Kalimpong is the best bet. To much extent, it has been shadowed by the fame of Darjeeling. Maybe that has done some good to retain its unspoilt beauty. The city has managed to remain aloof from the hustle bustle.
Khangchendzonga offers a magnificent backdrop to Kalimpong. Come the season, exotic orchids, flowers break into a riot of colors. Do a bit introspection sitting on the edge of the meandering rivers. Or if you want an adrenalin rush, paddle a raft out in the river Teesta or trek up to the Neora National Park.
How to reach Kalimpong
By Air:–
The nearest airport is located at Bagdogra, about 80 kms. from Kalimpong. Bagdogra is presently connected to Delhi, Guwahati and Calcutta, by Indian Airlines and Jet Airways.
By Rail:–
The nearest railheads are Siliguri 66 kms (metre gauge) and New Jalpaiguri 80 kms (Broad gauge), which connect you to all parts of India.
By Road:–
Kalimpong is connected with New Jalpaiguri, Bagdogra, Siliguri, Gangtok and Darjeeling. Kalimpong is 50 kms. away from Darjeeling through Peshok and Teesta. From Siliguri it is also possible to reach Kalimpong directly taking the road to Sikkim till Teesta from where the route bifurcates for Kalimpong.
WHAT TO SEE
Thongsha Gompa:-
Below the Tharpa Choling Monastery is Thongsa or Bhutan Monastery. Thongsha Gompa is the oldest Gompa built during the Bhutanese period, in 1692.
Tharpa Choling Monastery:-
Tharpa Choling Monastery belongs to the Gelukpa sect and is on the way to Dr. Grahm Homes. Tharpa Choling Monastery was built in 1937 and is the repository of old scriptures and documents.
Zong Dog Palri Fo-Brang Monastery:-
Zong Dog Palri Fo-Brang Monastery was consecrated personally by the Dalai Lama in 1976. It contains the Kanguyar, in 108 volumes, brought by the Dalai Lama when he fled Tibet. Excellent view point for snow and valley views.
Nature Interpretation Centre:-
Nature Interpretation Centre is operated by the Forest Department. Nature Interpretation Centre focuses on flora, fauna and local people interacting with ecology.
Army Golf Club:-
Army Golf Club, hewn out of a hillside, to keep officers fit for high altitude soldiering. Excellent angle for photography of Durpin Monastery from 3rd Green.
St. Teresa Church:-
St. Teresa Church was built by local craftsmen to resemble a Gompa. It has wood carvings adorning the walls, depicting biblical scenes, in which personalities resemble Buddhist monks. It is an interesting example of Tibetan influences.
Flower, orchid and exotic flora nurseries:-
The name of Kalimpong has become synonymous with flower nurseries many of which abound here. Gladioli, orchids, cacti, amaryllis, anthuriums, roses, gerberas, dahlias and other exotic plants are grown in a number of flower nurseries in Kalimpong, mainly for export. The weather and the soil of Kalimpong are very conducive to the growth of orchids, roses, gladioli and dahalias.
Colonial Bungalows:-
Colonial Bungalows were built by British wool traders during the “Raj” period, located on Rinkingpong and Hill Top Roads. These include Surya Sadan, Crockety, Galingka, Morgan House, Tashiding, Ringking Farm. Of these, Morgan House and Tashiding, now Government Tourist Lodges, can be viewed.
Mangal Dhaam:-
Mangal Dhaam was recently constructed as the place of worship. This is a marvelous piece of architecture. The temple has been built in the memory of the late Guru Shree 108 Mangal Dasji. The samadhi of the Guruji is located within the temple
Dr. Graham’s Homes Campus:-
Dr. Graham’s Homes Campus was started in 1900, by Rev Dr. John Anderson Graham as an institution to house and educate offspring of British planters and local women. It is now a public School. The School celebrates its Centenary Year in 2000, with most functions focussed around 24th September.
