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==History== |
==History== |
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[[image:Sikkimpolitical.png|thumb|left|150px|Darjeeling's proximity to Sikkim, Bhutan and Nepal is showcased in this political map of Sikkim.]] |
[[image:Sikkimpolitical.png|thumb|left|150px|Darjeeling's proximity to Sikkim, Bhutan and Nepal is showcased in this political map of Sikkim.]] |
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Until the early nineteenth century, the area around Darjeeling was part of the kingdom of [[Sikkim]].<ref name=History2>{{cite web |
Until the early nineteenth century, the area around Darjeeling was part of the kingdom of [[Sikkim]], with settlement consisting of a few villages of [[Lepcha]] woodsmen.<ref name=History2>{{cite web |
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| publisher=Darjeelingpolice | url=http://edujini.net/darjeelingpolice/d_history.html | title= The History of Darjeeling — The Queen of Hills | accessdate=2006-04-30 |
| publisher=Darjeelingpolice | url=http://edujini.net/darjeelingpolice/d_history.html | title= The History of Darjeeling — The Queen of Hills | accessdate=2006-04-30 |
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}}</ref> |
}}</ref> Most of its history intertwined with that of [[Nepal]], [[Bhutan]] and [[Bengal]], Darjeeling came under the [[suzerainty]] of the [[British East India Company]] in 1814. In 1828, a delegation of British officials on their way to Sikkim halted in Darjeeling and found the region very suitable to be a sanitarium for British soldiers.<ref name=History2/> The Company egotiated a lease of the area from the ''[[Chogyal]]'' of Sikkim. [[Arthur Campbell (British East India Company)|Dr. Campbell]], a surgeon with the Company and Lieutenant Napier (later [[Robert Napier, 1st Baron Napier of Magdala|Lord Napier of Magdala]]) were given the responsibility to found a hill station there; Dr. Campball became the first superintendent of the sanitorium in 1839.<ref name=kennedy>{{Harv|Kennedy|1996}}</ref> |
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By 1849, the town population had grown to 10,000 people. Following discord between Sikkim and the Company, the Company annexed the Darjeeling region into the [[British Indian Empire]].<ref name=History2/> The British established experimental tea [[plantation]]s that by 1856 rose into a successful commercial tea industry.<ref name=teahistory1>{{cite web |
By 1849, the town population had grown to 10,000 people. Following discord between Sikkim and the Company, the Company annexed the Darjeeling region into the [[British Indian Empire]].<ref name=History2/> The British established experimental tea [[plantation]]s that by 1856 rose into a successful commercial tea industry.<ref name=teahistory1>{{cite web |
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| publisher=Darjeelingnews| url=http://www.darjeelingnews.net/darjeeling_tea.html | title= Darjeeling Tea History | accessdate=2006-05-02 |
| publisher=Darjeelingnews| url=http://www.darjeelingnews.net/darjeeling_tea.html | title= Darjeeling Tea History | accessdate=2006-05-02 |
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}}</ref> Tea estates developed all around Darjeeling in the second half of the 19th century. During this time immigrants |
}}</ref> Tea estates developed all around Darjeeling in the second half of the 19th century. During this time immigrants mainly from Nepal flooded in to work in construction sites, tea gardens, and on other agriculture-related projects.<ref name=History2/> [[Scotland|Scottish]] [[Missionary|missionaries]] undertook the construction of schools and welfare centres for the British residents, including the [[St Paul's School, Darjeeling|St. Paul's School]], established in 1849 in the [[Jalapahar]] area. The [[Darjeeling Himalayan Railway]] opened in 1881, facilitating rapid communication between the town and the plains below.<ref name=heritegeunesco>{{cite web |
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| publisher=UNESCO World Heritage Centre | url=http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/944 | title=Mountain Railways of India | accessdate=2006-04-30 |
| publisher=UNESCO World Heritage Centre | url=http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/944 | title=Mountain Railways of India | accessdate=2006-04-30 |
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}}</ref> The [[Raj Bhavan, Darjeeling|Government House]] was developed as a summer retreat for the [[Governor-General of India]]. In 1898, Darjeeling experienced an earthquake that |
}}</ref> The [[Raj Bhavan, Darjeeling|Government House]] was developed as a summer retreat for the [[Governor-General of India]]. In 1898, Darjeeling experienced an earthquake that caused considerable damage to the young town and native population, described by the British as the "Darjeeling disaster."<ref name=disaster1> {{cite web |
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| author =| publisher=Baron Courts of Prestoungrange & Dolphinstoun| url=http://www.prestoungrange.org/core-files/archive/university_press/18_prideofpanners/pages%2038-44.pdf| title=A Pride of Panners| pages= 43 | format= [[PDF|PDF Format]] | accessdate=2006-04-30 |
| author =| publisher=Baron Courts of Prestoungrange & Dolphinstoun| url=http://www.prestoungrange.org/core-files/archive/university_press/18_prideofpanners/pages%2038-44.pdf| title=A Pride of Panners| pages= 43 | format= [[PDF|PDF Format]] | accessdate=2006-04-30 |
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}}</ref> <ref name=disaster2>{{Harv|Lee|1971}}</ref> |
}}</ref> <ref name=disaster2>{{Harv|Lee|1971}}</ref> |
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Under British rule, the Darjeeling area was a "Non-Regulation District" |
Under British rule, the Darjeeling area was a "Non-Regulation District" – acts and regulations of the [[British Raj]] did not automatically come into force in the district in line with rest of the country, unless they were specifically extended to it.<ref name=exploredarjeeling1>{{cite web |
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| url =http://www.exploredarjeeling.com/history.htm |
| url =http://www.exploredarjeeling.com/history.htm |
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| title = History of Darjeeling |
| title = History of Darjeeling |
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| publisher = exploredarjeeling.com |
| publisher = exploredarjeeling.com |
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| accessdate = 2006-05-02 |
| accessdate = 2006-05-02 |
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}}</ref> After the [[1905 Partition of Bengal]], the area came under the jurisdiction of [[Rajshahi]] division. |
}}</ref> After the [[1905 Partition of Bengal]], the area came under the jurisdiction of the [[Rajshahi]] division. An increasing number of well-to-do Indian residents of [[Kolkata]] also began visiting and touring Darjeeling. The town continued to grow as a tourist destination, becoming known as the "Queen of the Hills."<ref name=frontline2005> |
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{{cite journal |
{{cite journal |
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| last = Chattopadhyay |
| last = Chattopadhyay |
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| url =http://www.hinduonnet.com/fline/fl2201/stories/20050114006111400.htm | accessdate =2006-07-30 |
| url =http://www.hinduonnet.com/fline/fl2201/stories/20050114006111400.htm | accessdate =2006-07-30 |
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}} |
}} |
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</ref> Darjeeling's elite |
</ref> Darjeeling's elite residents were the British ruling class of the time, who visited Darjeeling every summer, affluent [[Maharaja]]s of [[List of Indian Princely States|princely states]], land-owning [[zamindar]]s and some well-known [[barrister]]s of the [[Calcutta High Court]].<ref name=memories>{{cite web |
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| last =Shringla |
| last =Shringla |
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| first =T.T. |
| first =T.T. |
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| publisher = The Mountain Forum |
| publisher = The Mountain Forum |
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| accessdate = 2006-05-01 |
| accessdate = 2006-05-01 |
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}} Now available in the [[Internet Archive]] in this [http://web.archive.org/web/20041020031749/http://www.mtnforum.org/resources/library/khawv03e.htm URL] (accessed on [[7 June]] [[2006]])</ref> The town did not see any particular activity |
}} Now available in the [[Internet Archive]] in this [http://web.archive.org/web/20041020031749/http://www.mtnforum.org/resources/library/khawv03e.htm URL] (accessed on [[7 June]] [[2006]])</ref> The town did not see any particular political activity during the [[Indian independence movement|freedom struggle of India]] owing to its remote location and meagre population. However, there was a failed assassination attempt by [[Revolutionary movement for Indian independence|revolutionaries]] on [[John Anderson, 1st Viscount Waverley|Sir John Anderson]], the [[Governor of Bengal]] in the 1930s.<ref name=exploredarjeeling1/> |
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After the [[independence of India]] in 1947, Darjeeling became a part of the state of [[West Bengal]]. A separate district of Darjeeling was established consisting of the hilly towns of Darjeeling, [[Kurseong]], [[Kalimpong]] and some parts of the [[Terai]] region. |
