Thursday, 26 May 2011
Festivals in Kalimpong
In Kalimpong festivals celebrated by varied cultures and through their special rituals. Most of the Hindu and Tibetan festivals follow the lunar calendar and so the date of the festival does not fall on the exact date the next year. Some of the festivals celebrated in Kalimpong are as follows:-
During the month of Kartik in the Bikram Sambat calendar (late September and early October), the Nepalese people indulge in the biggest festival of the year, Dashain. Dashain is the longest and the most auspicious festival in the Nepalese annual calendar, celebrated by Nepalese of all caste and creed throughout the country. The fifteen days of celebration occurs during the bright lunar fortnight ending on the day of the full moon. Dasain festival is also known as the Durgapuja.
In several parts of Kalimpong, Dashain is the only time of the year when people receive a set of new clothing. Likewise, in poorer families, the animal sacrifice is eagerly anticipated since it might be the only animal protein the family would eat all year.
In Kalimpong alone more than 50 pandals are set up, all clamouring for the admiration and praise of the populace. The city is adorned with lights. People from all over the country visit the city at this time, and every night is one mad carnival where thousands of people go 'pandal-hopping' with their friends and family.
In recent times, Dashain has become commercialized, with industries sponsoring events around the festival to sell goods.
Already 80 per cent of the hotel rooms in town are booked. “Many of the visitors are parents of students in different residential schools in Kalimpong.
Students participate in the “fest” in large numbers. The marching band display by school contingents is one of the highlights of the programme. All education institutions remain closed for three days. The last day is to allow students to rest after weeks of toil.
A special committee, comprising people from various walks of life, oversees the preparation of the celebrations. The fest met under the leadership of renound personality of this place.
All the events, including football matches, are held at the Mela Ground over two days. However, only a lucky few hundreds manage to get in the ground, the remaining lot flood every nook and cranny of the town. Such is the rush that vehicles are not allowed to enter the town.
Christmas is the most important festival Christians families in Kalimpong. Christian families in Kalimpong decorate banana or mango trees instead of traditional pine tree. They also light small oil-burning lamps as Christmas decorations and fill their churches with red flowers. As a part of their celebration they give Christmas gifts to their family members and token of money to poor people as charity. People decorate their houses and churches with poinsettia flowers for the midnight mass. In South India, the Christians put small clay lamps on the rooftops and walls of their houses at Christmas, just as the Hindus do during their festival called Diwali. The Christians play carol (singing party) with their family and friends. They visit to their relatives and friends homes and play till late night.
People of Kalimpong start their festival with large procession throughout the town and ends in Shakti dham in Mela ground. People from different communities reach here to celebrate this festival. They organize different cultural programs according to their caste and community.
Dashain / Durgapuja
During the month of Kartik in the Bikram Sambat calendar (late September and early October), the Nepalese people indulge in the biggest festival of the year, Dashain. Dashain is the longest and the most auspicious festival in the Nepalese annual calendar, celebrated by Nepalese of all caste and creed throughout the country. The fifteen days of celebration occurs during the bright lunar fortnight ending on the day of the full moon. Dasain festival is also known as the Durgapuja.In several parts of Kalimpong, Dashain is the only time of the year when people receive a set of new clothing. Likewise, in poorer families, the animal sacrifice is eagerly anticipated since it might be the only animal protein the family would eat all year.
In Kalimpong alone more than 50 pandals are set up, all clamouring for the admiration and praise of the populace. The city is adorned with lights. People from all over the country visit the city at this time, and every night is one mad carnival where thousands of people go 'pandal-hopping' with their friends and family.
In recent times, Dashain has become commercialized, with industries sponsoring events around the festival to sell goods.
Tihar/ Deepawali
Tihar, the festival of lights is one of the most dazzling of all Hindu festivals. In this festival we worship Goddess Laxmi, the Goddess of wealth. It heralds the month of Kartik (October/November) starting with Kukur Puja-Narak Chaturdashi.Independence Day
Independence Day celebrations is the hill town’s biggest “festival”. Kalimpong is unique in that it celebrates the occasion on two days: August 15 and 16. The “festivity” is held on such a large scale that even people from neighbouring towns gather here to witness the spectacle.Already 80 per cent of the hotel rooms in town are booked. “Many of the visitors are parents of students in different residential schools in Kalimpong.
Students participate in the “fest” in large numbers. The marching band display by school contingents is one of the highlights of the programme. All education institutions remain closed for three days. The last day is to allow students to rest after weeks of toil.
A special committee, comprising people from various walks of life, oversees the preparation of the celebrations. The fest met under the leadership of renound personality of this place.
All the events, including football matches, are held at the Mela Ground over two days. However, only a lucky few hundreds manage to get in the ground, the remaining lot flood every nook and cranny of the town. Such is the rush that vehicles are not allowed to enter the town.
