Location |
Nestled in the Eastern Himalayas of West Bengal |
Weather |
Pleasant throughout the year with mild summers and cold winters. Heavy rainfall during the monsoon season. |
Popular Places of Interest in Kalimpong |
Deolo Hill, Zang Dhok Palri Phodang, Pine View Nursery, Durpin Dara Hill, Morgan House, Dr. Graham's Homes, Flower Nurseries, Kalimpong Cactus Nursery, Tharpa Choling Monastery, Kalimpong Arts and Crafts Center, Neora Valley National Park, Pedong, Lepcha Heritage Museum..etc |
Adventure Activities in Kalimpong |
Trekking, River Rafting, Paragliding |
Best Time to Visit Kalimpong |
Perfect Year-Round Destination with Pleasant Weather. Best time to visit is March to May and September to November, while monsoons grace from June to September. |
Kalimpong, a surreal hill station in West Bengal, offers an opportunity to take a walk in the colonial era by visiting churches and buildings. Then there are ancient Buddhist monasteries and temples, nurseries, and other fascinating places to visit that will cheer you up when spending holidays in Kalimpong.
Whether you are a history lover, keen on exploring nature at its best, want to get your adrenaline rushing, or want to relish good food, there is no dearth of activities to enjoy in Kalimpong. A trip to this hill station is all about visiting popular tourist attractions, including churches and buildings like MacFarlane Memorial Church, Morgan House, and Crookety House; Buddhist monasteries like Tharpa Choling Monastery, Thongsa Gompa, and Zong Dog Palri Fo Brang Monastery; ancient temples like Mangal Dham Temple, Hanuman Temple, Durga Mandir, and Kali Mandir; exotic nurseries like Pine View Nursery, Nurseryman's Haven, and Shanti Kunj Nursery; parks like Shahid Park and Rishi Bankim Chandra Park; a sightseeing place like Army Golf Club; and a cultural center like Lepcha Museum.
And if you are feeling a little adventurous, then indulging in activities like paragliding, trekking, and horse riding in Deolo Hill; and river rafting in the Teesta River.
Kalimpong even offers experiences for wildlife enthusiasts who could sight exotic wild animals and rare species of birds by visiting Neora Valley National Park. Exploring the culture of a place is one of the best parts of traveling, isn't it? And when it is about spending days in Kalimpong, you can explore the culture at its best by witnessing both Nepalese and Bhutanese festivals celebrated with much enthusiasm. Also, you can relish food, including Momos, Thukpa, and Churpee (cheese made from Yak's milk).
No trip is complete without shopping, and when in Kalimpong, buying Tibetan handicrafts including paintings, thangkas, and religious scrolls, as well as woollen garments as gifts or souvenirs, is just unavoidable. You can also buy Dalley Khorsani (a variety of chili), Kalimpong Cheese, and Lollypops to take back home. With some of the best hotels and resorts, Kalimpong promises a comfortable stay for tourists. The accommodation options in Kalimpong justify every penny spent. No matter where you plan to stay, be it budget, mid-range, or luxury, you will receive warm hospitality with top-notch services and amenities.
Plan your holidays to this beautiful hill station where nature welcomes you. A trip to Kalimpong will give you a peaceful experience and wonderful memories that will cling for a lifetime.
Here is a list of the top 12 must-visit places in Kalimpong with family:
- Durpin Dara Hill
- Deolo Hill
- Dr. Graham's Homes
- Morgan House
- Flower Nurseries
- Kalimpong Cactus Nursery
- Tharpa Choling Monastery
- Kalimpong Arts and Crafts Center
- Pine View Nursery
- Neora Valley National Park
- Pedong
- Lepcha Heritage Museum
Durpin Dara Hill
In addition to offering spectacular panoramic views, Durpin Dara Hill provides a peaceful haven away from the bustling town. Prayer flags draped all over the summit create a serene atmosphere. Visitors can also admire the breathtaking vistas of snow-capped Himalayan peaks, lush valleys, and the mesmerizing flow of the Teesta River. Adding to the spiritual ambiance, the Zang Dhok Palri Monastery, located on Durpin Dara Hill, showcases majestic architecture and serves as a serene escape from the hectic outside world. Decorated with vibrant prayer flags and featuring tranquil meditation halls, it is a magnificent architectural marvel.
Deolo Hill
Due to its captivating views and recreational opportunities, Deolo Hill is a must-visit destination in Kalimpong. The beauty of this hilltop is enhanced by well-maintained gardens, making it the perfect spot for picnics and leisurely walks. Adventure seekers can indulge in paragliding to witness the breathtaking views from above. Deolo Hill also features a charming water reservoir surrounded by dense woodlands, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere.
