Things to do in Kalimpong for a Sweet Escape into the Hills

Mr and Mrs Morgan created the Morgan House in the 1930s which is an archetypal example of colonial architecture in Kalimpong which is present in the district of Darjeeling in West Bengal. The Morgan House is also known as the 'Haunted House'. However, it is now under the administration of the West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation Ltd and has been converted into a lodge for tourists. Exuding an aura of mystery and regality, the Morgan House Lodge is a charming tourist spot. Visiting here is one of the topmost touristy things to do in Kalimpong.

Deolo Hills are located at an elevation of around 2000 m and thus, provide a great panoramic view of Kalimpong. There are also proper view points which are located at the ridge edges for the best view of the sunset and sunrise. The hills are also an ideal spot for trekking an hiking. If you are an adventure enthusiast, you should definitely include visiting here in your bucket list of things to do in Kalimpong.

The land of the largest number of commercial flower nurseries Kalimpong nurseries specialize in cultivation of exotic beautiful flowers and export these flowers to different parts of the country. There are numerous nurseries across the town so you can enjoy some sweet time there. One of such nurseries is Pine View Nursery which is famous for exotic cacti.

One of the prime things to do in Kalimpong is scaling the Durpin Dara Hill and enjoying the scenic view of the valley from up above. Offering the panoramic view of the town of Kalimpong, the snow-clad Himalayan ranges of West Sikkim, the Teesta river and its valleys, Durpin Dara Hill also has a golf course and the Zang Dhok Palri Monastery. There is also a famous botanical garden there.

Kalimpong is known to produce premium quality cheese which is known as Kalimpong Cheese. This cheese is crumby, slightly tangy and with little smell. There are several cafes in and around town where you can have this cheese as much as you want. You can also take it back home. One of the most popular shops to purchase cheese from is Lark's situated on the D.B. Giri Road.

Consecrated by Dalai Lama in 1976 Jang Dong Palriffo Brang Gompa is also known as Durpin Monastery. The monastery serves as a sample of Buddhist construction style with beautiful paintings on the walls and the sacred Kunguyar serve as an important feature of this monastery. Ths place offers peaceful and calm atmosphere along with the beauty of the Himalayan ranges.

Teesta River with its green surroundings is the best choice for Rafting in Kalimpong. The rafting trips in Teesta river starts mostly at Melli Bridge and culminate at Geilkhola in Kalimpong. Get ready for the excitement and roller coaster rapids on the Teesta River exploring the mesmerizing beauty of North East region of India. River rafting is one of the top thrilling things to do in Kalimpong. Be sure to not miss out on the high adrenaline rush and all the fun.

Built by the British wool traders in 18th century, Crockety is a bungalow famous for its architectural design and the breathtaking surroundings. Nobel Laureate Rabindra Nath Tagore broadcasted his work Janmadin on his birthday on All India Radio from behind Crockety. Visiting here is one of the topmost things to do in Kalimpong.

One can shop for all kinds of commodities from this market including many handicraft items and artifacts, variety of wares from China, Tibet and Bhutan. The local items like thankas, daggers, tea cups, footwear and lanterns are also available here. One can also pick Copper and Silver ware, Jewelry items, fruits, vegetables and cloths. All of these are perfect souvenirs to take back home.

Kalimpong is a good place for Hiking and you can also take help from guide. The altitude of about 1500 m in Kalimpong offers mild to medium challenges. There are several groups which also offer hiking and camping facilities. You can also camp under the stars and enjoy a bonfire. If you are an adventure enthusiast, you should definitely go on a hiking expedition.

Linking humans to nature, this centre established and managed by forest department conducts research on the impact of human activities on the Environment. The museum contains information, pictures, photographs and books on ecology and environment. Visiting the museum here is one of the top things to do in Kalimpong especially for the nature lovers.

The oldest Bhutanese Monastery established in 1692, Thongsa Gompa, is also known as Bhutanese Monastery. The monastery is a perfect place for meditation. It has 220 small prayers wheels surrounding it. Besides being a perfect calm place to meditate and find peace, the Gompa is also known for its intricate architecture and magnificence.

Known for its research in sericulture and is a place for breeding the silkworms, it works closely with the farmers in developing self-help groups and in the cultivation and sale of different stages of silk production. Be sure to include visiting here in your topmost things to do in Kalimpong, as the trip is not going to be just educative and informative but also highly entertaining.

Another British Bungalow, Galingka offers spectacular views of the Kanchenjunga peak- the second highest Himalayan peaks. The ancient bungalow is believed to have been built by a British wool trader. It was used at the stop over house during trade exchanges. Besides offering gorgeous views of the surroundings and the valley below, the place is also a popular picnic spot. Be sure to include visiting here in your top list of things to do in Kalimpong.

Art Cafe is a very dainty quaint cafe in Kalimpong popular for its pleasant ambiance and sumptuous food. Especially popular among the coffee aficionados, the place also boasts of serving delicious aged cheese. Besides, it has an elaborate collection of books for its guests and it offers a very enchanting view of the valley outside the window. Be sure to absolutely include visiting here in your top list of things to do in Kalimpong.

Built by local craftsmen the church resembles a Bhutanese Gompa(monastery) and it is built in Tibetan architectural design. While the walls are enriched with paintings and inscriptions from the Bible the doors of the church have carvings which resemble tashi tagye (the 8 auspicious symbols of the Himalayan Buddhism).

Founded in 1912 Tharpa Choeling Monastery is situated at the Tirpai Hills in Kalimpong and is one of the oldest gompas here. The monastery is famous for housing several ancient scriptures and other literary works.

Established in 1986, Neora Valley National Park finds itself in the Kalimpong district of West Bengal. Spreading over an area of 88 sq km, it is one of the richest biological zones in eastern India. It gets its name from the river Neora that flows through it. Due to the luxurious growth of forest cover, many areas in the park are still inaccessible. This untouched destination becomes an adventurous place for nature lovers and trekkers who wish to explore its wilderness. Be sure to include it in your top list of things to do in Kalimpong.

Lepcha Museum is an initiative to preserve the culture and values of the Lepcha tribe that resides in the areas around Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Sikkim, Nepal and Bhutan. The museum has relics and objects of everyday use like articles of worship, musical instruments, handicrafts items, manuscripts etc. all used by the Lepcha people.

Himalayan Handmade Paper Industry is a small scale industry cum workshop where you can visit to watch the entire process of creating paper from pulp, more so recycling it. The recycled paper is then used for block- printing the Buddhist scriptures. It is also used as notebooks for kids and handmade greeting cards.

Famous as a farm Bungalow built by the British, Ringking farm on the Himalayan foothills popular for a resort holiday and trekking. Overlooking a mesmerizing valley and flooded with lush greenery and a pleasant environment, it is one of the top tourist destinations of the city. You can also interact with the local tribes and village people here.