After the [[independence of India]] in 1947, Darjeeling became a part of the state of [[West Bengal]]. A separate district of Darjeeling was established consisting of the hilly towns of Darjeeling, [[Kurseong]], [[Kalimpong]] and some parts of the [[Terai]] region. When the [[People's Republic of China]] annexed [[Tibet]] in 1950, thousands of Tibetan refugees settled across Darjeeling town and district. A diverse ethnic population gave rise to socio-economic tensions, and the demand for the creation of the separate states of [[Gorkhaland]] and [[Kamtapur]] along ethnic lines grew popular in the 1980s. The issues came to a head after a 40-day strike called by the [[Gorkha National Liberation Front]], during which violence gripped the city, causing the state government to call in the [[Indian Army]] to restore order. Political tensions largely declined with the establishment of [[Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council]] under the chairmanship of [[Subash Gishing]].<ref name=ethnic1>{{cite web |
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The issues came to a head after a 40-day strike called by the [[Gorkha National Liberation Front]] during which rioting occurred. The strike and violence gripped the city, causing the state government to call in the [[Indian Army]] to maintain law and order. The movement ended with the establishment of [[Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council]] under the chairmanship of [[Subash Gishing]].<ref name=ethnic1>{{cite web |
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| url = http://www.ciaonet.org/wps/sap01/#txt95 |
| url = http://www.ciaonet.org/wps/sap01/#txt95 |
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| title = Ethnic Conflict in South Asia |
| title = Ethnic Conflict in South Asia |
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| publisher = Columbia International Affairs Online |
| publisher = Columbia International Affairs Online |
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}}</ref> The DGHC was given semi-autonomous powers to govern the district. Later the name of DGHC was changed to Darjeeling Gorkha Autonomous Hill Council (DGAHC). Though Darjeeling is now peaceful, the issue of a separate state still lingers. |
}}</ref> The DGHC was given semi-autonomous powers to govern the district. Later the name of DGHC was changed to Darjeeling Gorkha Autonomous Hill Council (DGAHC). Though Darjeeling is now peaceful, the issue of a separate state still lingers. |
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==Geography and climate== |
==Geography and climate== |
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Darjeeling is located at an average elevation of 6,982 [[Foot (unit of length)|ft.]] or 2,134 [[metre|m]]<ref name=GeneralInformation>{{cite web |
Darjeeling is located at an average elevation of 6,982 [[Foot (unit of length)|ft.]] or 2,134 [[metre|m]]<ref name=GeneralInformation>{{cite web |
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| publisher=zubin.com | url=http://www.zubin.com/darjeeling/general.htm | title=GeneralInformation| accessdate=2006-04-30 |
| publisher=zubin.com | url=http://www.zubin.com/darjeeling/general.htm | title=GeneralInformation| accessdate=2006-04-30 |
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}}</ref> in the [[Darjeeling Himalayan hill region]] |
}}</ref> in the [[Darjeeling Himalayan hill region]] on the Darjeeling-Jalapahar range that originates in the south from [[Ghum, West Bengal|Ghum]]. The range is Y-shaped with the base resting at [[Katapahar]] and [[Jalapahar]] and two arms diverging north of [[Observatory Hill, Darjeeling|Observatory Hill]]. The north-eastern arm dips suddenly and ends in the [[Lebong]] spur, while the north-western arm passes through the [[St. Joseph's College, Darjeeling|St. Joseph's College]] and ends in the valley near [[Tukver Tea Estate]].<ref name=urbanmanagement/> |
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Darjeeling is the main town of the ''[[ |
Darjeeling is the main town of the ''[[Darjeeling Sadar|Sadar]]'' subdivision and also the headquarters of the district. Most of the Darjeeling district, including the town of Darjeeling lies in the [[Siwalik Hills|Shiwalik Hills]] (or Lower Himalaya). The soil is chiefly composed of [[sandstone]] and conglomerate formations, which are the solidified and upheaved detritus of the great range of [[Himalaya]]. However, the soil is often poorly consolidated as the permeable sediments of the region do not retain water between rains and is usually considered not suitable for agriculture. The area has steep slopes and loose [[topsoil]], leading to frequent [[landslide]]s in the [[monsoon]]. According to the [[Bureau of Indian Standards]], the town falls under [[Earthquake hazard zoning of India|seismic zone-IV]], (in a scale of I to V, in order of increasing proneness to earthquakes)<ref name=earthquake>{{cite news |
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|first=Kalyan |
|first=Kalyan |
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|last=Ray |
|last=Ray |
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|date=[[2005-05-07]] |
|date=[[2005-05-07]] |
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|accessdate=2006-05-03 |
|accessdate=2006-05-03 |
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}}</ref> near the [[convergent boundary]] of the [[India Plate|Indian]] and the [[Eurasian Plate|Eurasian]] [[tectonic plate]]s. The hills are nestled within higher peaks and the snow-clad Himalayan ranges tower over the town in the distance. Mount [[Kanchenjunga]] (8,591 m or 28,185 feet) – the world's third-highest peak – looming over the town is a famous sight. In clear |
}}</ref> near the [[convergent boundary]] of the [[India Plate|Indian]] and the [[Eurasian Plate|Eurasian]] [[tectonic plate]]s. The hills are nestled within higher peaks and the snow-clad Himalayan ranges tower over the town in the distance. Mount [[Kanchenjunga]] (8,591 m or 28,185 feet) – the world's third-highest peak – looming over the town is a famous sight. In days clear of clouds, Nepal's [[Mount Everest]] (8,850 m) is also visible.<ref name=britannica>{{cite web |
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| url = http://www.britannica.com/eb/article-9028781 |
| url = http://www.britannica.com/eb/article-9028781 |
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| title = Darjeeling |
| title = Darjeeling |
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}}</ref> |
}}</ref> |
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Darjeeling's [[Temperate|temperate climate]] has five distinct seasons: [[Spring (season)|spring]], [[summer]], [[autumn]], [[winter]], and the [[Climate of India#Monsoons|monsoon]]s. Summers (lasting from May to June) are mild, with maximum temperatures barely crossing 25 °[[Celsius|C]] (77 °[[Fahrenheit|F]]). The monsoon season from June to September is characterised by intense torrential rains that lash at the town, often causing [[landslide]]s that block Darjeeling's land access to the rest of the country. Winters see temperature averaging 5–7 °C (41–44 °F). Occasionally the temperatures drop below [[Melting point|freezing]], inducing rare snowfall. During the monsoon and winter seasons, Darjeeling is often shrouded in [[mist]] and [[fog]]. The annual mean temperature is 12 °C (53 °F); monthly mean temperatures range from 5–17 °C (41–62 °F).<ref name=weatherbase>{{cite web |
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| publisher=Canty and Associates LLC | url=http://www.weatherbase.com/weather/weather.php3?s=422950&refer==&units=metric| title=Weatherbase entry for Darjeeling| accessdate=2006-04-30 |
| publisher=Canty and Associates LLC | url=http://www.weatherbase.com/weather/weather.php3?s=422950&refer==&units=metric| title=Weatherbase entry for Darjeeling| accessdate=2006-04-30 |
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}}</ref> The highest temperature ever recorded in the district was 26.7 °C (80.1 °F) on [[23 August]] [[1957]]; the lowest-ever temperature recorded was −5 °C (23 °F) on [[11 February]] [[1905]].<ref name=geography>{{cite web |
}}</ref> The highest temperature ever recorded in the district was 26.7 °C (80.1 °F) on [[23 August]] [[1957]]; the lowest-ever temperature recorded was −5 °C (23 °F) on [[11 February]] [[1905]].<ref name=geography>{{cite web |
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| publisher=darjeelingnews.net | url=http://darjeelingnews.net/geography.html | title=geography| accessdate=2006-04-30 |
| publisher=darjeelingnews.net | url=http://darjeelingnews.net/geography.html | title=geography| accessdate=2006-04-30 |
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}}</ref> The average annual [[Precipitation (meteorology)|precipitation]] is 281.8 [[Centimetre|cm]] (110.9 [[inch|in]]), with the highest |
}}</ref> The average annual [[Precipitation (meteorology)|precipitation]] is 281.8 [[Centimetre|cm]] (110.9 [[inch|in]]), with the highest incidence occurring in July (75.3 cm or 29.6 in).<ref name=weatherbase/> The town of Darjeeling and surrounding region continues to face the challenges of [[deforestation]] due to increasing demand for wood fuel and timber as well as air pollution from increasing vehicular traffic.<ref name=teri>{{cite web |
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| author = TERI |
| author = TERI |
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| year = 2001 |
| year = 2001 |
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| publisher = Tata Energy Research Institute, New Delhi. (TERI Project No.2000UT64) |
| publisher = Tata Energy Research Institute, New Delhi. (TERI Project No.2000UT64) |
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| accessdate = 2006-05-01 |
| accessdate = 2006-05-01 |
