Buddha statue and stupas in the Tharpa Choling Monastery in Kalimpong, West Bengal, India

Escape to the hills: 4 days in Kalimpong

4 Days | Kalimpong

Buddha statue and stupas in the Tharpa Choling Monastery in Kalimpong, West Bengal, India
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Route distance :

73.7 km

Route distance :

73.7 km

The kaleidoscopic allure of Kalimpong: Your ideal getaway

Nestled quietly in the tranquil foothills of the mighty Himalayas in West Bengal is Kalimpong, a charming yet animated hilltop adorning itself with a plethora of cultural and natural marvels. With its intermingling Tibetan, Nepali, and Lepcha influences, this township stands as a testimony to harmony amid diversity exemplified through its manifold architectural styles. During a four-day expedition, you'll dive right into the core of this captivating habitat. Discover serenity within spiritual retreats like Dharmodaya Vihar and Durpin Monastery whilst taking a step back in time and visiting vestiges from the British era such as Crookety House and Galingka Bungalow.

For those keen on expanding their knowledge about the world around them, the Nature Interpretation Centre and Kalimpong Science Centre promise an intriguing voyage of exploration. Experience first-hand the distinctive legacy of the Lepcha community through their dedicated museum and fuel your adventurous spirit through an excursion to Neora Valley National Park's verdant landscapes. Find solace within sanctified spaces like Mangal Dham and Geden Tharpa Choling Monastery serving as calming outlets amidst more active ventures just as Hanuman Mandir manifests the area's religious inclusivity.

Unveiling the spiritual richness of Kalimpong

Day 1
crookety-house
  • Traverse through a tapestry of faiths and architectural beauty

  • Highlights

    Dharmodaya Vihar, Durga Mandir, Crookety House, Durpin Monastery

Start your day with a hearty breakfast featuring the local favourite, Thukpa, a filling traditional Tibetan noodle soup from one of the eateries nearby. Your spiritual journey in Kalimpong begins at Dharmodaya Vihar, a haven of Buddhist serenity adorned with colourful flags fluttering in the wind. As you leave, consider purchasing some Tibetan prayer flags from nearby stalls as a keepsake.

From there, move to Durga Mandir, a Hindu temple where devotees flock to pay their respects. By visiting these religious landmarks, you'll witness the harmonious blend of different faiths in Kalimpong.

Next, you'll find yourself stepping back in time at the Crookety House, an iconic colonial-era bungalow. Close the day with a visit to Durpin Monastery, a centre of Tibetan Buddhism offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills.

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Glimpses of colonial grace and spiritual serenity

Day 2
2-galingka-bungalow
  • Immerse in the grandeur of Kalimpong's spiritual havens

  • Highlights

    Galingka Bungalow, Mangal Dham, Geden Tharpa Choling Monastery, Hanuman Mandir

Start your day by indulging in some delicious Momos and Phagshapa, or try some traditional Laphing if you want a spicy kick in your meal before heading out. Your first stop is the charming Galingka Bungalow, another relic from the British colonial era, where the beautiful architecture tells tales of bygone times.

Not far from the bungalow, explore the unique shops around it that offer Tibetan carpets and more. Mangal Dham, an intricately designed temple complex, will be your next stop, offering you moments of tranquillity amidst a beautiful garden.

Then, proceed to Geden Tharpa Choling Monastery to soak in some Tibetan Buddhist culture, before wrapping up your day at Hanuman Mandir, a towering temple dedicated to the monkey god of Hinduism.

A day of science, culture, and nature

Day 3
lepcha-museum-kalimpong-west-bengal-tri-iter-day3
  • Enjoy bird-watching at the Nature Interpretation Centre

  • Highlights

    Nature Interpretation Centre, Lepcha Museum, Kalimpong Science Centre

Fuel your day with a nutritious bowl of Thenthuk, complete with hand-pulled noodles, fresh herbs, vegetables, as well as meat. Start with the Nature Interpretation Centre, perfect for birdwatching enthusiasts to catch sights of unique birds like the Scarlet Minivet, Himalayan Griffon, Black Bulbul, and Verditer Flycatcher, among others.

This is followed by a visit to the Lepcha Museum, which delves deep into the culture and history of the indigenous Lepcha community. Finally, the Kalimpong Science Centre will leave you astounded with its variety of interactive exhibits. While moving from one attraction to another, don't forget to browse through local markets for some trinkets or souvenirs.

Historic homes and wilderness wonders

Day 4
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  • Explore the wild beauty of Neora Valley National Park

  • Highlights

    Morgan House, Neora Valley National Park

Kickstart the day with a sumptuous breakfast featuring Churpee, a type of traditional smoked Himalayan cheese, along with some fresh toast and coffee. Begin your last day at Morgan House, a colonial mansion known for its splendid architecture and haunted tales.

After taking in its grandeur, venture into Neora Valley National Park. Here, choose to go trekking in the lap of nature, immersing yourself in the flora and fauna that make this place a biodiversity hotspot. Established in 1986, it is the land of the elegant Red Panda immersed in the natural habitat painting the picture of serenity.