The Himalayan getaway, Kalimpong, is often overshadowed by its neighbors, like Darjeeling and Mirik. Yet for a traveler seeking an escape from over-crowded destinations, Kalimpong offers its raw charm, rolling hills, lush forests, and beautiful colonial architecture.
But other than hills and market regions, there are many off-beat kalimpong places to stay. This can offer you quiet moments to enjoy the vistas and explore unknown trails throughout the remote villages. Planning your next trip to Kalimpong? Here are five offbeat places in Kalimpong that wrap you in the timeless warmth of the Eastern Himalayas.
Lolegaon – The Abode of the Lepchas
Located almost 2 hours from the Kalimpong town region, this little village is known for being the residence of the Lepcha community. The villages reside deep within the forests of the Neora Valley. This makes it less crowded and remains unknown to most tourists. While in this scenic region, you can make your way to the Canopy walk. Here you can stroll through the hanging bridges and bask in the glorious views of the surrounding valleys. The location may not provide you with 5-star luxury resorts, but you're sure to experience authentic Gorkha or Lepcha culture by staying in the local homestays and cottages.
Delo Hill – A Colonial Heritage Site
Known for being a popular location among the Englishmen in the past, Delo Hill is a quaint sightseeing location. As a popular retreat, it is often visited by tourists on;y for sightseeing, however, it has so much more to offer. From rolling hills to dense pine tree forests, this hill has trails perfect for travellers seeking the thrill of exploration. If you are just looking to spend some time in a peaceful ambience, you can plan a picnic and spend time under the blossoming rhododendron trees. If you are planning to stay near the sightseeing spot, there are various homestays in Kalimpong, along with the iconic Delo retreat offering cozy and luxurious rooms.
Chibbo Busty – The Quaint Mountain Village
Out of all the remote kalimpong places to stay, Chibbo Busty is one of the most underappreciated ones. The wedding roads and views of the distant peaks make this location perfect for spending quiet moments and getting closer to the culture of the local communities. The slow morning with a rooster crowing and the starry evening are perfect for unwinding and relaxing. There are various comfortable accommodations in the location, among which Blue Orchid Homestay is found to be very popular among travellers.
Rishyap – The Writer’s Hideout
Rishyap is a small hamlet between Sikkim and Kalimpong, This region is known to be a perfect hideout for writers and artists. It has been mentioned a lot of times in the works of writers such as Krishnandu Shakar and Helena Roerich. The dense woods and the views of hills nearby make it the best place for travelers looking to dwell in solitude. There are no flashy accommodations in this region, but you can get your hands on comfortable homestays and guest houses. Here you get to experience a kind of silence that lets you hear your thoughts.
Pedong – A Window into Old Kalimpong
Known to be one of th most old regions inhabited by people, Pedong offers a glimpse into the history of Kalimpong’s culture as well as its spirituality. The region boasts various old monasteries and ruins of the colonial outposts. The ancient trade routes are also still present in their trails in this region. Pedong allows you to explore the forgotten parts of Indian history and lets you indulge in the slow rhythm of rural life. Pedong has several charming accommodations run by locals who treat guests like family. These offbeat stays are an excellent choice for travelers looking beyond hotels and into more meaningful Kalimpong places to stay.
Conclusion
Kalimpong may not have the fame of other hill stations, but that’s exactly why it’s so rewarding to explore. It invites you to slow down, breathe deep, and discover places where time takes a back seat. So, if you're planning a quiet escape or a soulful mountain trip, don't settle for the usual. Step off the beaten track and explore these lesser-known kalimpong places to stay.