Dr. Graham's Homes
There is an expansive educational institution called Dr. Graham's Homes, which showcases a tasteful and elegant fusion of colonial and regional architecture. The school is renowned for its beautiful surroundings, featuring well-maintained lawns, vibrant flowers, and historic colonial structures. Visitors are welcome to take a campus tour, learn about the university's history, and observe students engaging in their daily activities. The campus's elegant ambiance offers a rejuvenating experience amidst the lap of Mother Nature.
Morgan House
Architecture enthusiasts will appreciate Morgan House, a converted colonial residence that now serves as a hotel. The mansion's sloping roofs, expansive verandas, and intricate woodwork interiors showcase the essence of British colonial architecture that once thrived in the region. Set amidst lush gardens and towering pine trees, Morgan House offers a serene setting for guests to unwind and marvel at its magnificence.
Flower Nurseries
The flower nurseries in Kalimpong are a delight for outdoor enthusiasts and photography enthusiasts alike. This place is a haven for those who appreciate the beauty of nature. The nurseries showcase a wide array of unique and exotic flora, including cacti, roses, gladioli, and orchids. Visitors can leisurely stroll through the vibrant blossoms, inhale the captivating aromas, and witness the various cultivation techniques employed by local floriculturists. It's a mesmerizing experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the world of colorful blooms.
Kalimpong Cactus Nursery
Cactus and succulent enthusiasts will discover a paradise at the Kalimpong Cactus Nursery. This nursery houses a diverse collection of succulents and cacti sourced from around the world. Visitors can admire the wide array of plant forms, sizes, and textures on display. The nursery serves as an educational and environmentally conscious attraction, playing a vital role in the conservation of endangered cactus species. People from all over the globe visit this nursery to experience its unique offerings.
Tharpa Choling Monastery
A spiritual and serene experience awaits at the Tharpa Choling Monastery, nestled among the tranquil Tirpai Hills. The monastery is adorned with intricate murals, vibrant thangkas, and gilded statues of Buddhist deities. Visitors can find solace in the prayer halls, immerse themselves in the peaceful atmosphere, and observe the monks as they carry out their daily rituals. The monastery also hosts occasional religious services and festivals, providing a glimpse into the vibrant Buddhist culture that thrives there.
Kalimpong Arts and Crafts Center
The Kalimpong Arts and Crafts Centre is a prominent destination known for showcasing regional artisans and their traditional craftsmanship. Visitors can witness skilled artists actively engaged in various projects such as woodcarving, thangka painting, and crafting exquisite Tibetan jewelry. The center not only provides a platform for artists to showcase their talents but also preserves and promotes traditional art forms. Guests have the opportunity to purchase unique handicrafts as cherished mementos, allowing them to treasure these pieces for a lifetime.
Pine View Nursery
Pine View Nursery, nestled amidst towering pine trees, offers a tranquil sanctuary for nature enthusiasts. This nursery is renowned for its collection of Himalayan orchids, allowing visitors to witness the vibrant hues and delicate beauty of these exotic flowers. The serene ambiance and the captivating aroma of the blooming orchids provide visitors with a calming experience, immersing them in the wonders of nature.
Neora Valley National Park
Neora Valley National Park serves as a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and a paradise for nature lovers. The park boasts a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species. Visitors can embark on guided nature hikes, follow scenic hiking trails, and partake in birdwatching excursions to explore different sections of the park. With its untamed wilderness, thundering waterfalls, and lush green forests, the park offers a unique and immersive experience in the lap of nature.
Pedong
Nestled near Kalimpong, the charming village of Pedong entices visitors with its picturesque landscapes and intriguing historical sites. The village offers mesmerizing vistas of the Tista River and the snow-capped Kanchenjunga range. A notable attraction is the historic Damsang Fort, once used as a lookout post to monitor trade routes, which welcomes visitors to explore its premises. Pedong is also home to ancient Buddhist monasteries like Sangchen Dorjee Monastery and Bumpa Monastery, where tourists can immerse themselves in the serene Buddhist ambiance.
Lepcha Heritage Museum
The Lepcha Legacy Museum preserves and celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the local Lepcha community. The museum showcases artifacts, photographs, costumes, musical instruments, and tools of the Lepcha people. Visitors can gain valuable insights into the unique customs, rituals, and way of life of the Lepcha community, as well as explore its historical background and cultural significance. By delving into these exhibits, visitors can deepen their understanding of the Lepcha community's traditions and their contribution to the region's cultural tapestry.