Kalimpong, town, extreme northern West Bengal state, northeastern India, lying just east of the Tista River. The town, a hill station in the Siwalik (Shiwalik) Range, is linked by road with Darjiling (Darjeeling), Siliguri, and Baghdogra and is the terminus of the mule trade route from Tibet (China). It has a large bazaar and conducts a brisk trade in raw wool. Kalimpong holds an annual agricultural produce and stock fair and is well known for its handicrafts (especially weaving). The town has a hospital, an arts-and-crafts training centre, and a college affiliated with the University of North Bengal.
Kalimpong, town, extreme northern West Bengal state, northeastern India, lying just east of the Tista River. The town, a hill station in the Siwalik (Shiwalik) Range, is linked by road with Darjiling (Darjeeling), Siliguri, and Baghdogra and is the terminus of the mule trade route from Tibet (China). It has a large bazaar and conducts a brisk trade in raw wool. Kalimpong holds an annual agricultural produce and stock fair and is well known for its handicrafts (especially weaving). The town has a hospital, an arts-and-crafts training centre, and a college affiliated with the University of North Bengal.
Dr. Grahams Homes School:
Founded in 1900 by Dr. Graham Homes it was established as a self contained orphanage-cum-school for Eurasians (Anglo Indians). Spread over an area of about 500 acres, it has a dairy, poultry, bakery and a swimming pool besides the normal infrastructure of a school. It now has pupils from all races and religions.
Thapra Choling Monastery:
Founded in 1937, this monastery belongs to the Gelugpa sect and is the repository of old scriptures and documents.
Durpin Dara:
It is an observatory point, 3 km away from the main town from where one can relish the wonderful view of the town, rivers, mountains and the plains of Siliguri.
Zong Dog Parli Fo-Brang Monastery:
A fairly new monastery located at Durpin Dara and belonging to the Nyingmapa Sect of Tibetan Buddhism. It commands a panoramic view of Kalimpong town and it’s surrounding.
Thongsa Monastery:
It is the oldest monastery in this area and was founded in 1692. It is also known as the Bhutan Monastery as it was founded by the Bhutanese who still pay for its upkeep.
Flower Nurseries:
The name of Kalimpong has become synonymous with flower nurseries. Kalimpong is blessed with a weather and soil which are very favorable to the growth of orchids, roses, gladioli, dahlias, cactus and ornamental plants. The flowers are exported within and outside India. Universal, Standard and Flowerwood are some of the well known nurseries.
Arts And Crafts Centers:
Situated in the heart of town, this center produces and sells a wide variety of handicrafts like wall scrolls, dolls and masks. Founded in 1897 by Mrs. Catherine Graham, it’s purpose was to promote and propagate local handicrafts as well as provide local employment. Burnt down during the agitation of 1986-88,it has been partially revived in a temporary structure.
Raja Dorjee market:
A visit to this local market in the heart of the town, on the market day, is a unique experience. All the villagers from the adjoining areas flock in to sell their wares and the market sports a festive look with throngs of colourful people.
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Area: 3.5 Sq. miles
Altitude: 1250 metres (4100 ft)
Population: 40,000 (approx)
Climate: Summer : 27°C Max - Min 17.2°C
Winter : 15°C Max - Min 7.2 °C
Rainfall: 86.20 inches annually
Best Season: March to mid June & September to December
Clothing: Tropical in summer and light woollen in winter
Language Spoken: English, Gorkha, Bengali & Hindi