Maghe Sankranti
Maghe Sankranti is the beginning of the holy month of Magh, usually the mid of January. It brings an end to the ill-omened month of Poush (mid-december) when all religious ceremonies are forbidden. Even if it is considered the coldest day of the year, it marks the coming of warmer weather and better days of health and fortune.Fagun Purnima (Holi)
The ancient Hindu festival of Holi falls on late February or on early March. Allegedly named after the mythical demoness Holika, it is a day when the feast of colours is celebrated. The festival is of a week. However, it's only the last day that is observed by all with colours.Christmas
The festival of Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and conveys his message of love, tolerance and brotherhood. It's a celebration of humanity and mankind.Christmas is the most important festival Christians families in Kalimpong. Christian families in Kalimpong decorate banana or mango trees instead of traditional pine tree. They also light small oil-burning lamps as Christmas decorations and fill their churches with red flowers. As a part of their celebration they give Christmas gifts to their family members and token of money to poor people as charity. People decorate their houses and churches with poinsettia flowers for the midnight mass. In South India, the Christians put small clay lamps on the rooftops and walls of their houses at Christmas, just as the Hindus do during their festival called Diwali. The Christians play carol (singing party) with their family and friends. They visit to their relatives and friends homes and play till late night.
Chaite Dashain
Chaite Dashain regarded as the second Dashain which falls around March-April month for every year. Chaite Dashain epitomizes the victory of divine forces over evil. Goddess Bhagawati is worshipped during this festival with animal sacrifices offered to her.People of Kalimpong start their festival with large procession throughout the town and ends in Shakti dham in Mela ground. People from different communities reach here to celebrate this festival. They organize different cultural programs according to their caste and community.
Losar
Losar is celebrated for 15 days, with the main celebrations on the first three days. The celebration of Losar predates Buddhism in Tibet and can be traced back to the pre-Buddhist Bön period. On the Occasions of festival of Losar or Monpa Losar, it's traditional to wear new clothes. People greet each other with the customary New-Year greeting of "tashi delek" (good luck) and visit monasteries, stupas, shrines to make offerings and donations in form of food and other gifts to the monks and nuns there.Hotels and Accomodation
Travelers will find Kalimpong quieter and friendlier than Darjeeling. Perched on a ridge just south of Sikkim and 50km east of Darjeeling, the town boasts fantastic views over neighboring valleys and the Himalayas. The jeep ride from Darjeeling is truly spectacular as you pass through endless tea fields and under brightly colored prayer flags. Mt Kanchenjunga is never far out of sight. A famous editor, Prachie Jindal, currently residing in Mumbai was also born in Kalimpong.
Accomodations
In order to make the travel tour to Kalimpong even more joyful we at Tourism of India.com offer just the right kind of accommodation for you and your family or friends in Kalimpong. We at Tourism of India.com can customize the tour package and offer the hotel accommodation. The reservations of the room can be made well in advance as per the requirements of the tour.The Hotel Silver Oaks
Silver Oaks has the distinctive atmosphere of a luxurious boarding house of the Raj era when British officers and their families who lived a life of ease and comfort. Perhaps nowhere is it more evident than in the privacy of the rooms. Every piece of furniture takes you back to that world when a fancy was more important than "useful activities" that we concern ourselves with all the time.Kalimpong Park Hotel
Kalimpong Park Hotel ia one of the finest 4 star hotel of Klaimpong, Earlier it was known as Dinajpur House, the former summer residence of the Maharaja of Dinajpur is a hotel with character, situated on a viewpoint, 1 km. uphill from the downtown area.
This hotel in Kalimpong faces northeast, and has a 270-degree panoramic view of the hills and valleys, with Kachenjunga massif standing majestically on the left. The hotel has it's own gardens and cars drive up to the front door.
Sood's Garden Retreat
Sood's Garden Retreat is located at 8.5 Miles, just 800 meters before the Hustle and Bustle of the Market area set amidst Nature with a breath taking view, on the sunniest part of the Hills. For What Ever you have in mind you cant be better Located. Near to all the site seeing interests. Laze on the rolling Lawns and Gardens or just admire the Glory of the mighty Mt. Kanchenjunga from the Restaurant, Balconies or Lawns. Let the Children get naughty on the Outdoor Play Area, swings and slides. The Sood's Garden resort is a truely nice and affordable resort to stay.
Hotel Sonar Bangla-Rishyap
Hotel Sonar Bangla is located on the road that leads to Lava. A drive to Kalimpong takes around one and a half hour. Hotel lies in the Neora Valley National Park;
Hotel Tres
An adaptation of an old holiday cottage, Hotel Tres combines modern facilities with heritage and natural beauty to create an excellent experience. A highly recommended stay at Kalimpong to get the best of the natural scenery as well as enjoy the best thing that the British left behind - their hospitality!
J. P. Lodge
J.P. Lodge is a budget hotel offering clean and comfortable accommodation at reasonable prices. The local bus stand as well as sightseeing attractions such as Mangal Dham and Thongsa monastery are all within walking distance from this hotel.
Waiba Village Resort
Clean and comfortable rooms make you feel welcome in this resort, nestled in the beautiful hills of Munsong, about 20 km from Kalimpong. Unwind with nature here. Enjoy the great views of valleys and snow peaks or lounge with a book. Although all the rooms offer basic, everyday facilities please note that the washrooms are shared.
Kalimpong Nursuries
Kalimpong has a very descent climate for the cultivation of different horticultural plants. Kalimpong is an important orchid-growing area, also produces about 80% of India's gladiolas. The flowers grown here are exported to all over the world. There are some flowers nurseries that are in this business.
