Kalimpong is a hill station located in the Indian state of West Bengal. It is situated in the foothills of the Himalayas at an altitude of 1250 meters (4100 ft). It is renowned for its traditional Buddhist culture and nature.
Kalimpong is home to a number of ancient monasteries and Buddhist temples, including Tharpa Choling Monastery and Mangal Dham. These religious sites offer a spiritual and cultural experience to visitors.
Kalimpong is also known for its unique cuisine, offering a variety of dishes prepared with traditional ingredients such as ginger, cardamom, garlic, and chillies. Its local markets are a great place to pick up souvenirs, such as traditional crafts and textiles.
Kalimpong is an exquisite destination that offers a unique combination of nature, culture, and adventure. With its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, Kalimpong is the perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Ideal For:
Kalimpong is renowned for its nature trails, with a wide range of outdoor activities to choose from. Trekkers can explore the rugged terrain and admire the breathtaking views of the mountains. Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy white water rafting, mountain biking and paragliding. For those looking for a more relaxed time, stroll around the quaint shops and sample the delicious local cuisine.
The weather in Kalimpong is pleasant throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for a summer getaway or a winter retreat. With its many attractions and activities, Kalimpong is ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. So pack your bags, and head to Kalimpong for an unforgettable experience.
How to reach
Reaching Kalimpong is relatively simple given the various transportation options available.
By Air: The nearest airport to Kalimpong is Bagdogra Airport, which is located about 90 kilometres away. There are several flights to Bagdogra from major cities in India. Once you reach Bagdogra, you can hire a cab or take a bus to Kalimpong.
By Rail: The nearest railway station to Kalimpong is New Jalpaiguri, located approximately 95 kilometres away. There are several trains connecting New Jalpaiguri to major cities in India. Once you reach New Jalpaiguri, you can take a cab or a bus to Kalimpong.
By Road: Kalimpong is well connected by road to major cities in West Bengal and nearby states. There are regular buses from cities like Kolkata, Gangtok, Siliguri, Darjeeling, and Shillong. You can also hire a cab from any of these cities to reach Kalimpong.
Climate and best time to visit:
Kalimpong has a subtropical climate with hot summers and cold winters. Summers in Kalimpong usually run from mid-March to mid-June, when the temperature ranges from 20 degrees Celsius to 25 degrees Celsius. The monsoon season starts in June and lasts until September. October to mid-March is the best time to visit Kalimpong, as the weather is cool and pleasant.
The average temperature in Kalimpong during winter is around 8-10 degrees Celsius. The coldest months are December and January, when temperatures can drop to below 5 degrees Celsius at night.
Kalimpong experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season. The rainy season is usually marked by frequent thunderstorms, lightning and hailstorms.
Being situated in the Himalayan region, Kalimpong also experiences snowfall between November and March. The best time to witness snowfall in Kalimpong is in the month of December.
Overall, the best time to visit Kalimpong is from October to March, when the climate is cool and pleasant.
Ideal Duration:
The ideal duration to stay in Kalimpong would be between two to four days. This will give you enough time to explore the many attractions the town has to offer. You can start your day at the Durpin Dara Hill, the highest point of Kalimpong, and take in the stunning view of the Kanchenjunga range. The town is also home to several ancient monasteries, temples, churches, and museums that are sure to captivate your imagination.
You can also spend some time exploring the local markets, where you can buy handicrafts, pottery, and other souvenirs. If you're looking for outdoor activities, there are plenty of options available, such as trekking, paragliding, and rafting.
At the end of your stay, you can take part in one of the many festivals held in Kalimpong. These include the Kalimpong Festival, the Ramkrishna Festival, and the Maghe Mela.
So, if you're planning a holiday to Kalimpong, two to four days should be the ideal duration to stay here. Enjoy your time in this beautiful hill station!
Places to Stay:
When visiting Kalimpong, there are many places to stay. Here are some of the top options:
These are just a few of the many places to stay in Kalimpong, West Bengal. Whether you are looking for a luxurious retreat or a simple and comfortable place to stay, Kalimpong has something for everyone.
