Darjeeling

Darjeeling is a town and a municipality in the Indian state of West Bengal. It is located in the Lesser Himalayas at an elevation of 6,700 ft (2,042.2 m). It is noted for its tea industry, its views of Kangchenjunga, the world's third-highest mountain, and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Darjeeling is the headquarters of the Darjeeling District which has a partially autonomous status within the state of West Bengal.

History

The development of the town dates back to the mid-19th century, when the colonial British administration set up a sanatorium and a military depot. Subsequently, extensive tea plantations were established in the region, and tea growers developed hybrids of black tea and created new fermentation techniques. The resultant distinctive Darjeeling tea is internationally recognized and ranks among the most popular of the black teas.

Geography

Darjeeling, with its neighboring town of Kalimpong, was a center of the Gorkhaland movement (Separate State demand within India) in the 1980s and the 2000s. The town's fragile ecology has been threatened by a rising demand for environmental resources, stemming from growing tourist traffic and poorly planned urbanization.

Economy

The economy of Darjeeling is based on tourism and the tea industry. The tea industry has faced competition from Nepal and other countries, leading to a decrease in the production of Darjeeling tea. However, the brand is recognized worldwide and efforts are being made to protect its quality and branding.

Culture

The culture of Darjeeling is diverse and includes a mix of Nepali, Bengali, Sherpa, Lepcha and other mainland Indian cultures. The town is also known for its British-style public schools, which attract students from all over India and neighboring countries.

See also

• Darjeeling tea
• Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
• Gorkhaland movement
• West Bengal

External links

• Official website

Darjeeling Resources
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