still inaccessible due to the lush development of forest cover. This pristine region becomes an adventure destination for nature enthusiasts and hikers who want to explore its wildness. Include it on your list of things to do in Kalimpong.

• Best time to visit Kalimpong:

Regardless of the fact that it has lovely weather, Kalimpong is a great spot to visit all year. Fog frequently envelops this highland station between monsoon and winter. So, the best months to visit Kalimpong are either March to May or September to November.

Summer in Kalimpong From March to May, the temperature is always less than 30°C. So the light breeze would certainly not bother visitors who have arrived by grabbing the best travel offers online.

Monsoon Season in Kalimpong The monsoon season lasts from June through September. The major indicator of the season is heavy rainfall. It occasionally produces landslides that impede roadways. As a result, it may be either the best or worst experience for tourists.

Winter in Kalimpong The months of December to February are the most pleasant and ideal times to visit Kalimpong, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to subzero.

Places To Visit In Kalimpong

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Durpin Dara hill

Cactus Nursery

Morgan House

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1. Morgan House

3 km from city center 1 out of 24 Places To Visit in Kalimpong

Located in the verdant greens of Kalimpong, Morgan House is a mansion built by Mr. and Mrs. Morgan in the 1930s. It is an archetypal example of colonial architecture in Kalimpong. What makes visiting this gorgeous piece of construction even better is that it is surrounded by legends of it being Haunted! It has been converted into a lodge for tourists and is under the administration of the West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation. Located near the New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, this destination lies right in the lap of nature and is easily accessible as well. The undulating hillocks, colorful sunsets, and a the charm of an old colonial town surround you as you make Morgan House your home.

2. Durpin Dara hill

1 km from city center 2 out of 24 Places To Visit in Kalimpong

Offering the panoramic view of the town of Kalimpong, the snow-clad Himalayan ranges of West Sikkim, the Teesta river and its valleys, Durpin Dara Hill also has a golf course and the Zang Dhok Palri Monastery. There is also a famous botanical garden there.

3. Cactus Nursery

1 km from city center 3 out of 24 Places To Visit in Kalimpong

The Pine View Nursery is a popular cactus nursery in the vicinity of the Teesta River in Kalimpong. It is the largest collection of cacti in all of Asia. The large greenhouse comprises a variety of exotic cactus species and is often a part of most sightseeing tours here.

4. Deolo Hill

4 km from city center 4 out of 24 Places To Visit in Kalimpong

Deolo Hills are located at an elevation of around 2000 m and thus, provide a great panoramic view of Kalimpong. There are also proper view points which are located at the ridge edges for the best view of the sunset and sunrise.

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Darjeeling Kalimpong Tour Package

Darjeeling kalimpong gangtok package - premium edition, sikkim tour package for 8 days, offbeat northeast tour: lataguri, kalimpong & more, heaven on hills tour package: kalimpong & darjeeling, darjeeling tour package for family: gangtok & kalimpong, 5. mangal dham.

1 km from city center 5 out of 24 Places To Visit in Kalimpong

Mangaldham is a Hindu temple situated on Relli Road in Kalimpong, West Bengal that is built in the memory of Guruji Shri Mangal Das Ji Maharaj. Lord Krishna is the principal deity here. The temple complex is known for its embellished statues, lush gardens and the vibrant sanctuary.

6. Teesta Bazar

5 km from city center 6 out of 24 Places To Visit in Kalimpong

One can shop for all kinds of commodities from this market including many handicraft items and artifacts, variety of wares from China, Tibet and Bhutan.

Top Hotels In Kalimpong

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7. Hiking in Kalimpong

20 km from city center 7 out of 24 Places To Visit in Kalimpong

Kalimpong is a good place for Hiking and you can also take help from guide. The altitude of about 1500 m in Kalimpong offers mild to medium challenges.

8. Kalimpong Science Centre

5 km from city center 8 out of 24 Places To Visit in Kalimpong

The Kalimpong Science Centre, which is also known as the Kalimpong Science City, is a science and technology centre situated close to Deolo Hill in Kalimpong, West Bengal. There is a science observatory and 3D movie theatre on the premises along with indoor and outdoor exhibits.

9. Lepcha Museum

0 km from city center 9 out of 24 Places To Visit in Kalimpong

Lepcha Museum is an initiative to preserve the culture and values of the Lepcha tribe that resides in the areas around Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Sikkim, Nepal and Bhutan. The museum has relics and objects of everyday use like articles of worship, musical instruments, handicrafts items, manuscripts etc. all used by the Lepcha people.

10. Nature Interpretation Centre, Kalimpong

0 km from city center 10 out of 24 Places To Visit in Kalimpong

Linking humans to nature, this centre established and managed by forest department conducts research on the impact of human activities on the Environment. The museum contains information, pictures, photographs and books on ecology and environment.

11. 7th Mile View Point

2 km from city center 11 out of 24 Places To Visit in Kalimpong

The 7th Mile Viewpoint is located 3km outside of Kalimpong. The viewpoint overlooks the stunning Teesta Rangeet Valley and tea plantations and is the ideal place to relax. It is known for photography and sunset views.

12. Himalayan Handmade Paper Industry

12 out of 24 Places To Visit in Kalimpong

Himalayan Handmade Paper Industry is a small scale industry cum workshop where you can visit to watch the entire process of creating paper from pulp, more so recycling it. The recycled paper is then used for block- printing the Buddhist scriptures. It is also used as notebooks for kids and handmade greeting cards.

Discover More About Sightseeing & Tourist Attractions in Kalimpong

Sightseeing

Things to do in Kalimpong for a Sweet Escape into the Hills

13. Crockety

2 km from city center 13 out of 24 Places To Visit in Kalimpong

Built by the British wool traders in 18th century, Crockety is a bungalow famous for its architectural design and the breathtaking surroundings. Nobel Laureate Rabindra Nath Tagore broadcasted his work Janmadin on his birthday on All India Radio from behind Crockety.

14. Thongsa Gompa

2 km from city center 14 out of 24 Places To Visit in Kalimpong

The oldest Bhutanese Monastery established in 1692, Thongsa Gompa, is also known as Bhutanese Monastery. The monastery is a perfect place for meditation.

15. Neora Valley National Park

22 km from city center 15 out of 24 Places To Visit in Kalimpong

One of the richest biological zones in the entire Northeast Neora National park spreads over an area of 88 sq km Much of the park is still inaccessible because of the luxurious growth of the forests and the park becomes an adventurous place for nature lovers/trekkers whole like to explore the untouched terrains.

16. Jang Dog Palriffo Brang Gompa

3 km from city center 16 out of 24 Places To Visit in Kalimpong

Consecrated by Dalai Lama in 1976 Jang Dong Palriffo Brang Gompa is also known as Durpin Monastery. The monastery serves as a sample of Buddhist construction style with beautiful paintings on the walls and the sacred Kunguyar serve as an important feature of this monastery.

17. Galingka

1 km from city center 17 out of 24 Places To Visit in Kalimpong

Another British Bungalow, Galingka offers spectacular views of the Kanchenjunga peak- the second highest Himalayan peaks.

18. Sericulture Research Institute

1 km from city center 18 out of 24 Places To Visit in Kalimpong

Known for its research in sericulture and is a place for breeding the silkworms, it works closely with the farmers in developing self-help groups and in the cultivation and sale of different stages of silk production.

19. Teesta River Rafting

20 km from city center 19 out of 24 Places To Visit in Kalimpong

Teesta River with its green surroundings is the best choice for Rafting in Kalimpong. The rafting trips is Teesta river starts mostly at Melli Bridge and culminate at Geilkhola in Kalimpong. Get ready for the excitement and roller coaster rapids on the Teesta River exploring the mesmerizing beauty of North East region of India.

20. Tharpa Choeling Gompa

2 km from city center 20 out of 24 Places To Visit in Kalimpong

Founded in 1912 Tharpa Choeling Monastery is situated at the Tirpai Hills in Kalimpong and is one of the oldest gompas here. The monastery is famous for housing several ancient scriptures and other literary works.

21. St.Theresa Catholic Church

2 km from city center 21 out of 24 Places To Visit in Kalimpong

Built by local craftsmen the church resembles a Bhutanese Gompa(monastery) and it is built in Tibetan architectural design. While the walls are enriched with paintings and inscriptions from the Bible the doors of the church have carvings which resemble tashi tagye (the 8 auspicious symbols of the Himalayan Buddhism).

22. Ringking Farm

2 km from city center 22 out of 24 Places To Visit in Kalimpong

Famous as a farm Bungalow built by the British, Ringking farm on the Himalayan foothills popular for a resort holiday and trekking.

23. Art Cafe

1 km from city center 23 out of 24 Places To Visit in Kalimpong

Art Cafe is a very dainty quaint cafe in Kalimpong popular for its pleasant ambiance and sumptuous food. Especially popular among the coffee aficionados, the place also boasts of serving delicious aged cheese. Besides, it has an elaborate collection of books for its guests and it offers a very enchanting view of the valley outside the window.

24. Cheese Shopping

24 out of 24 Places To Visit in Kalimpong

Kalimpong is known to produce premium quality cheese which is known as Kalimpong Cheese. This cheese is crumby, slightly tangy and with little smell. There are several cafes in and around town where you can have this cheese as much as you want. You can also take it back home. One of the most popular shops to purchase cheese from is Lark's situated on the D.B. Giri Road.

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• Morgan House Tourist Lodge
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Kalimpong: Know Everything You Need and Best Places to Stay

Kalimpong is around 50 Km on the east side of Darjeeling and is located at an altitude of 1200 metres above sea level. This place was once a trade hub between India and Tibet.

This dates back to the time when merchants would ferry trade goods on mule caravans that would run over the Sikkim-Tibet border pass.

There are a number of places for sightseeing and although this might not be as bustling as the town of Darjeeling, it still attracts a large influx of tourists every year.

The small hilly town is beautifully ornamented with well-manicured gardens, natural lakes and majestic mountain ranges. There are unlimited options for adventure, food-hunting and temple exploration.

Weather, Temperature and Best Time To Visit

It has five distinct seasons and they are Spring, Summer, Monsoon and Winter. There are generally no extremities of temperatures and day weather is pleasant all through the year while nights tend to feel cooler.

