Nestled in the lap of the Eastern Himalayas, Teesta Bazar and Kalimpong are two charming destinations in the Indian state of West Bengal. These places are not just scenic spots but offer a rich blend of nature, adventure, and culture. While Teesta Bazar is a small riverside town known for its rafting and river views, Kalimpong is a peaceful hill station filled with old-world charm, monasteries, flower nurseries, and beautiful views.
Let’s explore both of these places in detail.
Teesta Bazar – The River Town
Location and Geography
Teesta Bazar is a small town located near the banks of the Teesta River, about 35 kilometers from Darjeeling and 15 kilometers from Kalimpong. The town lies at the meeting point of the roads that connect Sikkim and West Bengal. It is surrounded by hills and forests, making it an ideal place for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
The Teesta River
The town gets its name from the Teesta River, one of the most important rivers of Sikkim and North Bengal. The river is fast-flowing and is famous for white water rafting. The water here is greenish-blue and flows with power, especially during the monsoon. The sound of the river adds music to the otherwise quiet town.
River Rafting Adventure
Teesta Bazar is one of the best places in India to try river rafting. The rafting starts from a place near Melli and ends at Teesta Bazar. The rapids range from Grade 2 to Grade 4, which means both beginners and experienced rafters can enjoy it. The river journey passes through beautiful valleys, forests, and small villages.
Rafting is usually open between October and April when the water level is safe and the weather is pleasant.
Local Market and Crafts
Teesta Bazar has a small local market where travelers can stop and buy souvenirs. Local items like woolen clothes, handmade crafts, wooden items, and Tibetan artifacts are sold here. The market is colorful and reflects the mixed culture of the area—mainly Nepali, Lepcha, and Bhutia communities.
Kalimpong – A Hill Station of Peace
Location and Climate
Kalimpong is a beautiful hill station located at an altitude of around 1,250 meters (4,101 feet). It lies between Darjeeling and Gangtok and is just a 45-minute drive from Teesta Bazar. The climate here is mild and cool throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 7°C in winter to 25°C in summer. The town offers breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga range.
History of Kalimpong
Kalimpong was once a part of Bhutan until it was annexed by the British in the 19th century. It later became a key trade hub between India and Tibet. Many Tibetan families settled here after the Chinese invasion of Tibet in the 1950s. Because of this, Kalimpong has a strong Tibetan-Buddhist culture, which can be seen in its monasteries, food, and festivals.
Top Places to Visit in Kalimpong
1. Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery
Also called Durpin Monastery, this is one of the most famous Buddhist monasteries in Kalimpong. It is located on Durpin Hill and was built in the 1970s. The monastery has beautiful Tibetan architecture and offers stunning views of the mountains and Teesta valley.
2. Deolo Hill
Deolo is the highest point in Kalimpong and provides panoramic views of the town, the Teesta River, and snow-clad peaks. It is a great place for a picnic, paragliding, and horse riding. The sunrise from Deolo Hill is especially magical.
3. Morgan House
Morgan House is a British colonial mansion built in the 1930s. It has now been turned into a heritage hotel. The house, surrounded by pine trees, is a fine example of British architecture and adds to the old-world charm of Kalimpong.
4. Flower Nurseries
Kalimpong is known as the “Land of Flowers”. It is home to many flower nurseries that grow orchids, gladioli, gerberas, and cacti. You can visit nurseries like Pine View Nursery and Universal Nursery to see rare and exotic flowers.
5. Cactus Nursery
The Kalimpong Cactus Nursery has one of the best collections of cacti and succulents in India. It’s a must-visit spot for plant lovers and photographers.
6. Hanuman Tok
Located on a hilltop, Hanuman Tok is a peaceful temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It is famous for its giant Hanuman statue and panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Culture and Food
Kalimpong is home to a mix of communities—Nepali, Lepcha, Tibetan, and Bengali. This diversity is reflected in its festivals, music, and food. You can taste delicious local dishes such as momos (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), and sel roti.
Tibetan prayer flags, monasteries, and cheerful people make the atmosphere warm and welcoming.
Shopping in Kalimpong
Kalimpong has several small markets where you can buy traditional items. Popular things to buy include:
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Handmade woolen clothes
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Tibetan jewelry
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Wooden and bamboo crafts
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Prayer flags and singing bowls
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Local organic tea and spices
The Haat Bazaar is the main shopping area in the town.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Teesta Bazar and Kalimpong is from March to May and October to December. During these months, the weather is clear, cool, and perfect for sightseeing and rafting. Monsoon months (June to September) bring heavy rain and might cause landslides or rafting restrictions.
How to Reach
By Road:
Both Teesta Bazar and Kalimpong are well-connected by road. Taxis and buses run regularly from Siliguri, Darjeeling, and Gangtok.
By Train:
The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), which is around 70 km away. From there, taxis or buses can take you to Teesta Bazar and Kalimpong.
By Air:
The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, about 75 km from Kalimpong. Regular flights connect Bagdogra to major Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Guwahati.
Author: lekbesi
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