The picturesque town of Kalimpong is one of the most beautiful places in India. A popular tourist
destination in North East, the town lies about 55 kilometres from Darjeeling, at an altitude of 1250
metres. 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. Now a part of West
Bengal, this small town is an out of the world beauty. Kalimpong tours are for nature lovers who
seek to enjoy the bliss of the North East. Combined with Darjeeling, Kalimpong is a wonderful
holiday.
Snuggled in the Himalayas, though at a lower altitude, Kalimpong is one of the places than enjoy
salubrious weather. With view of the Mt. Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak in the world and
many other such high mountains, the horizon is interesting and a sight to soothe all your senses. The
name of the hill town is interesting and has two stories. Kalimpong in local dialect means ‘the
Stronghold of the King's Minister’. Another story suggests the name of the town comes from
‘kaulium’, a type of fibre plant used for making paper.
The hill town is one of the favourite places to visit in the mountains. It is known for its peaceful
environs, abundance of greenery and the beautiful flowers, orchids and cacti that are found here.
Places to visit in and around Kalimpong include the many Buddhist monasteries, and the Orchid
Gardens and Farms. One of the prized highlights include the educational institutions established
during the British colonial period.
A holiday in Kalimpong is not about sightseeing, it is mostly about taking a break from the city life
and just breathe in the freshness of the mountains. The serene town has way to create some
cherished memories. A visit to Darjeeling or Gangtok and river rafting in Teesta are some added
pleasure sto undertake in Kalimpong.
-
Getting to Kalimpong By Air
The nearest airport is at Bagdogra, 95 km away from Kalimpong. Bagdogra International Airport is connected to Bangkok and Paro while domestic flights connect to Delhi, Mumbai, Guwahati and Kolkata.
-
Getting to Kalimpong By Rail
New Jalpaiguri is the nearest mainline railhead for Kalimpong, 85 km away.
-
Getting to Kalimpong By Road
95 km 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
The Elgin Silver Oaks
The Elgin Silver Oaks was built in 1930 and once belonged to the prominent architect Frederick Desraj who built the old Teesta Bridge. Reminiscent of the British Raj, it is one of the best places to stay in Kalimpong with chamber maids in frilled checked Aprons, 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 of the North East India and landscaped gardens.
Make a booking