Summer months witness a temperature range of 16 degrees C to 25 degrees C. Winter months experience a drop in temperature and the range varies between 7 degrees C and 16 degrees C.

There is an average of 100 days in a year when it rains over here.

Spring Season

The two months of spring are March and April. The range of temperature in these months varies between 11 degrees C and 24 degrees C. The skies are cleared in the spring season and there is minimal rainfall during this time.

You can experience uninhibited views of the mighty Himalayan ranges in spring. Since this is the most preferred season to visit, you will have to make prior bookings on hotels.

Summer Season

The summer season here lasts from May to June. This is when tourism peaks in the town and hotels are usually packed to their fullest capacities. The maximum temperature never goes beyond 25 degrees C in summers and the minimum temperature is always within 16 degrees C.

While it might not rain much in the month of May, June tends to receive around 15.6 inches of rainfall. It might rain sparingly in June.

Monsoon Season

The prime monsoon months are July, August and September. July is the wettest month of the year and experiences rainfall up to 22 inches. The amount of rain decreases in the months of August and September. Tourism temporarily halts in the monsoon season because of landslides and blocked routes.

However, you might still find some tourists making trips to this place, especially in the monsoon months, to witness the lush green beauty of the town and the adjoining tea estates.

Fall Season

The two months of October and November are fall season. Rainfall is at its lowest in these months. Skies are clear and visibility is fantastic. You can view the majestic mountain ranges clearly without mist and fog clouding your view.

This is yet another peak season for tourists. The temperature is ideal in these two months and is a great time to be in this town. The temperature ranges between 11 degrees C to 22 degrees C.

Winter Season

Winter lasts from December to February. The minimum temperature in winters is around 7 degrees C and the maximum average temperature is around 16 degrees C. However, skies are clear and visibility continues to be great in the winter months as well.

Although the temperature is never really extreme in the winters, the footfall of tourists generally goes down in this season. You will find great bargains and good deals on hotel bookings with us from our list of winter packages that we offer.

How to Go to Kalimpong ? from Siliguri | New Jalpaiguri | Bagdogra 

This place is 68.3 Km away from Siliguri and Bagdogra. It takes around 2 and a half hours to drive from Siliguri. From Siliguri, you will find a number of transportation options to reach there. Both private and shared taxis are available throughout the day.

You will also find buses plying from Tenzing Norway Bus Terminal on Hill Cart Road in Siliguri.

The journey from Siliguri is mesmerizing. In the first half of the journey, you will travel on NH10 through the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary. The forests are dense and form a natural habitat for many wild animals like tiger, bison and elephant.

Among many sights and sounds of the forest, you might spot a deer fleeing past your jeep, a majestic elephant crossing the way in front or a bison walking away unperturbed by the intrusion of humans. Your driver will be careful not to honk in this part of the journey so as to maintain the calm and composure of the sanctuary.

At Sevok, the sanctuary will give way to a massive river basin, hilly terrain and a boisterous Teesta River. The forested landscape will transform into a hilly area with sharp turns and hairpin bends. You will cruise alongside the river at varying altitudes.

The last phase of the journey begins from Teesta Bazaar. A sharp turn uphill from this point will lead you to the town. You will no longer be able to view the Teesta River when you are around the town.

We’re ready to help you with planning your Tour. Enquire Now .

Where to stay in kalimpong.

This city welcomes thousands of tourists each year in the peak seasons. It goes without saying that the hill station is dotted with hotels and homestays of all types and budget ranges. You will also find comfortable inns to put up at. These inns are surrounded on all sides by mountains and dense forestland. However, they are also equipped with all modern amenities.

If you want to opt for luxurious stays, then you could choose from 3-star hotels that have lavish rooms with a view, express service, car rental services and all the latest amenities and rooftop restaurants to dine in. These hotels also offer facilities like a swimming pool, a spa and themed resto-bars.

Some of you might also be looking for exotic places to put up at. If you are a newly married couple or a close group of friends out on a vacation, you will surely need privacy and a great location. There are some hotels that are designed in the form of private cottages and are located in the most exotic places.

These cottages offer excellent views of the valley and the surrounding greenery while also keeping your privacy intact.

We at Nomadic, travel the length and breadth of every city to find out the best accommodations for you. Our team scores all properties in 16 different and important parameters and bring out only the best for you everywhere. We reject 6 out of every 7 property that we visit. So, you can understand we try to give just the list that you need.

We are in the business of shortlists of great places to stay. 

Your perfect place to put up is just a click away:

Yuru Retreat Delo

Luxury amenities and Serene View of Mt. Kanchenjunga and Teesta River.

Windsongs Retreat

Luxury at its best

Kalimpong Village Retreat

Home Stays 

Yet another option that you might come across is putting up at homestays. While the top-notch hotels in here offer all kinds of amenities, the homestays are humbler options. However, it is bound to feel like your second home.

Generally, families run homestays and they do their best to cater to all the needs of the tourists.

The best part of staying in a homestay is the fact that you get to relish the local flavour and cuisine like you might never have done before. You might even learn a couple of things about the local dishes since homestays often invite tourists to come inside the kitchen and watch the food being prepared.

The food is cheaper and filled with the love of a homemade meal.

Usual services are also significantly cheaper in a homestay. However, it is up to you to decide whether you would prefer all the amenities and stay in the comfort of a hotel or compromise a bit on the accommodation and enjoy the local culture of the place.

We also have a couple of options for homestays if that is what you are looking for:

Lolegaon Valley Retreat

The Best Homestay in Lolegaon

Tarkhola Homestay

The serene view of River Teesta and Kanchenjunga

5 Places In Kalimpong That You Must See in your Sightseeing 

Although this is a smaller hill station in comparison to Darjeeling, it still has a number of tourist spots to visit. 5 out of these places should definitely be on your bucket list:

Deolo Hill is significant in terms of tourist attraction. It is located at a staggering height of 1700 m and is labelled as the highest point of the city.

Three important reservoirs originate from this hill and meet the water requirements of the entire town. The hill is otherwise known for its unusual height that offers spectacular views of the lower valleys around.

There is a recreational park at the top of the hill where you could indulge in several types of adventure-sports.

Graham’s Home

Education is an important factor with the locals over here. Every year, several people visit the town to get their children enrolled in some of the best schools in the city. Dr Graham’s Home is also of educational importance.

It is located on the lower steep of Deolo Hill. Sir Anderson Graham of England had established this place in the year 1990. It is an international institution and is recognized across the globe. It offers vocational courses in baking, farming, dairy management, medication and clothing.

Cactus Nursery

If you have a special liking for cacti, then this is the place to be. There are tourists who would prefer a stereotypical flower garden and then there are others who would give anything to see cactus growing in a nursery. There are also varieties of orchid plants that grow in this nursery.

The location has a spellbinding backdrop and attracts many tourists in peak seasons.

Sherpa View Point

Closely located to Deolo Hill, there is a huge statue of Lord Buddha in a rock garden. The watershed right under this statue is the Sherpa View Point. You will be able to view the hills of Sikkim from this point. You can also see the Relli River flowing through a beautiful valley.

Zong Dhog Palri Fo Brang Monastery

Dalai Lama had consecrated this Monastery in 1976. This is also known as the Durpin Monastery. It is typically designed in the style of Buddhist construction. There are stunning wall paintings and the atmosphere around is calm, serene and rejuvenating.

Best Things to do in Kalimpong 

This might be a small town to live in but there are a whole plethora of adventure activities that you could indulge in.

We have discussed some of these activities at length here.

Paragliding 

Paragliding is the latest form of adventure sports that are boosting the tourism of this place significantly. Delo Hill is the starting point of paragliding. There are two different types of flights that you could take from Delo Hill.

Medium Flight- This lets you glide through the sky at a relatively lower altitude. The cost of medium flight paragliding is Rs. 2500.

High Flight – A high flight usually takes you to a higher altitude and lasts for a longer time. The scenic beauty of the valley down below is spectacular.

River Rafting 

The Teesta River meets Rangeet River and a confluence is a great place for river rafting. However, there are different levels of white water river rafting that you should consider before signing up for it. The levels are decided according to the difficulty in accomplishing them.

It is a wise idea to skip river rafting during the monsoon season since the water gets really rough and the river becomes turbulent.

You should also be well-prepared for rafting in this river. It requires some amount of experience as well. The surroundings are stunning and the experience of life-changing.

The cost of river rafting is Rs. 800 per head.

Mountain Biking 

If you like living life by the edge, then you will absolutely love mountain biking in Kalimpong. There are a number of routes that go through some of the picturesque locations in Kalimpong.

You could choose to ride a mountain bike from Lava to Lolegaon, from Kalimpong to Lava, from Lolegaon to Siliguri and from Kalimpong to Peshok.

You will usually be charged a security deposit of around Rs. 1000 for the bike apart from the cost of mountain biking. This fee is refundable.

Kalimpong is home to so many hills and mountain ranges that trekking is an invariable option in this hill station.

The ideal time for trekking in Kalimpong is from October to February and from February to May.

You will witness bright and beautiful blooms on your trek. You will also come across pristine streams and cascading waterfalls on your route that will make the entire journey a memorable one.

For a 1-day trek, the cost is around Rs. 2500.

We are sure that you too would have a lot of points to add to make it a complete guide for people intending to travel to Kalimpong. Please feel free to write your comments and value ads. We would love to hear from you.

Places To Eat In Kalimpong

There are quite a few eateries in here, if you do not wish to restrict yourself to your hotel menu only. If you want to take a tour of the restaurants and cafes in and around , here is a brief glance at some of the best places to eat in Kalimpong.

Gompu’s Bar And Restaurant

The name of the eating joint might not sound very appetizing but the moment you step into this cosy little place, you will realize the reason how popular it is.

Tourists from all over India as well as from across the globe throngs to this restaurant for some authentic Chinese and Tibetan delights.

The restaurant is right in the heart of the market. Damber Chowk is the nearest landmark and the restaurant is located on a narrow lane on the opposite foot.

A Tibetan family has been running the restaurant since 1900 and it has been a family pride through many generations. It was originally known as Gompu’s Hotel.

