Descriptions

Kalimpong is a serene hill town in the eastern Himalayas of West Bengal, India, perched around 1,250 m (4,100 ft) above sea level on a ridge overlooking the Teesta River. It blends Lepcha, Bhutia, Nepali, and Bengali influences, giving it a laid-back, culturally rich vibe distinct from nearby Darjeeling. The climate is mild and misty, with cool summers, vibrant monsoons, and crisp winters; on clear days you get sweeping views of Kanchenjunga.

Once part of a trade route between Tibet, Bhutan, and India, Kalimpong still shows its colonial and monastic heritage. It’s known for excellent schools, flower nurseries (especially orchids and cacti), and quiet neighborhoods broken up by forested hills. Markets feel intimate and local—don’t miss the “haat” (open market) days for regional produce, spices, and handmade goods.