Introduction to city Kalimpong - In West Bengal
small town perched at an altitude of 1,250 metres, the
first things that strike the visitor at Kalimpong are
the bustling bazaars and the places of worship that lend
a peaceful ambience to the town. It is situated in the
state of West Bengal at a distance of 50 km from Darjeeling.
Till about hundred years ago, Kalimpong used to be a tiny
hamlet. The written accounts dating back to 1865 mention
this place as one constituting of a few huts, less than
ten families and eight cows! After it was seized by the
British in the later half of the nineteenth century, the
area became a major centre for wool trade with Tibet.
In 1916, the area was made into a separate subdivision
with Kalimpong as the headquarters. Today Kalimpong has
been developed as a popular tourist resort.
The name Kalimpong has been given rise to several interpretations.
In the language of the local Lepcha tribe, Kalimpong means
the ridge where we play. Another interpretation is that
the name stands for the stronghold of the minister as
kalim means minister and pong means stronghold in Bhutanese.
One more interpretation describes Kalimpong as being named
after Kaulim, a fibrous plant found in abundance in this
region.
Kalimpong has a very mild climate. Summers are sunny and
are the best times to visit this place. The winter season
lasts from September to February when the minimum temperature
can drop to 7°C making the nights quite cold.
SightSeeing : Places to visit in
destination - Kalimpong
For lovers of natural beauty, Kalimpong is a place not
to be missed. The town offers a fascinating view of the
surrounding mountainous countryside. The scenic environs
are ideal for relaxing. Move out in the town and get immersed
in Buddhist literature and meditation in various monasteries
that dot the landscape of the town. Some of the interesting
spots in the town are Dr. Grahams Home, Tharpa Choling
Monastery, Zong Dog Palri Fo-Brang Monastery, Durpin Dara
Hill and Lepcha Museum.
Excursions : Places nearby city -
Kalimpong
Move around Kalimpong to further explore the natural
beauty of the region. The sylvan surroundings add a romantic
ambience to the region. You can also catch glimpses of
the regions history as presented by the various monasteries
and the old fort. The spots to look out for are Rississum,
Damsang Bhutanese Fort, Munsong Forest Bungalow and Chitray
Falls.
Kalimpong City Travel Guide |
Sight Seeing of Kalimpong |
Excursion in Kalimpong
Kalimpong Travel Tours |
Kalimpong Hotels |
Picture Gallery of Kalimpong
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