Some of the best dishes served by the restaurant are fried and steamed pork momos, stir-fried noodles, fried rice and Chinese Chicken Curry, chicken drumsticks and wonton soup.

There is a bar attached to the restaurant as well. The prices are quite affordable and the restaurant PPIs thus quite popular among tourists and locals alike.

King Thai Restaurant

For a lively ambience and live musical performances, King Thai Restaurant is the only place that you get to choose in Kalimpong.

Locals visit this restaurant often because of the tiny amount of exposure they get in the form of nightlife. The food is decent and affordable.

China Garden

For authentic Chinese food, visit this restaurant close to Kalimpong’s Bus Stop. Mei Foon and Chicken Drumsticks are their best dishes and a lot of people queue up for them in peak seasons.

Cafe Refuel

If you are in Kalimpong and are craving for an authentic English style breakfast, then Cafe Refuel is the place where you should be. It is situated on the outskirts of the city, but is worth the miles covered to reach.

Rigyal Restaurant

Around 30 m downhill from the main traffic point is the Rigyal restaurant. If you are cautious about the hygiene of the food then this is the place to be. You will get all the local delicacies at a cheaper price in a hygienic environment.

In case you love hills, see these great  hill stations for an offbeat getaway

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9 thoughts on “Kalimpong: Know Everything You Need and Best Places to Stay”

Thank you Nomadic weekends. Here Iam asking that we need our own self cooking. Because we are 100% vegetarians of south India. Kindly guide us for self cooking kitchen stay for two months, that is April and May of 2020 year. Iam eagerly waiting for your reply stay booking at Kalimpong. With regards, Padma Mullapudi.

Ok Mam. Please let us know your dates and your contact numbers. We can arrange something great as per your requirements.

Self cooking kitchen homestay needed for two months that is April and May of 2020 year. Kindly guide us. Iam eagerly waiting for your reply.With regards, Padma Mullapudi.

Kindly take it as request.Padma Mullapudi.

I am a retired person. We, myself,my wife and my daughter plan to stay there in Kalimpong near the monastery from 14th to 17th January. Is there any homestay near the monastery? Is it right time to stay there? Homestay should not be too costly and we intend to stay in solitary. Kindly inform me.

Sir, thank you so much for reading our post. This is a nice time to visit there and we have a lot of good and budget-friendly places to stay. It will be great if you kindly give us a call at 9163428385. Our executives will take you through various available options. You will like them.

Mam, pls feel free to Call 9163428385 | 9007224814 for anything and any help. Also, all our places are safe. We obviously won’t work with any place that we won’t consider to be safe.

Thank you author for such a nice and useful post. Keep it up.

Nice blog author. Thank you for your information. Keep it up.

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Kalimpong Calling : A Guide to the Perfect Family Destination

After spending three nights in Dooars region of North Bengal and wondering where’s the winter chills of the Himalayas, we drove to Kalimpong via Lava. Within an hour the weather changed as we made our way to the Lava monastery while shivering in the cold. And from there we drove to our hotel at Deolo Hill, Kalimpong – our sojourn for the next three days.

In this Kalimpong travel blog I will talk about this trip and share all practical tips and details for the perfect Kalimpong itinerary with family . But before that, a quick introduction of this offbeat town, which is now one of my favorite places in India.

A Quick Outline

Kalimpong – The Humble Sister of Darjeeling

Think of a British-era Hill station in India, a place to escape the scorching summer, see the mighty Kanchenjunga against the verdant tea gardens, seek some solace from the busy city while also enjoying great food and amazing nightlife! That’s Darjeeling, isn’t it? But every time I go there, the crowd and traffic keep increasing, making it impossible to explore as much as I’d want to with my little toddler and senior citizens of my family.

That’s where Kalimpong comes into picture – the humble sister of Darjeeling. It’s the same amalgamation of Anglo-Indian and Nepalese culture, throbbing markets, Tibetan monuments, tea gardens and Kanchenjunga views , but in a place that’s way less famous and easy to explore with family. 

Kalimpong town is the administrative center of the Kalimpong district in the northern region of West Bengal . Perched at 4101 ft above sea level, it offers temperate to cold weather throughout the year. It’s known for some of the best boarding schools, momos and monasteries. Sounds interesting? Let’s see the 3-day Kalimpong itinerary at a glance. 

The post contains affiliate links for tours, hotels etc. This means if you make any purchase through the links in the post, I may get a commission without any additional cost to you.

3-Day Kalimpong Itinerary – In a Nutshell

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Drive to Kalimpong via Lava while stopping at the scenic viewpoints on the route.

Stay at Morgan House, a heritage property owned and operated by West Bengal government with landscaped parks and Kanchenjunga views. However, you need to book in advance to get a room here. If you miss this, I recommend staying in neighborhood of Deolo Hills.

Day 2: Exploring the Key Attractions of Kalimpong

Morning to noon: Visit to Kalimpong Science City, a haven for curious kids of all age-groups. Continue your journey to the Hanuman Temple and Buddha Park. Then drive to Graham’s House boarding school. Then drive through scenic roads towards Kalimpong market for lunch.

Afternoon to Evening:

Visit Durpin Dara neighborhood – stop at viewpoints, visit the monastery. End the trip with a visit to Cactus Garden in Kalimpong. Relax and watch the starry night from your hotel.

Day 3: Exploring the countryside of Kalimpong District

Morning to Afternoon:

Embark on a day trip to the enchanting locales of Lolegaon, Rishap, and Charkhole. Each destination offers its unique charm, from tranquil forests and panoramic viewpoints to quaint villages nestled amidst nature. Enjoy lunch in one of the small cafes in Lolegaon.

Late Afternoon to evening:

Return to Kalimpong and head to Delo Park by 4 pm, just in time for an exhilarating paragliding experience. Soar high above the landscapes, taking in the majestic views from a bird’s-eye perspective. Conclude your day and your Kalimpong journey by watching the sunset from Delo Park. 

🙋‍♀️Want to custom-design your Kalimpong or North Bengal itinerary? Join the awesome  Backpack & Explore Facebook community  – a safe place to discuss all your queries and concerns about traveling in India. You can always drop a comment and get your answer from me here.

How Many Days Are Enough for in Kalimpong

Kalimpong, like other places in Northern part of West Bengal is over 600 km away from the nearest big city Kolkata . Which means, it isn’t a weekend destination. Although one and a half days are enough to see Kalimpong’s highlight s, I highly recommend this three-day itinerary for a fully immersive experience with family. 

But people usually plan a holiday for at least 5 days for a trip to this part of West Bengal. During this time, you can combine a trip to Kalimpong with a trip to Dooars, or Darjeeling or even Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. It’s an ideal place for summer vacation – a week off to the Eastern Himalayas. If you are looking for a Kalimpong tour package, check these out.

Old Silk Route : 3N Kalimpong 2N Aritar

North East Tour : 1N Kalimpong 2N Darjeeling 2N Gangtok

Check out more such tours here .

Where to Stay in Kalimpong?

If you are visiting with your family in summer or spring, I highly recommend staying at Deolo Hills. The place is secluded and has amazing views of the mountains. However, the disadvantage is the lack of availability of markets, or restaurants nearby. There are quite a few hotels here, Yuru Resort being the biggest and best known.

We stayed at Summit Barsana Resort , because Yuru was all booked when we planned.

My top recommendation remains Morgan House, which is the most sought-after place to stay in Kalimpong. You can book online on WBTDCL site .

If you prefer staying near the Kalimpong town, book the Sinclairs Retreat or Elgin Silver Oaks Resort & Spa .

How To Reach Kalimpong?

Siliguri is the closest city which also serves as the starting point for any tour to the north-east. The NJP railway station located here and the Bagdogra airport located 10 km from Siliguri are the main connecting points of north-east to the rest of India.

The most convenient route to reach Kalimpong is by air and road. The nearest airport to Kalimpong is Bagdogra Airport, located approximately 80 kilometers away. From the airport, you can easily hire a taxi or board a shared cab to reach Kalimpong. The journey takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions.

You can also reach Kalimpong by train. New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) is the nearest major railhead to Kalimpong, situated around 75 kilometers away. Several trains from major cities like Kolkata, Delhi, and Guwahati connect to NJP. From the station, you can hire a taxi or catch a bus to Kalimpong. The journey by road takes approximately 3 to 4 hours.

You can also take a bus from esplanade bus station in Kolkata. Book your ticket online from Kolkata to Siliguri here . Although there are AC buses which are more easily available than the trains, I’d prefer the overnight train journey to the 12-hour bus journey while travelling with a kid.

Kalimpong Itinerary in Detail

As I mentioned before, my first trip to Kalimpong was on a 10-day North Bengal vacation with my family in December. We took it slow as we had 3 senior citizens and an active toddler with us. We crafted our itinerary in a way such that we could slowly acclimatize to the lower temperatures and didn’t have to travel more than 100 km in a day.

Day 1: Journey to Kalimpong via Lava

The drive from Batabari (where we stayed in Dooars to Kalimpong is 90 km and takes 2.5 hours. Enroute is Lava, which is only 65 kilometers from Batabari, but in this journey you ascend from 800 ft at Batabari to 7200 ft at Lava. Be prepared for this drastic change of altitude, serpentine roads with several hairpin belts and drop in temperature when you take this journey.

If you are travelling from Jalpaiguri, then the route to Kalimpong via Lava is 138 km as shown in the map below. It will take around 5-6 hours to reach Kalimpong via this route considering the stops at Lava monastery and lunch break.

If you have small children or people prone to nausea at high altitudes take the precautionary medicines as prescribed by your doctor. Keep a warm jacket and cap in your carry-on luggage. Have a light breakfast before your journey to avoid nausea. Keep taking short breaks on your way to Lava to enjoy the changing scenary. 

Some of the where we stopped are the Ambiok Tea Garden and viewpoint, Chelkhola river viewpoint and Hanuman Mandir at Gorubathan.

Visiting Lava Monastery: A Spiritual Retreat Amidst the Clouds

Nestled at an altitude of 7014 feet (2,138 meters), Lava Monastery, also known as Lava Kagyu Thekchen Ling Monastery, stands as a beacon of spirituality amidst the serene landscapes of Lava. This Buddhist monastery is approximately 30 kilometers east of Kalimpong, offering a tranquil escape into spirituality and nature.

