Kalimpong West Bengal History

Kalimpong is a town located in the Indian state of West Bengal, in the Darjeeling district. The town is situated at an elevation of about 1,247 meters above sea level and is surrounded by hills and forests.

The history of Kalimpong can be traced back to the early 17th century when it was a part of the Bhutanese kingdom. The town served as a gateway between Bhutan and India, and it became an important trading center for the merchants of Tibet, Bhutan, and Sikkim.

In the mid-19th century, the British East India Company annexed Kalimpong along with Darjeeling and Sikkim. The town became a popular hill station for the British, and many colonial-style buildings were constructed during this period.

During the Indian Independence movement, Kalimpong played a significant role as a center of political activities. The town was also known for its educational institutions, including the prestigious Dr. Graham’s Homes school, which was established in 1900.

After India gained independence in 1947, Kalimpong became a part of West Bengal. Today, the town is known for its scenic beauty, cultural diversity, and as a center for tourism and education.

How to Reach Kalimpong West Bengal?

Kalimpong is a town located in the Indian state of West Bengal, and there are several ways to reach it. Here are some of the most common modes of transportation:

  1. By Air: The nearest airport to Kalimpong is Bagdogra Airport, which is located about 80 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kalimpong.
  2. By Train: The nearest railway station to Kalimpong is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, which is located about 77 kilometers away. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kalimpong.
  3. By Road: Kalimpong is well-connected by road with major cities in West Bengal and neighboring states. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from cities like Siliguri, Darjeeling, Gangtok, Kolkata, or Bagdogra to reach Kalimpong.
  4. By Shared Taxi: Shared taxis are also available from Siliguri and Darjeeling, which are the nearest major cities. These taxis are cheaper than private taxis and buses but can be crowded.

Once you reach Kalimpong, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to travel around the town and explore its attractions.

Kalimpong Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Kalimpong is from March to May and from September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the temperature ranges between 10°C to 25°C. The skies are clear, and the views of the Himalayas are spectacular.

Here is a detailed breakdown of each season in Kalimpong:

  1. Summer (March to May): The summer months are the best time to visit Kalimpong. The weather is pleasant, and the temperature ranges between 15°C to 25°C. The days are sunny, and the nights are cool. This is a great time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
  2. Monsoon (June to August): Kalimpong experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season. The weather can be unpredictable, and landslides and roadblocks can occur. It's best to avoid visiting Kalimpong during these months.
  3. Autumn (September to November): The autumn months are another great time to visit Kalimpong. The weather is pleasant, and the temperature ranges between 10°C to 20°C. The skies are clear, and the views of the Himalayas are stunning. This is a great time for trekking and outdoor activities.
  4. Winter (December to February): The winter months are cold in Kalimpong, and the temperature can drop below 5°C. The skies are clear, and the views of the snow-capped Himalayas are stunning. This is a great time for sightseeing, but outdoor activities can be limited due to the cold weather.

How Many Days Required to Visit Kalimpong?

The duration of your trip to Kalimpong depends on what you plan to do and see while you are there. Here's a rough itinerary that you could follow and the number of days required to explore Kalimpong:

  1. Day 1: Arrive in Kalimpong and spend the day exploring the local markets, shopping for souvenirs, and enjoying the local cuisine.
  2. Day 2: Visit the Deolo Hill, which offers a panoramic view of the town and the surrounding mountains. You can also visit the Dr. Graham's Homes school and the Kalimpong Science Centre.
  3. Day 3: Visit the flower nurseries and explore the nearby villages. You can also go for a short trek in the hills around Kalimpong.
  4. Day 4: Visit the monasteries and temples in Kalimpong, such as the Zang Dhok Palri Phodang monastery, the Tharpa Choling Monastery, and the Mangal Dham temple.

If you have more time, you can explore nearby towns and cities like Darjeeling, Gangtok, and Siliguri. Based on this itinerary, a minimum of three to four days is required to explore Kalimpong. However, if you plan to explore nearby places, you may need to add a few more days to your itinerary.

Kalimpong Tour Package Cost

The cost of a Kalimpong tour package depends on several factors, such as the duration of the trip, the type of accommodation you choose, the mode of transportation, and the activities included in the package.

