Nestled in the hills of Kalimpong, Cactus Nursery Kalimpong is home to some of the largest and rarest cacti in the world.The nursery is a picturesque spot with a wide variety of over 1500 species of cacti and rare orchids. You can learn more about the different types of cacti and even buy some as a keepsake on your trip home. Visit the nursery and admire the setup of these succulent plants thriving in the cold temperatures of Kalimpong. Enjoy the beauty of the place as you walk along the colourful lanes of plants from various parts of the world.
About Pine View Cactus Nursery Kalimpong
Image Credit: Sumit Surai for Wikimedia Commons
Pine View Cactus Nursery Kalimpong was established in 1971 to boost Kalimpong’s tourism. With its extensive collection of plants and succulents, it is a must-visit tourist attraction. The state government maintains the nursery well and includes a wide range of exotic and indigenous plants. This nursery has hundreds of cacti, orchids, succulent plants, and more.
Each one has a description explaining its place of origin and beauty. If you like gardening, you can also participate in the workshops on caring about plants.
Also Read: Places To Visit In Kalimpong
Pine View Cactus Nursery Kalimpong Timings
Image Credit: Sumit Surai for Wikimedia Commons
The Cactus Nursery Kalimpong has gained momentum as one of the prominent tourist places and often has busy days. The nursery door remains open on all days of the week except Sundays. Visitors come to understand the cactus family better and enrich their experience. The vast variety of gardens is a haven for every person who is fond of gardening.
You can visit from 8 AM to 5 PM. The nominal entry fee is INR 20 for adults and none for children under 12.
Places To Visit Near Cactus Nursery Kalimpong
After visiting Pine View Cactus Nursery Kalimpong, you can also visit these places. All are located nearby, so you can combine two or more places to visit for the day’s trip.
1. Deolo Hills
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Located 5 km from Cactus Nursery Kalimpong, Deolo Hills is one of the highest peaks of Kalimpong. It is 5590 feet above sea level, and Deolo Hill offers a 360-degree view of the Himalayan mountains, Teesta River, and forests. You can trek to the top of the peak, which is ideal for picnics and nature walks. You can also participate in paragliding and horseback riding services the locals offer here. You can also stay a night at the government-sponsored Deolo tourist lodge and enjoy amazing views of nature.
Visiting hours: 7 AM to 5 PM
Entry fees: INR 20 (Adults); INR 10 (Children)
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2. Hanuman Temple
Located 8 km from Cactus Nursery Kalimpong, the Hanuman temple is an important holy site in Kalimpong. Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, this temple is a spiritual centre and a fantastic viewpoint. You can admire the beauty of Mount Kanchenjunga as the temple is at an elevation. Visitors are believed to get strength by worshipping Hanuman, the lord of courage and power. The temple brings people together with its vibrant chants, ringing bells, fragrant flowers and incense sticks. Built with modest architecture, the temple is steeped in the culture and heritage of the hills.
Visiting hours: 5 AM to 9 PM
Entry fees: None
3. Ghoom Monastery
Image Credit: Bernard Gagnon for Wikipedia
Located 22 km from Cactus Nursery Kalimpong, Ghoom Monastery is the abode of some of the oldest Tibetan Buddhists. It was built by the Mongolian monk Lama Sherab Gyatso in 1850 in the Ghoom village of Darjeeling. The monastery houses a 15-foot-high Maitreya Buddha statue called The Future Buddha. It is also an educational institute that gives a sneak peek into the daily life of monks. The tranquillity of the place, surrounded by vibrant flags with prayer written on them, attracts visitors to explore the unique architecture of the Ghoom monastery.
Visiting hours: 9 AM to 6 PM
Entry fee: None
4. Mahakal Temple
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Situated at a distance of 19 km from Cactus Nursery Kalimpong is the revered Mahakal temple, drawing devotees from far and wide. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, you can undertake a steep hike to reach the top of the temple. The Britishers were fond of the area and created an observatory here named Observatory Hill. The trail to the top has a bustling market area with vendors selling handicrafts and gift items. Hindu and Buddhist devotees come to the temple to seek blessings from Lord Shiva. The temple is filled with enthusiasm during the festival of Mahashivratri.
