Kalimpong
About the city
Abutting the state of Sikkim, Kalimpong is set in the foothills of the majestic Himalayas at an altitude of 1250 metres above sea level. The hill station is 50 km from Darjeeling and is in the northern part of the state of West Bengal. The most fascinating aspect of Kalimpong is its calm ambience with magnificent views of the towering snow-crested mountain ranges. The Buddhist monasteries, the churches and the temples, all combined, give rise to an exceptional religious aura which is truly commendable. The town is an ethnic mix of hill people and maintains the age-old tradition of hospitality. The bustling market places, selling thankas, Chinese lamps, Lepcha daggers, Bhutanese weaves and hand beaten silver, are an utter delight. The Nepalis are the predominating community in the town. The other ethnic groups are Lepchas, Bhutias, Pradhans, Sherpas, Rais, Yamloos, Damais, Kamais and the Limbus.This is a beautiful hill town in North Bengal, which can be reached from either Siliguri or Darjeeling. Kalimpong - means king's ministers strong hold - a Bhutanese word. It is also called Kalimpong in local dialect meaning "black spur". As per Lepchas Kalimpong means 'ridge where we play'. It is said that these local tribesmen used to organise field sports while not engaged in agricultural pursuit - hence the name.
Situated at an altitude of 1250 metres, it enjoys temperate climate throughout the year. Somewhat secluded and tucked away in the corner under big Darjeeling umbrella, Kalimpong offers a quiet and relaxed holiday, against the backdrop of the Kanchenjunga.
The journey from Darjeeling to Kalimpong is a beautiful experience. The road drops from Ghoom 7407ft. to Teesta Bazar 700 ft in 12 km and passes through lush green forests and tea gardens. A place called the Viewpoint or 'Lovers Meet', offers excellent view of the confluence of the Rangeet and the Teesta rivers, as also of the Himalayan mountain range from Durbindara summit. Kalimpong's attractions include three Buddhist monastries, orchid nurseries, a sericulture centre and Dr. Graham's Home, a large sprawling school set up in 1900 for educating the children of tea workers.