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}}</ref> Flora around Darjeeling includes temperate, [[deciduous]] forests of [[poplar]], [[birch]], [[oak]], and [[elm]] |
}}</ref> Flora around Darjeeling includes temperate, [[deciduous]] forests of [[poplar]], [[birch]], [[oak]], and [[elm]] as well as [[evergreen]], [[coniferous]] trees of [[alpine climate|wet alpine]]. Dense evergreen forests lie around the town and the valley, where a wide variety of rare [[orchids]] are found. The [[Lloyd's Botanical Garden]] showcases and preserves common and rare species of flora, while the [[Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park]] is the only specialised zoo in the country conserving and breeding endangered Himalayan species.<ref name=zoo>{{cite web |
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| publisher=Darjeelingnews.net | url=http://www.darjeelingnews.net/pnhz_park.html| title=Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park| accessdate=2006-05-04 |
| publisher=Darjeelingnews.net | url=http://www.darjeelingnews.net/pnhz_park.html| title=Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park| accessdate=2006-05-04 |
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}}</ref> |
}}</ref> |
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Darjeeling urban agglomeration consists of [[Darjeeling Municipality]] and the [[Pattabong Tea Garden]].<ref name=census1>{{cite web |
Darjeeling urban agglomeration consists of [[Darjeeling Municipality]] and the [[Pattabong Tea Garden]].<ref name=census1>{{cite web |
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| author=Directorate of Census Operations, West Bengal | url=http://www.wbcensus.gov.in/DataTables/02/FrameTable4_1.htm | title=Table-4 Population, Decadal Growth Rate, Density and General Sex Ratio by Residence and Sex, West Bengal/ District/ Sub District, 1991 and 2001|year=2003 |accessdate=2006-04-30 |
| author=Directorate of Census Operations, West Bengal | url=http://www.wbcensus.gov.in/DataTables/02/FrameTable4_1.htm | title=Table-4 Population, Decadal Growth Rate, Density and General Sex Ratio by Residence and Sex, West Bengal/ District/ Sub District, 1991 and 2001|year=2003 |accessdate=2006-04-30 |
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}}</ref> |
}}</ref> Established in 1850, the Darjeeling municipality maintains the civic administration of the town, covering an area of 10.57 km².<ref name=census1/> The municipality is a separate entity from the [[Darjeeling Gorkha Autonomous Hill Council]] (previously "Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council" — DGHC). It composes of a board of councilors elected from each of the 32 [[ward]]s of Darjeeling town as well as a few members nominated by the state government. The board of councilors elects a chairman from among its elected members,<ref name=urbanmanagement/> who is the executive head of the municipality. The [[Gorkha National Liberation Front]] (GNLF) at present holds power in the municipality. On the other hand, the Gorkha-dominated hill areas of the whole Darjeeling district is under the jurisdiction of the Darjeeling Gorkha Autonomous Hill Council since its formation in 1988. The DGHC's elected councilors are authorized to manage certain affairs of the hills, including education, health and tourism. |
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The town |
The town elects a member to one seat in the [[lower house]] of the [[Indian Parliament]], the [[Lok Sabha]] and in the West Bengal state legislative assembly, the [[Vidhan Sabha]]. The [[Indian National Congress]] won the parliamentary election in [[Indian general elections, 2004|2004]], while the state assembly seat was won by GNLF in the [[West Bengal state assembly election, 2006|2006 polls]]. Darjeeling town comes under the jurisdiction of the district police (which is a part of the [[West Bengal Police|state police]]); a [[Deputy Superintendent|Deputy Superintendent of Police]] oversees the town's security and law affairs.<ref name=policestructure> |
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{{cite web |
{{cite web |
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| author=Darjeeling Police | url=http://edujini.net/darjeelingpolice/org_spo.html| title=List of Senior Police Officers, Darjeeling Police|year=2004 |accessdate=2006-05-04 |
| author=Darjeeling Police | url=http://edujini.net/darjeelingpolice/org_spo.html| title=List of Senior Police Officers, Darjeeling Police|year=2004 |accessdate=2006-05-04 |
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== Economy == |
== Economy == |
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[[Image:Darjeeling.jpg|thumb|right|325px|A view of Darjeeling town from the Happy Valley Tea Estate]] |
[[Image:Darjeeling.jpg|thumb|right|325px|A view of Darjeeling town from the Happy Valley Tea Estate]] |
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The two most significant contributors to Darjeeling's economy are [[tourism]] and the [[tea]] industry. |
The two most significant contributors to Darjeeling's economy are [[tourism]] and the [[tea]] industry. Summer and spring seasons are the most popular with tourists, keeping many of Darjeeling's residents employed directly and indirectly. Some residents own hotels and restaurants. Many people earn a living working for tourism and transport companies and as guides. As the district headquarters, Darjeeling employes many in government offices. [[Darjeeling tea]] is regarded as the best of [[black tea]]s and is widely popular,<ref name=teabest>{{cite news |
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|url = http://www.deccanherald.com/deccanherald/jun172005/living1150492005616.asp |
|url = http://www.deccanherald.com/deccanherald/jun172005/living1150492005616.asp |
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|title = Champagne among teas |
|title = Champagne among teas |
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|date=27 July 2001 |
|date=27 July 2001 |
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|accessdate=2006-05-08 |
|accessdate=2006-05-08 |
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}}</ref> Widespread concerns about labour disputes, |
}}</ref> Widespread concerns about labour disputes, worker layoffs and closing of estates have affected investment and production.<ref name=teaproblems>{{cite news |
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|first= Daniel B |
|first= Daniel B |
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|last=Haber |
|last=Haber |
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|date= 14 January 2004 |
|date= 14 January 2004 |
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|accessdate=2006-05-08 |
|accessdate=2006-05-08 |
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}}</ref> Several tea estates are being run on a workers' [[cooperative]] model, while others are being planned for |
}}</ref> Several tea estates are being run on a workers' [[cooperative]] model, while others are being planned for conversion into tourist resorts.<ref name=teaproblems/> More than 60% of workers in the tea gardens are women. The remuneration of workers are often half in cash and half in other benefits like accommodation, subsidised rations, free medical benefits etc.<ref name=teafacts>{{cite news |
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|url=http://www.darjeelingnews.net/tea_facts.html |
|url=http://www.darjeelingnews.net/tea_facts.html |
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|title=Darjeeling Tea Facts |
|title=Darjeeling Tea Facts |
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}}</ref> |
}}</ref> |
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The district's forests and other natural wealth have been adversely affected by an ever-growing population, now estimated at around 1.2 million |
The district's forests and other natural wealth have been adversely affected by an ever-growing population, now estimated at around 1.2 million. The years since independence have seen substantial advances in the area's education, communications and transport, and agriculture – the latter including the production of diverse cash crops like [[potato]], [[cardamom]], [[ginger]], and [[oranges]]. Farming on [[Terrace (agriculture)|terraced slopes]] is a major source of livelihood for the rural populace around the town and it supplies the town with fruits and vegetables. Small contributions to the economy come by the way of the sale of traditional arts and crafts of [[Sikkim]] and [[Tibet]]. Darjeeling is a sometimes a destination of [[Bollywood]] and [[Bengali cinema]] shooting, with [[Aradhana]], [[Main Hoon Na]] and [[Satyajit Ray]]'s [[Kanchenjungha]] being examples. |
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==Transport and utility services== |
==Transport and utility services== |
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[[Image:Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.jpg|thumb|left|250px|The "Toy Train" approaching Darjeeling]] |
[[Image:Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.jpg|thumb|left|250px|The "Toy Train" approaching Darjeeling]] |
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The town of Darjeeling can be reached by the 80 [[kilometre|km]] long [[Darjeeling Himalayan Railway]] (nicknamed the "Toy Train") from [[Siliguri]], or by the Hill Cart Road ([[Indian highways|National Highway]] 55) that follows the railway line. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is a 60 [[Metre#SI multiples|cm]] (2 [[Imperial Unit|feet]]) [[narrow-gauge railway]]. It was declared a [[World Heritage Site]] by [[UNESCO]] in 1999, only the second railway |
