Tuesday, October 21, 2025

Kalimpong District

 

Kalimpong District is one of the districts in the state of West Bengal, India, located in the eastern Himalayas. Here’s a concise overview:


🗺️ General Information

  • State: West Bengal

  • Headquarters: Kalimpong town

  • Formation: The district was officially created on 14th February 2017, after being carved out of the Darjeeling district.

  • Area: Approximately 1,056 sq. km

  • Altitude: Around 1,250 meters (4,100 feet) above sea level

  • Official Languages: Nepali, English, Bengali, Lepcha, and Hindi


🌄 Geography & Climate

  • Kalimpong is located on the ridge overlooking the Teesta River and the valleys of Sikkim and Bhutan.

  • It experiences a temperate climate—cool summers, mild winters, and heavy monsoon rainfall.

  • Important rivers: Teesta, Relli, Neora, and Jaldhaka.


👥 Administrative Divisions

  • Sub-Divisions:

    1. Kalimpong-I

    2. Kalimpong-II

    3. Gorubathan

  • Blocks: Kalimpong I, Kalimpong II, and Gorubathan.

  • Municipality: Kalimpong Municipality.


🌱 Economy

  • The economy largely depends on horticulture, floriculture, tourism, and tea cultivation in the surrounding hills.

  • Famous for its orchids, gladioli, and cardamom.

  • Handicrafts, traditional weaving, and ginger farming are also significant contributors.


🏞️ Tourism & Attractions

  1. Deolo Hill – highest point in Kalimpong offering panoramic views.

  2. Durpin Dara Hill – houses the Zang Dhok Palri Monastery.

  3. Teesta River – popular for rafting.

  4. Lava and Loleygaon – scenic villages known for monasteries and forests.

  5. Neora Valley National Park – rich in Himalayan biodiversity.


🏫 Education & Institutions

  • Notable institutions include:

    • Dr. Graham’s Homes (founded in 1900)

    • St. Augustine’s School

    • Kalimpong Government College

    • Central School for Tibetans


📜 Culture & Demographics

  • A mix of Nepali, Lepcha, Bhutia, and Tibetan cultures.

  • Festivals: Losar, Dasain, Tihar (Diwali), and Buddha Jayanti are celebrated widely.

  • Local cuisine includes momos, thukpa, and sel roti.

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