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.
Manali
