Kalimpong is a charming, quiet hill town, sitting atop the lower Himalayan range. People who want to spend their vacation in tranquillity, avoiding the crowd of Darjeeling and Gangtok, can visit. A short trip from Siliguri takes you to the valleys of Kalimpong, through the monasteries, orchid nurseries, and architecture of the colonial era. A perfect short break would be a perfect opportunity to explore this lovely destination.
Kalimpong offers the right balance of leisure, nature, and culture, whether you plan to take the trip solo or with your friends and family. For this, what is most important is a trusted car rental agency in Siligurito commence the journey smoothly.
Day 1: Journey and First Impressions
Drive from Siliguri to Kalimpong
A distance of 70 km, the journey from Siliguri to Kalimpong is one of adventure and exciting views. The road along the Teesta River is surrounded by tall pine trees. The journey takes almost 3 hours to reach Kalimpong from Siliguri. The decision to hire a vehicle from a car rental agency in Siliguri allows you to follow your own pace, to stop whenever you feel like, take pictures or try to local momos.
The emerald waters of the Teesta River create the perfect mood for getting ready for the changing landscape. The almost unreal setting of the trail reminds you why this is the most chosen route for tourists. For a comfortable journey, a shared cab service or a reliable rental can help you focus on your trip.
Check into an Offbeat Stay
Kalimpong has many heritage bungalows, boutique resorts, and homestays, all located away from the hustle of the main city. Choosing any of these stays with the help of a car rental agency in Siliguri can allow you to rejuvenate in nature and absorb the quiet. Staying at a wooden cottage in Kalimpong would mean that you can enjoy a hot cup of cocoa and enjoy the view of Mt. Kanchenjunga from your balcony. This gives you the feeling of a more personal touch than the regular hotel experience.
Once you settle down, you can go for a walk through the trails. Since you’ll be living at an altitude of 4,100 ft, the cool breeze will take away all your tiredness. The fluttering flags in the quiet backdrop make the ambience hauntingly beautiful. A walk through the winding lanes and chatting with the friendly locals will be the perfect companion for your trip.
Evening at Morgan House
Once a revered British architectural bungalow, Morgan House is now maintained by the Government of West Bengal. The wide stretches of forest and hill roads make the perfect setting for photography and birdwatching. Watch the setting sun that paints the sky in orange and the landscape in warm hues. Return to your stay after a slow evening and enjoy a warm bowl of thukpa.
Day 2: Exploring Kalimpong’s Hidden Sides
Morning with Monasteries
An early trip to the Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery, popularly known as the Durpin Monastery, would be the ideal start to the second day. Offering one of the most stunning views of the landscape of the Durpin Hill, atop which it resides, it allows you to see the sweeping views of the nearby towns and valleys. Inside this Monastery, there are sacred scriptures that are still preserved. The peaceful aura of this monastery gives an insight into the deep-rooted Buddhist heritage.
From the Durpin Monastery, you can then head towards another tranquil spot with a car rental agency in Siliguri. The Tharpa Choling Monastery, not only a holy place, but it also allows the travellers to understand how Kalimpong’s cultural layers are shaped.
Stroll through Pine View Nursery
Kalimpong is known for its orchids and exotic plants. Pine View Nursery is a must-visit for plant lovers. It hosts one of the largest collections of cacti in Asia. Walking through its displays feels both surreal and inspiring. The rows of colourful flowers and unusual plant varieties add another shade to Kalimpong’s character.
Lunch at a Local Eatery
Kalimpong offers a mix of Tibetan, Nepali, and local cuisines. You can try thukpa, phaley, or traditional Nepali thali. Local eateries serve fresh food with authentic flavours, making lunch a delightful pause before exploring further.
A Walk to Delo Hill
The afternoon can be reserved for Delo Hill, the highest point of Kalimpong. It has landscaped gardens, panoramic views of Kanchenjunga, and open spaces perfect for leisure walks. On clear days, the view stretches across the Teesta River and deep into Sikkim.
Families often spend time here, while couples find quiet corners to enjoy the scenery. For those who like soft adventure, paragliding activities are also available at Delo.
Evening by the River
Before returning, take a short detour to the banks of the Teesta River. The gentle sound of flowing water, the cool breeze, and the surrounding greenery create a fitting end to the trip. Travellers who hire vehicles from a car rental agency in Siliguri can plan such detours without the limitation of fixed routes.
Why Choose Offbeat Kalimpong for a Short Stay?
Kalimpong doesn’t crowd you with too many sights. Instead, it allows you to slow down, engage with its landscapes, and connect with its people. It is less about ticking boxes and more about soaking in moments.
The monasteries reflect their spiritual roots. The nurseries showcase their bond with flora. The colonial bungalows narrate stories of another era. Together, these create a destination where history, culture, and nature come together seamlessly.
Travelling with freedom is key to enjoying this town. A trusted car rental agency in Siliguri helps you explore Kalimpong without rigid plans. Whether it’s a sudden stop at a viewpoint or an unplanned visit to a hidden village market, the flexibility makes the journey richer.
Conclusion
More than a quick escape, a trip to Kalimpong lets you reflect on your own self and seek a peaceful contemplation of life. Planning with a trusted car rental service in Siliguri lets you explore the hidden gems, take breaks as you wish, and try out the local cuisine from the street joints. From rolling hills to tea gardens to monasteries, you can feel the town’s warm embrace throughout your journey.
Kalimpong is just a short ride away from Siliguri, so the next time you are passing through here, do not miss the chance to see the beauty that this charming hill town is.
