Kalimpong district

Kalimpong district
Name	Kalimpong district
Settlement type	District
Subdivision type	Country
Subdivision name	India
Subdivision type1	State
Subdivision name1	West Bengal
Subdivision type2	Division
Subdivision name2	Jalpaiguri division
Established title	Established
Established date	14 February 2017
Seat type	Headquarters
Seat	Kalimpong
Leader title	District Magistrate
Leader title1	Superintendent of Police
Unit pref	Metric
Area total km2	1053.60
Population total	251,642
Population as of	2011
Population density km2	auto
Demographics type1	Languages
Demographics1 title1	Official
Demographics1 info1	Bengali, Nepali
Timezone1	IST
Utc offset1	+5:30
Postal code type	PIN
Postal code	734 301
Area code type	Telephone code
Area code	03552
Registration plate	WB-78, WB-79
Website	kalimpongdistrict

Kalimpong district is a district in the northern part of the Indian state of West Bengal. It was carved out of the Darjeeling district on 14 February 2017, becoming the state's 21st district. The district headquarters is located in the hill station of Kalimpong, which is renowned for its scenic beauty and colonial-era architecture. It is part of the Jalpaiguri division and shares international borders with Bhutan to the east and the country of Nepal to the west.

History

The region's history is deeply intertwined with the Kingdom of Bhutan and the Kingdom of Sikkim, with whom control was contested before coming under the dominion of the British Raj in the 19th century. Following the Anglo-Bhutan War and the subsequent Treaty of Sinchula in 1865, the area was annexed into British India. It was administered as a subdivision under Darjeeling district for over a century, witnessing significant development during the colonial period, including the establishment of missionary schools like Dr. Graham's Homes. The movement for a separate administrative identity culminated when the Government of West Bengal, led by Mamata Banerjee, officially declared it a district in 2017.

Geography

Nestled in the Eastern Himalayas, the district features rugged terrain with elevations ranging from 300 to over 3000 meters. It is drained by the Teesta River and its tributary, the Rangeet River, which carve deep valleys through the landscape. The district shares its borders with the state of Sikkim to the north, Bhutan to the east, Darjeeling district to the west, and Jalpaiguri district to the south. Prominent geographical features include the Neora Valley National Park, a biodiversity hotspot, and peaks like Kanchenjunga, the world's third-highest mountain, are visible from various points.

Demographics

According to the 2011 Census of India, the district had a population of 251,642, with a population density lower than the state average, reflecting its hilly character. The predominant communities include Nepali-speaking groups such as the Rai, Limbu, Tamang, and Gurung, alongside indigenous groups like the Lepcha people. Other significant populations include the Bengalis and a historical presence of Tibetan communities, with Buddhism and Hinduism being the major religions. Key urban centers, besides the headquarters, include towns like Algarah and Lava.

Economy

The economy is primarily agrarian, with major crops including cardamom, ginger, and oranges. Kalimpong is famously known as the "Cardamom Capital of the World," with the spice being a crucial export. Horticulture, particularly nurseries for exotic flowers like orchids and cacti, and vegetable cultivation are other important sectors. Tourism forms a significant pillar, attracting visitors to sites like Deolo Hill, Zang Dhok Palri Phodang, and the Tharpa Choling Monastery. Cottage industries, including Tibetan woolen handicrafts and handmade paper, also contribute to the local economy.

Culture

The district exhibits a rich cultural tapestry, blending Nepali, Lepcha, Bhutanese, and Tibetan influences. This is reflected in its vibrant festivals such as Losar, Dashain, and Tihar. Traditional music and dance forms like the Maruni and Tamang Selo are performed during cultural events. The area is noted for its distinctive cuisine, including dishes like momos, thukpa, and sel roti. Educational institutions like the Scottish Universities' Mission Institution have historically played a role in shaping its cultural and literary landscape.

Administration

The district is governed by the District Magistrate and the Superintendent of Police for civil and law enforcement matters, respectively. It is divided into two sub-divisions: Kalimpong Sadar and Gorubathan. For rural administration, it contains several community development blocks such as Kalimpong I and Kalimpong II. The district falls under the Kalimpong (Lok Sabha constituency) and the Darjeeling (Lok Sabha constituency) for parliamentary representation and has its own district court in Kalimpong.

Category:Districts of West Bengal Category:2017 establishments in West Bengal