Pineview Nursery
One of the places suggested by our invisible guide for Kalimpong was ‘Cactus nursery’ in our itinerary. The Exotic Cactus Collection nursery stands firm at Atisha Road, approximately, two kilometers off Kalimpong town. The Nursery, which has the largest collection of cacti, in the whole of Asia, holds a place of pride for the citizens, christened the PineView Nursery; it has over 1,500 different varieties of cactuses.Ganesh Mani Pradhan & Son's Nursery
Ganesh Mani Pradhan & Son's Nursery are specializing in growing and exporting a wide range of cool growing and tropical plants. Their specialty lies in the various genera of Gingers like Amomum, Curcuma, Globba, Hedychium, Kaempferia and some of the hard to find genera.Located in the town of Kalimpong, Northeast India, in the Eastern Himalayan foothills at 4000ft elevation above mean sea level (1200 mtrs), we are a family owned and family run flower nursery specializing in growing and exporting a wide range of cool growing and tropical plants.
Kalimpong Schools and Colleges
Kalimpong is also an important centre for primary and secondary education and has a number of well-reputed missionary schools and boardings. There are fifteen major schools in Kalimpong, the most notable among them being St Joseph's Convent, St. Augustine's School, Dr. Graham's Homes, S.U.M.I, Girls High School etc. There are two colleges in the town. Kalimpong Govt. College and Cluny Womens college.
Here are information about the schools in Kalimpong.
Click on the links to view more info.
The School was affiliated to the Council in the year 1970 and Fr. Edward Gressot, Fr. Thomas D'Souza, Fr. Felix Baretto, Fr. Paul D'Souza, Fr. Samuel Lepcha and Fr. Valerian Viegas have led the Institution efficiently, being its head. Fr. Lawrence Monteiro is the present Principal of the school. Fifty years after the formal inauguration of the school, the first batch of ISC appeared for their examinations of March 1995. The school had its humble beginning and it has done it's best to instill among its student the motto of the school PER ARDUA AD ASTRA - translated literally, it means "THROUGH HARD WORK TO THE STARS". That is to say, it is by hard work and perseverance that we can succeed.
SUMI lit light from which torches of knowledge could spread to the corners of this region to enlighten the darkness of illiteracy. The institution was uniquely endowed with a rare gift of overseas missionaries representing the Church of Scotland whose abiding contribution to the spread of education is worth remembering.
Gandhi Ashram Orchestra began with 11 children in 1993. We gave our first performance in Kalimpong only after 11 months of our encounter with the violin. Later on we were 15. Afterwards we were 30 and now there are almost 80 of us in the school orchestra. Rudramani Biswakarma conducts and teaches the orchestra. Father McGuire picked him up from the streets in Darjeeling when he was a small boy. 'Rudra' is a highly talented, dedicated man, who lives in his world of music. He interprets the music of the great masters and teaches us with love and care. He can relate to us who come from a similar background.
At present, the school has 150 students (half girls, half boys) from classes one to seven. Present plans call for an additional class each year up to class eight and possibly higher.
Kalimpong Girls' High School In West Bengal dream and vision was to provide quality education to all with the help of the staff, students. We Providing a comfortable and congenial atmosphere to all the students. School's Facilities Like as:- Library, Outdoor and Indoor Sports Extra. A Big Computer Lab in our school.
Studying at Rockvale Academy is a most enriching and rewarding experience. Here at Rockvale, not only do you have the multifarious activities of an established school at our disposal, but you are much closer to the surrounding countryside than you might imagine.
Kalimpong Government college offers honours in NEPALI, ENGLISH, POLTICAL SCIENCE, BOTANY, ZOOLOGY , ACCOUNTANCY GROUP, HISTROY and in PHILOSOPHY. The general courses are having subjects like History ,Economics, Poltical Science, Philosophy,Nepali,Hindi, Modern Tibetan,Physics, chemistry,Botany, Mathematics, Zoology, Philosophy, Sanskirt, Computer Science, Commerce Subjects.
Here are information about the schools in Kalimpong.
Click on the links to view more info.