The town of Darjeeling can be reached by the 80 [[kilometre|km]] long [[Darjeeling Himalayan Railway]] (nicknamed the "Toy Train") from [[Siliguri]], or by the Hill Cart Road ([[Indian highways|National Highway]] 55) that follows the railway line. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is a 60 [[Metre#SI multiples|cm]] (2 [[Imperial Unit|feet]]) [[narrow-gauge railway]]. It was declared a [[World Heritage Site]] by [[UNESCO]] in 1999, only the second railway in the world to have this honour.<ref name=heritegeunesco/> Regular bus services and hired vehicles connect Darjeeling with Siliguri and the neighbouring towns of [[Kurseong]], [[Kalimpong]] and [[Gangtok]]. [[Four wheel drive]]s, including [[Land Rover]]s, are the most popular means of transport, as they can easily navigate the steep slopes in the region. The nearest airport is in [[Bagdogra]] near [[Siliguri]], which is a three hour (approx. 90 km) drive from Darjeeling. [[Indian Airlines]], [[Jet Airways]] and [[Air Deccan]] are the three major carriers that fly to [[Delhi]], Kolkata and [[Guwahati]]. The closest railway station is in [[New Jalpaiguri]], which is connected with almost all major cities of the country. Walking, biking, two-wheelers and the use of hired taxis remain the most popular modes for travel in and across this hilly town. Communication often gets disrupted in the monsoons due to landslides. |
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Natural springs provide the major part of Darjeeling's water supply – water collected from them is routed to [[Senchal Lake]] (10 km southeast of town), from |
Natural springs provide the major part of Darjeeling's water supply – water collected from them is routed to [[Senchal Lake]] (10 km southeast of town), from where it is piped to the town. During the dry season, when water supplied by springs is insufficient, supply is pumped from the [[Khong Khola]], a nearby small perennial creek. There is a steadily widening gap between water supply and demand; just over 50% of the town's households are connected to the municipal water supply system.<ref name=urbanmanagement/> The town has an underground sewage system that collects the domestic waste from residences and about fifty community toilets; waste is then conveyed to six central septic tanks and ultimately disposed of in natural ''jhoras'' (waterways); roadside drains also collect sewage and storm water. Municipal Darjeeling produces about 50 [[tonne]]s of solid waste every day. Electricity is supplied by the [[West Bengal State Electricity Board]]; the [[West Bengal Fire Service]] provides fire services for the town. The [[electrical]] supply voltage is unstable, making [[voltage stabiliser]]s necessary. Almost all of the primary schools are now maintained by Darjeeling Gorkha Autonomous Hill Council. The total length of all types of roads — including stepped paths within the municipality — is around 90 km; these are maintained by the municipality. |
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==Demographics== |
==Demographics== |
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| publisher = International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development |
| publisher = International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development |
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| accessdate = 2006-05-06 |
| accessdate = 2006-05-06 |
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}}</ref> The town houses about 31% of its population in the [[slum]]s and shanty buildings |
}}</ref> The town houses about 31% of its population in the [[slum]]s and shanty buildings – a consequence of heavy immigration.<ref name=urbanmanagement/> The major religion is [[Hinduism]], followed by [[Buddhism]]. [[Christian]]s and [[Muslim]]s form sizable minorities.<ref name=festivals>{{cite web |
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| publisher=darjeelingnews.net | url=http://www.darjeelingnews.net/darjeeling_festivals.html | title=Darjeeling Festivals | accessdate=2006-05-01 |
| publisher=darjeelingnews.net | url=http://www.darjeelingnews.net/darjeeling_festivals.html | title=Darjeeling Festivals | accessdate=2006-05-01 |
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}}</ref> The population's ethnic composition is closely linked with that of Bhutan, Nepal, Sikkim and Bengal. The majority of the populace is of ethnic [[Nepal]]i background, having migrated to Darjeeling in search of jobs during British rule. Indigenous ethnic groups include the [[Lepcha]]s, [[Bhutia]]s, [[Sherpa (people)|Sherpa]]s, [[Rai (ethnic group)|Rais]], [[Yamloo]]s, [[Damai]]s, [[Kamai]]s, [[Newar]]s and the [[Limbu]]s. The other non-native communities are the [[Bengali people|Bengalis]], [[Marwaris]], [[Anglo-Indian]]s, [[Chinese people|Chinese]], [[Bihar|Bihari]]s and [[Tibetan people|Tibetans]]. The most commonly spoken language is [[Nepali language|Nepali]] (Gorkhali), with [[Hindi language|Hindi]], [[Bengali language|Bengali]] and [[English language|English]] in being frequently used as well. |
}}</ref> The population's ethnic composition is closely linked with that of Bhutan, Nepal, Sikkim and Bengal. The majority of the populace is of ethnic [[Nepal]]i background, having migrated to Darjeeling in search of jobs during British rule. Indigenous ethnic groups include the [[Lepcha]]s, [[Bhutia]]s, [[Sherpa (people)|Sherpa]]s, [[Rai (ethnic group)|Rais]], [[Yamloo]]s, [[Damai]]s, [[Kamai]]s, [[Newar]]s and the [[Limbu]]s. The other non-native communities are the [[Bengali people|Bengalis]], [[Marwaris]], [[Anglo-Indian]]s, [[Chinese people|Chinese]], [[Bihar|Bihari]]s and [[Tibetan people|Tibetans]]. The most commonly spoken language is [[Nepali language|Nepali]] (Gorkhali), with [[Hindi language|Hindi]], [[Bengali language|Bengali]] and [[English language|English]] in being frequently used as well. |
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The town of Darjeeling has seen a growth in its population during the last century, |
The town of Darjeeling has seen a growth in its population during the last century, particularly since the 1970s. Annual growth rates reached as high as 45% in the 1990s and thus is far above the national, state, and district average. The colonial town of Darjeeling was designed for a mere population of 10,000, thus affected with extensive infrastructual and environmental problems. The region is relatively new in geological terms, with a host of environmental problems and hence unstable in nature.<ref name=urbanmanagement/> Environmental degradation has adversely affected Darjeeling's appeal as a tourist destination.<ref name=teri/> |
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==Culture== |
==Culture== |
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[[Image:DarjeelingGorkhaRally.jpg|left|thumb|250px|A political rally taking place in Chowk Bazar,Darjeeling]] |
[[Image:DarjeelingGorkhaRally.jpg|left|thumb|250px|A political rally taking place in Chowk Bazar,Darjeeling]] |
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<!--[[Image:Darjeelingmainstreet.jpg|right|250px|thumb|A busy street in Darjeeling with shops on both sides]]--> |
<!--[[Image:Darjeelingmainstreet.jpg|right|250px|thumb|A busy street in Darjeeling with shops on both sides]]--> |
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The most popular snack in Darjeeling is the ''[[momo (food)|momo]]'', a steamed dumpling containing [[pork]], [[beef]] and vegetables cooked in a doughy wrapping and served with watery soup. [[Wai-Wai (food)|Wai-Wai]] is a packaged snack comprising of noodles which are eaten either dry or in soup form. ''[[Churpee]]'', a kind of hard cheese made from [[cow]]'s or [[yak]]'s [[milk]] is sometimes chewed. A form of [[noodle]] called ''[[thukpa]]'', served in soup form is also popular in Darjeeling. There are a large number of restaurants which offer a wide variety of |
The most popular snack in Darjeeling is the ''[[momo (food)|momo]]'', a steamed dumpling containing [[pork]], [[beef]] and vegetables cooked in a doughy wrapping and served with watery soup. [[Wai-Wai (food)|Wai-Wai]] is a packaged snack comprising of noodles which are eaten either dry or in soup form. ''[[Churpee]]'', a kind of hard cheese made from [[cow]]'s or [[yak]]'s [[milk]] is sometimes chewed. A form of [[noodle]] called ''[[thukpa]]'', served in soup form is also popular in Darjeeling. There are a large number of restaurants which offer a wide variety of traditional Indian, continental and Chinese cuisines to cater to the tourists. [[Tea]] is the most popular beverage, procured from the famed Darjeeling tea gardens, but [[coffee]] is also consumed. ''[[Chhang]]'' is a local beer made from [[millet]]. |
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Owing to the diverse ethnic populace of Darjeeling, festivals are very frequent and enthusiastically and publicly celebrated. Apart from the major religious festivals of [[Diwali]], [[Christmas]], [[Dussera]], [[Holi]] etc., there are several local festivals. The Lepchas and Bhutias celebrate [[new year]] in January, while Tibetans celebrate the new year (''[[Losar]]'') with '[[Devil Dance]]' in February-March. The ''[[Maghe sankranti]]'', ''[[Ram Navami]]'', ''[[Chotrul Duchen]]'', ''[[Buddha Jayanti]]'', the birthday of the [[Dalai Lama]] and ''[[Tendong Lho Rumfaat]]'' are some other festivals, some distinct to local culture and others shared with the rest of India, Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet.<ref name=festivals/> |
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Colonial architecture characterizes most buildings in Darjeeling, with [[mock Tudor]] residences, [[Gothic architecture|Gothic]] churches, the [[Raj Bhavan, Darjeeling|Raj Bhawan]] (Governor House), [[Darjeeling Planters' Club|Planters' Club]] and the various educational institutions. There are small monasteries which showcase the Buddhist [[pagoda]] style architectures. Darjeeling is traditionally regarded as a centre of music and ''niche'' for musicians and music admirers. Singing and playing different instruments is common and popular to most of the resident population, who take pride in the traditions and role of music in cultural life. [[Darjeeling Carnival]]s have been organised since 2003 and exhibit the diverse ethnic, social and religious culture of the region.<ref name=frontline2003> |
