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A small but
bustling town in the Himalaya foothills of West Bengal- Kalimpong is at
an altitude of 1250 meters. This bazaar town was originally a part of
Bhutan but later it was taken over by the British and finally it became
a part of West Bengal. Kalimpong is famous for its monasteries, Churches
and a private library for the study of Tibetan and Himalayan languages,
culture etc.. This place also has the Sericulture centre and the orchid
nurseries and of course the place provides some beautiful sights of the
Himalayan range. Though not all travellers visit this place which
demands some attention. The journey from Darjeeling along the Teesta
River is very interesting.
 The
Thongsa Gompa or Bhutanese Monastery was established in 1892. The Tharpa
Gompa was established in 1922 and belongs to the Yellow hat sect of
Tibetan Buddhism. The Zong Dog Palri Fo-Brang Gompa is five kms from the
city and was established in 1970. This Gompa has impressive wall
paintings in the prayer hall and a rare three dimensional mandala
upstairs. Good view of the mountains can be taken from the Durpin Dara
Hill.
Kalimpong has some of the best Gladiolis and orchid producing nurseries.
The flowers grown at these nurseries are exported to other countries as
well as to the Northern cities in India. The Standard and the Universal
Nurseries also specialise in Cacti. The Sericulture Research Institute
breads silkworms and silk is produced here. Through the stands of bamboo
you come to the Dr. Graham's Home this school is spread over 193
hectares and houses 1300 students. The school was established in 1900.
The Nature Interpretation center is working to conserve soil and forests
of the area. It has some fine illustrations and demonstrations on the
effect of human activity on the environment.
Kalimpong also offers some good items to be purchased. The Kalimpong is
famous for the tapestry bags and purses, copperware, scrolls and
paintings from Dr Grahams house. Shops selling Tibetan Jewellery and art
effects can be found in the streets to the east of Dambar Chowk.
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