About Dharan.
Dharan, a sub-metropolitan city in Sunsari District, Koshi Province, Nepal, holds historical significance as the fourth municipality established in the Kingdom in 1958. The name “Dharan,” meaning a saw pit in Nepali, reflects its connection to the nearby rainforest. The city witnessed the opening of the British Gurkha camp in October 1960, which served a pivotal role until the mid-1990s. Currently, It stands as the third most populous city in Eastern Nepal, trailing Biratnagar and Itahari. According to the 2021 Nepal census, the city has a population of 173,096 in 34,834 households. As part of the Greater Birat Development Area along the Koshi Highway, including cities like Biratnagar and Itahari, Dharan contributes to an estimated urban agglomerated population of 804,300 people in 159,332 households. Notably, it is the largest city in Province Number One by area, covering 192.32 square kilometers, surpassing Biratnagar and Itahari in size. The city’s growth and prominence underscore its strategic location and cultural heritage in Eastern Nepal.
Night View Of Dharan
Mayor Of the sub-metropolitan city
Harka Raj Sampang Rai, also known as Harka Sampang, is a Nepalese politician and the current mayor of Dharan. Born in Khartamchha, Khotang, he moved to Dharan in 1998 after completing his SLC examinations. Rai, the son of a former British Gurkha soldier, holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Political Science from Mahendra Multiple Campus in Dharan. Following his education, he worked as a tutor and later ventured to Iraq and Afghanistan for employment. Rai returned to Sunsari after six years abroad and founded the National Unity Network to protest against corruption. Engaged in various activism efforts, he protested tax hikes, illegal sand extraction from rivers, and water scarcity in sub-metropolitan cities. Rai contested the 2019 mayoral by-election as an independent candidate, receiving 422 votes. In the 2022 local elections, he secured victory as an independent mayoral candidate, defeating the Nepali Congress candidate with 39.8% of the vote share. Despite his political success, Rai has faced allegations of promoting religious and ethnic extremism.
population of Dharan sub-metropolitan city
As per the 2021 census, Dharan sub-metropolitan city has a population of 166,531, with 78,410 males and 88,121 females. The majority falls within the 15-64 age group, and most residents are Nepalese citizens. The city exhibits diverse birthplaces, with a significant number born locally. A substantial portion is literate, while a smaller group can only read, and a few report non-literacy. These key demographic details provide a snapshot of Dharan’s population, guiding social and educational planning.
The population of the sub-metropolitan city, as of the 2021 census, is as follows:
Gender (C 2021):
- Males: 78,410
- Females: 88,121
Age Groups (C 2021):
- 0-14 years: 37,275
- 15-64 years: 117,632
- 65+ years: 11,624
Age Distribution (C 2021):
- 0-9 years: 23,662
- 10-19 years: 29,586
- 20-29 years: 30,668
- 30-39 years: 28,297
- 40-49 years: 21,427
- 50-59 years: 15,378
- 60-69 years: 10,112
- 70-79 years: 5,394
- 80-89 years: 1,733
- 90+ years: 274
Citizenship (C 2021):
- Nepal: 165,264
- India: 1,251
- Other country: 16
Place of Birth (C 2021):
- Same local unit: 84,678
- Far local unit in the same district: 3,803
- Other district: 72,740
- Other country: 5,277
Literacy (A5+) (C 2021):
- Yes: 136,767
- Only reading: 425
- No: 19,249
Best tourism Spots nearby Dharan
Dharan, Nepal, boasts several notable tourism spots, each contributing to the city’s cultural and natural allure. The Budha Subba Temple stands as a significant religious site dedicated to the revered local deity Budha Subba, drawing pilgrims and tourists with its cultural and historical significance. Nearby, Namaste Falls offers a tranquil escape into nature, with its picturesque waterfall, lush greenery, and serene ambiance. The Pindeswor Temple in Here is a Hindu religious hub dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its unique architecture and cultural vibrancy. Namche Bajar, a bustling market, provides visitors with an authentic experience of local trade and lifestyle. The Dantakali Temple, dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali, holds religious significance, attracting pilgrims to seek blessings amidst its intricate architecture. Lastly, the Dharan’s Clock Tower stands as a prominent landmark, symbolizing the city’s history and development, while serving as a practical reference point for explorers in this culturally rich region.
Major Attraction Of Dharan
Dharan, with its rich history, cultural landmarks, and natural beauty, is a destination worth exploring. One of its major attractions is the Budha Subba Temple, a sacred site steeped in cultural and historical significance. The serene Namaste Falls provides a refreshing retreat into nature, offering a picturesque waterfall amidst lush greenery. The Pindeswor Temple stands as a testament to the city’s religious vibrancy, dedicated to Lord Shiva with unique architectural features. Namche Bajar, a vibrant market, allows visitors to immerse themselves in local trade and lifestyle. The Dantakali Temple, devoted to the Hindu goddess Kali, attracts pilgrims seeking blessings in a spiritually rich environment. The Dharan Clock Tower serves as both a historical landmark and a practical reference point for navigating the city. These attractions collectively showcase the diverse offerings of Dharan, making it a compelling destination for cultural exploration and natural retreats.
Conclusion
Dharan, Nepal, a city of historical significance, was established as the fourth municipality in 1958 and has grown to become the third most populous city in Eastern Nepal. With a population of 166,531, diverse demographics, birthplaces, and literacy levels shape its vibrant community. Mayor Harka Raj Sampang Rai, a key figure in the city’s recent history, has contributed to its development. Dharan’s tourism spots, including the Budha Subba Temple, Namaste Falls, Pindeswor Temple, Namche Bajar, Dantakali Temple, and the Dharan Clock Tower, offer a unique blend of cultural and natural attractions. For travelers, Dharan promises an authentic experience, inviting exploration of its rich heritage and scenic wonders, making it a compelling destination in Eastern Nepal.