Colonial architecture characterizes most buildings in Darjeeling, with [[mock Tudor]] residences, [[Gothic architecture|Gothic]] churches, the [[Raj Bhavan, Darjeeling|Raj Bhawan]] (Governor House), [[Darjeeling Planters' Club|Planters' Club]] and the various educational institutions. There are small monasteries which showcase the Buddhist [[pagoda]] style architectures. Darjeeling is traditionally regarded as a centre of music and ''niche'' for musicians and music admirers. Singing and playing different instruments is common and popular to most of the resident population, who take pride in the traditions and role of music in cultural life. [[Darjeeling Carnival]]s have been organised since 2003 and exhibit the diverse ethnic, social and religious culture of the region.<ref name=frontline2003> |
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</ref> Western music is also popular especially among the younger generation and Darjeeling is a major centre of [[Nepali rock]] music. [[Cricket]] and [[football (soccer)|football]] are the most popular sports in Darjeeling. An improvised form of ball made of rubber garters is often used for playing in the steep streets. |
</ref> Western music is also popular especially among the younger generation and Darjeeling is a major centre of [[Nepali rock]] music. [[Cricket]] and [[football (soccer)|football]] are the most popular sports in Darjeeling. An improvised form of ball made of rubber garters is often used for playing in the steep streets. |
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Darjeeling has a thriving tourism industry |
Darjeeling has a thriving tourism industry – famous attractions include the [[Tiger Hill, Darjeeling|Tiger Hill]], the [[Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park|zoo]], monasteries and the tea gardens. The town attracts many trekkers and sportsmen seeking to explore the [[Himalayas]] and [[Sikkim]],<ref name=percybrown>{{Harv|Brown|1917}}</ref> serving as the starting point for many climbing attempts on [[India]]n and [[Nepal]]i peaks. [[Tenzing Norgay]], one of the two men to first climb [[Mount Everest]], spent most of his adult life in the [[Sherpa people|Sherpa]] community in Darjeeling. His success provided the impetus to establish the [[Himalayan Mountaineering Institute]] in Darjeeling in 1954. In the [[Tibetan Refugee Self Help Center]], Tibetan crafts like carpets, wood and leather work are displayed. Several monasteries like [[Ghoom Monastery]] (8 km from the town), [[Bhutia Busty monastery]], [[Mag-Dhog Yolmowa Monastery|Mag-Dhog Yolmowa]] preserve ancient Buddhist scripts. |
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==Education and media== |
==Education and media== |
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[[Image:Darjeelinghillhouses.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Modern houses and shanty buildings in the town]] |
[[Image:Darjeelinghillhouses.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Modern houses and shanty buildings in the town]] |
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Darjeeling's schools are either run by the state government or by private and religious organisations. Schools mainly use English and Nepali as |
Darjeeling's schools are either run by the state government or by private and religious organisations. Schools mainly use English and Nepali as their [[medium of instruction]], although the national language Hindi and the official state language Bengali are also stressed. The schools are either affiliated with the [[Indian Certificate of Secondary Education]], the [[CBSE|Central Board for Secondary Education]], or the [[West Bengal Board of Secondary Education]]. Darjeeling is home to several [[public school (England)|public schools]] operating on the British model. A summer retreat for the British in India, Darjeeling soon became the place of choice for the establishment of public schools on the model of [[Eton College|Eton]], [[Harrow School|Harrow]] and [[Rugby School|Rugby]], allowing the children of British officials to obtain an exclusive education.<ref name=publicschool1>{{cite web |
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Darjeeling is home to several [[public school (England)|public schools]] operating on the British model. A summer retreat for the British in India, Darjeeling soon became the place of choice for the establishment of public schools on the model of [[Eton College|Eton]], [[Harrow School|Harrow]] and [[Rugby School|Rugby]], allowing the children of British administrators to obtain a British education without returning to Britain.<ref name=publicschool1>{{cite web |
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| url = http://www.sscnet.ucla.edu/southasia/History/British/HillStations.html |
| url = http://www.sscnet.ucla.edu/southasia/History/British/HillStations.html |
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| title = "Hill Stations: Pinnacles of the Raj." Review article on Dale Kennedy, The Magic Mountains : Hill Stations and the British Raj |
| title = "Hill Stations: Pinnacles of the Raj." Review article on Dale Kennedy, The Magic Mountains : Hill Stations and the British Raj |
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| work = |
| work = |
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| publisher =UCLA Social Sciences Computing |
| publisher =UCLA Social Sciences Computing |
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}}</ref> |
}}</ref> Institutions such as [[St. Paul's School, Darjeeling|St. Paul's School]], [[Loreto Convent, Darjeeling|Loreto Convent]], [[St. Joseph's College (School Dept.)|St. Joseph's School]] and [[Mount Hermon School, Darjeeling|Mount Hermon School]] (the only school in the area to be modelled on the [[American educational system#Primary and secondary education|American educational system]]) attract students from all over India and [[South Asia]]. Many schools (some are more than a hundred years old) still adhere to the traditions from its British and colonial heritage. Darjeeling hosts three colleges — [[St Joseph's College, Darjeeling|St. Joseph's College]], [[Loreto College, Darjeeling|Loreto College]] and [[Darjeeling Government College]] — all affiliated to [[University of North Bengal]] in Siliguri. |
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Darjeeling receives almost all the [[television]] channels that are received by the rest of the country. |
Darjeeling receives almost all the [[television]] channels that are received by the rest of the country. Apart from the state-owned [[terrestrial television|terrestrial network]] [[Doordarshan]], [[cable television]] serves most of the homes in the town, while [[satellite television]] is common in the outlying areas and in wealthier households. Besides mainstream [[List of Indian television stations|Indian channels]], the town also receives local Nepali language channels. Newspapers in Darjeeling include English language dailies, ''[[The Statesman]]'' and ''[[The Telegraph]]'', which are printed in Siliguri, and ''[[The Hindustan Times]]'' and the ''[[The Times of India|Times of India]]'' which are printed in [[Kolkata]] and are received after a day's delay. In addition to these one can also find a few Nepali, Hindi and Bengali language newspapers. [[Internet café]]s are well established in the main market area, mostly served through [[dialup]] lines. [[BSNL]] provides a limited form of [[broadband]] connectivity of up to 128 [[kilobit per second|kbit/s]] with DIAS ([[Direct Internet Access System]]) connections. The public radio station, [[All India Radio]] is the only one that can be received in Darjeeling. The area is serviced by local [[cell phone|cellular]] companies such as [[BSNL]], [[Reliance Infocomm]], [[Hutch (Indian cellular company)|Hutch]] and [[Airtel]]. |
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==See also== |
==See also== |
Revision as of 21:59, 30 July 2006
Darjeeling (Nepali: , Bangla: দার্জিলিং) is a town and hill station in the Indian state of West Bengal. It is the headquarters of Darjeeling district, situated in the Shiwalik Hills (on the lower range of the Himalaya) at an average elevation of 2,134 m above sea level. Once ruled by the Kingdom of Sikkim, the Darjeeling region was converted into a hill station by the British East India Company in the 1800s, and came to be known as the "Queen of the Hills." The name Darjeeling is a composition of two Tibetan words – Dorje ("thunderbolt") and ling ("place"), thus translating as the "Land of the thunderbolt."[1]
Darjeeling is famous for its tea industry, which produces blends considered among the world's finest. Once used as a sanitarium for British troops and administrators, the town is now a popular tourist destination. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway connecting the town with the plains was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. Darjeeling is noted for several Western-style public schools attracting students from all over India and neighbouring countries. The town was a major centre of Gorkhaland separatism in the 1980s, resulting in a decrease in tourism-related commerce. Darjeeling has continued to grow in the recent years and the region's fragile ecology is threatened by a rising demand for environmental resources stemming from growing tourist traffic and poorly planned urbanisation.
