Kalimpong

Kalimpong is a hill town and the administrative center of Kalimpong district in the state of West Bengal, India. Located at an elevation around 1,200–1,300 meters in the eastern Himalayas, it sits on a ridge above the Teesta and Relli valleys near the borders with Sikkim and Bhutan. The town is connected by road to Siliguri via National Highway 10 and serves as a gateway to nearby hill stations. The climate is temperate, with cool winters and mild summers.

Historically, Kalimpong was influenced by the kingdoms of Sikkim and Bhutan and developed as a British hill station and trading outpost in the 19th century. It remained part of the Darjeeling region under Indian administration, and in 2017 Kalimpong became a separate district within West Bengal.

The local economy centers on horticulture and floriculture, with numerous nurseries producing orchids, rhododendrons and other plants. The Kalimpong Cactus Garden is a notable attraction. Education has a long-standing presence here, including Dr Graham's Homes, established in 1900, along with other schools and colleges that serve the region.

Tourism plays an important role, with landmarks such as Zang Dhok Palri Monastery on Durpin Hill and panoramic viewpoints from Deolo Hill and Durpin Dara. The town hosts a mix of cultures, with Nepali, Lepcha and Bhutia communities contributing to local markets, crafts and cuisine. Languages commonly spoken include Nepali, Bengali and English.

Transport links include road access from Siliguri, with the nearest airport at Bagdogra and rail access via Siliguri and New Jalpaiguri.