3.1.3. Darjiling and Sikkim Himalayas

The Darjiling and Sikkim Himalayas are flanked by Nepal Himalayas in the west and Bhutan Himalayas in the east. It is relatively small but is a most significant part of the Himalayas. As compared to the other sections of the Himalayas, these along with the Arunachal Himalayas are conspicuous by the absence of the Shiwalik formations. In place of the Shiwaliks here, the ‘duar formations’ are important, which have also been used for the development of tea gardens. Known for its fast-flowing rivers such as Tista, it is a region of high mountain peaks and deep valleys. Kanchenjunga (8598 m), 3rd highest peak of the world, is situated on the border of India and Nepal. This region has very few passes. The passes of Nathu-La and Jelep-La connect Gangtok (Sikkim) with Lhasa, Tibet (China).

The higher reaches of this region are inhabited by Lepcha tribes while the southern part, particularly the Darjiling Himalayas, has a mixed population of Nepalis, Bengalis and tribals from Central India. The British, taking advantage of the physical conditions such as moderate slope, thick soil cover with high organic content, well distributed rainfall throughout the year and mild winters, introduced tea plantations in this region. Sikkim and Darjiling Himalayas are also known for their scenic beauty and rich flora and fauna, particularly various types of orchids.