Introduction:
Nestled in the hills of eastern Nepal, Dhankuta District is like a colorful storybook filled with history, nature, and local life. It’s one of 14 districts in the Koshi Province, and it holds secrets of Nepal’s past and growth.
History:
Long ago, Dhankuta was part of the Kirat Region before Nepal became one united kingdom. After 1816, it became an important district called Dhankuta-chainpur, covering lands from the Dudhkosi River to the Mechi River. From 1885 to 1962, it was at the center of six districts. In 1962, Nepal was organized into 75 districts, and Dhankuta became the boss of the Eastern Development Region, looking after 16 districts in the east.
Geography and Climate:
Dhankuta is a mid-hill district, located between 26°53′ to 27°19′ north latitude and 87°8′ to 88°33′ east longitude. It’s 888.7 square kilometers, with heights from 243 meters to 629 meters above sea level. The land has different zones – from warm forests along rivers to cooler forests on high ridges. People here mostly farm, growing crops like maize, rice, and tea. The land’s variety reflects the strength and adaptability of its people.
Population of Dhankuta District, Nepal
Dhankuta, a district in eastern Nepal, boasts a diverse population as of 2021. With 150,426 Nepali citizens, 171 from India, and 2 from other countries, it’s a melting pot of cultures. The gender balance is nearly equal, with 73,824 males and 76,775 females. Age-wise, the district spans generations, from 0-14 years (36,856 individuals) to those aged 65 and above (12,718). The majority, 114,096 residents, were born in the same local unit, emphasizing a sense of community. Literacy is widespread, with 113,816 individuals claiming proficiency, while 25,596 reported no literacy. Dhankuta, with its varied demographics, stands as a vibrant representation of Nepal’s cultural and generational tapestry.
The population of Dhankuta District, as of the 2021 census, is as follows:
Here’s a summary of the key demographic information:
Gender Distribution (Census 2021):
- Males: 73,824
- Females: 76,775
Age Groups (Census 2021):
- 0-14 years: 36,856
- 15-64 years: 101,025
- 65+ years: 12,718
Age Distribution (Census 2021):
- 0-9 years: 23,532
- 10-19 years: 27,670
- 20-29 years: 25,744
- 30-39 years: 21,186
- 40-49 years: 17,378
- 50-59 years: 15,969
- 60-69 years: 11,314
- 70-79 years: 5,742
- 80-89 years: 1,801
- 90+ years: 263
Citizenship (Census 2021):
- Nepal: 150,426
- India: 171
- Other country: 2
Place of Birth (Census 2021):
- Same local unit: 114,096
- Another local unit in the same district: 14,516
- Other district: 20,974
- Other country: 981
Literacy (A5+) (Census 2021):
- Yes: 113,816
- Only reading: 474
- No: 25,596
These statistics provide a snapshot of the demographic composition, age distribution, place of birth, citizenship, and literacy levels in Dhankuta District, Nepal, as of the 2021 census.
Best Tourist Spots In Dhankuta District
Dhankuta, nestled in the eastern hills of Nepal, unveils a treasure trove of enchanting destinations that beckon travelers seeking a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. From misty hill stations to cascading waterfalls and ancient temples, here are the top tourist spots that make Dhankuta an unforgettable journey:
Major Attraction Of Dhankuta
- Bhedetar:
- A popular hill station 26 kilometers from Dhankuta Bazar.
- Stands at 1,420 meters with unpredictable weather and breathtaking views.
- Ideal for escaping the hot Terai region, offering cool and pleasant climates.
- Namaste Waterfall:
- Nature’s artwork, is an 80-meter cascade of crystal-clear water.
- Located 8 km from Bhedetar, surrounded by lush vegetation.
- A serene spot for picnics and selfies, attracting visitors from nearby regions.
- Rajarani Lake:
- Also known as Rani Tal, surrounded by green hills.
- Perfect for boating, fishing, and picnicking.
- Home to various birds, and animals, and a peaceful environment.
- Hile and Pakhribas:
- Two picturesque villages are known for traditional Nepali architecture.
- Hile serves as a stopover for trekkers heading to Makalu Barun National Park.
- Pakhribas offers insight into traditional farming practices and stunning trekking trails.
- Jalpa Devi Temple (Chintang Devi Temple):
- A famous Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Jalpa Devi.
- Over 1000 years old, attracting thousands of devotees annually.
- A popular pilgrimage site during the Dashain festival.
- Dhoje Hill (Danda):
- A scenic hill offering panoramic views of surrounding hills and mountains.
- Second-highest hill in Nepal after Antu Danda.
- Best visited during spring and autumn for clear, mild weather.
Conclusion
Nestled in the hills of eastern Nepal, Dhankuta District is a vibrant storybook, weaving together a rich history, the warmth of its people, and the beauty of its landscapes. From its early days in the Kirat Region to becoming a key player in Nepal’s unification, Dhankuta tells a tale of resilience and growth. The community is a harmonious blend, with an almost equal distribution of men and women across all ages, fostering a strong sense of belonging. Education is valued, reflected in the high literacy rates. Dhankuta unfolds its charm through tourism, offering delightful destinations like Bhedetar, Namaste Waterfall, Rajarani Lake, Hile, Pakhribas, Jalpa Devi Temple, and Dhoje Hill. Each spot paints a vivid picture of nature’s wonders and cultural richness. In essence, Dhankuta is not just a place on the map; it’s an inviting narrative waiting to be explored—a destination where history, friendly faces, and breathtaking landscapes come together for an unforgettable experience.