Area
36,021 sq. km Language Bengali, Nepali, Hindi and English Best time to visit April-June STD Code 03552
INTRODUCTION
The
first thing that strikes the traveler visiting
Kalimpong is its quiet atmosphere. The peaceful
ambience that pervades is heightened by the presence
of monasteries and churches across the town. Kalimpong
is also known for its bustling bazaars and traditional
handicrafts. It is famous for its orchids
and nurseries. Kalimpong offers panoramic
view of the great Himalayan ranges that lie beyond
it.
LOCATION
Kalimpong
is located in the northern part of the state
of West Bengal, in the northeastern region
of India. It is adjacent to the state of Sikkim
and near the Teesta River. It is set amongst
the foothills of the mighty Himalayas at an altitude
of 1250 m above sea level. Kalimpong is
50 km from Darjeeling and 80 km from Gangtok.
The weather in Kalimpong is alpine. Summers
(April-June) are mild and winters
are cold (November-February). It experiences
southwestern monsoon rains in July-September.
BEST
TIME TO VISIT
The
best time to visit Kalimpong is during summer.
HISTORY
The
etymology of Kalimpong has several interpretations.
According to one view, Kalimpong means a place
where tribesmen gather and organize traditional
tribal games. The second view suggests that the
name has been derived from a place in Bhutan.
A third interpretation is that Kalimpong is named
after Kaulim, a fibrous plant found in abundance
in this region.
Until
the 18th century AD, Kalimpong was a part of the
Kingdom of Sikkim and was ruled by Sikkimese rulers.
It was then taken over by the Bhutanese. In the
19th century, the British took over Kalimpong
and merged into the present Indian state of West
Bengal.
FAIRS
& FESTIVALS
Kalimpong
hosts an annual flower festival in the month of
October.
HOW
TO REACH
BY
AIR - The nearest airport is at Bagdogra
and the nearest railhead at Siliguri. Kalimong
is linked with Gangtok and Bagdogra by road.
