Kalimpong, the secret Himalayan getaway of West Bengal

There are many getaways in West Bengal, such as Darjeeling which are a bit crowded, or Kurseong which is too quiet. If you are seeking an immersive travel experience and the best of both the worlds in the state, Kalimpong is an ideal pick. There are ample of luxury stays as well as comfortable homestays here, places that let you escape from crowded sightseeing spots, and enjoy your vacation at your own pace. Kalimpong is around 50 km via road from its famous neighbour Darjeeling, and makes for a great weekend getaway. Also, there is no dearth of things to do in Kalimpong, check out.

Yes, the beautiful Morgan House is believed to be haunted by the locals. The colonial house was built in the early 1930s by Mr. and Mrs. Morgan, hence the name Morgan House. A reason why it is still visited by tourists is its beautiful location and stunning architecture that boasts of colonial elements. When here, you can opt to walk through lush and fascinating coniferous forests nearby and experience a dose of unadulterated nature.It has been converted into a hotel now, and is run by the West Bengal Tourism Department. However, you are not allowed to go upstairs.

Located in the south of the town, it is the second highest hill in the region. Known for offering panoramic views of the picturesque landscapes, you can also view the majestic version of the Kanchenjunga mountain from here. Its beauty is further enhanced by Rangeet and Teesta rivers. Apart from this, one can also pore over splendid views of neighbouring areas including western Sikkim, Peshok tea estate, Nathu-la, Takdah cantonment, Tiger Hill top, Kurseong, Siliguri, and others.

This is an ancient Buddhist monastery built under the guidance of Dalai Lama in 1975. It’s a fine testament of Buddhist architecture, and houses close to 110 published texts on Buddhism. It is one of the major religious centres in Kalimpong, from where one can also witness majestic views of the Himalayas.

This is the highest point that you can get to in Kalimpong, from where you get a chance to witness the beautiful views of the valley from an amazing height of 1700 m. Here, you can also indulge in some thrilling activities, including trekking, paragliding, and horse riding. Then, there is a freshwater reservoir surrounding the hill, and a recreational park at the top. For best views, visit the hill during sunrise.