Kalimpong

Serene ambience to unwind

This small valley is truly bliss with great attractions and a serene view. Closer to Darjeeling, Kalimpong is located on the foothills of Shivalik ranges overlooking the Teesta valley. Known for monasteries, church, Tibetan handicrafts, Orchids, Kalimpong is a magnificent location for vacations. Kalimpong means stronghold of King's minister, Kalim in local means King's Minster and Pong stands for Stronghold. This hilly terrain offers a dynamic range of experiences and the greenery all around makes the place very pristine.

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History

There are several interpretations about the history of Kalimpong. Kalimpong was a part of the Kingdom of Sikkim until the 18th century and later was taken over by Bhutanese. In 1864, it was taken over the British and in 1866 was made part of the Darjeeling district. In 2017, Kalimpong was made a separate district of West Bengal.

Handicrafts

Kalimpong is known for Tibetan handicrafts and arts which are found in a wide range. Paper products are also a part of handicrafts, papers here are manufactured locally and it comes from the shrub.

Cuisine

Whenever we talk of northern Bengal, the first thing which comes to our mind is Darjeeling Tea. Starting your journey with the refreshing Darjeeling Tea is a relish in itself. A wide range of Bengali, Tibetan, and Chinese cuisine is found in the region. The must-try dishes here are Thukpa (noddle soup), and momos.

Shopping

Apart from Tibetan arts and handicrafts and paper products another must-buy items are Kalimpong cheese, Fing or glass noodles (locally prepared and sold in a packet), Dallay Khorsani (the hottest chilli peppers). There are many stores on Rishi road, a weekly market Haat Bazar is the best place to go shopping.