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Dhankuta (Nepali: धनकुटा listenⓘ)[2] is a hill town and the headquarters of Dhankuta District in Koshi Province in Eastern Nepal. According to 2011 Nepal census, it has population of 26,440 inhabitants.

Key Information

History

[edit]
Main article: Province No. 1

Until about 1963, Dhankuta Bazaar (the town) was the administrative headquarters for the whole of north-eastern Nepal. Located a half-mile above the town were the buildings of the Bada Hakim, the feudal district which governed the whole north-eastern region. The town also held the regional jail and army post. Because of Dhankuta's isolation from the lowland Terai and from Kathmandu, it was in many ways a self-governing area.[3]

Income to purchase items (cloth, kerosene, batteries, medicines, etc.) that could not be produced locally came from a combination of sales of hill produce (tangerines, potatoes, etc.) and funds repatriated back into the hills by Gorkha soldiers serving first in the British and then more-often in the Indian armies.[3]

The first five American Peace Corps volunteers arrived in Dhankuta Bazaar in Fall, 1962 to work as teachers in the two high schools. In October 1963 three additional volunteers arrived to help establish the new Panchayat Development program.[3]

From 1963 Nepal was divided into 75 Panchayat Districts, and the traditional Dhankuta administrative region was divided up into about six of the panchayat districts. The power of the Bada Hakim was transferred to the central government's appointed Panchayat Development Officer and each district's elected Panchayat President.[3]

During the pre-panchayat period Dhankuta Bazaar prided itself as being in the cultural vanguard, a relatively progressive community with its own "intellectual" elite. Dhankuta Bazaar, already in the 1930s, had the only high school in Nepal to be located outside of the Kathmandu Valley. Early on it added a girl's high school and a two-year college.[4]

Then and now there is a sharp contrast between Dhankuta Bazaar and the surrounding rural villages. The town is a commercial center and has a population that is primarily Newar. The surrounding area is agricultural and the population is made up of many caste/tribal groups, notably Athpare, Limbu, Yakkha, Rai, Magar, Tamang and Tibetan.

One of the famous places in Dhankuta is Hile. It serves as a gateway to Dhankuta and Panchthar districts and from here, visitors can also trek to the temple of Goddes Pahtibhara, situated three kilometers west of the place. Another place situated here is the Rajarani valley, which is a place of historical significance and is also believed to be the capital of Limbu kingdom in the past. The place that once had two ponds called Raja and Rani now lay as plain areas.[5]

Looking north to Dhankuta Bazaar and Hile Bazaar from Chuliban

Demographics

[edit]

At the 2011 Nepal census, Dhankuta Municipality had a population of 38,629. Of these, 49.8% spoke Nepali, 14.6% Athpare, 7.0% Tamang, 6.6% Magar, 6.2% Newar, 4.5% Rai, 3.5% Limbu, 2.1% Bantawa, 1.2% Maithili, 0.6% Yakkha, 0.5% Sherpa, 0.4% Chamling, 0.3% Sampang, 0.3% Urdu, 0.2% Bhujel, 0.2% Gurung, 0.2% Hindi, 0.1% Bhojpuri, 0.1% Chhiling, 0.1% Chintang, 0.1% Khaling, 0.1% Kulung, 0.1% Majhi, 0.1% Tharu, 0.1% Thulung, 0.1% Yamphu and 0.3% other languages as their first language.[6]

In terms of ethnicity/caste, 20.5% were Chhetri, 15.7% Aathpariya, 10.1% Rai, 9.6% Hill Brahmin, 9.3% Newar, 8.2% Tamang, 7.3% Magar, 4.3% Limbu, 3.8% Kami, 1.9% Damai/Dholi, 1.4% Gharti/Bhujel, 1.4% Thakuri, 1.2% Sarki, 0.6% Yakkha, 0.5% Sherpa, 0.4% Gurung, 0.3% Bantawa, 0.3% Majhi, 0.3% Musalman, 0.3% Tharu, 0.2% Halwai, 0.2% Teli, 0.2% other Terai, 0.1% Bengali, 0.1% Bhote, 0.1% Terai Brahmin, 0.1% Chamar/Harijan/Ram, 0.1% Chamling, 0.1% other Dalit, 0.1% Dom, 0.1% Hajjam/Thakur, 0.1% Kalwar, 0.1% Kayastha, 0.1% Marwadi, 0.1% Sanyasi/Dasnami, 0.1% Yadav and 0.5% others.[7]

In terms of religion, 62.5% were Hindu, 23.6% Kirati, 11.2% Buddhist, 1.8% Christian, 0.3% Muslim, 0.1% Prakriti and 0.4% others.[8]

In terms of literacy, 81.7% could read and write, 1.5% could only read and 16.8% could neither read nor write.[9]

