Kalimpong is a hill station that offers the ideal getaway from the hot humid summer in India.

Kalimpong located between Siliguri and Gangtok offers a panoramic view of the mountain landscape. The road leading to Kalimpong is a sight for itself with the hills and the Teesta River combining to create an ethernal picture.

According to legend Kalimpong derived its name from three different sources. Kalimpong means a place of gathering by local tribesman, it is also the name of ruling Bhutanese king’s minister’s as well as the name of the fibrous plant Kaulim found in plentiful in the region.

A tour to Kalimpong is an ideal family vacation. Kalimpong is located 1250 m above sea level. Infused with awe inspiring scenery it provides a view of Mt Kanchenjunga along with other Himalayan peaks. Durpin Dara and Deoro Hill are the popular viewpoints. Buy a tour to India and visit Kalimpong to bask in the beauty of nature.

History of Kalimpong                                                   

Kalimpong also known as Dalingkot changed hands between Sikkimese and Bhutanese kings during the 18th century. Finally in the year 1706 the King of Bhutan won the war and annexed the territory from the Sikkimese king. He then named it Kalimpong.

Later the Anglo – Bhutan war was fought in 1864 and Bhutan lost this war. This resulted in the Treaty of Sinchula and Kalimpong was ceded to the British. At that time Kalimpong was a very small village and home to no more than two to three families. One year later it was made a subdivision of Darjeeling.

Owing to its weather it soon started flourishing as a tourist haven. Its proximity to Nathula and Jelepla passes further provided it strategic significance. This resulted in Kalimpong developing as a trading outpost. The increase in commercial activity resulted in migration of labour from nearby Nepal. This resulted in an increase in the population and economic prosperity of this place.

Tourism in Kalimpong

There are many other picturesque locations in Kalimpong other than just the hills and mountains. There are several Buddhist monastries which are a major tourist attraction in Kalimpong. The Tharpa Choeling Gompa is close to the town and belongs to Gelukpa Tibetan Buddhism sect. Another monastery called the Tongsa Gompa is the oldest of all the monsteries. The Zong Dog Palri Fo-Brang Gompa is yet another monastery and was sanctified by the Dalai Lama.

Mangal Dham covering an expanse of two acres is a divine place and counted amongst the most wonderful temples of India. There is also a well known Kali temple. Also for the tourist the Sericulture Research Institute, curio centre and Dr Graham's home which is a chapel could be other interesting places to visit.

Travel to this part of India to witness splendid sights that you unlikely to come across in other parts of the world. 

Kalimpong is also famous for being the producer of Indian gladioli in abundance. Varieties of orchids are grown in this area and exported to other parts of India. There is a laid out golf course for golf enthusiasts. In and around Kalimpong there is the Lava village which is also a worthwhile place for sightseeing and an ideal base for trekking to Neora National Park.

If you are looking to spend your summer in India , then a trip to Kalimpong must feature in your package tour.