History
Until the early nineteenth century, the area around Darjeeling was part of the kingdom of Sikkim, with settlement consisting of a few villages of Lepcha woodsmen.[2] Most of its history intertwined with that of Nepal, Bhutan and Bengal, Darjeeling came under the suzerainty of the British East India Company in 1814. In 1828, a delegation of British officials on their way to Sikkim halted in Darjeeling and found the region very suitable to be a sanitarium for British soldiers.[2] The Company egotiated a lease of the area from the Chogyal of Sikkim. Dr. Campbell, a surgeon with the Company and Lieutenant Napier (later Lord Napier of Magdala) were given the responsibility to found a hill station there; Dr. Campball became the first superintendent of the sanitorium in 1839.[3]
By 1849, the town population had grown to 10,000 people. Following discord between Sikkim and the Company, the Company annexed the Darjeeling region into the British Indian Empire.[2] The British established experimental tea plantations that by 1856 rose into a successful commercial tea industry.[4] Tea estates developed all around Darjeeling in the second half of the 19th century. During this time immigrants mainly from Nepal flooded in to work in construction sites, tea gardens, and on other agriculture-related projects.[2] Scottish missionaries undertook the construction of schools and welfare centres for the British residents, including the St. Paul's School, established in 1849 in the Jalapahar area. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway opened in 1881, facilitating rapid communication between the town and the plains below.[5] The Government House was developed as a summer retreat for the Governor-General of India. In 1898, Darjeeling experienced an earthquake that caused considerable damage to the young town and native population, described by the British as the "Darjeeling disaster."[6] [7]
Under British rule, the Darjeeling area was a "Non-Regulation District" – acts and regulations of the British Raj did not automatically come into force in the district in line with rest of the country, unless they were specifically extended to it.[8] After the 1905 Partition of Bengal, the area came under the jurisdiction of the Rajshahi division. An increasing number of well-to-do Indian residents of Kolkata also began visiting and touring Darjeeling. The town continued to grow as a tourist destination, becoming known as the "Queen of the Hills."[9] Darjeeling's elite residents were the British ruling class of the time, who visited Darjeeling every summer, affluent Maharajas of princely states, land-owning zamindars and some well-known barristers of the Calcutta High Court.[10] The population growth of the area was slow in the first half of the 20th century.[11] The town did not see any particular political activity during the freedom struggle of India owing to its remote location and meagre population. However, there was a failed assassination attempt by revolutionaries on Sir John Anderson, the Governor of Bengal in the 1930s.[8]
After the independence of India in 1947, Darjeeling became a part of the state of West Bengal. A separate district of Darjeeling was established consisting of the hilly towns of Darjeeling, Kurseong, Kalimpong and some parts of the Terai region. When the People's Republic of China annexed Tibet in 1950, thousands of Tibetan refugees settled across Darjeeling town and district. A diverse ethnic population gave rise to socio-economic tensions, and the demand for the creation of the separate states of Gorkhaland and Kamtapur along ethnic lines grew popular in the 1980s. The issues came to a head after a 40-day strike called by the Gorkha National Liberation Front, during which violence gripped the city, causing the state government to call in the Indian Army to restore order. Political tensions largely declined with the establishment of Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council under the chairmanship of Subash Gishing.[12] The DGHC was given semi-autonomous powers to govern the district. Later the name of DGHC was changed to Darjeeling Gorkha Autonomous Hill Council (DGAHC). Though Darjeeling is now peaceful, the issue of a separate state still lingers.
Geography and climate
Darjeeling is located at an average elevation of 6,982 ft. or 2,134 m[13] in the Darjeeling Himalayan hill region on the Darjeeling-Jalapahar range that originates in the south from Ghum. The range is Y-shaped with the base resting at Katapahar and Jalapahar and two arms diverging north of Observatory Hill. The north-eastern arm dips suddenly and ends in the Lebong spur, while the north-western arm passes through the St. Joseph's College and ends in the valley near Tukver Tea Estate.[11]
Darjeeling is the main town of the Sadar subdivision and also the headquarters of the district. Most of the Darjeeling district, including the town of Darjeeling lies in the Shiwalik Hills (or Lower Himalaya). The soil is chiefly composed of sandstone and conglomerate formations, which are the solidified and upheaved detritus of the great range of Himalaya. However, the soil is often poorly consolidated as the permeable sediments of the region do not retain water between rains and is usually considered not suitable for agriculture. The area has steep slopes and loose topsoil, leading to frequent landslides in the monsoon. According to the Bureau of Indian Standards, the town falls under seismic zone-IV, (in a scale of I to V, in order of increasing proneness to earthquakes)[14] near the convergent boundary of the Indian and the Eurasian tectonic plates. The hills are nestled within higher peaks and the snow-clad Himalayan ranges tower over the town in the distance. Mount Kanchenjunga (8,591 m or 28,185 feet) – the world's third-highest peak – looming over the town is a famous sight. In days clear of clouds, Nepal's Mount Everest (8,850 m) is also visible.[15]
Darjeeling's temperate climate has five distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, winter, and the monsoons. Summers (lasting from May to June) are mild, with maximum temperatures barely crossing 25 °C (77 °F). The monsoon season from June to September is characterised by intense torrential rains that lash at the town, often causing landslides that block Darjeeling's land access to the rest of the country. Winters see temperature averaging 5–7 °C (41–44 °F). Occasionally the temperatures drop below freezing, inducing rare snowfall. During the monsoon and winter seasons, Darjeeling is often shrouded in mist and fog. The annual mean temperature is 12 °C (53 °F); monthly mean temperatures range from 5–17 °C (41–62 °F).[16] The highest temperature ever recorded in the district was 26.7 °C (80.1 °F) on 23 August 1957; the lowest-ever temperature recorded was −5 °C (23 °F) on 11 February 1905.[17] The average annual precipitation is 281.8 cm (110.9 in), with the highest incidence occurring in July (75.3 cm or 29.6 in).[16] The town of Darjeeling and surrounding region continues to face the challenges of deforestation due to increasing demand for wood fuel and timber as well as air pollution from increasing vehicular traffic.[18] Flora around Darjeeling includes temperate, deciduous forests of poplar, birch, oak, and elm as well as evergreen, coniferous trees of wet alpine. Dense evergreen forests lie around the town and the valley, where a wide variety of rare orchids are found. The Lloyd's Botanical Garden showcases and preserves common and rare species of flora, while the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is the only specialised zoo in the country conserving and breeding endangered Himalayan species.[19]
Civic administration
Darjeeling urban agglomeration consists of Darjeeling Municipality and the Pattabong Tea Garden.[20] Established in 1850, the Darjeeling municipality maintains the civic administration of the town, covering an area of 10.57 km².[20] The municipality is a separate entity from the Darjeeling Gorkha Autonomous Hill Council (previously "Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council" — DGHC). It composes of a board of councilors elected from each of the 32 wards of Darjeeling town as well as a few members nominated by the state government. The board of councilors elects a chairman from among its elected members,[11] who is the executive head of the municipality. The Gorkha National Liberation Front (GNLF) at present holds power in the municipality. On the other hand, the Gorkha-dominated hill areas of the whole Darjeeling district is under the jurisdiction of the Darjeeling Gorkha Autonomous Hill Council since its formation in 1988. The DGHC's elected councilors are authorized to manage certain affairs of the hills, including education, health and tourism.
