Anything interesting to do in Kalimpong?

Putty

Hey there,

Don't mean to be negative but arrived in Kalimpong this morning and finding it rather boring. Not a great deal to do here - can anyone who has been here suggest anything interesting to do? I've got all day tomorrow then heading for Gangtok for 3 days.
Any suggestions appreciated.

Cheers,
Putty

__________________
"If you can read my mind, then why must I speak?" - Bob Dylan

Epicure

Dr Graham's Home---
An hour’s walk from the town centre (approximately 4 km), Dr Graham’s Home lies on the slopes of Deolo Hill. Founded in 1900 by the Scottish missionary Dr John Anderson Graham, this mission school was set up with the aim to educate the children of tea garden workers from backward families. Dr Graham and his wife dedicated their lives to building this complex. It has its own dairy, poultry and bakery. A chapel above the school dates back to 1925.
Sericulture Research Institute ----
The Sericulture Research Institute is dedicated to the breeding of silk worms and production of silk. Herbs and various plants are also available here. It is open from 9.30 am to 4 pm and is 3 km from the city centre.
Thongsa Gompa ----
Also called the Bhutanese Monastery, the Thongsa Gompa is the oldest monastery in Kalimpong. Founded in 1692, the original structure was destroyed by the Gorkhas. The current building is relatively new. The Pedong Bhutanese Monastery was established in the same year near the old Bhutanese Damsang Fort at Algara where ceremonial dances are held every February. The Brang Monastery is situated at Durpin Dara, the highest point in Kalimpong. Truly one of its kind, it also has a school of Tibetan Medicine and a religious debating society.
Tharpa Choeling Monastery ----
Situated 3 km (40-minute walk) uphill from town centre, on the way to the Graham’s Home. Founded in 1937, this monastery belongs to the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) Sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The Dalai Lama also belongs to the Gelugpa sect, founded in the 14th century. The monastery houses old documents and scriptures.
Zong Dog Palri Fo-Brang Gompa ----
Sanctified by the Dalai Lama and built in the mid-1970s, this Gompa is 5 km from the town centre. Located on the Durpin Dara Hill, it has beautiful wall paintings and a rare three-dimensional mandala. There is also a well laid-out golf course near the monastery.
Nature Interpretation Centre ----
The centre has many interesting dioramas that depict the effect of human activity on the environment. Open from 10 am to 4 pm.
GETAWAYS-----Lava Located 32 km away, at an altitude of 7,200 feet, Lava is a scenic spot with a panoramic view of Rechi La and Jelep La passes. The Kagyupa Gompa is also located here.
Lolay Gaon This is one of the finest viewpoints around Kalimpong. Situated 56 km from town, it offers a breathtaking view of the Khangchendzonga, especially at sunrise.
Pedong Monastery 26 km from Kalimpong, Pedong is an old Buddhist monastery established in 1837.
Teesta Bazaar At a distance of 16 km from Kalimpong, this place has arrangements for white water rafting

davyd

What if one arrives to Melbourne for a day and then proceed to Sydney for three days - how lonely traveller would feel?

Putty

Epicure, thanks so much for your detailed reply. I have just come back from checking out the two Monasteries. Didn't quite make it to Dr Graham's Home but sounds interesting. Now taking it easy waiting for the cricket to start tonight.

Davyd - I don't quite get your email ?? I read your profile and noticed you are a Buddhist. Just came from Kopan Monastery in Nepal and did the 10 day Intro to Buddhism Course which was fantastic!! Such a shame that the Dalai Lama is in Melbourne while I'm travelling India. Never mind.

Cheers,
Putty

cyberhippie

Orchids, loads of them!