Durga Mandir, Kalimpong

The Durga Mandir is a Hindu temple on a green hilltop overlooking the town of Kalimpong, dedicated to the goddess Durga in her role as protective mother. It is one of the main places of worship for the town's Hindu community and a pleasant viewpoint over the surrounding valleys, forests and ridges.

A flight of stone steps climbs to the shrine, whose front is decorated with carvings and colourful murals, and rhododendrons and prayer flags surround the compound. Devotees bring marigolds, bananas and sweets as offerings. Durga Puja and Navratri are the biggest occasions of the year, when the temple becomes the hub of community celebrations; at other times the quiet grounds are used for meditation. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) bring the most comfortable weather for a visit.