Kalimpong is a hidden gem in the foothills of the Himalayas, supplying a serene getaway for travellers looking for peace and solitude. The city’s stunning monasteries, beautiful views, and luxurious gardens make it a great vacation spot for nature lovers and religious seekers.
Additionally, Kalimpong gives adventure sports opportunities, including paragliding, horse driving, and hiking. The nearby cities of Lava and Neora Valley National Park offer extra opportunities for trekking and birdwatching. In this tour weblog, we can discover 10 great places to visit in Kalimpong to maximise your experience.
List of the Top 10 Places to Visit in Kalimpong:
1. Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery
The Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery, also known as the Durpin Monastery, is one of Kalimpong’s most well-known points of interest.
The monastery was constructed in 1976 and is famous for its beautiful structure and complicated wall artwork. The monastery is on a hilltop, and visitors can enjoy panoramic perspectives of the encircling hills and valleys.
Why Visit: Known for its spiritual ambiance and architectural beauty, this monastery houses rare Buddhist scriptures.
Highlights:
- Panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range.
- Serene atmosphere ideal for meditation.
- Rare Tibetan Buddhist texts preserved in its library.
Best Time to Visit: Morning for peaceful surroundings.
How to Reach: Located 5 km from Kalimpong town; accessible by taxis.
Tips: Photography inside the monastery may be restricted; ask for permission.
2. Deolo Hill
Deolo Hill is a famous visitor spot that offers breathtaking views of the encompassing hills and valleys. Visitors can also experience numerous adventure activities, including paragliding and horse riding.
Deolo Hill is the highest factor in Kalimpong, and on a clear day, you can still see the snow-capped peaks of Kanchenjunga and the Teesta River from right here.
Why Visit: The highest point in Kalimpong, offering stunning views of the Teesta River, Kanchenjunga, and surrounding valleys.
Highlights:
- Perfect spot for paragliding and picnics.
- Beautifully maintained gardens and viewing points.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for clear views.
How to Reach: 6 km from Kalimpong town; taxis are easily available.
Tips: Wear comfortable shoes as some walking is required.
3. Morgan House
Built-in British colonial fashion, Morgan House is a famous tourist vacation spot in Kalimpong. The house has now been transformed into a past historical lodge, and traffic can discover the property and study the captivating history of the vicinity.
Why Visit: A colonial-era mansion now turned into a heritage hotel, offering a glimpse of British architecture.
Highlights:
- Scenic views of the surrounding hills and forests.
- Rumored to be haunted, adding an element of mystery.
Best Time to Visit: Daytime for sightseeing or stay overnight for a unique experience.
How to Reach: Located near Deolo Hill; easily accessible by road.
Tips: Book a stay in advance if interested in experiencing this heritage property.
4. Cactus Nursery (Pine View Nursery)
Kalimpong is thought for its lovely cacti, and the Cactus Nursery is the right place to peer them. It has a full-size collection of cacti and succulents from around the sector.
The nursery also has a beautiful series of uncommon flowers and vegetation that will amaze any nature lover.
Why Visit: Houses an impressive collection of exotic cactus species and succulents.
Highlights:
- Over 1,500 varieties of cacti from around the world.
- Great spot for nature and photography enthusiasts.
Best Time to Visit: Morning to explore the nursery at a leisurely pace.
How to Reach: Located 2 km from Kalimpong town.
Tips: Purchase small plants or souvenirs from the nursery.
5. Thongsa Gompa
Thongsa Gompa is any other stunning Buddhist monastery in Kalimpong. It became built in 1692 and is renowned for its stunning structure and serene environment.
The monastery is on a hilltop, and traffic can revel in breathtaking views of the encircling hills and valleys.
Why Visit: The oldest monastery in Kalimpong, offering insight into the region’s Buddhist heritage.
Highlights:
- Peaceful environment for meditation and introspection.
- Rich history dating back to the 17th century.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or early evening.
How to Reach: Located 3 km from the main town; hire a taxi.
Tips: Respect the silence and decorum of the monastery.
6. Dr Graham’s Homes
Dr Graham’s Homes is a lovely boarding faculty placed in Kalimpong. The faculty was set up in 1900 and had lovely architecture and lush gardens.
