Kalimpong is a sleepy yet heavenly hill station lies Kalimpong district of West Bengal. This small town is blessed well with exotic scenery of gardens, mountains, and lakes. Being the paradise for nature lovers, Kalimpong has no lack of delectable local cuisines, adventure options, serene views of mountains, and historical monasteries and temples. Many tourists who visit Darjeeling include Kalimpong in their travel plan. Kalimpong Temperature in summer varies from 120C to 250C & in winter varies from 80C to 180C. There is an interesting tale behind every historical monument which is packed with rich culture and history. With that said, here is the list of some best places you must visit in this unexplored town.
Places to Visit in Kalimpong sightseeing
Dr. Graham’s House
Dr. Graham’s Home in Kalimpong is a historic institution founded by Reverend Dr. John Anderson Graham in 1900. He was a Scottish missionary who came to Kalimpong with a vision to provide education and care for underprivileged children. The school began with just six orphans but quickly grew into a thriving community.
Located on the scenic slopes of Deolo Hill, Dr. Graham’s Home spans over 500 acres. The campus has beautiful colonial-style buildings, large playgrounds, and lush green surroundings. It provides education from primary to higher secondary levels and also offers vocational training.
The school is known for its quality education and emphasis on all-round development. Students engage in academics, sports, music, and various cultural activities. The community spirit is strong, with students and staff living together like a large family.
Dr. Graham’s Home also runs a farm, dairy, and bakery, which help in making the institution self-sufficient. The annual May Fair is a major event that attracts visitors from all around, offering a glimpse into the vibrant life on campus.
Deolo Hill – Kalimpong
Delo in Kalimpong is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning views and serene environment. Perched at an altitude of around 5,500 feet, Delo offers panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range, the Teesta River, and the surrounding valleys. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers and those looking for a peaceful retreat.
The Delo Hill is home to the Delo Park, a beautifully maintained garden with vibrant flowers, manicured lawns, and walking paths. The park also has several viewpoints, where visitors can sit and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Early mornings and evenings are the best times to visit, as the sky is often clear, offering the best views of the snow-capped mountains.
Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy paragliding from Delo, which offers a thrilling experience of flying over the hills and valleys. For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, horse riding and leisurely walks are popular activities.
The Delo Tourist Lodge is a charming place to stay, offering comfortable accommodation with stunning views right from the rooms. With its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere, Delo in Kalimpong is a must-visit for anyone traveling to the region.
Thongsa Gompa
Thongsa Gompa is a Bhutanese monastery which is the oldest in the region. There is a reason you should add it to your checklist for your Kalimpong sightseeing. You can experience spiritual and serene ambiance here with 219 prayer wheels, while most monasteries have 108. Monks conduct prayer services every day where you can have a surreal experience.
Mangal Dham Temple
Stretched over 2 acres of landscapes, Mangal Dham Temple is one of the most popular and well-known tourist destinations in Kalimpong. The Samadhi of Guru Shri Mangaldas Ji is on the ground floor and the upper floor has the main temple.
The temple has several paintings related to the events of Krishna Leela. The temple attracts a lot of religious tourists.
Durpindara & Zong Dog Palri Fo Brang Gompa
Durpindara, also known as Durpin Hill, is one of the highest points in Kalimpong, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. At the top of this hill sits the Zong Dog Palri Fo Brang Gompa, a beautiful and significant Buddhist monastery. Also known as the Durpin Monastery, it was consecrated by the Dalai Lama in 1976 and is an important spiritual site in the region.
The gompa is a striking example of traditional Tibetan architecture, with vibrant colors and intricate designs. Inside, the walls are adorned with detailed murals depicting scenes from Buddhist scriptures. The main prayer hall houses a large statue of the Buddha, along with sacred texts, including the rare Kangyur scriptures.
Visitors to Durpindara are treated to panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range, the Teesta River, and the surrounding valleys. The peaceful environment makes it an ideal place for meditation and reflection. The road to the top is lined with pine trees, adding to the scenic beauty of the area.
A visit to Durpindara and Zong Dog Palri Fo Brang Gompa offers a mix of natural beauty and spiritual tranquility, making it a must-see destination in Kalimpong.
Pine View Nursery
Pine View Nursery in Kalimpong is a well-known destination for plant lovers and tourists alike. Established over four decades ago, this nursery has become famous for its extensive collection of cactus and succulent plants. Spread across several acres, Pine View Nursery houses one of the largest collections of cacti in Asia.
Visitors are greeted by rows upon rows of various cactus species, from tiny, delicate ones to towering giants. The nursery showcases over 1,500 different types of cacti and succulents, making it a unique attraction in the region. The plants are displayed in a well-organized manner, allowing visitors to explore and admire the diverse range.
The nursery also features a small garden area with other ornamental plants, adding to its charm. The lush greenery, combined with the exotic cacti, creates a picturesque setting perfect for photography. Visitors can purchase plants, seeds, and gardening supplies from the nursery’s shop, taking home a piece of Kalimpong’s natural beauty.
Pine View Nursery offers a peaceful environment, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll. Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast or just looking to enjoy a unique experience, this nursery is a must-visit in Kalimpong.
Crockety House
Last but not least; Crockety is a historical British cottage located around 50km from Darjeeling and it was built sometime around the colonial era. This place is beautifully covered by some of the lush green gardens and lawns and is a superior architectural marvel. It is among the rare locations which attract a lot of tourists all year-round. It was originally a trading hub for wool merchants who belonged to different parts of the world in the early 1900s. This place is truly a retreat for nature lovers.
Kalimpong is literally a great natural attraction that has something to attract people of all ages. Mountains, literature, hills, adventure sports, religious attractions, and colonial architecture are some of the attractions which best describe the beauty of Kalimpong.
Kalimpong – Best time to visit | Weather Temperature
You can plan your travel to Kalimpong at any time of the year. Every season will offer you a different flavor. It mainly has five seasons.
How to Reach Kalimpong
By Air
The nearest operational airport in Bagdogra (IXB). Bagdogra airport is approx 75 km away from the city, Bagdogra is directly connected with Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Guwahati, Paro & Bangkok. It is indirect connection all major cities in India.
Kalimpong City Map
Kalimpong tour packages
List of Packages (Ex Bagdogra/ Siliguri/ NJP) |
Duration |
Price Starts |
| 6 nights- 7 days | Rs.11,000/- | |
| 3 nights- 4 days | Rs.5,500/- | |
| 5 nights- 6 days | Rs.10,000/- | |
| 6 nights- 7 days | Rs.11,000/- | |
| 8 nights- 9 days | Rs.20,800/- | |
| 7 nights- 8 days | Rs.15,000/- |