Its origins trace back to the 1980s, established under the guidance of the Third Kongtrul Rinpoche, Karma Lodro Chokyi Senge, one of the prominent figures in Tibetan Buddhism.

The monastery serves as a vital center for the study and practice of Buddhist philosophy, meditation, and rituals, following the Kagyu lineage, which is one of the four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism. This monastery not only provides a tranquil retreat for spiritual seekers but also plays a crucial role in preserving the rich Buddhist teachings and traditions.

Tourist Info: Weather: The monastery experiences cool to cold weather year-round, with fog often enveloping the area, adding to its mystical ambiance. Entry Fee: There is no entry fee. Open Times: 5:30 am to 5:30 pm, daily

Lunch on the way to Kalimpong

You can take a lunch break after visiting the Lava monastery. There are a few restaurants here which offer simple Tibetan food like momos (dimsums), noodels etc. The one where we had our lunch was right next to the Lava Monastery, and I can’t really recommend it. It’s not terrible, but it’s the first place in the world where I found chicken bones in chicken momos.

Reaching Kalimpong

We had put up in Summit Barsana, Deolo Hills . At 5590 feet, it is the highest point in the Kalimpong town, and gets very cold in the winters. The rooms are aesthetically decorated but too small. It was the week before Christmas and Christmas lights adorned this beautiful abode in the hills.

The highlight of this hotel, and all the hotels in this area is the majestic Kanchenjunga views, from your bedroom. We literally woke up to the view of the third highest mountain peak in the world and the panoramic view of the valley with Teesta River winding its way through Kalimpong.

Day 2: Exploring the Charming town of Kalimpong

Considering you chose the right place to stay, you are likely to wake up to the most memorable views of the hills. After that have a wholesome breakfast before starting your sightseeing tour. After a few photo-sessions against the views from the balcony, we drove off to our first attraction – the Kalimpong Science City.

Kalimpong Science City: Expanding Horizons

Kalimpong Science City, set against the backdrop of the majestic Himalayas, is designed as an educational playground where visitors of all ages can explore the wonders of science. It stands out as a beacon of learning, inviting curious minds to delve into the mysteries of the universe. It’s like an amusement park, but focused on education and science, rather than joyrides. Here are some highlights:

• 3-D Dinosaur Show: Step back in time with a captivating 3-D show that brings the ancient world of dinosaurs to life. It’s an experience that mesmerizes both children and adults, blending entertainment with education.
• Sculptures of Eminent Indian Scientists: Wander through the park and encounter sculptures of India’s greatest minds in science. These sculptures serve not only as a tribute but also as an inspiration, highlighting the contributions of scientists like C.V. Raman and A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.
• Science Experiments: Engage in hands-on experiments that make complex concepts accessible. The mirror puzzle and kaleidoscope offer fascinating insights into light and reflection, demonstrating the principles of physics in an interactive manner.
• Zurassic Park: A special zone within the Science City, where you can marvel at life-size models of dinosaurs. It’s a journey to the prehistoric era, offering a glimpse into the Earth’s distant past.
• Kanchenjunga Viewpoint: Beyond the scientific explorations, the Science City offers a breathtaking viewpoint to admire the Kanchenjunga range. It’s a reminder of the natural beauty that surrounds this unique educational site, blending the wonders of science with the majesty of nature.

Tourist Info: – Entry Fee: A nominal fee is charged for entry. – Open Times: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. – Holidays: Closed on certain national holidays; it’s best to check ahead of your visit.

Dalap Chan Buddhist Monastery

Also known as Buddha Park in Kalimpong, this is a small but lovely monastery on the side of the road to Hanuman mandir. The architecture is centered around a magnificent statue of Lord Buddha, offers a space for meditation and contemplation amidst beautifully landscaped gardens.

Tourist Info: – Entry Fee: Free entry. – Open Times: 10 am to 5pm. – Holidays: Open daily.

Don’t confuse this with the real Buddha Park – the huge complex in Ravangla, Sikkim.

Hanuman Mandir

Hanuman Mandir, known for its towering statue of Lord Hanuman, provides a spiritual atmosphere combined with splendid views of the mountains. The park is a recent addition, enhancing Kalimpong’s cultural and religious diversity.

Tourist Info: – Entry Fee:Free entry. – Open Times: 10 am to 5pm

Dr. Graham’s Homes School

Dr. Graham’s Homes stands as a testament to the region’s rich cultural tapestry and colonial history. this sprawling educational institution was founded in 1900 by Dr. John Anderson Graham, a missionary from Scotland, with the noble aim of providing a home and quality education to the children of tea planters, British settlers, and local citizens.

Over the years, Graham’s House has morphed into a landmark of immense educational and historical significance, drawing visitors not just for its academic heritage, but also for its stunning architectural allure and the panoramic beauty of its surroundings.

Visiting Dr. Graham’s Homes School is an experience that transports you to a bygone era with its rich history, sprawling campus, and quaint architecture. The verdant surroundings and well-maintained buildings make it a picturesque site worth exploring for anyone interested in educational history, architecture, or simply enjoying a peaceful day amidst nature.

One of the highlights of this campus is the 19th century Gothic Church which was under renovation when we visited. My little one had fallen asleep in the car by now but woke up just in time to run around in the playground with Kanchenjunga still smiling bright in the backdrop.

This place reminded me of our trip to the Montfort High School in Yercaud , another amazing boarding school of the British era in the Easter Ghats of India.

Visiting Time : Monday to Friday . 9 a.m. to 3pm. Although we visited without any prior notice, it’s better to seek pre-approval by mailing at the email addresses [email protected] / [email protected] / [email protected]. Check out the official website for visitor’s guidelines.

Entry Fee : none, but you are expected to make a small donation like Rs. 100 for the entire group.

Lepcha Museum: Preserving Cultural Heritage

The Lepcha Museum, located near the main town, showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Lepcha community, indigenous to the region. It houses a collection of musical instruments, artifacts, and traditional Lepcha attire.

The museum aims to preserve and promote the understanding of Lepcha culture and history.

Tourist Info: – Entry Fee: A minimal fee is charged. – Open Times: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. – Holidays: Closed

Cactus Garden: A Prickly Paradise

The Cactus Garden, officially known as the Pine View Nursery, showcases an extensive collection of cacti and succulent plants from around the world. It’s a unique botanical garden that attracts enthusiasts and tourists alike.

The Cactus Garden, officially known as Pine View Nursery, is a testament to the passion and dedication of its founder, Mr. Mohan Pradhan, who started the collection in the early 1970s. From a small personal collection, the garden has grown into one of Asia’s most extensive cactus collections, boasting over 1,500 species.

The garden’s evolution reflects a broader interest in botany and the conservation of plant species that thrive in arid conditions. It has become a center for botanical study and a major attraction for visitors, showcasing the diversity and resilience of cacti.

Established over four decades ago, the garden boasts over 1,500 species of cacti, making it one of the largest collections in Asia.

Tourist Info: Entry Fee: Rs. 30 for adults

Open Times: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Holidays: Open daily.

Durpin Dara – Binoculars Hill

Durpin Dara, meaning ‘binoculars hill’, offers panoramic views of the Himalayas and Kalimpong town. This neighborhood is slightly rural and offbeat compared to the places we have visited so far.

Atop the hill stands the Zang Dhok Palri Phodang monastery, also known as the Durpin Monastery, a significant spiritual site. The monastery houses rare Buddhist manuscripts brought over from Tibet.

Tourist Info – Entry Fee: No entry fee for the hill; nominal fees for monastery entry. – Open Times: Sunrise to sunset.

Day 3 : Exploring the hidden gems near Kalimpong

On day 3 we head out of the Kalimpong town into the interiors of the Kalimpong district. This is the beautiful countryside of Kalimpong where you can also spend a couple of days or more. We only had the time to visit Lolegaon and Charkhole on this day, You can also try spending some time exploring Rishop. We headed home targetting to reach Deolo Park by 4pm.

Drive from Kalimpong to Lolegaon

The road trip from Kalimpong to Lolegaon is a picturesque journey through the heart of the Eastern Himalayas, known for its scenic beauty and tranquil nature. To my surprise the road condition is absolutely amazing, with further construction going on to expand the road. As you embark on this route, you are greeted by lush green landscapes, meandering roads, and the majestic view of the Himalayan range, which stands as a backdrop to this stunning vista.

The road stretches for about 55 kilometers, taking approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on the road conditions and weather. Along the way, we had the opportunity to witness the rich biodiversity of the region, including tall pine trees reminding us of the impending Christmas.

We stopped at Rishop, and just some random spots to stand and stare at the natural opulence of the place.

Check out the ten most beautiful and offbeat places to visit near Kalimpong .

Lolegaon Eco Park

One of the top attractions of Lolegaon is the Canopy Walk – a 180-meter-long hanging bridge through the forest. However, to our dismay, it was closed for visitors then (and now to the best of my knowledge). You should definitely check this with the local driver when you visit Kalimpong.

So, we decided to spend more time in the Lolegaon Eco Park.

It is also one of the few places on this route where you will get a pay for use toilet. It’s not at all up to the mark, but it’s decent for a countryside in this region. It was still better than the clumsy excuse of a ladies’ toilet I found in a tourist spot like Cactus Garden in Kalimpong city. 

Lolegaon Eco Park is a serene haven showcasing rich biodiversity and picturesque landscapes of this region. The park is flanked by lush green forests, home to a variety of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers. A recently constructed Buddha Statue has become the landmark of this place.

Our kid loved this place and the bright sunshine made way for spectacular views of the hills.

Drive to Charkhole

Located in the Kalimpong district of West Bengal, India, Charkhole is a lesser-known gem that beckons the lovers of offbeat travel. I’d love to stay in one of the homestays in this fairytale village on my next trip.

This small hill station, nestled at an elevation, offers panoramic views of the majestic Himalayan range, with the Kanchenjunga peak playing peek-a-boo amidst the clouds. The journey to Charkhole itself is a beautiful experience, with winding roads flanked by lush greenery and the occasional glimpse of vibrant Rhododendron flowers when in season.

