Kalimpong

Kalimpong is a hill station in the Mahabharat Range (or Lesser Himalaya) in the Indian state of West Bengal. It is located at an average elevation of 1,250 metres (4,101 ft). The town is the headquarters of the Kalimpong subdivision, a part of the district of Darjeeling. The Indian Army's 27 Mountain Division is located on the outskirts of the town.

Kalimpong is known for its educational institutions many of which were established during the British colonial period. It used to be a gateway in the trade between Tibet and India prior to China's annexation of Tibet and the Sino-Indian War. Kalimpong and neighbouring Darjeeling were major centres calling for a separate Gorkhaland state in the 1980s.

Prime Attractions of Kalimpong

Kalimpong, located on a ridge overlooking River Teesta, is a tourist destination owing to its temperate climate and proximity to popular tourist locations in the region. Horticulture is also important to Kalimpong: it has a flower market notable for its wide array of orchids; nurseries, which export Himalayan grown flower bulbs, tubers and rhizomes, contribute to the economy of Kalimpong Home to ethnic Nepalis, indigenous ethnic groups and non-native migrants from other parts of India, the town also is a religious centre of Buddhism. The Buddhist monastery Zang Dhok Palri Phodang holds a number of rare Tibetan Buddhist scriptures

How to Reach Kalimpong

Foreigners visiting Kalimpong must possess an Indian visa. No special permit is required for either traveling or trekking inside Kalimpong. However, necessary travel documents need to be shown as and when required.

Local Transport - Tourist Cars, Tourist mini coaches and Taxis are available for transfer of passengers between Kalimpong and Siliguri/New Jalpaiguri Junction/ Bagdogra, and also for sightseeing at fixed rates and may be reserved through Tourist Bureau, Govt. of West Bengal, Kalimpong. Private Taxis, Jeeps and Landrovers are available for local sightseeing in and around Kalimpong.

By Air - Bagdogra Airport is 80 km (3 hours) from Kalimpong. LOCAL AIRLINES: Indian Airlines; Jet Airways

By Road - Kalimpong is connected with all weather metalled road with Siliguri, Gangtok, Darjeeling etc.

By Rail - The closest Railhead is at New Jalpaiguri which is around 77 km away from Kalimpong.