Springtime in Kalimpong

Cactus nursery
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Actually, it was far from Springtime when I first arrived. After a day-long train journey from Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri Station, near Siliguri, I was collected and driven to Kalimpong, arriving at around 11pm.

The first few days were cold and wet and I thought I would never get warm again. Yes, it was significantly warmer than the UK in February, but it makes a big difference not having central heating! I am from the spoiled and pampered generation who have grown up with this luxury and therefore found it difficult without.

Kalimpong in bloom
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Over the following two months I was lucky enough to watch as Spring well and truly sprung:  The Rhododendrons, Wisteria and many other flowers I don't know the names of came into bloom and the place found its true colours. We even woke up to view of the snow-capped Kanchenjunga range on one lucky morning!

Weekends in February and March were generally spent in Kalimpong and around.  The town itself is a rather grubby, congested and noisy place with narrow pavements.  However, i did find myself warming to it as it has a certain charm - it is a local town and only really gets a few tourists stoping over between Darjeeling and Sikkim. The people are invariably friendly and there are several nice little eateries to pass the evenings in. Not to mention, my fellow Mondo Challenge volunteers who were fantastic company!

Springtime blossom in Kalimpong
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Not far from the town are many nurseries.  I didn't manage to visit the orchid nurseries but did see some amazing cacti.

The Teesta river, down in the valley below, is the place for  a spot of white water rafting.  I went twice and thoroughy enjoyed the soaking (and swimming in the Teesta, if a little chilly).