Morgan House is one of the most beautiful and historic buildings in Kalimpong, a peaceful hill town in West Bengal, India. This charming mansion sits on top of Durpin Dara Hill and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and valleys. Built during the British colonial period, Morgan House is more than just a guest house—it’s a journey into the past, wrapped in the beauty of the Himalayas.
History of Morgan House
Morgan House was built in the 1930s by George Morgan, a wealthy English jute baron. He constructed this large mansion to celebrate his marriage to a woman from a family of indigo plantation owners. The couple lived in the mansion and hosted many parties and social gatherings during the British rule in India. It served as their summer retreat away from the heat of the plains.
After the Morgans passed away and left no heirs, the property was left vacant. Following India’s independence, the estate was taken over by the Indian government. In 1965, the West Bengal Tourism Department began maintaining it, turning the mansion into a heritage guest house that tourists can now stay in.
Architecture and Style
Morgan House is a great example of British colonial architecture. The building is made of stone and has a steep roof, high ceilings, large windows, and wooden staircases. The house is surrounded by wide lawns, flower gardens, and old trees. The exterior is partly covered with thick green ivy, which gives it a mysterious and romantic appearance.
Inside, the rooms have wooden floors and antique furniture. The tall windows allow natural light to flood in, giving the place a warm and welcoming feel. The large fireplace in the lounge, the antique wall paintings, and the creaky wooden staircases all add to its old-world charm.
Location and Surroundings
Morgan House is located about 2 km from the main town of Kalimpong, on top of Durpin Dara Hill. From here, visitors get a breathtaking view of the Himalayan range, including the majestic Kanchenjunga mountain. On clear days, the views stretch across valleys, forests, and distant rivers.
The property itself covers about 16 acres of green land and is close to several popular tourist spots like the Durpin Monastery, Army Golf Course, and the famous Himalayan Hotel. The peaceful surroundings, fresh air, and natural beauty make it a perfect place for relaxation.
Famous Guests
Over the years, many well-known people have stayed at Morgan House. These include India’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, world-famous singer Kishore Kumar, and Bollywood stars like Uttam Kumar, Nargis, and Sunil Dutt. Their visits have been recorded in old photographs and documents that are displayed inside the house. It’s a place where history and celebrity charm come together.
Mystery and Ghost Stories
Morgan House is also famous for being one of the “haunted” places in Kalimpong. Local legends say that the spirit of Lady Morgan, the wife of George Morgan, still roams the mansion. Guests and staff have claimed to hear footsteps, whispers, and mysterious sounds in the hallways, especially at night.
However, many guests enjoy the idea of staying in a place with a little mystery. Whether or not the ghost stories are true, they add to the charm and curiosity of Morgan House.
Modern-Day Guest House
Today, Morgan House is managed by the West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation (WBTDC). It functions as a heritage hotel where guests can book rooms and enjoy a unique stay. The staff is friendly, and the service is simple but comfortable. There are different types of rooms—some deluxe, some standard—all filled with vintage furniture and large windows with mountain views.
The guest house does not have flashy facilities like modern hotels, but what it offers is far more special: peace, beauty, history, and a rare experience of living in a colonial mansion. It’s a great place for couples, writers, photographers, and nature lovers who want to spend some quiet days in the hills.
Best Time to Visit
Morgan House can be visited all year round, but the best months are from March to June and September to November. During these periods, the weather is pleasant, and the skies are usually clear, offering wonderful views of the mountains.
In winter, temperatures can drop sharply, especially at night. But the cold adds a cozy feeling, especially when you sit near the fireplace in the lounge with a cup of tea.
What to Do While Staying There
Staying at Morgan House gives you easy access to many attractions in Kalimpong. Some nearby places you can explore include:
-
Durpin Monastery: A peaceful Buddhist monastery offering great views of the town.
-
Deolo Hill: A hilltop park ideal for picnics and paragliding.
-
Cactus Nursery: Famous for its collection of rare and beautiful cactus plants.
-
Kalimpong Arts and Crafts Center: A place to learn about local handicrafts and culture.
-
Army Golf Course: A scenic golf course just next to Morgan House.
In addition to sightseeing, you can simply enjoy long walks in the garden, birdwatching, reading by the window, or taking photographs of the beautiful surroundings.
Why Visit Morgan House?
Morgan House is more than just a place to sleep. It is a place that tells stories—of British rulers, of love and mystery, of famous visitors, and of a time when life was slower and quieter. It is the perfect mix of history, nature, and charm. Unlike big hotels, it offers a homely feel and personal touch that stays in your memory long after your visit.
For those who want to experience a slice of colonial India while enjoying the peaceful hills of Kalimpong, Morgan House is the perfect choice. It’s romantic, mysterious, and incredibly beautiful.
Author: lekbesi
..