There are several short treks through the forests of charkhole – namely, the sunrise viewpoint, sunset viewpoint, table-top viewpoint etc. While the view of Kanchenjunga on a clear day at these viewpoints are magical, the treks through the verdant landscape makes it worthwhile in itself, on any given day.

Deolo Park: The Summit of Kalimpong

Delo Park, situated on Delo Hill, is the highest point in Kalimpong, offering 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape. Perched at an elevation of 1,704 meters, Delo Park marks the highest point in Kalimpong, offering unmatched views of the surrounding valleys and the majestic Kanchenjunga range. 

Established as a recreational and ecological park, Delo has evolved from its historical significance as a strategic vantage point to a beloved tourist attraction. 

The park is a result of concerted efforts to provide visitors with a space that blends natural beauty with leisure facilities. Over the years, Delo Park has become synonymous with Kalimpong itself, representing the town’s commitment to preserving its natural charm while facilitating tourism.

Tourist Info: – Entry Fee: No entry fee for the park; charges apply for certain activities. – Open Times: Open throughout the day. – **Holidays:** Open daily.

A Few Other Places and Acitivities in Kalimpong

Here’s a quick walkthrough of a few activities I have skipped in this itinerary, along with my recommendations.

Paragliding in Kalimpong 👍👍

Kalimpong is soon becoming the Paragliding Paradise of the east, an alternative to Bir Billing in the West. The favorable wind conditions and thermal currents in the  Deolo Hills ensure a smooth and exhilarating flight. I couldn’t go for this epic adventure, but I found a framed form of Poran Bandhyapadhyay, a veteran actor of Bengali cinema who signed up for this adventure here at the age of 80. Photos of him and other adventurers adorn the walls of paraglifing camps at Deolo Park.

Kalimpong Golf Club 👎

The Kalimpong Golf club located near the Morgan House property. The entry to this park is restricted to visitors, but it is an overhyped place for the views that can only be seen through the metal nets. I don’t think it’s worth it. On top of that the cafe that’s so aesthetically decorated but prepares such awful food! I’ve been there, done that, so you don’t have to.

Morgan House 😑

It’s a beautiful heritage property that we couldn’t book due to lack of availability. However, every tourist brochure names this place as if it’s a tourist spot. It isn’t! Unless you are staying there, you won’t be allowed to enter. So please save your time and avoid both Morgan house and Golf Club during your local sightseeing.

Mangal Dham Temple 👍

Mangal Dham temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. The temple is beautiful and well-maintained, a lovely place to spend some time.

Though it is about 1km from the Kalimpong bus station, the approach-road is a narrow and littered single-lane road. This makes it difficult to reach and come back from the place, taking away a lot of time from your sightseeing plans of the day.

Teesta River Rafting (Adults only activity) 👍

If you have one more day in Kalimpong, i recommend an excursion to the Teesta river-rafting center. It is located about 16 km from the town. Reaching the place and completing this adventure is a half-day plan in itself. It is not suitable for families with kids and senior citizens in general.

I had the pleasure of river rafting in the month of February with my friends while returning from our Sikkim trip . Surprisingly, this (the winter season) is the best time for this activity, and you will love it if you are on a trip with friends.

7th Mile Viewpoint

It’s a viewpoint you will come across on your way to Darjeeling from Kalimpong. While it’s lovely, if you are short on time, or don’t have Darjeeling on your tour plan, you can easily skip this.

What’s Next?

That’s a wrap to my Kalimpong Guide. You can check out my favorite travel resources for holiday-planning in India below.

Top Travel Sites in India for 2024

🏨 Booking.com  for the best hotel prices (Price match and free cancellations)

🚗Get discounts on package tours and special experiences with Viator

💸Secure your vacation with travel insurance from Visitors Coverage

🚗Book local transport on 12Go

🚶🏼‍♂️ Free walking tours on Freetour

🛏️ For hostels around the world, check out Hostelworld

🛍️ Myntra for travel fashion and Amazon for travel gear

Before moving back to Kolkata in 2020 I had lived in Bangalore for over six years and travelled extensively in the south. If you want to know more about such offbeat hill stations check out the best hill stations near Bangalore.

If you want to see the Eastern Himalayas and Kanchenjunga in India, I highly recommend Pelling – my favorite place in Sikkim. Want a little more adventure? Drive to Lachung and North Sikkim to experience the unspoilt beauty of mountains.

Check out my complete Sikkim itinerary here .

Liked the post? Please share with your friends and family, and plan the trip now. Or you can save this guide to plan later.

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Sinjana Ghosh is a full-time business professional with a penchant for writing and travel planning. Backpack & Explore is a journal of her travel stories and tips she collected from her experience. She is the author of the travel book “Postcards from India” which is available on Amazon, Flipkart and Notionpress.com

What a nice guide to Kalimpong! Would love to visit Lava Monastery and and the cactus garden

Great tips for someone planning a visit.

I’ve been to India so many times but I have never been to any region that looks like this! What a goldmine, I’m definitely going to start looking into Kalimpong for my next India trip!

Thanks Shaf!

I definitely have heard of Darjeeling, and did not know about Kalimpong at all. Thank you for featuring this alternative.

Would love to visit Kalimpong to enjoy the views, visit the monastery, and explore the area.

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• 30 Places To Visit In Kalimpong & Its Precincts In 2024: For Those Who Belong In The Hills

Thrilling and heavenly, a trip to Kalimpong is a sublime experience. This old little town, nestled away in the far northeast, is a visual delight and should be placed high on your bucket list if you love the hills. And the long list of places to visit in Kalimpong ensures that you have ample options of sightseeing. While holidaying there, you will fall in love with the hills and get a blissful and peaceful experience like never before. So, do plan a trip to Kalimpong!

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Top 30 Places To Visit In Kalimpong

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an adventurous escapade, these places to visit in Kalimpong, Sikkim has everything at something for every kind of traveler. All of these places reek of tranquility from every nook and corner. Kalimpong is a destination that doesn’t fail to impress. Take a look at this list of all the top places that one can visit when visiting this beautiful town.

1. Tharpa Choling Monastery – The Religious Center Of Buddhism

Image Source

Looking for tourist places to visit in Kalimpong ? Kalimpong is a religious center of Buddhism, mostly include monasteries and temples. One such ancient, spiritual place is the Tharpa Choling Monastery situated off the KD Pradhan Road. If you are a peace lover, this place will be of your interest. Visit the Tharpa Choling Monastery for its vibrant colors, tranquility, and calm.

Timings: 9 am – 6 pm everyday Entry: Free Tip: Don’t forget to visit the museum.

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2. Thongsa Gompa – The Oldest Monastery

Also known as the Bhutanese monastery, Thongsa Gompa should definitely be on your Kalimpong sightseeing list. It is the oldest monastery in the area and boasts of a serene and spiritual ambiance. Apart form giving you a surreal experience it will let you taste the thrill in Kalimpong.

Things to do: Tourists can attend the prayer services that the monks carry out. Fact: Thongsa Gompa has 219 prayer wheels, unlike the usual 108 at most other monasteries.

3. Zong Dog Palri Fo Brang Monastery – The Architectural Marvel

Located atop Durpin Hill, the Zong Dog Palri Fo Brang Monastery was established in 1970 and consecrated by His Holiness Dalai Lama six years later. Visit this place for its striking architecture and a splendid view from the Durpin Hill. It is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Kalimpong, Sikkim.

Timings: 9 am – 5 pm everyday Entry: Free

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4. Mangal Dham Temple – Home To Samadhi Of Furu Mangaldas Ji

Built over an area of two acres, the Mangal Dham Temple is among the popular tourist places in Kalimpong. The prayer hall of the temple is on the upper floor, as on the ground floor lies the samadhi of Guruji Shri Mangaldas Ji. The many paintings in the temple depict various scenes from Krishna Leela. It is a well-maintained temple and the religious tourists mostly flock to this place.

5. Hanuman Temple – The Tallest Statue Of God

Located on the way to the Deolo Hill, the Hanuman Temple in Kalimpong is another quick stopover. You need to climb a set of stairs to reach the Hanuman statue which is the tallest in northeast India. Being one of the best places to visit in Kalimpong, India, you must add this to your itinerary while holidaying there.

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6. Durga Mandir – The Peaceful Touch

Dedicated to goddess Durga, this mandir is a few yards from the Hanuman temple. The temple is small, but boasts of a beautiful garden. The surrounding hills add to its aura and charm. Seek your blessings here. When looking for places to visit in Kalimpong in one day , this temple shouldn’t be missed out from your itinerary. This is one of the most-visited temples and will add a religiously peaceful touch to your fun trip!

Timings:  6:00 am – 6:00 pm

7. Kali Mandir –  The Impeccable Views

The Kali Mandir is yet another place that should be on your Kalimpong sightseeing list. Tourists here offer their gratitude and prayers to Goddess Kali. The Kali Bari has an open terrace and offers an enchanting view of the town. This is one of the places to visit in Kalimpong, Sikkim if you are traveling with your family. Renowned in town, this temple is mostly visited by those who are staunch believers of the goddess.

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8. MacFarlane Memorial Church –  The Scottish Structure

Constructed by a Scottish missionary in the 1890s, the MacFarlane Memorial Church is a prominent landmark and amongst the famous places to see in Kalimpong. Built on an elevation, it is visible from across the town and is strategically located. Timings: 9 am – 5 pm  Note: Photography, eating, and drinking are not allowed inside the church.

9. Pine View Nursery –  The Exotic Flora

The ever fascinating and ever splendid northeast is home to some of the most beautiful nurseries in the country and the Pine View Nursery in Kalimpong is one of them. For all you nature enthusiasts out there, this should definitely be on your Kalimpong sightseeing list. Timings: 8:30 am – 4:00 pm Tip: The exotic flora and lush greenery is best enjoyed with a piping hot cup of tea.

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10. Nurseryman’s Haven –  The Orchid Nursery

Holumba – right across Mount Kanchenjunga – is spread over two acres and is water fed by a natural spring. Nurseryman’s Haven is an orchid nursery in Holumba that would definitely remind you of a British countryside. They specialize in Indo-Burmese orchids and exotic tubers, rhizomes, and seeds.