Visitors can take a tour of the college and find out about its history and its contribution to the schooling gadget in India.
Why Visit: A historic educational institution established in 1900, spread across a sprawling campus.
Highlights:
- Gothic-style architecture and scenic surroundings.
- Insight into the life and legacy of Dr. John Anderson Graham.
Best Time to Visit: Daytime when the campus is open for visitors.
How to Reach: 4 km from Kalimpong town.
Tips: Ideal for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.
7. Flower Nurseries
Kalimpong is known for its stunning flower nurseries, which produce a huge type of plants, including roses, orchids, and gladioli. Visitors can take a tour of the nurseries and witness the distinct levels of flower cultivation and purchase clean vegetation and seeds to take home as souvenirs.
Why Visit: Kalimpong is famous for its flower nurseries, exporting exotic orchids and other plants worldwide.
Highlights:
- Vibrant displays of orchids, gladioli, and amaryllis.
- A chance to purchase rare plants and seeds.
Best Time to Visit: March to May for the blooming season.
How to Reach: Various nurseries are scattered around Kalimpong; taxis are available.
Tips: Visit Himalayan Orchid Nursery for a wide variety of orchids.
8. Kalimpong Science Centre
The Kalimpong Science Centre is a famous appeal for families. It has interactive, well-known shows and displays on science and technology.
Visitors can learn about various clinical phenomena and take part in finger-on sports. The technological know-how centre also hosts workshops and seminars on various scientific topics.
Why Visit: A family-friendly attraction featuring interactive science exhibits and educational activities.
Highlights:
- Science models, 3D shows, and a planetarium.
- Outdoor park with fun activities for kids.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or early afternoon.
How to Reach: 5 km from Kalimpong town; easily accessible by road.
Tips: Ideal for families with children to combine fun and learning.
9. Lava
Lava is a small town close to Kalimpong and a popular vacation spot for trekkers and nature fanatics. It has beautiful forests, rivers, and mountains.
The metropolis is likewise home to the Neora Valley National Park, a stunning nature reserve domesticated to many uncommon and endangered species of plants and animals.
Why Visit: A quaint village near Kalimpong, known for its pristine beauty and spiritual significance.
Highlights:
- Lava Monastery, a tranquil place for meditation.
- Gateway to trekking trails in the Neora Valley.
Best Time to Visit: October to April for pleasant weather.
How to Reach: 34 km from Kalimpong; reachable by taxi or shared jeep.
Tips: Stay overnight for a serene experience amidst nature.
10. Neora Valley National Park
Neora Valley National Park is a lovely national park located near Kalimpong. The park is home to a good-sized array of plants and fauna, including rare and endangered species of flowers and animals. Visitors can trek via the park and marvel at the herbal beauty of the area.
A park is likewise an extraordinary place for birdwatching, with over 260 species of birds located inside the region. The park also offers opportunities for camping and picnicking, making it an ideal vacation spot for nature enthusiasts.
Why Visit: A biodiversity hotspot, perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and trekkers.
Highlights:
- Home to the endangered red panda, Himalayan black bear, and diverse flora.
- Dense forests ideal for birdwatching and photography.
Best Time to Visit: October to April.
How to Reach: 32 km from Kalimpong; requires permits to enter.
Tips: Hire a local guide for a better understanding of the trails and wildlife.
Best Time to Visit Kalimpong
Going to Kalimpong is between March to June and September to December. During those months, the weather is nice, and the skies are clean, providing a perfect setting for outside activities and sightseeing. The monsoon season from June to August should be avoided as the metropolis reports heavy rainfall, which can disrupt your journey plans.
Additionally, the wintry weather months from December to February can be pretty chilly, with temperatures losing to near-freezing degrees, so make certain to per cent warm garments in case you plan to go during this time. Overall, the first-class time to go to Kalimpong is spring and autumn, while the climate is mild and first-rate.
How to Reach Kalimpong:
Kalimpong is nicely related to important cities in India, making it easily on hand via air, rail, and road.
