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An update from Evaneos
Kalimpong

Kalimpong (India)

Practical information on Kalimpong

  • Viewpoint
  • Park and garden
  • Mountain
  • Place or Religious Monument
  • Off the beaten track
3 / 5 - One review
How to get there
2hr 30min drive from Darjeeling
When to go
All year round, but summer's best
Minimum stay
One day

Reviews of Kalimpong

Julie Olagnol Seasoned Traveller
91 written opinions

Kalimpong is a medium sized town in the north of West Bengal, close to border with Sikkim.

My suggestion:
If you don't have a permit for Sikkim, you can get on in Rangpo.
My review

As with most mountain towns, Kalimpong mainly attracts Indian tourists. Kalimpong is overshadowed by Darjeeling, which is also to the north of West Bengal and Gangtok to the south of Sikkim. Many western tourists don't set foot in the place.

As with its competitors, Kalimpong boasts bazaars, temples, pretty views, notably of Khangchendzonga, as well as plant nurseries. I'll no doubt finish my trip with loads of photos of Bengali families on holiday, as the Indians love having their photo taken with foreigners.

During my trip to India, Kalimpong left me a bit indifferent. The town resembles the other urban hubs in the area and I loved Darjeeling so much that it was never likely to win the race! 

The gardens, viewed from the temple at Kalimpong