You must have heard about Darjeeling in travel magazine or seen in movies and national geographic channel. But for your concern, let me introduce it in a proper way. Darjeeling is one of the famous hill stations in North Eastern India. It is called as the hill of Beauty because of its immense natural sources like tea garden, pine forest, garden and the rich culture, and living of the residents. Okay that’s it! But is it just about tourism, beauty, site seeing, etc. when it comes to Darjeeling? No, not at all. There are many more to know about Darjeeling which you can only experience by visiting the place by yourself.
Find here the 5 Untold Facts of Darjeeling – The Hill of Beauty and Pride
- Historical Truth
If you didn’t know, the actual name of the town was Dorjeling earlier which later changed to Darjeeling. The name “Darjeeling/Dorjeling” has been resided from the Tibetan words “Dorje” meaning thunderbolt and “Ling” meaning “place or home”. Hence, the town is given a perfect name according to its characteristics by the old. The name is now world famous because of its unique signature appearance and beauty.
- Establishment of the Town
As we all know that our nation was long ruled by the Britishers, how could Darjeeling escape from the influence. The town was established by the English members somewhere around 19th Century as a health resort and sanatorium to serve the British soldiers. It may also interest you that Darjeeling has been proclaimed as the official summer capital of Bengal Premiership in 1864. Also, the pride of Darjeeling – the first Himalayan railway system was introduced by the British Government. The train with 3 to 4 buggy (Max) called as Toy Train is still run by coal and famous for tourist site seeing.
- Academic Culture
Though Darjeeling has been famous for the tourism site since ever, it is very surprising to know that the town is centered by some of the oldest high schools made by the Britishers. The Colleges are equally famous for the best after school courses that accepts the students of all over India. The building structure, uniforms, rules, and certain policies of these institutes still remind us of English culture. Most of the educational institutes in Darjeeling are run by the Christian Nuns and the Pastors where 40% of the students are Buddhist and other 60% are Hindu, Christian and Muslim. Isn’t it incredible?
- Race, Religion and Culture
Darjeeling is a town full of Nepalis, Bengali, Marwari, Chinese, and Tibetans where 90% of the people speak Nepali, even though Bengali being the official language. The town practices a diverse religion and culture that includes Hinduism, Christianity, Islam and Buddhism being the main religion. Still the town seems living together in utmost unity and harmony. Again, due to diverse caste and religion, the traditions and festivals of the communities differ from each other but still get executed with equal joy and excitement in the city.
- The Gender Ratio
Simple living high thinking! The quote fits this town as the citizens practice equality between both the genders in terms of education, rights, and living standard. According to the survey, there is 1017 females per 1000 males while comparing the national figure of 933 females per 1000 males. Along with the beauty, the noble culture followed by the people of Darjeeling also makes it the pride of nation.
So, these are some of the untold facts of beautiful Darjeeling hill station. Hope the above facts could draw your keen attention towards our North Eastern heritage. Moreover, the actual visit to Darjeeling may give you more exciting truth of this Himalayan pride for sure.
