Perched on the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, Kalimpong is a picturesque hill station in West Bengal, famous for its tranquil monasteries, colonial charm, bustling bazaars, and panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range. Unlike the tourist-crowded Darjeeling, Kalimpong offers a more peaceful and spiritual escape, making it a hidden gem for travelers who want to experience the Himalayas at their own pace.
In this blog, we’ll take you through the history of Kalimpong, its architecture, how to reach, timings, entry fees, and travel tips to help you explore this enchanting destination.
History of Kalimpong
The history of Kalimpong is a fascinating mix of tribal cultures, Buddhist heritage, and colonial influence.
- Early Era: Originally inhabited by the Lepcha tribes, Kalimpong was part of the Kingdom of Sikkim until the early 18th century.
- Bhutanese Rule: In 1706, the Bhutanese gained control, and Kalimpong became an important trading post on the Silk Route between India and Tibet.
- British Annexation: After the Anglo-Bhutanese war (1865), the British East India Company annexed Kalimpong and merged it with the Darjeeling district.
- Colonial Development: The British developed Kalimpong into a hill station and missionary hub. Scottish missionaries established schools, churches, and hospitals.
- Tibetan Trade Hub: In the 19th and early 20th centuries, Kalimpong flourished as a trade center for wool, horses, and goods from Tibet via the Jelep La pass.
- Post-Independence: After the Chinese annexation of Tibet in the 1950s, Kalimpong lost its importance as a trade hub but continued as a cultural and educational center.
Today, Kalimpong is known for its monasteries, orchids, handicrafts, and colonial architecture, making it an emerging destination in West Bengal’s hill tourism circuit.
Architecture and Heritage of Kalimpong
Kalimpong’s architecture is a charming blend of Tibetan, Bhutanese, and British colonial styles, reflected in its monasteries, schools, and churches.
1. Monasteries
- Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery: Built in 1976 by the Dalai Lama, this monastery houses rare Buddhist scriptures and offers panoramic views.
- Tharpa Choling Monastery: Established in 1912, it is one of the oldest Gelugpa sect monasteries in the region.
- Thongsa Gompa (Bhutanese Monastery): Built in 1692, it is the oldest monastery in Kalimpong.
2. Colonial Schools and Churches
- Dr. Graham’s Homes: Founded in 1900 by Reverend John Graham, this boarding school has a Scottish-style campus spread across 500 acres.
- St. Teresa’s Church: Built in Gothic style, showcasing colonial architecture.
3. Heritage Houses and Markets
- Old British bungalows with sloping roofs and colonial layouts can still be seen.
- Kalimpong’s bazaars (like Haat Bazaar) reflect Tibetan, Bhutanese, and Nepali influences with their handicrafts and textiles.
4. Orchids and Horticulture
- Kalimpong is famous for its flower nurseries, especially orchids, gladioli, and cacti, which are exported worldwide.
How to Reach Kalimpong
Kalimpong is well connected to major cities of West Bengal and neighboring states.
By Air
- The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (IXB), about 79 km away.
- From Bagdogra, taxis, shared jeeps, and buses are available. Travel time: 3 hours.
By Train
- The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), 77 km away.
- From NJP, taxis and jeeps can be hired to Kalimpong.
By Road
- Kalimpong is connected by road to Siliguri (67 km), Darjeeling (50 km), and Gangtok (75 km).
- State buses, private buses, and shared jeeps frequently ply these routes.
By Toy Train (Part Route)
- While the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway does not reach Kalimpong, visitors often combine a Toy Train ride to Darjeeling and then take a scenic road trip to Kalimpong.
Timings and Entry Fees
Kalimpong is a hill station, so there is no entry fee to visit the town itself. However, certain attractions have specific timings and fees.
Key Attractions Timings & Entry Fees
1. Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
2. Tharpa Choling Monastery
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
3. Dr. Graham’s Homes
- Timings: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (visitors allowed in parts of the campus).
- Entry Fee: Free (donations welcome).
4. Cactus Nursery
- Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹10 – ₹20
4. Deolo Hill (Viewpoint & Park)
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹20 approx.
4. Kalimpong Science Centre
- Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹10 – ₹15
Best Time to Visit Kalimpong
- Spring & Summer (March – June): Pleasant weather (15°C–25°C), perfect for sightseeing and flower festivals.
- Autumn (October – November): Clear skies and great views of Kanchenjunga.
- Winter (December – February): Chilly weather (5°C–10°C), ideal for those who enjoy crisp mountain air.
- Monsoon (July – September): Heavy rainfall; not recommended due to landslides.
Top Attractions in Kalimpong
- 1. Deolo Hill – The highest point in Kalimpong offering panoramic views.
- 2. Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery – A spiritual center with sacred scriptures.
- 3. Durpin Dara Hill – Scenic viewpoint overlooking the Teesta River and Himalayas.
- 4. Dr. Graham’s Homes – A historic school and architectural landmark.
- 5. Cactus Nursery – Famous for exotic cactus and orchid collections.
- 6. Thongsa Gompa – Oldest Bhutanese monastery in Kalimpong.
- 7. Mangal Dham Temple – A modern Hindu temple dedicated to Guruji Mangal Dasji.
- 8. Lepcha Museum – Showcasing artifacts of the indigenous Lepcha tribe.
- 9. Kalimpong Market – Bustling bazaars with woolen clothes, handicrafts, and local food.
- 10. Teesta River Rafting – Adventure activity near Kalimpong.
Cultural Significance
Kalimpong is a true cultural melting pot of Lepcha, Nepali, Bhutanese, and Tibetan traditions.
- Festivals: Losar (Tibetan New Year), Diwali, Durga Puja, and Maghe Sankranti are celebrated with equal enthusiasm.
- Cuisine: Local delights include momos, thukpa, churpi (yak cheese), and tea.
- Handicrafts: Tibetan thankas, Bhutanese weaves, and wood carvings are popular souvenirs.
Travel Tips for Visitors
- 1. Carry light woolens in summer and heavy jackets in winter.
- 2. Hire a local guide for monasteries and heritage walks.
- 3. Book accommodations in advance during peak seasons (March–May and October).
- 4. Try local tea and buy handicrafts from Kalimpong Market.
- 5. Sunrise and sunset views are best from Deolo and Durpin hills.
Conclusion
Kalimpong may not be as famous as Darjeeling, but it offers a unique blend of spirituality, colonial heritage, and natural beauty. From monasteries echoing Buddhist chants to flower nurseries blooming with vibrant orchids, from serene viewpoints to bustling markets, Kalimpong is a destination that touches the soul.
Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or cultural explorer, Kalimpong promises peace, charm, and unforgettable Himalayan memories.