Climate

[edit]
Climate data for Dhankuta, elevation 1,192 m (3,911 ft), (1991–2020 normals, extremes 1987–2018)
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Record high °C (°F) 26.7
(80.1) 		30.6
(87.1) 		31.8
(89.2) 		33.0
(91.4) 		33.6
(92.5) 		32.6
(90.7) 		33.0
(91.4) 		33.4
(92.1) 		33.2
(91.8) 		32.5
(90.5) 		32.0
(89.6) 		28.8
(83.8) 		33.6
(92.5)
Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 18.7
(65.7) 		20.4
(68.7) 		24.0
(75.2) 		26.6
(79.9) 		27.4
(81.3) 		27.9
(82.2) 		27.7
(81.9) 		28.0
(82.4) 		27.5
(81.5) 		26.1
(79.0) 		23.3
(73.9) 		20.4
(68.7) 		24.8
(76.6)
Daily mean °C (°F) 12.8
(55.0) 		14.8
(58.6) 		18.4
(65.1) 		21.2
(70.2) 		22.7
(72.9) 		24.1
(75.4) 		24.2
(75.6) 		24.3
(75.7) 		23.5
(74.3) 		21.0
(69.8) 		17.5
(63.5) 		14.4
(57.9) 		19.9
(67.8)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F) 6.9
(44.4) 		9.2
(48.6) 		12.8
(55.0) 		15.8
(60.4) 		18.0
(64.4) 		20.3
(68.5) 		20.7
(69.3) 		20.5
(68.9) 		19.4
(66.9) 		15.8
(60.4) 		11.7
(53.1) 		8.4
(47.1) 		15.0
(59.0)
Record low °C (°F) 2.0
(35.6) 		2.4
(36.3) 		5.0
(41.0) 		8.5
(47.3) 		11.3
(52.3) 		14.3
(57.7) 		15.7
(60.3) 		16.2
(61.2) 		13.0
(55.4) 		8.7
(47.7) 		6.5
(43.7) 		2.9
(37.2) 		2.0
(35.6)
Average precipitation mm (inches) 11.7
(0.46) 		15.4
(0.61) 		26.9
(1.06) 		52.9
(2.08) 		113.7
(4.48) 		143.6
(5.65) 		239.0
(9.41) 		160.6
(6.32) 		120.4
(4.74) 		35.2
(1.39) 		10.9
(0.43) 		6.4
(0.25) 		936.7
(36.88)
Average precipitation days (≥ 1.0 mm) 1.5 1.9 3.0 6.1 10.8 13.3 17.3 13.8 11.1 3.1 0.7 0.6 83.1
Source 1: World Meteorological Organization[10]
Source 2: Department of Hydrology and Meteorology[11]

Present status

[edit]
Dhankuta
Pakhribas Bazaar

Dhankuta Bazaar, on the North-South Koshi Highway, is now the administrative headquarters for the Eastern Development Region, and is home to a number of offices for NGOs and aid agencies serving in the area. The large bazaar of Hile further up the road, is an important trading centre and major road head, serving the remote hinterlands of the Arun valley and Bhojpur. Villagers walk for many days from surrounding districts to trade in Hile and Dhankuta bazaars, although road building in the district may reduce the importance of these centers.

‘Nepal's cleanest city’ as proposed by The Kathmandu post.[12]

Vegetation

[edit]

The vegetation zones in the district range from sub-tropical Sal forest along the Tamor and Arun rivers, and cooler temperate forests on some of the high ridges that mark the watershed between the two catchments. The altitude ranges from around 300m to 2500m. The majority of the population are involved in agriculture and crops include maize, rice and millet. Important cash crops include citrus fruits, cauliflower, cabbage, ginger, and in recent years, tea. A well-preserved forest (Rani Bhan – Queen's Forest) spreads along a ridge line on the northwest side of the village, with well-developed mature stands of rhododendron and pine trees.

Health centres

[edit]
Dhankuta Hospital.
Dhankuta District Hospital

Dhankuta District Hospital is located off the main street at the south end of the town. The hospital has facilities like inpatient service, Ultrasonography and x-ray. Besides the government posted doctors, medical and dental intern doctors from BPKIHS are also posted there.

Media

[edit]

Radio Nepal has a regional station in Dhankuta which transmits various programs of mass interest. Likewise, Radio Lali Guransa (105.2 MHz), Radio Makalu Dhankuta (92.2 MHz), and Radio Dhankuta (106.2 MHz) are community radio stations transmitting local programmes.

