The best thing about Kalimpong is that in spite of being a quiet little retreat, there is plenty to do here. When you're in an adventurous mood, ride the rapids with a spot of white water rafting down the Teesta River, 16 km away from Kalimpong. The best time to do this is between mid November and February. Other outdoor activities are camping, bird watching, mountain-biking and anthropological tours, all of which can be arranged at Lava, 34 km from Kalimpong. Lava village is near the Neora Valley National Park, home to the Lava Monastery where medicinal herbs are grown. From Lava you can make treks through the neighbouring forests and hills.

Watch fabulous views of the snow capped Himalayas from Durpin Dara; see the immense valleys and the rivers Teesta, Relli and Riang as they gather momentum off the mountains. Go for long walks in the flower-filled meadows or hike up the surrounding mountainside. Indulge your senses at Kalimpong's famous nurseries - or experiment with Tibetan cuisine.

Kalimpong calls - what are you waiting for? Any time is a good time to come here.

Getting to Kalimpong
From Kalimpong, Kolkata is 651 km and Darjeeling 51 km. The nearest airport is at Bagdogra, 80 km, connected to Kolkata and Guwahati. You can cover Bagdogra to Kalimpong in 3 hours by bus or taxi. The nearest railheads are New Jalpaiguri (77 km) and Siliguri (66 km). Within Kalimpong you can hire jeeps to move around.

Best time to visit Kalimpong
Kalimpong has a pleasantly mild climate throughout the year, because of its low elevation. Summer, April to June, is sunny with temperatures from17ºC to 27ºC. The monsoons, July to August, are heavy and turn the mountainside a lush green. Winter, September to March, sees beautifully clear skies and splendid vistas of snowy peaks. Temperatures range between 7ºC and 15ºC, so carry layers of woollens.

Accommodation in Kalimpong
Most hotels in Kalimpong command panoramic mountain views. Tariffs vary considerably starting at Rs 250 for a budget room to Rs 2,000 and above for luxury.