The Darjeeling region once belonged to the Rajah of Sikkim. In 1817 the British gained control of the area when they brokered peace between the warring Kingdoms of Sikkim and Nepal. The climate was perfectly suited for a health sanatorium for the British who were scattered throughout the Indian sub-continent. Thus Darjeeling was born; perched on a hill high above the clouds, soon to be a holiday resort for the rich and famous and the adventurers.

In 1839 the Hill Cart Road was constructed linking the town to Siliguri, a major train junction. Connecting Darjeeling to the rest of India. The British realizing the potential economic benefits of a trading route with Tibet forced a treaty with Sikkim and annexed the now occupied area including Kalimpong.

Tea was introduced into this region and Nepalese labourers were brought in to work in the plantations. The forests covering the hills gradually disappeared as the plantations expanded and "Darjeeling Tea" now became a prized beverage throughout the British Empire.