Visiting hours: 5 AM to 7:30 PM
Entry fees: None
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5. Darjeeling Ropeway
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Darjeeling ropeway is a popular attraction offering breathtaking views and is easily accessible from the Nursery Kalimpong. Established in 1968, it is India’s first cable car system and was formerly known as Rangeet Valley Passenger Cable Car. The ride is 2.5 km long, starting from North Point in Singamari and ending at Singla Bazaar. It offers spectacular views of the tea gardens, village, mountains, and rivers. You can even spot Mount Kanchenjunga and enjoy the views of rolling hills.
Visiting hours: 10 AM to 4 PM
Entry fees: INR 200 (Adults); INR 100 (Children).
6. Thongsha Gumpha
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Located 2 km from Cactus Nursery Kalimpong, Thongsha Gumpha is one of the oldest Bhutanese monasteries. Established in 1692, this is one of the most sacred and revered Buddhist sites. Glowing with vibrant and contrasting colours, Thongsha Gumpha is a tranquil escape in the mountains of Kalimpong. You will see intricate frescoes and murals adorning the monastery’s walls as you enter. Get a view of the lifestyle of monks of the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhists. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and admire the beauty of Buddha’s statues.
Visiting hours: 9 AM to 6 PM
Entry fees: None
Related Post: Singalila National Park
7. Tarey Bhir
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Situated only 6 km from the Nursery Kalimpong, Tarey Bhir is a hidden gem in Sikkim. It is known for its 10,000-foot-high cliff, which offers magnificent views of the surrounding landscapes. As you walk around this place, you will see wide stretches of meadows, valleys, green hills, and the confluence of rivers. There are walking pathways with safety barriers on both sides, allowing visitors to view the most panoramic scenery. You can also visit the wildlife sanctuary located near Tarey Bhir.
Visiting hours: 8 AM to 5 PM
Entry fees: INR 20 (Adults); INR 10 (Children)
Best Time To Visit Cactus Nursery Kalimpong
Image Credit: Sumit Surai for Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit the Nursery Kalimpong is from February to May. These months are characterised by cool and breezy weather, ideal for day trips. The temperature ranges from 15 degrees to 25 degrees Celsius. This season also offers clear skies on most days, so you can witness Mount Kanchenjunga at sunrise.
You can also plan a trip from September to November, which offers comfortable temperatures to explore this hill station. This season provides stunning views at the Pine View Cactus Nursery Kalimpong, which has most of the cacti in its flowering period. With temperatures ranging from 15 to 22 degrees Celsius, you would also get a chance to witness snow at higher altitudes.
You May Also Like To Read: Sariska National Park
Kalimpong is a hidden Hilston filled with monasteries, tea gardens, and a welcoming culture. The Cactus Nursery Kalimpong is a popular tourist destination for exploring rare plant species. If this guide about Cactus Nursery Kalimpong motivates you, here are some packages handpicked for a trip to Darjeeling. Enjoy the beauty of Mother Nature as you go on trips around the mountains of Kalimpong.
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Cover Image Source: Sumit Surai for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Cactus Nursery Kalimpong
How much time is required to enjoy the Pine View Cactus Nursery Kalimpong?
The Pine View Cactus Nursery Kalimpong can be covered in 2 hours. You can enjoy other attractions near it to maximise your day.
Are there any workshops held at Cactus Nursery Kalimpong?
Yes, the nursery organises workshops on gardening and plant care regularly. You must keep in touch with the official website to know the schedule.
How to reach Cactus Nursery Kalimpong?
You can ride a cab from the market area and reach the Cactus Nursery Kalimpong. It is well-connected and centrally located in Kalimpong.
Is a tour guide required to enjoy Cactus Nursery Kalimpong?
Tour guides are not essential for enjoying the beauty of the nursery. You can walk along and read the description given.
Can children visit the Cactus Nursery Kalimpong? ' answer-4='Yes, it is safe for children to visit the nursery. It would enhance their visual and knowledge about the plants.
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