Kalimpong, West Bengal: A Hidden Gem of the Eastern Himalayas

By -

           Kalimpong, West Bengal: A Hidden Gem of the Eastern Himalayas

Nestled in the eastern Himalayas, Kalimpong is a charming hill station in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal. Known for its picturesque landscapes, cool climate, and rich cultural heritage, Kalimpong is a serene destination for those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. Located at an elevation of approximately 1,250 meters (4,101 feet) above sea level, Kalimpong offers breathtaking views of the Kanchendzonga mountain range and the vast Teesta River valley, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and cultural enthusiasts alike.

While Kalimpong may not be as famous as its neighboring hill stations like Darjeeling or Sikkim, it offers an authentic and less commercialized experience of the mountains. With a blend of Tibetan, Bhutanese, and Nepali influences, Kalimpong is a peaceful haven that allows travelers to experience the cultural richness and natural beauty of the Eastern Himalayas.

How to Reach Kalimpong

Kalimpong is easily accessible by road and is located approximately 50 km from Darjeeling and 80 km from Siliguri, the nearest major city. The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), about 75 km away, while the nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (about 80 km), which connects Kalimpong with major cities across India.

Travelers can hire taxis or take buses from NJP or Siliguri to Kalimpong. The scenic drive through winding mountain roads offers a preview of the natural beauty that awaits visitors.

Best Time to Visit Kalimpong

The best time to visit Kalimpong is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) months when the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear, offering stunning views of the mountains. The winter months (December to February) can get quite cold, especially in the evenings, but are still a good time for those who enjoy crisp, fresh air and misty mornings. The monsoon season (June to August) should be avoided due to heavy rainfall, which may disrupt travel plans.

Attractions in Kalimpong

  1. Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery: Kalimpong is home to several beautiful Buddhist monasteries, and the Zang Dhok Palri Phodang monastery is one of the most prominent. This monastery, located on a hilltop, offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding mountains. It houses a library of ancient Tibetan Buddhist manuscripts and is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists.

  2. Kalimpong Cactus Nursery: Kalimpong is known for its botanical diversity, and the Kalimpong Cactus Nursery is a must-visit for plant enthusiasts. This nursery boasts a wide variety of cactus species and other exotic plants. It’s the perfect place to explore unique flora while enjoying the cool mountain breeze.

  3. Durpin Dara Hill: For some of the best views of Kalimpong and the surrounding area, head to Durpin Dara Hill, which stands at an elevation of 1,240 meters. From the hilltop, you can see the stunning Kanchendzonga range as well as the town itself and the Teesta River winding through the valley. On clear days, the views are nothing short of spectacular. You can also visit the Durpin Monastery on this hill, which is an important religious site.

  4. Deolo Hill: Deolo Hill is one of the highest points in Kalimpong and offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, rivers, and mountains. The hill has a well-maintained park, and visitors can enjoy activities such as horse riding and paragliding. The area is perfect for a relaxing picnic or a leisurely walk amidst nature.

  5. Flower Nurseries: Kalimpong is also famous for its numerous flower nurseries, where a wide variety of flowers like orchids, lilies, and geraniums are grown. These nurseries contribute to the town’s reputation as a hub for horticulture. A visit to these nurseries offers a colorful experience, especially for nature lovers and photographers.

  6. Teesta River: Flowing through the foothills of Kalimpong, the Teesta River offers opportunities for adventure enthusiasts to try white-water rafting. Rafting in the river is a thrilling experience, with the chance to navigate the rapids and enjoy the surrounding scenic beauty. For a more peaceful experience, visitors can enjoy a boat ride along the river.

  7. Morgan House: A colonial-era bungalow, Morgan House is now a heritage hotel that offers a glimpse into Kalimpong’s past. The house is surrounded by lush gardens and offers sweeping views of the surrounding hills. It is one of the most photographed spots in the town and is known for its serene ambiance.

  8. Pine View Nursery: Located on the outskirts of Kalimpong, the Pine View Nursery is famous for its collection of Cactus plants and other rare flora. This nursery is a great place to explore and learn about different plant species. It also offers a peaceful environment, perfect for a stroll in nature.

  9. Rishyap: About 24 km from Kalimpong, Rishyap is a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This small village offers scenic trekking routes and the chance to experience the untouched beauty of the Eastern Himalayas. It’s perfect for a day trip from Kalimpong.

