Welcome to the new Incredible India Digital Portal! While we are continuously updating and improving the site, we would love to hear your suggestions for features or content you'd like to see. Please share your feedback at info.mot@gov.in.

Buddha Statue in the Tharpa Choling Monastery in Kalimpong, West Bengal, India,

Mystical allure of Kalimpong hills

2 Days | Kalimpong

Buddha Statue in the Tharpa Choling Monastery in Kalimpong, West Bengal, India,
map


Route distance :

20 km

Route distance :

20 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 various cultures, exploring the ethnicity of Kalimpong is a good way. With a diverse population comprising Nepalese, Tibetan, and Bhutanese communities, there is a blend of traditions evident from the festivities of the region.

Unveiling the spiritual richness of Kalimpong

Day 1
Zang Dhok Palri Phodang is a Buddhist monastery in Kalimpong in West Bengal, India. The monastery is located atop Durpin Hill. It was consecrated in 1976 by the visiting Dalai Lama.
  • 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 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 to Lord Shiva and Goddess Durga. The temple is shrouded in a divine glow that enhances the enchanting charm exuded. The spiritual sanctity is adorned with elaborate and intricate carvings that narrate the tales of Goddess Durga mesmerising the devotees. 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 built in the early 1900s. It has seen a drastic transformation from a British residence to a Helena Roerich Museum dedicated to her philosophical and cultural works of Russia. Close the day with a visit to Durpin Monastery, founded in 1970 and revered as a legendary architectural and heritage site and pilgrimage center. This is also known as Zang Dhok Palri Phodang, a centre of Tibetan Buddhism offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills.

More information
You may enjoy

Glimpses of colonial grace and spiritual serenity

Day 2
2-galingka-bungalow--wb2
  • Witness breathtaking views of Mount Kanchenjunga

  • 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 ancient 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. The foundation was laid in 1940 under the esteemed guidance of Guruji Shri Mangaldasji Maharaj to spread spiritual values and engrave devotional morals deep into the hearts of the devotees.

Then, proceed to Geden Tharpa Choling Monastery to embrace the ancient relics and crafts in the hidden chamber protected for lasting preservation. You can soak in some Tibetan Buddhist culture through the elaborate historical records that transport you back to the times when the Monastery was set to be built. Wrap up your day at Hanuman Mandir, a towering temple consisting of a 30-foot-tall statue revered for its enormous and intricate design. The temple is raised upon a hilltop that provides breathtaking views of Mount Kanchenjunga when there is optimal visibility. This temple offers a sense of divine tranquillity and a feeling of immersing in nature.