About Kalimpong

Kalimpong - History

Once the headquarters of a Bhutanese Governor, the word ‘kalim’ means King’s Minister and ‘Pong’ - the stronghold of the King’s minister. It is also called ‘Kalibong’ or the black spur by the hill people. ‘Kalipong’ in local dialect stands for ‘Kaulim’ which is a fibrous plant which grows in abundance in this region. The meaning that has found the most favour is the Lepcha meaning of the name - ‘ridge where we play’. It is said that these local tribesmen used to organise field sports while not engaged in agricultural pursuits - hence its name. Somewhat secluded and tucked away in the corner under the big Darjeeling umbrella, Kalimpong offers a quiet and relaxed holiday against the backdrop of Kanchenjunga.
Kalimpong was originally part of Bhutan. In 1865, after the Anglo-Bhutan War, it was merged with Darjeeling, and became a sub-division of Darjeeling in 1916, and developed as a hill station. It flourished as a wool trading centre with Tibet till 1950, when the Chinese took over Tibet. It continues to be part of Darjeeling District, and is now an attractive tourist and educational centre.
 

How to get to Kalimpong

By Air: Nearest Airport is Bagdogra (80 kms) 3 hours drive. Bagdogra is presently connected to New Delhi, Guwahati and Calcutta, by Indian Airlines and Jet Airways.
By Rail: The nearest railheads are Siliguri 66 kms (metre gauge) and New Jalpaiguri 80 kms (Broad gauge), which connect you to all parts of India. 2 1/2 hours drive.
By Road: 66 kms from Siliguri, 79 kms from Gangtok, 51 kms from Darjeeling. All reachable under 3 hours. Connections to Bhutan and Nepal.
From New Jalpaiguri, Bagdogra, Siliguri, Darjeeling and Gangtok, taxis, share taxis and busses are available at regular intervals.