Kalimpong – Ideal for a short weekend trip

Kalimpong, nestled at an altitude (1250m) lower than that of Darjeeling town (2134m), has its own charm, and is ideal for a short weekend trip after being tired of the hustle and bustle of city life.

On a clear morning, we can feast our eyes on the elusive Mt. Kanchenjungha. Spending three days in an idyllic ambience, breathing fresh air is an exclusive experience for any urbanite.

Kalimpong sits between two hilltops — Delo and Durpin and overlooks the beautiful Teesta river that flows through the valley below. Durpin, about 5km away from Kalimpong, is an ideal destination to walk around.

You need to walk through the cantonment area to reach the Durpin Buddhist monastery on the hilltop. The view from Durpin is breathtaking. Kalimpong is home to four schools of Tibetan Budhhism — Sakyapa, Nyingmapa, Kagyupa and Gelugpa — with several monasteries dotting Delo and Durpin.

Watching an evening prayer at a Durpin monastery is a novel experience. Walking back, someone can take a break over hot tea and pastry at the cantonment coffee shop before heading towards the main town.

The picturesque Delo is around 8km away but worth a taxi ride.  Climbing towards the hilltop, we will find the sprawling grounds of Dr Graham’s Homes. At Delo, more flowers and beauty is awaiting. We can get a panoramic view — from the Teesta to the Kanchenjungha — from the hilltop, if the weather permits.

There is also a must-see cactus garden in Kalimpong.

For those who can afford a few more days here, they can make day trips to Darjeeling, Lava and the nearby areas.

How to go ?

 A train to New Jalpaiguri (NJP) and then a car to Kalimpong.

Where to stay ?

Kalimpong has several accommodation options — from budget hotels to premium properties. The Morgan House is WBTDC owned tourist lodge. Booking can be made from Kolkata.

West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation Ltd.
3/2, B.B.D. Bag (East), Kolkata – 700 001
Phone : (033)22436440, 22488271
Website: www.wbtourism.gov.in

Holumba Haven is another option.  Booking can be made over the phone (03552-256936, 09332414999)

Note : Phone numbers given above are according to the information available with us. If you find any contact number/s given above is/are incorrect or not in use, please let us know.