The town elects a member to one seat in the lower house of the Indian Parliament, the Lok Sabha and in the West Bengal state legislative assembly, the Vidhan Sabha. The Indian National Congress won the parliamentary election in 2004, while the state assembly seat was won by GNLF in the 2006 polls. Darjeeling town comes under the jurisdiction of the district police (which is a part of the state police); a Deputy Superintendent of Police oversees the town's security and law affairs.[21] Darjeeling municipality area has two police stations, at Darjeeling and Jorebungalow.[22]
Economy
The two most significant contributors to Darjeeling's economy are tourism and the tea industry. Summer and spring seasons are the most popular with tourists, keeping many of Darjeeling's residents employed directly and indirectly. Some residents own hotels and restaurants. Many people earn a living working for tourism and transport companies and as guides. As the district headquarters, Darjeeling employes many in government offices. Darjeeling tea is regarded as the best of black teas and is widely popular,[23] especially in the UK and the countries comprising the former British Empire. The tea industry has faced stiff competition in recent years from tea produced in other parts of India as well as neighbouring countries.[24] Widespread concerns about labour disputes, worker layoffs and closing of estates have affected investment and production.[25] Several tea estates are being run on a workers' cooperative model, while others are being planned for conversion into tourist resorts.[25] More than 60% of workers in the tea gardens are women. The remuneration of workers are often half in cash and half in other benefits like accommodation, subsidised rations, free medical benefits etc.[26]
The district's forests and other natural wealth have been adversely affected by an ever-growing population, now estimated at around 1.2 million. The years since independence have seen substantial advances in the area's education, communications and transport, and agriculture – the latter including the production of diverse cash crops like potato, cardamom, ginger, and oranges. Farming on terraced slopes is a major source of livelihood for the rural populace around the town and it supplies the town with fruits and vegetables. Small contributions to the economy come by the way of the sale of traditional arts and crafts of Sikkim and Tibet. Darjeeling is a sometimes a destination of Bollywood and Bengali cinema shooting, with Aradhana, Main Hoon Na and Satyajit Ray's Kanchenjungha being examples.
Transport and utility services
The town of Darjeeling can be reached by the 80 km long Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (nicknamed the "Toy Train") from Siliguri, or by the Hill Cart Road (National Highway 55) that follows the railway line. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is a 60 cm (2 feet) narrow-gauge railway. It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1999, only the second railway in the world to have this honour.[5] Regular bus services and hired vehicles connect Darjeeling with Siliguri and the neighbouring towns of Kurseong, Kalimpong and Gangtok. Four wheel drives, including Land Rovers, are the most popular means of transport, as they can easily navigate the steep slopes in the region. The nearest airport is in Bagdogra near Siliguri, which is a three hour (approx. 90 km) drive from Darjeeling. Indian Airlines, Jet Airways and Air Deccan are the three major carriers that fly to Delhi, Kolkata and Guwahati. The closest railway station is in New Jalpaiguri, which is connected with almost all major cities of the country. Walking, biking, two-wheelers and the use of hired taxis remain the most popular modes for travel in and across this hilly town. Communication often gets disrupted in the monsoons due to landslides.
Natural springs provide the major part of Darjeeling's water supply – water collected from them is routed to Senchal Lake (10 km southeast of town), from where it is piped to the town. During the dry season, when water supplied by springs is insufficient, supply is pumped from the Khong Khola, a nearby small perennial creek. There is a steadily widening gap between water supply and demand; just over 50% of the town's households are connected to the municipal water supply system.[11] The town has an underground sewage system that collects the domestic waste from residences and about fifty community toilets; waste is then conveyed to six central septic tanks and ultimately disposed of in natural jhoras (waterways); roadside drains also collect sewage and storm water. Municipal Darjeeling produces about 50 tonnes of solid waste every day. Electricity is supplied by the West Bengal State Electricity Board; the West Bengal Fire Service provides fire services for the town. The electrical supply voltage is unstable, making voltage stabilisers necessary. Almost all of the primary schools are now maintained by Darjeeling Gorkha Autonomous Hill Council. The total length of all types of roads — including stepped paths within the municipality — is around 90 km; these are maintained by the municipality.
Demographics
As per the 2001 census, the Darjeeling urban agglomeration (which includes Pattabong Tea Garden), with an area of 12.77 km² has a population of 109,163, while the municipal area has a population of 107,530.[20] Also, the town has an additional average diurnal floating population of 20,500 - 30,000, mainly comprising of the tourists and visitors.[11] The population density of the municipal area is 10,173 per km².[20] The sex ratio is 1,017 females per 1,000 males[20] – which is higher than the national average. The women make a significant contribution as earning members of households and the workforce.[27] The town houses about 31% of its population in the slums and shanty buildings – a consequence of heavy immigration.[11] The major religion is Hinduism, followed by Buddhism. Christians and Muslims form sizable minorities.[28] The population's ethnic composition is closely linked with that of Bhutan, Nepal, Sikkim and Bengal. The majority of the populace is of ethnic Nepali background, having migrated to Darjeeling in search of jobs during British rule. Indigenous ethnic groups include the Lepchas, Bhutias, Sherpas, Rais, Yamloos, Damais, Kamais, Newars and the Limbus. The other non-native communities are the Bengalis, Marwaris, Anglo-Indians, Chinese, Biharis and Tibetans. The most commonly spoken language is Nepali (Gorkhali), with Hindi, Bengali and English in being frequently used as well.
The town of Darjeeling has seen a growth in its population during the last century, particularly since the 1970s. Annual growth rates reached as high as 45% in the 1990s and thus is far above the national, state, and district average. The colonial town of Darjeeling was designed for a mere population of 10,000, thus affected with extensive infrastructual and environmental problems. The region is relatively new in geological terms, with a host of environmental problems and hence unstable in nature.[11] Environmental degradation has adversely affected Darjeeling's appeal as a tourist destination.[18]
Culture
The most popular snack in Darjeeling is the momo, a steamed dumpling containing pork, beef and vegetables cooked in a doughy wrapping and served with watery soup. Wai-Wai is a packaged snack comprising of noodles which are eaten either dry or in soup form. Churpee, a kind of hard cheese made from cow's or yak's milk is sometimes chewed. A form of noodle called thukpa, served in soup form is also popular in Darjeeling. There are a large number of restaurants which offer a wide variety of traditional Indian, continental and Chinese cuisines to cater to the tourists. Tea is the most popular beverage, procured from the famed Darjeeling tea gardens, but coffee is also consumed. Chhang is a local beer made from millet.
