Bhutan House, Administrative estate in Kalimpong, India.
Bhutan House is a Victorian-era residence in Kalimpong containing over twelve rooms across two floors with dark wood interiors and a separate kitchen connected by a covered passageway. The property overlooks the Relli River valley and features manicured lawns, a white chorten memorial, and a Buddhist shrine on its grounds.
The land passed to British India in 1865 under the Treaty of Sinchula, after which the Dorji family built this residence. It was constructed to host the Thirteenth Dalai Lama and served as an important meeting place between Bhutanese and foreign visitors.
The upper floor holds a family altar and preserves the late Rani Chuni's personal room with traditional Bhutanese furniture and handcrafted items. Visitors can see woven textiles and cultural objects that reflect the family's ties to Bhutan.
The grounds have paved pathways and are easy to explore on foot, with shaded areas beneath mature trees. Visitors can comfortably view both floors and the surrounding structures during an unhurried walk around the property.
The Dorji family served as the primary communication channel between Bhutan's government and the outside world because of their English language skills. This diplomatic role shaped the house's standing and influence in the region for generations.
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