Do you wonder which hill station, Kalimpong or Darjeeling, is the best? You’re not alone! Many people are curious about this too.
Before planning a trip to the hill stations in North Bengal, most travelers get confused about whether they should pick Kalimpong or Darjeeling for their next vacation.
We’re here to clear up your confusion and help you decide which one is the better holiday spot between Darjeeling and Kalimpong.
Let’s not waste time and start comparing Kalimpong and Darjeeling.
Kalimpong vs. Darjeeling – Which One is Better?
Darjeeling is cooler than Kalimpong, but it’s also more crowded. Both places are famous for their beautiful views, Buddhist temples, churches, and Tibetan handicrafts. Darjeeling is also known for its tea, natural beauty, rich culture, and its famous toy train. No matter which one you choose, visiting these places will be enjoyable and peaceful.
Detailed Comparison between Kalimpong and Darjeeling
Let’s dive into a detailed comparison between Kalimpong and Darjeeling. Find out how they stack up against each other in terms of tourist attractions, ease of getting there, places to stay, and more.
Tourist Spots
Kalimpong is in West Bengal, a state in India. The town is about 1250 meters above sea level on average. The most amazing places to visit, like Deolo Hill, Morgan House, Zong Dong Palri Fo Brang Gompa, Pine View Cactus Nursery, and others, are easy to reach in Kalimpong.
Darjeeling is also in the Indian state of West Bengal. It’s located about 2085 meters above sea level and is often called the “Queen of Hills” because of its stunning natural beauty. Some popular places to visit in Darjeeling include Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Happy Valley Tea Estate, Japanese Peace Pagoda, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Neora Valley National Park, and more.
Getting There
The nearest town to Kalimpong is Siliguri, which is only 69 kilometers away by car. It also has good roads connecting it to other cities. Kalimpong’s closest railway station is NJP, and its closest airport is Bagdogra Airport. The distance from NJP to Kalimpong is about 72 kilometers, and from Bagdogra Airport, it’s about 78 kilometers.
Darjeeling is well-connected to all the popular places in West Bengal. It’s around 70 kilometers from Siliguri, the gateway to North Eastern India. The distance from NJP to Darjeeling is about 71 kilometers, and from Bagdogra Airport, it’s about 68 kilometers.
Places to Stay
Darjeeling is a very popular tourist destination, so there are many places to stay. You can find luxury hotels and budget hotels, and even homestays where you can feel at home. In short, there are plenty of options for staying in Darjeeling.
Kurseong also has luxury and budget accommodations, as well as homestays. Just like in Darjeeling, you have many choices for places to stay in Kurseong.
Our Opinion
Both Darjeeling and Kalimpong are incredibly beautiful. If you want to visit a more well-known travel spot that lots of people go to every year, Darjeeling is a great choice.
On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter place with historical sites, Kalimpong is an excellent option. You can even visit both places if you plan your trip with a trusted travel agency.
Check out our tour packages that include these two destinations:
Picking the “better” option between Kalimpong and Darjeeling really depends on what you’re looking for in your trip! They both offer stunning Himalayan views, but with different vibes and activities. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
Kalimpong:
Chill charm: More laid-back and peaceful than Darjeeling, with a unique blend of Indian and Buddhist cultures.
Natural beauty: Offers beautiful scenery, including valleys, flower nurseries, and viewpoints of Kanchenjunga.
Unique experiences: Explore historic monasteries, heritage buildings, and nurseries specializing in orchids and cacti.
Off the beaten path: If you prefer quieter destinations, Kalimpong might be a better fit.
Darjeeling:
Lively bustle: A more vibrant and touristy experience, known for its colonial architecture and tea plantations.
Iconic sights: Offers classic Himalayan experiences like the Toy Train ride and breathtaking sunrise views from Tiger Hill.
Shopping haven: Bustling markets with handicrafts, clothing, and Darjeeling tea to indulge in.
More activities: From trekking and mountain biking to boating and museums, Darjeeling offers a wider range of things to do.
Ultimately, the “better” choice depends on your preferences. If you seek peace and nature, Kalimpong might be your haven. If you crave a livelier atmosphere and classic Himalayan experiences, Darjeeling might be ideal. Both have their own charm, so consider what would make your Himalayan escape truly special!