A standard Kalimpong tour package for 3-4 days, including accommodation, transportation, and sightseeing activities, can cost anywhere between INR 10,000 to INR 25,000 per person. This cost can vary depending on the level of luxury and comfort you choose for your accommodation and transportation.

If you prefer to explore Kalimpong on your own, the cost of transportation, accommodation, and sightseeing activities can range from INR 2,000 to INR 5,000 per day, depending on your budget and preferences.

It's essential to do your research and compare prices of different tour operators before booking a Kalimpong tour package. You can also customize your package according to your preferences and budget to ensure that you get the best value for your money.

Top 10 Places to Visit in Kalimpong

Kalimpong is a beautiful town in the Indian state of West Bengal, surrounded by majestic mountains, lush green forests, and beautiful valleys. Here are the top 10 places to visit in Kalimpong:

  1. Deolo Hill: This is the highest point in Kalimpong, and it offers a stunning panoramic view of the town and the surrounding mountains. You can also enjoy horse riding and trekking here.
  2. Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery: This is a beautiful monastery that features traditional Buddhist architecture and artwork. It is also known as the Durpin Monastery and is located on the Durpin Hill.
  3. Tharpa Choling Monastery: This is another famous monastery in Kalimpong, known for its colorful murals and beautiful architecture. It is located near the Tharpa Choling Gompa.
  4. Mangal Dham Temple: This is a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, and it features intricate carvings and artwork.
  5. Kalimpong Science Centre: This is an interactive science museum that features exhibits on various topics like physics, biology, and astronomy. It is a great place to visit with kids.
  6. Flower Nurseries: Kalimpong is famous for its flower nurseries, which cultivate a wide variety of orchids, gladioli, and other exotic flowers.
  7. Neora Valley National Park: This is a beautiful national park located near Kalimpong, known for its diverse flora and fauna, including red pandas, leopards, and musk deer.
  8. Durpin Dara Hill: This is another hill located in Kalimpong, offering a stunning view of the town and the surrounding mountains. It is a great place for picnics and nature walks.
  9. Dr. Graham's Homes: This is a famous school in Kalimpong that was established in 1900 by Dr. John Anderson Graham. It features beautiful architecture and is surrounded by lush greenery.
  10. Cactus Nursery: This is a unique nursery that cultivates a wide variety of cactus plants from all over the world.

These are some of the top places to visit in Kalimpong, and each one offers a unique experience that you should not miss during your visit.

Top 10 Hotels to Visit In Kalimpong 

Kalimpong is a popular tourist destination in West Bengal, India, known for its natural beauty, rich culture, and beautiful monasteries. Here are the top 10 hotels to stay in Kalimpong:

  1. Mayfair Himalayan Spa Resort: This is a luxury resort located in the beautiful pine forests of Kalimpong, offering stunning views of the Himalayas. It features a world-class spa and wellness center.
  2. The Elgin Silver Oaks: This is a beautiful heritage hotel located in the heart of Kalimpong, featuring beautiful colonial architecture and lush green gardens.
  3. Sood's Garden Retreat: This is a beautiful eco-friendly resort located on a hilltop, surrounded by beautiful gardens and orchards.            
  4. The Shire Kalimpong: This is a beautiful boutique hotel located in the heart of Kalimpong, offering stunning views of the mountains and the town.
  5. Kalimpong Park Hotel: This is a beautiful heritage hotel located near the famous Dr. Graham's Homes school, offering comfortable accommodation and beautiful views of the mountains.
  6. The Himalayan Hotel: This is a beautiful boutique hotel located in the heart of Kalimpong, featuring beautiful architecture and comfortable rooms.
  7. Cloud Nine Retreat: This is a beautiful resort located on a hilltop, offering stunning views of the mountains and the valley.
  8. Sinclairs Retreat Kalimpong: This is a beautiful resort located in the lush green forests of Kalimpong, featuring comfortable rooms and beautiful views of the mountains.
  9. Summit Barsana Resort & Spa: This is a beautiful resort located near the Deolo Hill, offering comfortable accommodation and stunning views of the town and the mountains.
  10. Kalimpong Rikisum Road: This is a beautiful homestay located on a hilltop, offering comfortable rooms and beautiful views of the valley.

These are some of the top hotels to stay in Kalimpong, offering a comfortable and luxurious experience for tourists visiting the town.

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