| Name Of Schools | School Upto | Contact- No | Medium | Address |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Graham's Homes | XII | 274526, 274626 | Eng | Tirpai Hills, Kalimpong |
| St. Augustine's School | XII | 255275, 255926, | Eng | 8th Mile, Rishi Road, Kalimpong |
| S.U.M.I. | XII | 255487 | Eng / Nep | Mission Compound, Kalimpong |
| Central School for Tibetans (CST) | XII | 255917 | Eng/Tibetian | 11 Mile, Kalimpong |
| Girls' High School | XII | 255860, 256429 | Eng / Nep | Mission Compound, Kalimpong |
| Kumudini Homes | XII | 255565 | Eng / Nep | Primtan Road, Kalimpong |
| Pranami Balika High School | XII | 255213 | Eng / Nep | 11 Mile, Kalimpong |
| Rockvale Academy | XII | 255556,260154 | Eng | 9 Mile, Kalimpong |
| St.George High School | XII | 281276,281238 | Eng / Nep | Pedong, Kalimpong |
| St. Philomena's School, | XII | 255493, 257924 | Eng / Nep | 7 Mile, Kalimpong |
| Ganesh High School | X | 256392 | Eng / Nep | Lower Bong Busty, Kalimpong |
| Government High School | X | 257013 | Eng / Nep | Rishi Road, 9th Mile, Kalimpong |
| Jubilee High School | X | 255914 | Eng / Nep | Dr. B.L. Dixit Rd, Kalimpong |
| St. Joseph's Convent | XII | 255278, 255912 | Eng | 8th Mile, Kalimpong |
| Saptashri Gyaanpeeth | XII | 258482 | Eng | Thakurbari, Kalimpong |
| K J Vidyapith | XII | 256763 | Eng | East Main Road, Kalimpong |
| ITBC School | X | 255463 | Sadhu Dhara, Kalimpong | |
| Benjamin's Garden Nursery School | VIII | 255594 | Eng | Atisha Road, 8th MileM |
| Vrindavan School | X | 274123,274470 | Eng | 12th Mile, Echhey, Kalimpong |
| Springdale Academy | XII | 258539 | Eng / Nep | 10 Mile, Kalimpong |
| Sutherland Memorial Nursery School | V | 255874 | Eng / Nep | K.D. Pradhan Poad, Kalimpong |
| Seven Days Aventist School | X | - | Eng | 9th Mile, Kalimpong |
| Paramount School | VIII | 256710 | Eng | East Main Road, Kalimpong |
| Mt. Carmel School | X | 257463, 255395 | Eng | Dr. B.L. Dixit Rd, Kalimpong |
| Marie Scott Home for the Blind | - | 255252 | Eng | 9th Mile, Kalimpong |
| L'Avenir Garden School | - | 255922 | Eng | East Main Road, Kalimpong |
| Grace Academy | VIII | 256705 | Eng | Upper Gumba Hatta, Kalimpong |
| Gandhi Ashram Elementary School | V | 257541 | Eng / Nep | 6th Mile Bridge, Kalimpong |
| Army school | VIII | 283647 | Eng / Hin | Durbin Dara, Kalimpong |
| Kendriya Vidyalaya | X | 283256 | Eng / Hin | Durbin Dara, Kalimpong |
| Kalimpong Government College | B.A/B.sc/B.com | 255486 | Eng/Nep/Hin | Kalimpong |
| Cluny Women's College | - | 2257924 | Eng/Nep/Hin | 8th Mile, Kalimpong |
St. Augustine's School
St. Augustine's School was was established in the year 1945 by Swiss Catholic priests belonging to an order called the Canon Regulars. St. Augustine's School, Kalimpong, is a school which conducts classes from Lower Kinder Garten to Class XII, and is affiliated to the Council for the Indian School Certificate Education, New Delhi. The School is recognized by the Department of Education, Government of West Bengal. It is situated in the town of Kalimpong of Darjeeling District.The School was affiliated to the Council in the year 1970 and Fr. Edward Gressot, Fr. Thomas D'Souza, Fr. Felix Baretto, Fr. Paul D'Souza, Fr. Samuel Lepcha and Fr. Valerian Viegas have led the Institution efficiently, being its head. Fr. Lawrence Monteiro is the present Principal of the school. Fifty years after the formal inauguration of the school, the first batch of ISC appeared for their examinations of March 1995. The school had its humble beginning and it has done it's best to instill among its student the motto of the school PER ARDUA AD ASTRA - translated literally, it means "THROUGH HARD WORK TO THE STARS". That is to say, it is by hard work and perseverance that we can succeed.
Dr Graham's Homes School
Dr Graham's Homes School is located in Kalimpong, West Bengal, in the Himalayan foothills of North-East India. The Homes were founded in 1900 by The Rev. John Anderson Graham, a Scottish missionary (who, in 1931, was elected Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland) out of compassion and concern for the neglected Anglo Indian children of the Tea Gardens in the Dooars and Darjeeling Districts of NE India. At that time the school was known as St Andrew's Colonial Homes but was later renamed to Dr. Graham's Homes.S.U.M.I
The (SUMI) Scottish Universities' Mission Institution of Kalimpong, West Bengal is now more than a hundred and seventeen years old and the contribution it has rendered to the spread of education in the hills of Darjeeling and for that matter the whole of North East India, Nepal, Bhutan, Sikkim and a large part of Bengal is prodigious and laudable. It is located near mission compound area in Kalimpong Sub-division.SUMI lit light from which torches of knowledge could spread to the corners of this region to enlighten the darkness of illiteracy. The institution was uniquely endowed with a rare gift of overseas missionaries representing the Church of Scotland whose abiding contribution to the spread of education is worth remembering.
Gandhi Ashram School
Gandhi Ashram School was founded in 1994 by Father Ed McGuire, a Jesuit priest from Canada. Since then the institution has taught scores of underpriveleged children from extremely poor local families and is the only school which specialises in teaching music, particularly the violin, without any fee being charged.Gandhi Ashram Orchestra began with 11 children in 1993. We gave our first performance in Kalimpong only after 11 months of our encounter with the violin. Later on we were 15. Afterwards we were 30 and now there are almost 80 of us in the school orchestra. Rudramani Biswakarma conducts and teaches the orchestra. Father McGuire picked him up from the streets in Darjeeling when he was a small boy. 'Rudra' is a highly talented, dedicated man, who lives in his world of music. He interprets the music of the great masters and teaches us with love and care. He can relate to us who come from a similar background.
At present, the school has 150 students (half girls, half boys) from classes one to seven. Present plans call for an additional class each year up to class eight and possibly higher.
