Kalimpong is a very beautiful hill station in West Bengal (India) and is growing in its popularity day by day. Another fascinating thing about Kalimpong is that it is just 51 kms away from world famous tourist attraction Darjeeling. Kalimpong has spectacular views to offer as it is situated at an altitude of 1250 meters thereby having the mighty Shivalik ranges of Himalayas on its surroundings. Once you visit the place you will feel as if you are in heaven, as such is the impact of the place. You will be amazed to know that till the 19th century Kalimpong was a part of Bhutan and later when the British took over the area they joined Kalimpong to the Indian territory. Today Kalimpong is also famous for the amazing attractions such as Buddhist monasteries, Neora National Park, Crockety, tea estates, Teesta Bazaar and last but not the least Galingka.
Galingka
Galingka is located on the second largest peak of Himalayas which is the Kanchenjunga, thereby being a very majestic and royal bungalow. It is the location that adds on to the beauty of the bungalow. The bungalow was constructed by the British that is when they became the wool traders during their trade travel in India. It is the architectural framework and the perfect location of the bungalow which makes it different from other bungalows of the British. Galingka was a home to the British during their stay in India and even today you can feel the essence of them as the bungalow is constructed in the British style of architecture. Galingka as an attraction is also known as the summer hill resort of Kalimpong as it is visited in huge number by the tourists during the summers.
The beautiful interiors, splendid exterior architecture, artistic framework of the ceilings and amazing artifacts make Galingka a must to watch when in Kalimpong.
Just in front of Galingka you will be able to find a splendid garden which has got vivid variety of beautiful flowers and well shaded trees. This garden became a part of Galingka after Kalimpong became famous as the summer hill resort of the country. It is this garden which makes Galingka even more suitable place to have a relaxing holiday thereby being a perfect picnic spot.
It is advisable to know, as to on which days of the week is Galingka open for the visitors as it is not open for all the days of the week. You got to have a definite check on the visiting hours as well. However this extravagant bungalow remains closed on national and local holidays as well.
Best time to visit:
You can make the most of Kalimpong in the months of March to May (summer season), however it is not advisable to visit the place in winters and rainy season as it becomes extremely cold in the winters and landslides may block the roads during the rainy season.
However, you must for sure consider visiting Kalimpong, as it is a very beautiful place and it is from here that you can for sure take back home the memories which you can cherish all your life.
