Kalimpong is situated in the Lesser Himalayan range or the Mahabharat Range. Situated at an elevation of 4,101 feet, Kalimpong is well known for its educational institutes that were set up during the British period. It is also known for its flower market where a wide range of orchids are available. Kalimpong is home to a number of ethnic tribes and non-native migrants and is an important Buddhist religious centre. The most popular Buddhist tourism attraction is the Zang Dhok Palri Phodang which contains a number of rare Buddhist scriptures.
Another tourist attraction of Kalimpong is the Kalimpong Science Centre. It has been established under the Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council and provides useful information on science and spreads awareness among the locals of the region. Kalimpong is situated on a ridge between two hills-the Deolo and Durpin Hill. Deolo Hill is the highest peak in Kalimpong. The River Teesta flows below the ridge and separates the town from Sikkim.
Tourism is a major contributor to the economy of Kalimpong. The busiest tourist seasons are during summer and spring. The landscape is in full bloom and the pleasant weather attracts innumerable tourists to the city. Kalimpong is known for its ginger and tea cultivation. In the earlier days, it was an important trade centre between India and Tibet and the re-opening of the Nathu la pass is expected to boost the development in the state.
Kalimpong is well connected by roads. It is situated on the National Highway 31 A which connects the town to Gangtok. The nearest airport is the Bagdogra Airport near Siliguri and the nearest railway station is the New Jalpaiguri station.