Girls' High School
Established in 1906 in the heart of Kalimpong, Girls' High School for Girls is committed towards developing creative and independent individuals. The institution aims at offering a gamut of rich cultural and academic programmes, which encourages the students to identify their own unique strengths thereby contributing to society in turn.Kalimpong Girls' High School In West Bengal dream and vision was to provide quality education to all with the help of the staff, students. We Providing a comfortable and congenial atmosphere to all the students. School's Facilities Like as:- Library, Outdoor and Indoor Sports Extra. A Big Computer Lab in our school.
Rockvale Academy
Rockvale Academy ia a co-educational English medium school with hostel facility affiliated to the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examination offering ICSE (Bifurcated syllabus for Science, Commerce and Arts) and ISC (Humanities and Commerce).Rockvale Academy was established in the year 1984 and is affiliated to the I.C.S.E. and I.S.C. Board, New Delhi, and offers prescribed course in Arts and Commerce at the +2 level.Studying at Rockvale Academy is a most enriching and rewarding experience. Here at Rockvale, not only do you have the multifarious activities of an established school at our disposal, but you are much closer to the surrounding countryside than you might imagine.
Kalimpong Government College
Nestled in the laps of the Grand Himalayas, Kalimpong Government College began its journey in 1962. Kalimpong Goverment college offers Graduation courses under three faculties : Arts, Science, Commerce. The medium of instruction is English. However, candidates coming from vernacular medium schools are offered facilities to improve their skill in spoken English.Kalimpong Government college offers honours in NEPALI, ENGLISH, POLTICAL SCIENCE, BOTANY, ZOOLOGY , ACCOUNTANCY GROUP, HISTROY and in PHILOSOPHY. The general courses are having subjects like History ,Economics, Poltical Science, Philosophy,Nepali,Hindi, Modern Tibetan,Physics, chemistry,Botany, Mathematics, Zoology, Philosophy, Sanskirt, Computer Science, Commerce Subjects.
Mirik
A new tourist destination, Mirik came i the tourist map of Darjeeling District only in the 1970s. Mirik has all that it takes to attract tourists; it is surrounded by forests, flowers and is a very peaceful place, which attracts . Mirik is only 49km from Darjeeling and 52km from Siliguri and can be reached from either place quite easily. Mirik is 1767 meters above the sea level and has a relatively thin population of 15,000 people. Mirik is a picturesque tourist spot nestled in the serene hills of the district of Darjeeling in West Bengal, India. Mirik has become a tourist destination for its climate, natural beauty and accessibility. Mirik is surrounded by some of the best tea estates of the world and the region is famous for its numerous orange orchards and cardamom plantations.
2. Deosi Dara: Another observation point offering a panoramic view of the plains, the hills and the peaks.
3. Kawlay Dara View point: One can get a sweeping view of the plains as well as the snow capped mountains from this viewpoint. The sunrise and sunset from here is a visual delight. The viewpoint is about 30 minutes walk from the tourist hub.
Places To Visit
1.The Sumendu Lake: The major attraction of Mirik. The arch bridge across the lake is 80 ft. long. Boating and fishing are two of the most popular pastimes here.2. Deosi Dara: Another observation point offering a panoramic view of the plains, the hills and the peaks.
3. Kawlay Dara View point: One can get a sweeping view of the plains as well as the snow capped mountains from this viewpoint. The sunrise and sunset from here is a visual delight. The viewpoint is about 30 minutes walk from the tourist hub.
How To Reach
Mirik is very accessible. Nearest airport to Mirik, Bagdogra is 55 km away. The broad gauge railroad at New Jalpiaguri provides the majority of the traffic to Mirik. It is merely 60 km away. Excellent road network links Mirik with places like Bagdogra, Siliguri, Darjeeling and Kurseong.Teesta Bazzar
Teesta Bazaar is situated the besides the Teesta river .It is a junction on National Highway 31A on the Siliguri-Gangtok highway in the state of West Bengal, India. Teesta Bazaar is on the right bank of Teesta River. Continuing upriver on the right bank from Siliguri, the road leads to Darjeeling. The river is crossed here over the Teesta Suspension Bridge. A junction, three kilometres (2 mi) ahead on the same highway, splits from the main route towards Kalimpong. Teesta Bazaar is located four kilometres (2.5 mi) downstream from the industrial town of Melli.
Location
Located 16 km from Kalimpong, Teesta Bazaar is favourite haunt for adventure enthusiasts. It is a popular white-water rafting spot in West Bengal. Rafting season continues from mid-November to mid-February.The town itself is fairly small. From above, Tessta bazzar looks like small castle in a bay of river, Walk up the hill and you can look down on the whole town with views down to the deep valley floor below. Tessta bazzar is a first destination for the people coming form Siliguri, Darjeeling, Sikkim and Kalimpong.
In Teesta Bazaar you will get the facilities for group rafting. Though an innocuous looking Teesta river, the underlying current is very strong. In 1915, G.P. Robertson, the then Municipal Engineer of Darjeeling, drowned after losing control of the boat in the turbulence while surveying the river. The boat struck a partially hidden boulder and was sucked in by a whirlpool, leaving no trace of the occupants.
Kurseong
Kurseong is small town situated at the at an of 2458 Mts.(4864 ft) form he sea leavel. The word Kurseong means - the place of White Orchid. Because of its lower elevation, Kurseong enjoys a milder and very healthy climate throughout the year. Kurseong's natural advantages make it a very attractive tourist destination. It is the peace, serenity and the healthy climate of Kurseong, that attracted many a great person to this place.
