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 center 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 center. The first thing that strikes the traveler visiting Kalimpong is its quiet atmosphere. The peaceful ambience that pervades is heightened by the presence of monasteries and churches across the town. Kalimpong is also known for its bustling bazaars and traditional handicrafts. It is famous for its orchids and nurseries. Kalimpong offers panoramic view of the great Himalayan ranges that lie beyond it. The panoramic view of the Kanchenchunga range from here is one of the significant highlights. Kalimpong is known for its cool weather throughout the year. It is truly a garden town with numerous shaded walks along forest roads. Among interesting places in the city is Dr. Graham's Home, a vast educational complex which is picturesquely build on 500 acres of hill side unique educational institution, started in 1900 by Dr. John Anderson Graham, a Missionary, with six orphans, on the slopes of Kalimpong’s highest hill, Dealo, has today a strength of well over 700 boys and girls who are accommodated in small cottages and hostels in a picturesque set-up. It has its own diary, poultry, farm and bakery and every year in the month of May the school organises "MAYFAIR". A day’s visit there can be enthralling.

.: How to reach :.

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.

.: General Information :.