Deolo View Point:-
Deolo View Point is situated at the top of Deolo Hill at 1914 metres, overlooking the town of Kalimpong. The top of which is the highest point in Kalimpong. There are excellent views of snow peaks, Kalimpong town and the Teesta Valley. Two big reservoirs here are the source of water supply to the town of Kalimpong below.
Kalimpong Arts and Crafts centre:-
Situated near the bus stand in the heart of the town, this institute produces and sells a wide variety of handicrafts which includes wall scrolls, dolls and masks. Founded in 1897 by Mrs. Catherine Grahm, its purpose was to promote and propagate local handicrafts as well as provide employment. It is good place to purchase souvenirs to take back home.
Durpin Dara:-
Towering over the town of Kalimpong is the Durpin Hill, the top of which offers breathtaking views of rolling plains of Siliguri and the Tista and Rangit valley. On the northwest horizon can be seen the panoramic Kanchendzonga range and on the east the Chola range on which lies the Nathula pass. On the southern horizon looms the Tiger hill. On the Durpin Dara Hill is nestled a beautiful golf course with gently rolling slopes.
Kali Mandir:-
Kali Mandir, the Hindu temple has a statue of Goddess Kali and is about 2 Kms away from the town.
Gauri Pur House:-
Gauri Pur House, situated about 2 kms. from town on the way to Durpin Hill, now accommodated the Cooperative Training Institute but has old stories to tell. It was the favorite retreat of none other than the Nobel laureate and poet Rabindranath Tagore who wrote many of his works here.
Excursions from Kalimpong Lava:-
Lava is situated about 34 kms away from Kalimpong, at an altitude of 2,350 metres. This small village, on the old trade route to Bhutan, is surrounded by virgin pine forests. It has a lovely monastery of Bhutanese origin and a Nature Interpretation Centre. Lava is more popular for nature exploration and bird watching. It is also the starting point for trekking to the Neora National Park, which is a storehouse of flora, wildlife and leads to the 3,152 metre high RacheLa tri-junction of Bhutan, Sikkim and West Bengal, with a panoramic view of the Chola Range.
Lolegaon:-
Lolegaon, also known as Kapher, is situated about 25 kms from Lava, along a lovely forest drive. It has a heritage forest and a view point for snow ranges of Singalila Range.
Samthar Plateau:-
Samthar Plateau is a scenic and remote plateau, at a height of 1,400 metres. Samthar Plateau is situated about 80 kms from Kalimpong, and 45 kms from Lava. It has breathtaking snow views of the entire range, superb sunrise and sunset, hamlets, exotic flora, forests, mountain streams, river pools. Samthar Plateau is mainly popular for nature holidays, walking tours, angling, mountain biking and nature and cultural explorations on foot.
Pedong:-
Pedong is a small town, situated about 24 kms from Kalimpong. It has a monastery built in 1837, of Bhutanese origin.
Samco Ropeway‘:-
Samco Ropeway is situated about 20 kms from Kalimpong on the highway to Siliguri. This ropeway was constructed by Christian missionaries to spread the gospel. Spanning the Teesta and Relli Rivers over 1 1/2 kms, it is a thrilling ride over 120 feet over the river with unforgettable views. It provides a second access to Samthar Plateau, and for Forest exploration, and visit to ethnic villages.
Teesta Valley:-
Teesta Valley is the main drainage of Sikkim, Kalimpong and Darjeeling region. It is only 14 kms from Kalimpong. It provides nature walks and river rafting, from base at Chitrey, near Teesta Bazar.
SHOPPING:-
Shopping in Kalimpong is a pleasant experience. Woodcarving is a traditional craft in this region. A wide range of utilities and objets d’art are available in Kalimpong. Pick up an item or two while shopping in Kalimpong.
Tibetan people in huge number make their way to Kalimpong with their handicrafts. Tibetan woolen garments, jewellery and noodles are hot favorite with those who go for shopping in Kalimpong.
If you want to shop for souvenirs, check out tapestry bags and purses, copperware, scrolls and paintings, while shopping in Kalimpong.