Timings: 9 am – 5 pm Tip: You can choose to rest in the Holumba homestay after visiting the Nurseryman’s Haven and savor your senses with local food, books, and tea.

11. Shanti Kunj Nursery –  The Exporters Of Cacti

Located near the Bong Post Office, the Shanti Kunj Nursery produces and exports cacti, gladioli, and succulents. The best time to visit most of these nurseries is during the flower festival in October. If you are interested in nature and you are a nature lover, then do visit this nursery!

Timings: 8:30 am – 12 pm and 1:30 pm – 4 pm on all days except Saturday

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12. Shahid Park –  The Memorial Of Gorkhas

A small monument and park, Shahid Park was established in the memory of the 1200 Gorkhas who died fighting for Gorkhaland between 1986 to 1988. Holding a cultural and historical significance, this park is a must visit for those who are curious about the historical aspects. Moreover, it is the perfect spot where you can take your kids. Ideal for a leisure stroll, this park can be visited in the evening and can also be added to your list of places to visit in Kalimpong in one day .

Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm Fact: Shahid Diwas is held on 27th July every year to remember the Gorkhaland martyrs.

13. Rishi Bankim Chandra Park –  The Scenic Landscapes

Preferred by both the tourists and locals alike, Rishi Bankim Chandra Park is one of the many popular places to visit in Kalimpong. Revel amidst the pine trees and the sweeping landscapes, the mere sight of which should rejuvenate you. If you are looking for best places to visit in Kalimpong in May, this park should definitely be on your list.

Timings: 5:00 am to 8:00 pm Tip: You can also stop by at the Army Golf Course, which is considered to be the most beautiful golf course in India, and take in the awe-inspiring landscape.

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14. Neora Valley National Park –  The Richest Biological Zone

Your Kalimpong trip is incomplete without a trip to the Neora Valley National Park – one of the richest biological zones in northeast India. The endangered species of the Red Panda and the Black Asiatic Bear inhabit this place. What to expect: Pristine landscapes, lush greenery, exotic wild animals, and rare species of birds.

Timings: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm Note: An entry permit that is available at the forest range office is required to visit this park. Tip: The park remains closed during monsoons. So, you might want to plan accordingly.

15. Jelepla Viewpoint –  The Splendid Views

Listed among the major tourist places in Kalimpong, the Jelepla Viewpoint is maintained by the Indian Army. The daunting roads and confluence of the rivers Teesta, Relli, & Reang can be viewed through wired fences. Jelepla Viewpoint also offers a splendid view of the snowcapped Mount Kanchenjunga and the Jelepla Pass that was once used for trade with Tibet.

Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm

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16. Deolo Hill –  The Highest Point

The Deolo Hill is the highest point in town and is among the famous Kalimpong tourist places. On a clear day, you can view the mighty Himalayas, the neighboring states, and the surrounding villages of Relli & Teesta valley.

Timings: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm Tip: The park located atop this hill is an excellent picnic spot. Relax amidst the mountains and the beautifully landscaped gardens.

17. Dr. Graham’s Home –  The Best School

Founded in 1900 by Reverend Dr. John Anderson Graham, this school is considered to be a mini town in itself. Sprawling over approximately 500 acres, Dr. Graham’s Home is situated on the lower slopes of Deolo Hill. You can visit the museum & the library, catch a football match in the ground (people here love football), or simply take in the grand old colonial architecture.

Timings: 12:00 am to 4:00 pm, 8:30 to 12:00 pm Tip: Don’t forget to treat yourself at the bakery outside.

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18. Pratima Devi Tagore House –  The Place For Tagore Enthusiasts

Image Source The Pratima Devi Tagore House was built in 1943 by Pratima Devi, Rabindranath Tagore’s daughter-in-law. The house pays homage to the Nobel Laureate. Although the house is well maintained, it is usually overlooked and does find its way to the Kalimpong sightseeing tours for most tourists. Another place for the Tagore enthusiasts is the Gouripur House where he penned some of his memorable verses. The house is in a dismal state and requires restoration.

Tip: You can also watch local theatre groups perform at the Town Hall.

19. Crookety House –  The European Architecture

It was at the Crookety House that the famous Russian philosopher and writer Helena Roerich spent the last 7 years of her life. The house, today, is among the Kalimpong tourist places. Thronged by people aiming to escape the stifling expat bubble, the building is known for its colloquial European architecture.

Timings:  NA

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20. Morgan’s House –  The Old Birtish Haveli

Now a tourist lodge under the West Bengal Tourist Development Corporation, Morgan’s House is an old British bungalow. This sprawling haveli should be visited for its beautiful architecture and for the rare varieties of birds that may be spotted in the vicinity. 

21. Lepcha Museum –  The Cultural Centre

Approximately 2 km from the main city, the Lepcha Museum is the cultural centre and one of the most traditional Kalimpong places to visit . It houses various articles of worship, musical instruments, and clothing; thus upholding the traditions & the heritage of the Lepcha community.

Timings: 10:30 am – 4:30 pm from Monday – Friday and 10 am – 12 pm on Saturday

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22. Nature Interpretation Centre –  The Museum Of Environmental Hazards

A great initiative by the Forest Department, the Nature Interpretation Centre situated on Ringking Pong Road is among the popular places to visit in Kalimpong. The museum works towards spreading awareness about various environmental hazards. Photographs, books, and sculptures are available here for the same.

Timings: 10 am – 4 pm; Friday – Wednesday Entry: Free

23. Haat Bazaar –  The Cheap Shopping Spot

A market held only on Wednesdays and Saturdays, the Haat Bazaar is your answer to cheap shopping in Kalimpong. People splurge on food, clothes, accessories, and other everyday products. Drop by if you happen to be in town if only to take in the vibrant street shopping atmosphere.

Where: Between Relli and RC Mintri Roads When: Wednesday and Saturday Don’t miss: The thukpa and momos here are mouth watering.

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24. Lava And Lolegaon –  The Hidden Mountain Village

Surrounded by forests, Lava is a beautiful mountain village that can be reached in an hour and a half from Kalimpong. It is a delight for nature lovers and bird watchers. Popular tourist places in the vicinity include the Neora Valley National Park, Silviculture Research Centre, and Changey falls. At an approximate distance of 24 km from Lava, Lolegaon is another small mountain village hidden away in the quaint hills. It is locally known as Kaffer and can be covered along with Lava in one day. Tourists can take a canopy walk or simply enjoy spectacular views of the Kanchenjunga range from Lolegaon.

Timings: NA

25. Tiffin Dara Viewpoint –  The Trekker’s Delight

Image Source The second highest spot in West Bengal, the Tiffin Dara Viewpoint is a 3 km uphill trek from Rishyap and is a must see among places to visit near Kalimpong. It gives a magnificent view of the Himalayas, the Nathula Pass, and the Jelepla Pass. One of the top places to visit in Kalimpong , this tourist attraction is ideal for the purpose of trekking. Adventure lovers must consider adding this place to their itinerary when visiting Kalimpong.

Timings: Open 24 hours Things to do:  Trekking and sightseeing

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26. Pedong –  The Perfect Blend

A serene Kalimpong tourist spot, Pedong lies 20 km east of Kalimpong on the historic Silk Road. The ageless hills offer a blend of history, nature, and culture. Popular tourist places in Pedong include Pedong monastery, Damsung fort, Silence valley, Cross hill, Rikisum, Ramitey view point, and Tinchuley view point. For travellers seeking to indulge in adventure activities in Kalimpong, this is the place to be.

Things to do: Hang gliding and paragliding Note: Ramitey offers the longest and the best view of river Teesta.

27. Lamahatta –  The Serene Getaway

Approximately 31 km from Kalimpong, Lamahatta is a serene getaway. It is known for the tea estates and the Roadside Garden which are amongst the many famous tourist spots near Kalimpong. Tourists can simply sit and relax in the wooden gazebos at the Roadside Garden and take in the view of the thick canopy and colourful prayer flags. There’s a sense of calmness lingers in and around Lamahatta that makes up for a peaceful holiday. If you’re looking for offbeat places near Kalimpong , then this should be on the top of your list!

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28. Siliguri –  The Cosmopolitan City

Known for its tea and timber, Siliguri is an important town as it connects northeast India with the rest of the country.  It is a cosmopolitan city with modern amenities and boasts of diverse places to visit near Kalimpong. Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary, Iskcon Temple, Coronation Bridge. and Salugara Monastery are only some of the popular sightseeing places in Siliguri. And then there is the colorful Hong Kong market where tourists can indulge in shopping.

29. Kurseong –  The Idyllic Scenery

At an approximate three hours’ drive from Kalimpong, Kurseong offers idyllic scenery, sprawling tea estates, and quaint settlements. Popular sightseeing spots in Kurseong are Eagle’s Craig, Giddapahar Viewpoint, and Dow Hill.

Tip: Take the toy train for a breathtaking view of the hills. Note: Lookout for the cannabis plantations across the town. Yes, you read us right.

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30. Teesta Bazaar –  The Local Splendour

Famous for its local splendor, the main market is among the popular tourist places near Kalimpong. Shop for local items and collect souvenirs to fondly remember your trip. The Teesta Bazaar is famous for crockery, Tibetan jewelry, footwear, scrolls, lanterns, handmade wallets, and food items.

Tip: Indulge in white water rafting and try thukpa & other local dishes.

How To Reach Kalimpong

The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, approximately 80 km from Kalimpong. Private taxis are available from inside the airport. You can also take a taxi to Siliguri Junction (15 km) and then a bus. Buses ply frequently from Siliguri to Kalimpong. New Jalpaiguri (about 10 km from Siliguri) is the nearest railway station and is connected to almost all major cities in the country.

Aesthetically pleasing, Kalimpong is a treat to the senses. It is a place waiting to be discovered. So go pack your bags now and visit the rustic town. Make your trip to Darjeeling memorable and hassle free by adding the above-mentioned places to your itinerary. These places to visit will definitely make for an amazing travel experience. and get going on a holiday like never before.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Kalimpong

How can I go to Kalimpong from Kolkata by train?

Take the train Darjeeling Mail from Kolkata and deboard at Sivok railway station which is nearest to Kalimpong. It will take 12 hours by train.