By Air:
The nearest airport to Kalimpong is Bagdogra Airport, that’s positioned about eighty km away. Several airlines perform day-by-day flights from the foremost towns in India to Bagdogra. You could lease a taxi from the airport or take a shared cab to Kalimpong.
By Rail:
The nearest railway station to Kalimpong is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, approximately 70 km away. The station is well-related to important cities in India. You can lease a taxi from the railway station or take a shared cab to Kalimpong.
By Road:
Kalimpong is properly linked to nearby towns and towns in West Bengal and other states in India thru a network of well-maintained roads. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from nearby towns and towns like Siliguri, Darjeeling, and Gangtok to attain Kalimpong.
Once you attain Kalimpong, you may lease a taxi or take a local bus to explore the city and nearby traveller destinations.
General Tips for Visiting Kalimpong:
- Transportation: Local taxis and shared jeeps are the primary means of transport.
- Best Time to Visit: March to May and October to December for pleasant weather.
- Clothing: Carry warm clothes, especially if visiting in winter.
- Stay Options: Choose from homestays, heritage hotels, or resorts depending on your preferences.
- Local Cuisine: Try momos, thukpa, and Kalimpong cheese for an authentic culinary experience.
In Conclusion
Kalimpong is a hidden gem in the foothills of the Himalayas and offers a serene getaway for vacationers searching for peace and solitude. The metropolis’s beautiful monasteries, lovely perspectives, and lush gardens make it a great destination for nature lovers and spiritual seekers. The metropolis also offers journey sports opportunities, including paragliding, horse riding, and hiking.
The nearby Lava and Neora Valley National Park cities provide extra possibilities for trekking and birdwatching. Whether you are searching for adventure, spiritual boom, or only a non-violent escape, Kalimpong has something to provide for all and sundry. Make positive to feature those pinnacle 10 first-class locations to visit in Kalimpong to your travel itinerary and revel in the splendour of this captivating city for yourself.
Further Reading:
- 10 Most Famous Places To See in West Bengal
- West Bengal 11 Tourist Places to Visit in Monsoon
- Top 17 Honeymoon Destinations in West Bengal
- West Bengal 9 Famous Historical Places
- 5 Most Beautiful Lakes in West Bengal
- West Bengal 6 Popular Hill Stations to Visit
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What are the best places to visit in Kalimpong?
Popular spots include Deolo Hill, Morgan House, Zang Dhok Palri Monastery, Pine View Cactus Nursery, and Neora Valley National Park.
2. What is special about Deolo Hill?
Deolo Hill offers panoramic views of Kanchenjunga, the Teesta River, and lush valleys, making it perfect for photography and picnics.
3. Why is Morgan House famous?
Morgan House is a colonial-era bungalow known for its historic charm and serene surroundings, ideal for history enthusiasts.
4. What can I explore at Zang Dhok Palri Monastery?
Also known as Durpin Monastery, it houses rare Buddhist scriptures and provides a peaceful ambiance with views of the surrounding mountains.
5. What is unique about Pine View Cactus Nursery?
This nursery boasts one of the largest collections of cacti in Asia, featuring rare and exotic species.
6. Is Neora Valley National Park worth visiting?
Yes, it’s a biodiversity hotspot with dense forests, wildlife, and trekking opportunities, perfect for nature lovers.
7. What can I do at Kalimpong Science Centre?
The Science Centre offers interactive exhibits and activities, making it a fun learning experience for kids and adults.
8. What makes Thongsa Gompa special?
Thongsa Gompa, also known as the Bhutanese Monastery, is the oldest monastery in Kalimpong, showcasing peaceful Buddhist architecture.
9. Are there flower nurseries to visit in Kalimpong?
Yes, Kalimpong is known for its flower nurseries, especially orchids, gladioli, and roses, which are exported globally.
10. What adventure activities can I do in Kalimpong?
You can enjoy paragliding, trekking, and river rafting in the Teesta and Rangeet Rivers.
11. When is the best time to visit Kalimpong?
The best time is March to May and September to December, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
12. Is Kalimpong suitable for a family vacation?
Absolutely! With its scenic beauty, historic sites, and fun activities, it’s a great destination for families.
