Kalimpong Travel Diary: 'Peekaboo' Memories

A Childhood Adventure in the Himalayas (1989-1992 Diary)

Nestled in the Eastern Himalayas of India, Kalimpong holds a special place in my heart—beyond what words can truly express. It represents the heartbeat of my childhood, a magical world that shaped me into who I am today. If you've ever wondered how simple experiences can completely transform your world, allow me to take you back to my childhood memories in Kalimpong Diary, a life filled with curiosity, play, and endless fascination, set against the backdrop of this stunning hill station. It was a time when every hill, every breeze, and every new adventure felt like a treasure waiting to be discovered. This isn't just a story of a place—it's a tribute to the magic of those early, innocent years, to the thrill of exploration, the joy of discovery, and the boundless curiosity that travel ignites within us.

Houses nestled among lush greenery on a serene hillside overlook the tranquil mountain town of Kalimpong at sunset. Image Credit : Photo by Arnab De on Unsplash

Unfolding Our Diary: A Childhood of Wonder

Imagine waking up every day to mist-kissed hills, the sun lazily rising over the mountains, and a world so vibrant and alive that even the rustling of leaves seemed like a symphony. That was Kalimpong for me. We lived in a small cottage perched on a hill, where my sister and I could watch the world unfold before our eyes. Surrounded by a carpet of grass and vibrant flowers, the air was always fresh, as if nature itself invited us to come and play.

Every day was an adventure—no maps, no plans, just pure discovery. We lived in a world where adventure was always just a step away. Our days were spent uncovering nature's beauty, forging friendships with its creatures, and creating memories that would last a lifetime. We dreamt of adventures under the stars, inspired by the shimmering constellations. The swing in the front yard wasn’t just a swing—it was our royal throne, our perch from which we ruled over the kingdom of Kalimpong. And those steps leading down to the town? They weren’t just steps—they were our gateway to hidden treasures, beckoning us to explore beyond.

We didn’t need fancy toys. The world itself was our toy, and every corner was an exciting new game. Each day, we embarked on expeditions fueled by innocent curiosity and boundless imagination. Whether it was the early morning mist, a ladybug perched on a leaf, the sound of sparrows chirping, or a butterfly fluttering by as if inviting us to follow, each moment was filled with awe as we explored the world around us.

A Heartfelt Connection to Kalimpong’s Charm

One of the greatest joys of my childhood was the freedom to explore. No schedules, no strict rules—just a deep connection with the world around us. We ran barefoot through the grass, feeling the cool earth beneath our feet, and our laughter echoed across the hills. We chased bees, marveled at their tiny, busy lives, and watched ladybugs crawl up leaves with a fascination only a child could understand. These little creatures became our familiar friends.

It was a time of innocence, where the simple act of watching the stars or exploring the nearby hills felt like grand adventures. The sounds of insects, the rustling of leaves, and the occasional jackal’s call in the distance all added to the magic. And let's not forget our little “pet” during the rains—a small, black bug called Hirudinea—who seemed to join us on every rainy adventure!

We learned the delicate dance of life in nature, how everything is connected, and how the tiniest creatures could offer the biggest lessons. Every day felt like a treasure hunt, whether we were spotting a new rainbow after a monsoon shower or watching the first blossoms of the season unfold. We’d sit, mesmerized, watching the world unfold from our hilltop vantage point, our imaginations fueled by the changing seasons and the vibrant colors of nature.

School days were filled with the joy of learning, playing, making new friends, and picking strawberries on a nearby hill. Family TV nights, watching shows like Oshin or Doordarshan, became cherished rituals. But it wasn’t just the screen that captivated us—it was the world outside that truly enchanted our hearts.

Our family picnics under the vast Himalayan sky were sacred. We sat by rivers with our feet in the cool water, surrounded by mountains that stood tall like silent guardians. We didn’t need phones or gadgets to capture the magic; we lived it with every breath. Our official dinners and casual lunches offered opportunities to observe the nuances of adult interactions, while shopping trips for jalebi and sweets in the bustling bazaar were sensory overloads of sights, sounds, and smells.

The beauty of Kalimpong wasn’t just in its scenic vistas—it was in the moments of simple joy.

We’d sit, mesmerized, watching the world unfold from our hilltop vantage point, our imaginations fueled by the changing seasons and the vibrant colors of nature. Credit AI Image generator

The Lessons of Life

These years weren’t just about fun and games—they taught me something profound. I learned that life, in its purest form, is about exploration and connection. Travel isn’t just about visiting new places; it’s about experiencing them, feeling them, and learning from them. Adventure doesn’t always require exotic locations; sometimes, it’s found in the corners of your own backyard.

Kalimpong was where I first learned that the world is vast, diverse, and beautiful in its unpredictability. It’s where I learned the joy of slowing down, observing the world at its own pace, and appreciating every little thing. Each journey was a lesson in humility—how vast and mysterious nature is, and how small we are in the grand scheme of things. Yet, it was also where I discovered the power of wonder, curiosity, and an adventurous spirit.

These lessons didn’t end in Kalimpong. Later, when we moved to Pathankot, Punjab, a new landscape with its own beauty unfolded before me. Vast sugarcane fields, star-filled skies, and sweet mangoes awaited exploration. But it was the contrast between these places—the hills of Kalimpong and the plains of Punjab—that truly expanded my understanding of the world. Every place, every landscape, has its own magic, its own story, and its own rhythm.

A Call to Explore: A Heartfelt Invitation

So, why am I sharing all of this with you? Because I want to remind you that the world is full of adventure, and every journey holds lessons you'll carry with you for life. Travel isn’t just about ticking off destinations from a list; it’s about discovering new perspectives, learning about different cultures, and, most importantly, learning about yourself. Whether it’s a small hill station like Kalimpong or a bustling city like Tokyo, the world has something beautiful to offer—if you're ready to look for it.

Kalimpong is the perfect place to start. It’s where nature’s charm, the warmth of the people, and the simplicity of life come together in a way that leaves an imprint on your heart. From the peaceful Deolo Hill to the vibrant Kalimpong Market, every corner invites you to stop, breathe, and soak it all in. It’s not just a destination—it’s an experience that will change the way you see the world.

If you’re seeking peace, beauty, and adventure, Kalimpong is waiting for you with open arms. And I promise, if you allow yourself to truly explore, it will weave its magic on you, just as it did for me all those years ago.

Namaste!

TravelUnseen