Kalimpong
Kalimpong - About 55 kilometres from Darjeeling, at an altitude of 1250 metres, the picturesque town of Kalimpong is definitely a place to visit in this region. Once a part of Sikkim, this town was an important centre for trade and commerce for Tibetans from the north and the headquarters of the Governor of Bhutan. Kalimpong is known for its peaceful environs, abundance of greenery and the beautiful flowers, orchids and cacti that are found here. Kalimpong offers splendid views of the ice-covered Eastern Himalayas. Places to visit in and around Kalimpong include the many Buddhist monasteries, and the Orchid Gardens and Farms.
Getting to Kalimpong
- By Air – The nearest airport is at Bagdogra, 95 kms away from Kalimpong. Bagdogra is connected to Delhi, Mumbai, Guwahati and Kolkata by air.
- By Rail - New Jalpaiguri is the nearest mainline railhead for Kalimpong, 85 kms away.
- By Road - 95 kms from Bagdogra, and a little over 100 kms each from Darjeeling and Gangtok, Kalimpong is well connected to the other Eastern Hill-stations.
Best Places to Stay in Kalimpong
Silver Oaks
The Silver Oaks was built in 1930 and once belonged to the prominent architect Frederick Desraj who built the old Teesta Bridge. The Silver Oaks is reminiscent of the British Raj with chamber maids in frilled checked Aprons, the hot water bags in your bed and the bed tea served with tea cozies and cookies. The teak, oak floorboards and watercolours and lithographs by the masters reflect the opulence of the old times.
All the bedrooms are bright and sunny with a magnificent view of the Mountains and landscaped gardens.