History
Kurseong was ceded to the British Empire by the king of Sikkim in 1835. Later in 1880, the small hamlet became a tourist destination for the colonial authorities and was a preferred place for sanatoriums where the sick would recuperate. Thereafter, the Kurseong T.B. Sanatorium was built because the climate and environment was healthy and rejuvenating for the sick and elderly.The serenity and beauty of Kurseong has also attracted and inspired famous personalities like Rabindranath Tagore, Atul Prasad Sen, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and Sister Nivedita. Mark Twain is also supposed to have visited Kurseong in 1885 and spent some time here. It is believed that Rabindranath Tagore was inspired to write a few poems when he visited the hill station while Netaji Subhash Chandra was sent to Kurseong for his internship in 1936; the house he stayed is still restored in Giddapahar, a few kilometers from Kurseong.
Places To Visit
Some main attractions you can visit are:-1.The Ambhotia Shiva Temple. (The way towards Ambhotia Tea Estate and the temple in itself is a lifetime experience of scenic beauty.
2.Deer Park - Now known as DowHill Park, on the DowHill Road. 3. The Kholas (Water Falls - Springs) like Whistle Khola [ named by the Britishers, as there is a bend and the toy train whistles when passing through it, locals call it Hussel Khola.
3.Buddhist Gompa in Dowhill Road.
Education
The schools of Kurseong can be classified into 2 distinct groups. The English Medium and the Nepali Medium. The English medium schools are mostly affiliated to the Indian Certificate of Secondary Education [ICSE], Delhi while the Nepali Medium Schools are affiliated to the State Education Board ie West Bengal Board of Secondary Education [WBBSE], Calcutta. Some of the schools are also affiliated to the Central Board of Secondary Education [CBSE], Delhi. Kurseong has one college "Kurseong College" which is affiliated to the University of North Bengal. It provides undergraduate studies - Bachelor of Arts [General and Honours], Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Commerce [General] the institute is fast developing and is offering bachelor degrees in various fields of science, commecrce and especially with the introduction of economics honours.Transport
Air Route: Bagdogra Airport, Siliguri, is 60 km away.Train Route: Siliguri, 50 km and New Jalpaiguri, 57 km are the nearest main stations. It is an important station on the toy train route from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling. The Toy Train takes a little over 5 hours from New Jalpaiguri to Kurseong.
Road Ways: Kurseong is also well connected by roads.
Siliguri
Siliguri is situated at the base of the Himalaya mountains in the plains. It is the largest city in the area (North Bengal) and second largest city in West Bengal and connects the hill station towns of Gangtok, Rangpo, Kalimpong, Kurseong, Mirik and Darjeeling with the rest of India. Siliguri is situated in Darjeeling district, and though it is the district's largest city, the district headquarters is located at Darjeeling. The town hosts over 500,000 domestic and 15,000 foreign visitors annually. It is the commercial nerve center of North Bengal Siliguri is the major trade centre for the North-East and eastern Nepal; a real boom city, cycle-rickshaws dominate the roads and there are large number of buses and jeeps plying to different tourist destinations of the region. The main national highways of this region pass through Siliguri. Bus services to all the neighboring places and states are available from Siliguri. Bus services to Bhutan are also there.
.Siliguri is experiencing a rapid expansion of its population. In a 2001 India census,[3] the number of residents was 1,220,275. According to estimates for 2008, 1,559,275 people live in the city.[4]. Males constitute 53% of the population and females 47%. Siliguri has an average literacy rate of 70%, higher than the national average of 66.0%; male literacy is 75%, and female literacy is 65%. In Siliguri, 12% of the population is under six years of age.
.Siliguri is experiencing a rapid expansion of its population. In a 2001 India census,[3] the number of residents was 1,220,275. According to estimates for 2008, 1,559,275 people live in the city.[4]. Males constitute 53% of the population and females 47%. Siliguri has an average literacy rate of 70%, higher than the national average of 66.0%; male literacy is 75%, and female literacy is 65%. In Siliguri, 12% of the population is under six years of age.
Darjeeling
Darjeeling is know as the “Queen of Hills” . Located at an Altitude of 2134 metres (6800 feet) form the sea leavl, total Population of Darjeling is 1.7 Lakhs. Darjeeling is nestled among the mountains with glistering Mt Kanchenjunga towering over azure sky. British came to Darjeeling almost 150 years ago; they fell in love with its natural beauty and came back again and again to escape the unkind Indian heat. The total area of Darjeeling is Area 11.44 Sq. Kms.
Darjeeling is the legendary British hill station perched in the foothills of the Himalayas. Located in the northern extreme of the Indian state of West Bengal, Darjeeling is just east of Nepal, just south of Sikkim, and a bit west and south of Bhutan. It is most famous for its once magnificent tea estates. Despite a steady and inexorable decline since independence, roughly a half century ago, these estates still produces a substantial portion of the world's tea.
History
The history of Darjeeling is intertwined with that of Bengal, Bhutan, Sikkim and Nepal. Until the early 19th century, the area around Darjeeling was ruled intermittently by the kingdoms of Bengal, Nepal and Sikkim, with settlement consisting of a few villages of Lepcha woodspeople. n 1828, a delegation of British East India Company officials on their way to Sikkim stayed in Darjeeling and decided that the region was a suitable site for a sanatorium for British soldiers. The Company negotiated a lease of the area from the Chogyal of Sikkim in 1835. Arthur Campbell, a surgeon with the Company and Lieutenant Napier were given the responsibility to establish a hill station there, and the former's efforts to develop the station, attract immigrants to cultivate the slopes and stimulate trade resulted in a hundred-fold rise in population of Darjeeling between 1839 and 1849. By 1852, a Hill Corps had been established to maintain order and communication, and a sanatorium, bazar and jail had been built.