Owing to the diverse ethnic populace of Darjeeling, festivals are very frequent and enthusiastically and publicly celebrated. Apart from the major religious festivals of Diwali, Christmas, Dussera, Holi etc., there are several local festivals. The Lepchas and Bhutias celebrate new year in January, while Tibetans celebrate the new year (Losar) with 'Devil Dance' in February-March. The Maghe sankranti, Ram Navami, Chotrul Duchen, Buddha Jayanti, the birthday of the Dalai Lama and Tendong Lho Rumfaat are some other festivals, some distinct to local culture and others shared with the rest of India, Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet.[28]
Colonial architecture characterizes most buildings in Darjeeling, with mock Tudor residences, Gothic churches, the Raj Bhawan (Governor House), Planters' Club and the various educational institutions. There are small monasteries which showcase the Buddhist pagoda style architectures. Darjeeling is traditionally regarded as a centre of music and niche for musicians and music admirers. Singing and playing different instruments is common and popular to most of the resident population, who take pride in the traditions and role of music in cultural life. Darjeeling Carnivals have been organised since 2003 and exhibit the diverse ethnic, social and religious culture of the region.[29] Western music is also popular especially among the younger generation and Darjeeling is a major centre of Nepali rock music. Cricket and football are the most popular sports in Darjeeling. An improvised form of ball made of rubber garters is often used for playing in the steep streets.
Darjeeling has a thriving tourism industry – famous attractions include the Tiger Hill, the zoo, monasteries and the tea gardens. The town attracts many trekkers and sportsmen seeking to explore the Himalayas and Sikkim,[30] serving as the starting point for many climbing attempts on Indian and Nepali peaks. Tenzing Norgay, one of the two men to first climb Mount Everest, spent most of his adult life in the Sherpa community in Darjeeling. His success provided the impetus to establish the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute in Darjeeling in 1954. In the Tibetan Refugee Self Help Center, Tibetan crafts like carpets, wood and leather work are displayed. Several monasteries like Ghoom Monastery (8 km from the town), Bhutia Busty monastery, Mag-Dhog Yolmowa preserve ancient Buddhist scripts.
Education and media
Darjeeling's schools are either run by the state government or by private and religious organisations. Schools mainly use English and Nepali as their medium of instruction, although the national language Hindi and the official state language Bengali are also stressed. The schools are either affiliated with the Indian Certificate of Secondary Education, the Central Board for Secondary Education, or the West Bengal Board of Secondary Education. Darjeeling is home to several public schools operating on the British model. A summer retreat for the British in India, Darjeeling soon became the place of choice for the establishment of public schools on the model of Eton, Harrow and Rugby, allowing the children of British officials to obtain an exclusive education.[31] Institutions such as St. Paul's School, Loreto Convent, St. Joseph's School and Mount Hermon School (the only school in the area to be modelled on the American educational system) attract students from all over India and South Asia. Many schools (some are more than a hundred years old) still adhere to the traditions from its British and colonial heritage. Darjeeling hosts three colleges — St. Joseph's College, Loreto College and Darjeeling Government College — all affiliated to University of North Bengal in Siliguri.
Darjeeling receives almost all the television channels that are received by the rest of the country. Apart from the state-owned terrestrial network Doordarshan, cable television serves most of the homes in the town, while satellite television is common in the outlying areas and in wealthier households. Besides mainstream Indian channels, the town also receives local Nepali language channels. Newspapers in Darjeeling include English language dailies, The Statesman and The Telegraph, which are printed in Siliguri, and The Hindustan Times and the Times of India which are printed in Kolkata and are received after a day's delay. In addition to these one can also find a few Nepali, Hindi and Bengali language newspapers. Internet cafés are well established in the main market area, mostly served through dialup lines. BSNL provides a limited form of broadband connectivity of up to 128 kbit/s with DIAS (Direct Internet Access System) connections. The public radio station, All India Radio is the only one that can be received in Darjeeling. The area is serviced by local cellular companies such as BSNL, Reliance Infocomm, Hutch and Airtel.
See also
Notes
- ^ "Eastern Himalayas DARJEELING : The Queen of Hills". Neptune Tours & Travels. Retrieved 2006-05-01.
- ^ a b c d "The History of Darjeeling — The Queen of Hills". Darjeelingpolice. Retrieved 2006-04-30.
- ^ (Kennedy 1996)
- ^ "Darjeeling Tea History". Darjeelingnews. Retrieved 2006-05-02.
- ^ a b "Mountain Railways of India". UNESCO World Heritage Centre. Retrieved 2006-04-30.
- ^ "A Pride of Panners" (PDF Format). Baron Courts of Prestoungrange & Dolphinstoun. p. 43. Retrieved 2006-04-30.
- ^ (Lee 1971)
- ^ a b "History of Darjeeling". exploredarjeeling.com. Retrieved 2006-05-02.
- ^
Chattopadhyay, S.S. (2005). "Return of the queen". Frontline. 22 (01). Retrieved 2006-07-30.
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ignored (help) - ^ Shringla, T.T. (2003). "Travelogues: Toy Train to Darjeeling". India Travelogue. Retrieved 2006-06-08.
- ^ a b c d e f g Khawas, Vimal (2003). "Urban Management in Darjeeling Himalaya: A Case Study of Darjeeling Municipality". The Mountain Forum. Retrieved 2006-05-01. Now available in the Internet Archive in this URL (accessed on 7 June 2006)
- ^ Sahadevan, P (1999). "Ethnic Conflict in South Asia". Joan B. Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies. Columbia International Affairs Online. Retrieved 2006-07-30.
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(help) - ^ "GeneralInformation". zubin.com. Retrieved 2006-04-30.
- ^ Ray, Kalyan (2005-05-07). "Mega physics project planned in India". Deccan Herald. Retrieved 2006-05-03.
{{cite news}}
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(help) - ^ "Darjeeling". Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica Premium Service. Retrieved 2006-07-26.
- ^ a b "Weatherbase entry for Darjeeling". Canty and Associates LLC. Retrieved 2006-04-30.
- ^ "geography". darjeelingnews.net. Retrieved 2006-04-30.
- ^ a b TERI (2001). "Sustainable Development in the Darjeeling Hill Area" (PDF). Tata Energy Research Institute, New Delhi. (TERI Project No.2000UT64). p. 20. Retrieved 2006-05-01.
- ^ "Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park". Darjeelingnews.net. Retrieved 2006-05-04.
- ^ a b c d e Directorate of Census Operations, West Bengal (2003). "Table-4 Population, Decadal Growth Rate, Density and General Sex Ratio by Residence and Sex, West Bengal/ District/ Sub District, 1991 and 2001". Retrieved 2006-04-30.
- ^ Darjeeling Police (2004). "List of Senior Police Officers, Darjeeling Police". Retrieved 2006-05-04.
- ^ Directorate of Census Operations, West Bengal (2003). "Table-3 District Wise List of Statutory Towns ( Municipal Corporation, Municipality, Notified Area and Cantonment Board) , Census Towns and Outgrowths, West Bengal, 2001". Retrieved 2006-04-30.
- ^ "Champagne among teas". Deccan Herald. The Printers (Mysore) Private Ltd. 17 June 2005. Retrieved 2006-07-18.
- ^ "Darjeeling tea growers at risk". BBC News. 27 July 2001. Retrieved 2006-05-08.
- ^ a b Haber, Daniel B (14 January 2004). "Economy-India: Famed Darjeeling Tea Growers Eye Tourism for Survival". Inter Press Service News Agency. Retrieved 2006-05-08.
- ^ "Darjeeling Tea Facts". Darjeelingmews.net. Retrieved 2006-05-08.
- ^ Gurung J.D. "Mountain Women of the Hindu Kush-Himalayas: The Hidden Perspective". International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development. Retrieved 2006-05-06.
- ^ a b "Darjeeling Festivals". darjeelingnews.net. Retrieved 2006-05-01.
- ^
Chattopadhyay, S.S. (2003). "The spirit of Darjeeling". Frontline. 20 (25). Retrieved 2006-05-01.
{{cite journal}}
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ignored (help) - ^ (Brown 1917)
- ^ Lal, Vinay. ""Hill Stations: Pinnacles of the Raj." Review article on Dale Kennedy, The Magic Mountains : Hill Stations and the British Raj". UCLA Social Sciences Computing. Retrieved 2001-07-30.
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References
External links
- Template:Wikitravel
- Darjeelingnews
- Discussion Forum for Darjeeling
- Map of Darjeeling
- Nepal and Darjeeling Travel Guide for Tourists
- Darjeeling Police
- Darjeeling: Queen of the Himalayas
- Darjeeling Himalayan Railway - UNESCO World Heritage List
- Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Society
- Darjeeling in Hill stations in India
- Mountain Forum: A global network for mountain communities, environments and sustainable development.
- Darjeeling Pictures