History Of Kalimpong

Kalimpong, now a district in West Bengal, India, has a fascinating history that evolved from a small, obscure village to a prominent hill station and trade hub. Below is a structured summary of its historical journey:

Early History and Sikkimese Rule

Kalimpong was originally part of the Sikkimese kingdom (Donzong), inhabited by Lepchas (Rong), Bhutias, and Limbus (Tshongs).

The first Chogyal (Divine Ruler) of Sikkim established control over the region.

In the late 17th century, a succession dispute arose when Tensung Namgyal’s half-sister Pende Amo invited Bhutanese forces to invade Sikkim.

The Bhutanese captured areas east of the Teesta River, including present-day Kalimpong, while Sikkim retained the western regions.

Under Bhutanese Control (18th–19th Century)

The area was known as Dalimkot, while Kalimpong was just a tiny village with a few families.

The first official mention of Kalimpong was by Ashley Eden (Bengal Civil Service) in a report, followed by a brief reference in Surgeon Rennie’s book Bhotan and the Story of the Dooar War.

British Annexation and Development (1865 Onwards)

After the Anglo-Bhutan War (1864–65) and the Treaty of Sinchula (1865), Kalimpong was ceded to British India and merged with Darjeeling district in 1866.

Factors that boosted Kalimpong’s growth:

Trade with Tibet – Proximity to the Jelepla Pass (100 km away) made it a key trade route for wool, musk, fur, and food grains.

Hill Station Development – The British promoted it as an alternative to Darjeeling, attracting settlers and officials who built summer homes.

Scottish Missionaries – They established schools like the Scottish University Mission Institution (1886), Kalimpong Girls’ High School, and Dr. Graham’s Homes (1900) for Anglo-Indian orphans.

20th Century & Decline of Trade

By 1911, Kalimpong’s population reached 7,880, and it became a subdivision in 1916.

The 1962 Sino-Indian War disrupted trade with Tibet via Jelepla, impacting the economy.

Kalimpong shifted focus to education, tourism, and agriculture.

Recent Developments

As per the 2011 census, Kalimpong subdivision had 2,51,642 people, with the town population at 49,403.

In 2017, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee officially declared Kalimpong as a separate district, bifurcating it from Darjeeling.

Today, Kalimpong retains its serene charm, relying on education, horticulture (especially orchids), and tourism while preserving its multicultural heritage.

(Source: Kalimpong District Official Website – Written by Sandip Jain)