Is it safe to visit Kalimpong in this current situation of Covid-19?

As things are slowly getting on track and people are adapting to the new-normal so yes it is safe to visit Kalimpong . But your safety is always in your hands so don’t forget to follow the precautionary measures for Covid-19 and maintain social distancing.

Does it snow in Kalimpong?

No, it doesn’t snow in Kalimpong at all. However, the weather gets cold and it is quite important that all visitors carry with themselves good quality winter clothing.

What is the height of Kalimpong?

Kalimpong is situated at an elevation of 1247m. It is one of the most visited places in the country and it gets visitors from almost all around the world.

What is Kalimpong famous for?

Kalimpong is famous for its temples and other tourist attractions. Some of the most famous tourist spots in Kalimpong ones are Kurseong, Siliguri and Pedong; it remains crowded almost throughout the year therefore many significant places in Kalimpong play a very important role in the tourism industry of India.

How many blocks are there in Kalimpong?

There are 3 blocks in Kalimpong namely Kalimpong Ⅰ, Kalimpong ⅠⅠ and Gorubathan. It is not that any of them surpasses the others in terms of popularity, all of them are equally important and popular.

What are some popular places to visit in Kalimpong?

Some popular places to visit in Kalimpong are Shahid Park, Deolo Hill, Morgan's house. Lepcha Museum, Thongsa Gompa, Pine View Nursery, Neora Valley National Park, and more.

What is the best time to visit Kalimpong?

Kalimpong is a destination that can be visited all year long. It experiences pleasant weather throughout the year. Sometimes it can get quite cold during winters so it's recommended to carry winter clothing when visiting Kalimpong .

What can I buy in Kalimpong?

You can buy numerous things in Kalimpong, like cheese, noodles, handicrafts, embroidered items such as purses and bags, Tibetan jewelry, artifacts, and more.

Is Kalimpong higher than Darjeeling?

Darjeeling is located at an altitude of 6,700 ft and Kalimpong at 4,100ft. Relatively Kalimpong is at a lower altitude than Darjeeling therefore the weather here is pleasant throughout the year.

Is Kalimpong in Nepal?

No, Kalimpong is a small hill station in the northern Darjeeling region of the state of West Bengal. Its centre is on a ridge connecting two hills, Deolo Hill and Durpin Hill.Mt. Kanchenjunga, the world's third tallest peak, is clearly visible from here.

Is Kalimpong open for tourists?

Yes, the popular hill station of West Bengal Kalimpong , is now open for tourists after being closed for almost six months due to the pandemic. As Kalimpong is a tourist hotspot, It is anticipated that it may cover up all the losses faced last year due to lockdown quickly.

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Kalimpong Tourism – Climate, Traditions, Culture, & Food

Kalimpong in Darjeeling district has a unique advantage of being centrally located. The fantastic view from all around, the breathtaking sight of Mt Kanchenjunga, the surrounding forest with rich flora and fauna and the people of this town provide for a spectacular visit for travellers.

All major towns of this hill area – Darjeeling, Gangtok, Pelling, and Kurseong are almost at equal distance from Kalimpong. Siliguri is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours away. Lava, Loleygaon, Pedong, Rishyap and Charkhol, really picturesque and worth a visit, are at a distance of 45 minutes to 2 hours.

Kalimpong is known for its educational institutions, many of which were established during the British colonial period. Kalimpong then was a transit point for trade between Tibet and India.

The town is located on ridge overlooking the Teesta River. Horticulture is a very important business in Kalimpong. The town has flower market and is notable for a wide array of orchids. Nurseries, that export Himalayan grown flower bulbs, tubers and rhizomes. The town is also a religious centre for the Buddhists.

General Information

• Area: 5 sq. miles (Kalimpong sub-division)
• Altitude: 1250 metres (4100 ft) 1,704 meters (5,591 ft) – Delo
• Population: 169,663 (approx)
• Climate: Summer – 270C Max – Min 17.2oC, – Winter – 15oC Max – Min 7.2oC
• Rainfall: 20 inches annually
• Clothing: Tropical in summer and light wollen in winter
• Languages Spoken: Nepali, Bengali, Hindi & English

Climate Kalimpong has five distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, winter and the monsoons. The annual temperature ranges from a high of 27oc (86oF) to a low of 70C (48oF). Summers is mild, and are followed by the monsoon rains which lash the town between June and September. Winter lasts from December to February.

Traditions & Culture

Kalimpong is the closest Indian town to Bhutan’s western border, and has a small number of Bhutanese nationals residing here. Hinduism is the popular religion, followed by Buddhism and Christianity. The Buddhist monastery Zang Dhok Palri Phodang holds a number of rare Tibetan Buddhist scriptures. There is a mosque in the bazaar area of Kalimpong.

Popular festivals include Diwali, Christmas, Dussehra and the Buddhist festival of Losar. Nepali is the predominant language spoken in Kalimpong.

Flower Nurseries The flower nurseries of Kalimpong specialize in the cultivation of exotic orchid species, and other ornamental flowers such as Gladioli, Gerberas, Amaryllis and Anthuriums. The most popular nurseries are Pine View, Universal, Shanti Kunj and L.B Pradhan & Sons Nursery.

Arts & Crafts The town is famous for its handicrafts. The artisans produce Tibetan and Bhutanese artefacts and jewellery that are much admired overseas.

Regional Products

• Tibetan shoemaking
• Silverware and statue making by Sakya craftsman
• Bamboo products by Lepcha tribe
• Bamboo stools (Murha) by blind school trainees
• Tibetan wooden carvings
• Carpet marking
• Scroll paintings
• Thangka paintings

Food Culture Food in Kalimpong is diverse ranging from Nepali, Tibetan to Chinese delicacies. A popular snack in Kalimpong is the Momo (steamed dumplings made up of pork, beef or vegetable cooked in a wrapping of flour) and served with watery soup. Churpee a kind of hard cheese made from yak’s or chauri’s (a hybrid of yak and cattle) milk, is sometimes chewed. A form of noodle called Thukpa, served in soup form is also popular in Kalimpong. There are a large number of restaurants which offer a wide variety of cuisines, ranging from Indian to continental to cater to the tourists. Tea is the most popular beverage in Kalimpong, procured from the famed Darjeeling tea gardens. Some of the locally produced products include cheese and lollypops which were introduced by Swiss missionaries.

For Visitors: should try homemade pickle available in the market at Motor stand Kalimpong.

Adventure & Interest

Trekking in Kalimpong Most of the treks are low altitude Trek time range from 2 to 4 days. The average altitude ranges from 1200 meters to 1500 meters and average distance covered in a day about 12 kms. There treks cover local villages around Kalimpong, these villages are mostly Tamang and Lepcha villages. Local traditions and food are part of the trek itinerary.

Rafting One of the most popular waters sports in Kalimpong is rafting, on the strong water current of river Teesta. The rafting usually starts from Melli and goes down to 29th mile.

Para Gliding Paragliding is a fairly new sport introduced in this region. The flight path starts from the Science City on Delo hill. His is the perfect way to get a panoramic view of the mountain range and Kalimpong.

Visiting Places

Zang Dhok Palri Phodang This is the largest and most beautiful monastery in Kalimpong. Consecrated by His Holiness, The Dalai Lama in 1976 who also presented ‘The Kangyur’, in 108 volumes to it. Being situated at a height of 1372 meters on the peak of the Durpin Hill, the monastery commands a majestic view of the surrounding areas as well as of the town of Kalimpong. On a clear day, a panoramic view of the Kanchenjunga and the adjacent peaks can be had from this ground. The Zang Dhok Palri Phodang belongs to the Yellow Hat Sect of Buddhism (Gelugpa Sect) to which the present Dali Lama belongs.

Getting There: 20 mines drive by taxi towards Durpin from the town Local Tips: light a lamp in the monastery

Dr. Graham’s Homes One of the earliest Scottish missionaries to come to Kalimpong was Dr. J.A. Graham. He spent his early years in Kalimpong preaching Christianity, but after duration of time, he diverted his attention towards establishing an orphanage cum schools for the needy Anglo-Indian children. He hence established in 1900 the ‘St. Andrews Colonial Homes’. The first cottage to house these children were built on the slopes of the Tripai Hill. But gradually the entire surrounding area was converted into a township which had its own cottages, farm, chapel, workshop, hospital, bakery playground, poultry, staff quarters and hostels.

Getting There: by local taxi 20 minutes’ drive from town Local Tips: enjoy the view from honeymoon hill

St. Teresa Church Built by local craftsmen to resemble to Gumba, it has wooden carvings on the walls of Biblical scenes and in continuance to the theme, the characters are depicted in the attire of the Buddhist clergy.

Getting There: 10 mines walk from main town center towards Relli road.

Mangla Dham This recently constructed temple is dedicated to lord Krishna, situated below Sewa Sadan Hospital 10th Mile.

Getting There: 15 min walk from town centre.

Dharmodaya Vihara Dharmodaya Vihara is a Nepalese Buddhist temple situated just outside the town. In the year 1944 when the Rana rulers expelled all Theravada Bhikkhus (monks) from Nepal, they travelled to Sarnath along with a large number of devotees. An association was subsequently formed there by the name of Dharmodaya Sabha with patronage of locals. The “Elza Villa” was purchased and converted to be the center of preaching and furthering the teachings of Theravada Buddhism. A library containing rare books on Buddhism and other subjects was established in 1949 for the benefit of local people as well as Bhikkhus and Scholars. Dharmodaya Vihar has become a very important center for scholars of Buddhism from all over the world.

Charkhol Distance from Chuikhim is 25 km via Nimbong. One can also reach from Kalimpong to Rishikhola and Pala, only to a travel distance of 34km. Homestay at Charkhol can be considered as the pioneer. Here there are ten homestay with a healthy competition among himself or herself for upgrading hospital. Added to it is unmatched beauty of the place, where Mt Kanchenjunga is view when sky remains clear.

Rishi Khola 14 km away from Pedong lies a beautiful river. The farmhouse on the banks of Rishi Khola is also a border for West Bengal and Sikkim. Tourists can spend the day fishing, doing village treks and riverside picnic. One can also spend the night in a riverside resort.

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Our Mission: Make Kalimpong Cool Again !!