Cultural Experience

Kalimpong is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from Nepalese, Tibetan, and Bhutanese communities. The town has a relaxed atmosphere, where visitors can stroll through local markets and experience the blend of cultures in everyday life. The local handicrafts and hand-woven carpets are popular souvenirs, reflecting the traditional art of the region. Visitors can also explore the local monasteries and attend cultural festivals that showcase music, dance, and rituals from various communities.

The local cuisine is also an attraction, with a variety of Nepalese, Tibetan, and Indian dishes available. Popular food items include momos (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), and sel roti (a traditional Nepali rice doughnut).

Adventure Activities

For those seeking adventure, Kalimpong offers numerous options:

  • Trekking: Kalimpong has several trekking trails that lead through beautiful landscapes, including forests, hills, and valleys. Trekking to places like Deolo Hill and Rishyap provides an opportunity to enjoy nature up close and experience the peaceful surroundings.

  • Paragliding: Kalimpong is known for its paragliding opportunities. Deolo Hill is one of the most popular sites for this sport, offering a thrilling experience with spectacular views of the mountains and valleys.

  • River Rafting: The Teesta River is famous for its thrilling rapids, making it an ideal spot for white-water rafting. Adventurers can enjoy the adrenaline rush while navigating the river’s exciting currents.

Shopping in Kalimpong

Kalimpong’s markets offer a variety of souvenirs that reflect the cultural diversity of the region. You can shop for traditional Tibetan handicrafts, Bhutanese artifacts, Nepali woolen shawls, hand-knitted sweaters, and beautifully crafted prayer wheels. The Kalimpong Market and Durpin Dara are the best places to buy these items, along with local tea and spices.

 

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Places to Visit in Khajuraho, Sightseeing & Tourist Attractions

By -
Image
The biggest tourist attractions in Khajuraho are undoubtedly the erotic sculptures on the temples. Perfectly carved figurines depict the scenes and postures straight from Kamasutra - the ancient Indian erotica. Khajuraho is also known for Yoga practices and Khajuraho Dance Festival. Khajuraho Festival grandly welcomes the summer season with the performances of Indian cultural dance forms. Here is the list of tourist attractions in Khajuraho .     Khajuraho Temples:-   Khajuraho temples are declared World Heritage Sites. The intricate work on the sculptures and the stunning architecture are beyond description. The erotic cravings are incredible. The famous temples in Khajuraho- Lakshmana TempleVishwanath templeKandariya Mahadev templeBrahma TempleVamana TempleChitragupta TempleDulhadev TempleJavari TempleNandi TempleAdinath TempleChausath Yogini TempleDevi Jagdamba TempleVaraha TempleShantinath TempleBeejamandal TempleParsvanath T...
Read more

Places To Visit In Nathdwara, Udaipur

By -
Image
Nathdwara is a town in India's western state of Rajasthan . It is located in the Aravalli hills, on the banks of the Banas River in Rajsamand District, 48 kilometres north-east of Udaipur.This town is famous for its temple of Krishna which houses the deity of Shrinathji, a 14th-century, 7-year-old "infant" incarnation of Krishna. The deity was originally worshiped at Mathura and was shifted in the 1672 from Govardhan hill, near Mathura along holy river Yamuna after being retained at Agra for almost six months. Literally, Nathdwara means ‘Gateway to Shrinathji (God)’.Nathdwara is a significant Vaishnavite shrine pertaining to the Pushti Marg or the Vallabh Sampradaya or the Shuddha Advaita founded by Vallabha Acharya, revered mainly by people of Gujarat and Rajasthan,among others. Vitthal Nathji, son of Vallabhacharya institutionalised the worship of Shrinathji at Nathdwara . Nathdwara town itself is popularly referred to as ‘Shrinathji’, after the presiding deity. ...
Read more

India Tours – Special Tour of India for First Time Visitors

By -
Image
India is such an amazing country of contrasts that a number of first time visitors to India feel completely perplexed for the first few days of their India travel . However, as their tour progresses, they come to know about the true colors of this wonderful country. From snow-capped peaks of Himalayas to sand dunes of Thar Desert, from sandy beaches of south to religious buildings of the east, from holy rivers to beautiful palaces and forts, India offers lot many options for the tourists to explore. India is an astonishing tapestry of religions, cultures, traditions, languages, dance, music, philosophy, art, architecture, and mythologies. This is because of the people who came from different parts of the world centuries back and permanently settled in this country. These people brought with them their own cultures and traditions which mingled with local cultures of India thus producing a unique blend of cultures, which now has become the identity of India. ...
Read more