Places to visit in Kalimpong
The picturesque town of Kalimpong is one of the most beautiful hill stations in India. A popular tourist destination in North East India, the town lies about 55 kilometres from Darjeeling at an altitude of approximately 1,250 metres. Once a part of the Kingdom of Sikkim, Kalimpong was an important trading centre between Tibet, Bhutan, and India, and also served as the headquarters of the Governor of Bhutan. Today, this charming hill town in West Bengal is renowned for its scenic beauty, pleasant climate, and peaceful atmosphere. Kalimpong tours are ideal for nature lovers seeking a relaxing Himalayan getaway. Combined with Darjeeling, Kalimpong makes for a memorable holiday in the Eastern Himalayas.
Nestled amidst the lower Himalayas, Kalimpong enjoys pleasant weather throughout the year. The town offers spectacular views of Mt. Kanchenjunga, the world's third-highest mountain, along with several other majestic Himalayan peaks. The origin of the town's name is surrounded by interesting folklore. One interpretation suggests that Kalimpong means "The Stronghold of the King's Minister" in the local dialect, while another traces it to "Kaulim," a fibre-producing plant once used for making handmade paper.
Kalimpong is celebrated for its tranquil surroundings, lush greenery, colourful flower nurseries, orchids, and exotic cacti. The town is dotted with beautiful Buddhist monasteries, colonial-era educational institutions, scenic viewpoints, and vibrant local markets. Popular attractions include Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery, Tharpa Choling Monastery, Durpin Dara Hill, Deolo Hill, Pine View Nursery, Dr. Graham's Homes, and the Orchid Nurseries. These attractions perfectly blend natural beauty, spirituality, and colonial heritage.
A holiday in Kalimpong is less about rushing through sightseeing and more about unwinding amidst the serenity of the mountains. Enjoy leisurely walks, explore local handicrafts, savour traditional Himalayan cuisine, or simply admire the breathtaking landscapes. Visitors can also combine their trip with excursions to Darjeeling, Gangtok, or enjoy thrilling river rafting on the Teesta River. Kalimpong offers the perfect escape for travellers looking to reconnect with nature while experiencing the rich cultural heritage of the Eastern Himalayas.
Durpin Monastery
The monastery is located atop Durpin Hill, one of the two hills of the town. It was consecrated in 1976 by the visiting Dalai Lama. The monastery houses many rare scriptures that were brought into India after the invasion of Tibet in 1959. It also houses the 108 volumes of the Kangyur. It is also popularly known as the Durpin Monastery. The view from the hill-top is breathtaking
Phodong Monastery
Phodong Monastery is a Buddhist monastery in Sikkim, India. It is located 28 kilometres from Gangtok. It was built in the early 18th century but an older monastery had pre-existed the current one. 9th Karmapa was invited by the king of Sikkim, where he founded three monasteries: Rumtek, one of the most important monastery of the Karma Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism, Phodong and Ralang Monastery. It was reconstructed by Sidkeong Tulku Namgyal, who was recognized as the reincarnation of his uncle, Sidkeong Namgyal, the abbot of the monastery. The line was to be continued by Palden Thondup Namgyal The monastery has a residence of approximately 260 monks and has a numerous collection of some ancient murals