Welcome to Kalimpong-Tourism, where we're all about uncovering the magic of Kalimpong in the Himalayas. Imagine it as your go-to friend, helping you discover the best spots and stories in this wonderful place.

Our mission? Well, it's not just about giving you facts; it's about sharing the heart and soul of Kalimpong. This town has a cool history that started way back in the 17th century, and we want to make sure you feel that history as you explore.

But we're not stopping at history lessons. We're here to show you the coolest places to visit, the most breathtaking views, and the best places to stay and eat. Kalimpong is like a hidden treasure chest, and we've got the map to help you find the gems.

Now, here's the exciting part – we're not just into tourism; we're into making a difference. We believe that when you explore Kalimpong, you're not just a visitor; you're a friend supporting the local gang. We've handpicked some awesome offbeat locations for you to explore, places that aren't on the usual tourist route. It's like discovering secret hideouts that only the cool locals know about.

Whether you're a history nerd wanting to dive into the past or someone on the lookout for unique places to stay and yummy food, Kalimpong-Tourism is here for you. We've got all the details you need to plan an awesome trip and make the most of your time in Kalimpong.

Join us on this adventure not just to see the sights, but to be a part of something bigger. By choosing Kalimpong and exploring through our guide, you're not just a traveler; you're helping the locals and making sure your visit leaves a positive mark.

So, welcome to Kalimpong-Tourism – more than just a guide, your key to an unforgettable journey where every discovery is a celebration. Let's make your Kalimpong trip one for the books!

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Barcelona bus route removed from map apps to tackle tourist overcrowding

Residents welcome removal of number 116 route, often used to get to Park Güell

While some places will go to any lengths to attract visitors, residents of La Salut neighbourhood in Barcelona are celebrating a move to wipe themselves off the map.

For years, residents had complained that they could not get home because the number 116 bus was always crammed with tourists visiting Antoni Gaudí’s Park Güell. The park is the city’s second most popular attraction after the Sagrada Familia basilica.

Now they have the bus to themselves after the city council arranged to have the route removed from Google and Apple maps.

“We laughed at the idea at first,” said César Sánchez, a local activist. “But we’re amazed that the measure has been so effective.”

Luz López, 75, told elDiario.es: “Before, the bus was so full even people with walking sticks couldn’t get on.”

Albert Batlle, the deputy mayor of security and coexistence on the city council, said that as well as improving mobility around Park Güell, “we needed to eliminate references to the 116 on the internet”.

Batlle declined to admit or deny that the council had asked for the route to be removed, while a Google spokesperson would only say they would not delete a bus route unless requested to do so by the council.

Sánchez, who has been campaigning for eight years for the council to address the problem, joked: “The next thing we need to do is to get the whole of Park Güell removed from Google Maps.”

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Inbound tourism numbers hit record high, with Japan set to achieve 2025 goal

Japan is on course to achieve a government goal of topping the pre-pandemic figure of 32 million annual foreign visitors by 2025, with the January-March quarter seeing a record 8.56 million, data from the Japan National Tourism Organization showed Wednesday.

Foreign travelers also spent ¥1.8 trillion during the January-March period, which translates to about ¥210,000 per person per stay. The total marks the highest figure on record as more people stay longer in Japan thanks to the weaker yen.

Japan also welcomed a record 3.08 million foreign visitors in March, surpassing the previous high of 2.99 million from July 2019, JNTO said.

The spike in numbers can be attributed to the Easter holiday in March, when there were more travelers from Western countries such as Australia and the United States, as well as the attraction of the cherry blossom season.

In 2023, about 25 million visitors came to Japan, spending a record ¥5.3 trillion, with a single tourist on average spending around ¥210,000 per stay.

The figures have already surpassed a target — set at ¥5 trillion total and ¥200,000 on average — that had been fixed for 2025 in the government’s tourism strategy and goals, which were drafted in 2023.

However, other goals in the plan have yet to be reached, and the government held the ministerial meeting on Wednesday evening to discuss their efforts and further plans.

For instance, one of the goals set in the basic plan is to establish sustainable tourist spots, or destinations that can continue to flourish and be self-sustainable in terms of financial, social, cultural and natural resources, with minimum impacts on the environment.

As of November, the latest figure available, there were only 31 areas that have set up such projects, well short of the government goal of 100 by 2025. The tourism agency is offering support to various local governments and destination marketing organizations to encourage more to join.

Another issue that remains is the fact that tourists still tend to congregate in urban areas. In 2023, around 70% of all visitors stayed in the three metropolitan cities of Tokyo, Osaka or Kyoto, or areas surrounding the capital such as Chiba and Kanagawa prefectures. The figure was just over 60% prior to the pandemic.

"I think the potential of rural areas is truly limitless — and we are yet to see this potential fully flourish," said Ichiro Takahashi, the head of Japan Tourism Agency. "While there is a trend of uneven distribution in the three major metropolitan areas, we would like to especially strengthen our efforts to attract visitors to these rural regions."

Meanwhile, outbound tourism remains low compared to inbound arrivals, mostly due to the weak yen and high prices abroad. In March, about 1.22 million people visited foreign countries from Japan, around 60% of the figure during the same period in 2019.

In 2023, the figure was 9.62 million, less than half of the amount recorded in 2019.

However, domestic travel through 2023 almost rebounded to 2019 levels, and individuals spent 17.8% more on average per person. The total consumption amount was ¥21.9 trillion, approaching the goal of ¥22 trillion set by the government for 2025.

Staff writer Gabriele Ninivaggi contributed to this report.

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This popular European city is the latest to increase its tourist tax to battle overtourism

Barcelona is the latest European city to increase its city-wide tourist tax, a slight increase of €0.50 (about $0.53) per night, as the city seeks to curb overtourism. 

The new price of €3.25 (about $3.45) was implemented on April 1 as part of the Stays in Tourist Establishments Tax . The bylaw was introduced in 2021, when the tourist tax was €0.75 (around $0.80) per night, and gradually increased the tax each year through 2024. Now, if someone is staying in Barcelona for seven nights, the new total tax amount will be €22.75 (around $24).

“It was the objective sought: to contain the number of tourists and increase tourist income because our model is no longer mass tourism but quality tourism, which adds value to the city,” deputy mayor Jaume Collboni said in March, according to Euronews . 

The tax is added to a tourist’s accommodations bill when they stay at official tourist establishments in the city. The money goes toward enhancing the city’s infrastructure, such as improving roads. 

Other popular European destinations, such as Amsterdam and Venice, also recently increased tourist taxes for similar reasons. 

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Are tourist taxes the future of travel? What to know about the increasing tourist fees worldwide.

“The new and increasing tourist fees across Europe allow cities to fund measures to attract more vacationers, support the local infrastructure and businesses, as well as preventing damages from overtourism,” Tiffany Mealiff, a travel insurance expert at Quotezone , said in a statement to USA TODAY.

However, Barcelona visitors have had to pay a regional tourist tax since 2012, according to Euronews . This tax amount depends on a traveler’s accommodation type, costing more if someone is staying at a luxury hotel than an Airbnb. 

Barcelona continues to reign as Spain’s most popular tourist destination. In 2022, Barcelona welcomed 9.7 million tourists , just slightly below pre-pandemic levels in 2019, according to the Barcelona City Council. However, tourists were found to be staying in the city longer than in 2019. 

In 2022, the city also sought to cap the number of people in a tour group and ban megaphones by tour guides in an effort to curb the disruptive effects of overtourism. 

Travelers planning their European getaway should be mindful of the additional costs that “are often not obvious beforehand,” according to Mealiff, as they plan their trip budgets.

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

Amsterdam blocks construction of new hotels to fight overtourism

Dutch officials are trying to limit the number of tourists flooding amsterdam.

In another attempt to crack down on overtourism, officials in Amsterdam are banning the construction of new hotels in the Dutch capital.

The policy, announced Wednesday, only permits new hotels in a one-in, one-out system; a new hotel can be built only if another closes. New hotels may not exceed the bed count of the previous hotels and must be “better,” per the city’s release, with more modern and sustainable features.

“Amsterdam says ‘no’ to new hotels,” reads a translated statement from city officials. “We want to make and keep the city livable for residents and visitors.”

The effort follows initiatives in Amsterdam to limit the influx of tourists into the city, a destination known for its tolerant drug policies, sex industry and liberated party scene.

In Amsterdam, people are not prosecuted for buying up to 5 grams of cannabis, which can be purchased in coffee shops. For years, city officials have been trying to rein in hordes of “nuisance” tourists, or those who are attracted to the city by the promise of a night of debauchery.

In June 2023, the city council passed the “ tourism balance in Amsterdam ” policy, which set a maximum number of overnight stays and day visits in the city, capping the annual visitor count at 20 million people per year. Wednesday’s guidance re-ups that regulation; the number of hotel nights in 2023 was 20,665,000, according to the city.

“We are now taking more measures to ensure that the number of hotel nights does not increase even further,” the city’s statement read.

That same year, seeking to curb the rowdy crowds of the Red Light District and offer residents a better night’s sleep, the city cracked down on public pot smoking in the streets and limited the hours of operation for certain restaurants and sex establishments.

Amsterdam also launched a “ Stay Away ” campaign, directly targeting British men between the ages of 18 to 35. The demographic group frequents the city for “stag” or bachelor parties, which residents say are disruptive .

Also in 2023, city officials adopted a proposal to relocate a cruise ship terminal . In addition to addressing pollution concerns, the move sought to prevent crowds of tourists from flooding the city’s center upon docking.

It’s unclear how the city plans to enforce the new hotel construction policy; according to the release, new hotels already under construction may continue. That includes 26 hotels with existing permits.

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Bad behavior: Entitled tourists are running amok, defacing the Colosseum , getting rowdy in Bali and messing with wild animals in national parks. Some destinations are fighting back with public awareness campaigns — or just by telling out-of-control visitors to stay away .

Safety concerns: A door blew off an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 jet, leaving passengers traumatized — but without serious injuries. The ordeal led to widespread flight cancellations after the jet was grounded, and some travelers have taken steps to avoid the plane in the future. The incident has also sparked a fresh discussion about whether it’s safe to fly with a baby on your lap .

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