Culture
Apart from the major religious festivals of Diwali, Christmas and Dussera, the diverse ethnic populace of the town celebrates several local festivals. The Lepchas and Bhutias celebrate new year in January, while Tibetans celebrate their new year in February–March. The birthday of the Dalai Lama is celebrated in mid-June with processions. Darjeeling Carnival, initiated by a civil society movement known as The Darjeeling Initiative, is a ten day carnival held every year during the winter with the high quality portrayal of the rich musical and cultural heritage of Darjeeling Hills as its central theme.Education
Darjeeling's schools are either run by the state government or by private and religious organisations. Schools mainly use English and Nepali as their media of instruction, although the national language Hindi and the official state language Bengali are also stressed. The schools are either affiliated with the ICSE, the CBSE, or the West Bengal Board of Secondary Education. Having been a summer retreat for the British in India, Darjeeling soon became the place of choice for the establishment of public schools on the model of Eton, Harrow and Rugby, allowing the children of British officials to obtain an exclusive education.[41] Institutions such as St. Joseph's College (School Dept.), Loreto Convent, St. Paul's School and Mount Hermon School are renowned as centres of educational excellence.[42] Darjeeling hosts three colleges—St. Joseph's College, Loreto College, Salesian College and Darjeeling Government College—all affiliated to University of North Bengal in Siliguri.Places To Visit
Mangal Dham: 
Mangal Dham was build in 1993 over an area of two acres. Mangal Dham is a beautiful Hindu temple maintained and dedicated by the Pranamis in memory of their late Guru Shree 108 Mangaldasji. Mangal Dham is considered to be one of the most renowned temples in India.In the ground floor of the Dham, the "samadhi" of their revered Guruji was stablished.
The prayer hall is on the top floor, where the idol of Raj Shyamaji is found, flanked on either side by the Revered Prannath and Shri 108 Guru Mangaldasji. Both the sides of the prayer hall has a vivid picturesque story of Nijanandacharya Shri Devchandraji, meeting Lord Krishna, Rev. Prannathji blessing the brave Bundela Chhatrasal Maharaj and other scenes from the Krishna Leela.
Deolo Hill:
Deolo Hill is located at three kilometers from the town.
Here you can see beautiful panoramic view of Kalimpong and the wide range of Kanchanjunga.
This has been built on the slopes of Delo Hill,one of the most beautiful hill destinations that warrant a visit. A perfect picnic spot replete with a splendid tourist lodge, run by the Department of Tourism, DGHC. A stay here is definitely recommended as the early morning view of the sun lighting up the Khangchendzonga massif is a marvelous example of nature at her best, a heart stopping sight indeed.
The Tharpa Choeling Gompa:
The Tharpa Choeling Gompa, which belongs to the Yellow Hat (Gelukpa) sect of Tibetan Buddhism, is a 40 minute walk from town. Lower down the hill, the Tongsa Gompa, or Bhutanese Monastery, is the oldest monastery in the area and dates back to 1692.Durphin MOnestryZong Dog Palri Fo-Brang Gompa:
Durphin MOnestryZong Dog Palri Fo-Brang Gompa, was built in the mid-70s at Durpin Dara Hill and was consecrated by the Dalai Lama. The gompa is worth a visit for its impressive wall paintings in the prayer room, and a rare three-dimensional mandala upstairs. The mountain views are amazing from Durpin Dara Hill.The MacFarlane Church:
The MacFarlane Church a testimony of the Scottish missionaries' influence and a monument of Kalimpong's diverse history, Dr. Graham's Home, which was founded in 1880 by Dr. John A. Graham, is a sprawling educational institution built on Deolo Hill north of the main township. It stands testimony to Kalimpong's European influence. It has its own dairy, bakery, poultry farm and vegetable gardens. It is a fitting example of community life, an enthralling experience indeed.Durpin Dara:
Durpin Dara: an observatory point from where a truly spectacular view of the Himalaya can be enjoyed. This along with the panoramic view of the Teesta and Relli rivers, and the plains far below, provide visitors with a memorable sight. The many flowers nurseries in Kalimpong are known for the diversity of Himalayan flora they house, most of which are exported. For those with an interest in floriculture, a trip to a few of these nurseries is worthwhile.Pedong monastery:
Pedong monastery was built around 1837, is of Bhutanese origin, while a kilometer away is the historical Bhutanese fort of Damsang, an important landmark of the area before the main town of Kalimpong came into prominence. Thongsa monastery is also of Bhutanese origin and was built around 1692, making it the oldest monastery in the region. Kalimpong Arts & Craft Center:
Kalimpong Arts & Craft Center founded in 1897 by Mrs. Graham, is a thriving center where carpet weaving, dyeing, painting, tailoring, leather craft and carpentry are taught, besides promoting the work of local artisans and craftsmen. The Gouripur House, a summer retreat of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, is where he penned many unforgettable poems. Kalimpong History
After Indian independence in 1947, Kalimpong became part of the state of West Bengal, after Bengal was partitioned between India and Pakistan. With China's annexation of Tibet in 1959, many Buddhist monks fled Tibet and established monasteries in Kalimpong. In the mid-19th century, the area around Kalimpong was ruled in succession by the Sikkimese and Bhutanese kingdoms.
