Darjeeling

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Darjeeling (also: Darjiling; Bengali দার্জিলিং IAST Dārjiliṃ, Nepali दार्जिलिंग IAST Dārjiling, Tibetan རྡོ་རྗེ་གླིང་ rdo-rje gling "Land of Dorje") is a place in the Anterior Himalayas in the Indian state of West Bengal between Nepal and Bhutan. It is situated at an altitude of 2185 m, has a population of about 120,000 (2011 census) and is the administrative headquarters of Darjeeling district. Due to its location, the place has a high ethnic diversity. The predominant languages are Nepali and Tibetan, in addition to the official West Bengali language and English.

Climate and environmental situation

During the British colonial rule, Darjeeling served as a "Hill Station" (resort) for British colonial officials and officers because of its mild climate. They used to move to Darjeeling from Calcutta every year during the hot spell. During the monsoon, Darjeeling receives considerable amounts of rain.

Today, Darjeeling is characterized by high levels of air pollution due to a dramatic increase in motorization.

History

The region of Darjeeling was politically part of the then Chogyal Kingdom of Sikkim in the 19th century and was dominated by the Lepcha and Bhutia populations. In 1835, the British East India Company leased the place from the Chogyal, formally in return for support in the conflict with territorially expanding Nepal. Subsequently, Darjeeling was developed as an aerial health resort for British colonial officials and officers. Even today, the townscape of Darjeeling is dominated by 19th century colonial architecture (mansions, churches, hotels).