Darjeeling

Darjeeling (pop. 57,600), city on the lower slopes of the Himalayas, summer capital of West Bengal state, India. Its altitude is 7,100 ft (2,160 m), and the well-known Darjeeling tea thrives in the cool climate on large tea plantations near the city. There are teakwood forests, parks, gardens, museums, hospitals, a zoo, a race course, and colleges, including a medical school. Copper, iron ore, dolomite, and limestone are mined, and major crops include rice, corn, cardamon, and wheat. Mountain ranges and low valleys define 2 distinct regions in the Darjeeling district with a total area of 1,160 sq mi (3,005 sq km).

See also: India.