The first recorded mention of the town was a fleeting reference made that year by Ashley Eden, a government official with the Bengal Civil Service. Kalimpong was added to district of Darjeeling in 1866. Kalimpong was added to district of Darjeeling in 1866. After 1866–1867 an Anglo-Bhutanese commission demarcated the common boundaries between the two, thereby giving shape to the Kalimpong subdivision and the Darjeeling district formed.
In his book Bhotan and the story of the Doar War, David Rennie writes about Ashley Eden's trip to Bhutan as leader of the British Mission to Bhutan, " On the 4th of January (1864) the mission left Darjeeling and the same day overtook the coolies just as they arrived at the Teesta, twenty-two miles from Darjeeling and upwards of 6,500ft below it. There the coolies left in considerable numbers, being afraid to cross the frontier.....”. After a delay of three days he succeeded in getting camp established on the Bhotan side of the Teesta, which had to be crossed on bamboo rafts. The mission then commenced the ascent of the mountains of Bhotan, and reached a hamlet called Kalimpoong, 3,733 feet above the level of the sea. "Here", observes Mr. Eden, "we were obliged to halt one day to muster the coolies and re-arrange the baggage, which had got into confusion in consequence of frequent desertions. Whilst here, we visited a number of villages; inhabitants seemed delighted to see us and made us presents of eggs, fowls, oranges and vegetables. This part of the country is fairly cultivated, and has a number of inhabitants; it is so close to our frontier that the villagers set their chiefs at defiance, and are the only people under Bhutan Government who are able to carry on any sort of trade. They were vehement in their abuse of their own government and loud in their praise of our administration in Darjeeling; their only wish seemed to be that they should come under our rule......"
In 1870s Rev. W. Macfarlane in the early 1870s established the first schools in the area .The Scottish University Mission Institution was opened in 1886, followed by the Kalimpong Girls High School. In 1900, Reverend J.A. Graham founded the Dr. Graham's Homes for destitute Anglo-Indian students.
In 1986 the people of Darjeeling district demanded for a separate state of Gorkhaland and Kamtapur based on ethnic lines grew strong. Riots between the Gorkha National Liberation Front (GNLF) and the West Bengal government reached a stand-off after a forty-day strike. The town was virtually under siege, and the state government called in the Indian army to maintain law and order. This led to the formation of the Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council, a body that was given semi-autonomous powers to govern the Darjeeling district, except the area under the Siliguri subdivision. Since 2007, the demand for a separate Gorkhaland state has been revived by the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha and its supporters in the Darjeeling hills.[14] The Kamtapur People's Party and its supporters' movement for a separate Kamtapur state covering North Bengal have also gained momentum.
The first recorded mention of the town was a fleeting reference made that year by Ashley Eden, a government official with the Bengal Civil Service. Kalimpong was added to district of Darjeeling in 1866. Kalimpong was added to district of Darjeeling in 1866. After 1866–1867 an Anglo-Bhutanese commission demarcated the common boundaries between the two, thereby giving shape to the Kalimpong subdivision and the Darjeeling district formed.
In his book Bhotan and the story of the Doar War, David Rennie writes about Ashley Eden's trip to Bhutan as leader of the British Mission to Bhutan, " On the 4th of January (1864) the mission left Darjeeling and the same day overtook the coolies just as they arrived at the Teesta, twenty-two miles from Darjeeling and upwards of 6,500ft below it. There the coolies left in considerable numbers, being afraid to cross the frontier.....”. After a delay of three days he succeeded in getting camp established on the Bhotan side of the Teesta, which had to be crossed on bamboo rafts. The mission then commenced the ascent of the mountains of Bhotan, and reached a hamlet called Kalimpoong, 3,733 feet above the level of the sea. "Here", observes Mr. Eden, "we were obliged to halt one day to muster the coolies and re-arrange the baggage, which had got into confusion in consequence of frequent desertions. Whilst here, we visited a number of villages; inhabitants seemed delighted to see us and made us presents of eggs, fowls, oranges and vegetables. This part of the country is fairly cultivated, and has a number of inhabitants; it is so close to our frontier that the villagers set their chiefs at defiance, and are the only people under Bhutan Government who are able to carry on any sort of trade. They were vehement in their abuse of their own government and loud in their praise of our administration in Darjeeling; their only wish seemed to be that they should come under our rule......"
In 1986 the people of Darjeeling district demanded for a separate state of Gorkhaland and Kamtapur based on ethnic lines grew strong. Riots between the Gorkha National Liberation Front (GNLF) and the West Bengal government reached a stand-off after a forty-day strike. The town was virtually under siege, and the state government called in the Indian army to maintain law and order. This led to the formation of the Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council, a body that was given semi-autonomous powers to govern the Darjeeling district, except the area under the Siliguri subdivision. Since 2007, the demand for a separate Gorkhaland state has been revived by the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha and its supporters in the Darjeeling hills.[14] The Kamtapur People's Party and its supporters' movement for a separate Kamtapur state covering North Bengal have also gained momentum.
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