Pine trees

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Dhankuta

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Dhankuta is a hill town and municipality in , eastern , serving as the administrative headquarters of . It lies in the hilly terrain of the Mahabharat Range at an elevation of about 1,200 meters, covering an area of 110.8 square kilometers, and had a population of 35,983 as recorded in the . Historically, Dhankuta has functioned as a strategic trade and administrative hub for northeastern , with records indicating a settlement history exceeding 400 years, and it served as the regional headquarters until administrative reorganizations in the mid-20th century. The town is renowned for its vibrant bazaar, diverse ethnic communities including Rai and Limbu groups, and initiatives promoting cleanliness, earning recognition as Nepal's cleanest city through effective practices. Its economy relies primarily on , with notable production of , avocado—leading to its designation as the "Capital of Avocado" in 2018—and traditional crops, alongside emerging efforts in climate-resilient and local focused on .

Geography

Location and Topography

Dhankuta Municipality serves as the administrative headquarters of in , eastern . The town is positioned at approximately 26.98°N and 87.33°E . spans latitudes from 26°53' to 27°19' N and longitudes from 87°08' to 87°33' E, encompassing a mid-hill region in the eastern development area. The municipality lies at an elevation of about 1,188 meters above , situated amid Nepal's characteristic hilly terrain. Topographically, Dhankuta features rolling hills, deep valleys, and extensive terraced fields adapted for on slopes. District elevations vary significantly, ranging from roughly 300 meters in lower river valleys to over 2,000 meters in elevated hilltops, contributing to diverse microclimates and land use patterns. Surrounding the area are prominent geographical features, including proximity to the Tamor River, which flows through nearby giant hills originating from the Kanchenjunga region. The district is bordered by the Mahabharat Range, influencing local and providing a backdrop of rugged, forested elevations. This supports a mix of subtropical to temperate vegetation zones, with undulating landscapes facilitating both settlement and subsistence farming.

Climate

Dhankuta, situated at an elevation of approximately 1,150 meters, features a (Köppen Cwa) characterized by hot, wet summers and mild, dry winters, strongly influenced by the Indian summer monsoon. The average annual temperature is 19.3 °C, with diurnal and seasonal variations driven by its mid-hill topography, which moderates extremes compared to Nepal's lowland or high Himalayan regions. Temperatures typically range from a winter low of 8 °C (46 °F) in to summer highs of 32 °C (89 °F) in June, rarely exceeding 35 °C or falling below 6 °C. The hot season spans March to June, with average highs above 29 °C (84 °F), while the cool season from November to February sees highs below 22 °C (71 °F). Humidity peaks during the muggy period from late May to mid-October, averaging over 80% in , contributing to discomfort alongside frequent cloud cover (up to 81% overcast days in the peak). Precipitation totals around 1,500 mm annually, with over 70% concentrated in the from late May to , when monthly rainfall exceeds 100 mm and wet days comprise more than 36% of the period. is the rainiest month at 224 mm (8.8 inches), while the dry season from to early May receives less than 25 mm monthly, enabling clearer skies (up to 91% clear days in ) and lower wind speeds averaging 6-10 km/h year-round, peaking in . The highest recorded in Dhankuta was 34.1 °C in 2016, per data from the local weather station.

Natural Resources and Vegetation

Dhankuta District, situated in the mid-hills of eastern at elevations ranging from approximately 180 to 3,000 meters, features vegetation zones transitioning from subtropical Sal () forests in lower elevations to cool temperate and alpine forests in higher areas. This altitudinal gradient supports diverse flora, including hill Sal forests, mixed hardwood stands, and coniferous elements such as pine in upper zones. The district harbors significant , with studies documenting 132 species of wild edible plants across 63 families and 103 genera, predominantly from Leguminosae and families. These include species utilized for fruits, leaves, shoots, and tubers, serving as , spices, and foods, which underscore the ecological richness and traditional reliance on resources for and livelihoods. Forests provide non-timber products like medicinal herbs, , and fuelwood, while timber extraction supports local , though overharvesting poses risks to . Among mineral resources, Dhankuta hosts cement-grade deposits, notably at Nigale, which have been identified for potential industrial use in cement production. emerges as another key resource via abundant natural springs and seepages, sustaining local ecosystems and communities amid varying .

History

Pre-Modern Period

The region encompassing Dhankuta was historically part of Limbuwan, the traditional homeland of the Limbu people, who belong to the broader Kirati ethnic cluster indigenous to eastern Nepal's hills and valleys. Limbuwan featured a confederation of ten semi-independent kingdoms or principalities ruled by Limbu chiefs, often titled Subbas, who managed local governance, land allocation via the kipat communal tenure system, and defense against external incursions. This political structure persisted for centuries, with Limbu society emphasizing clan-based hierarchies and Mundhum oral traditions that preserved genealogies and territorial claims dating to migrations from regions possibly linked to ancient Kirati expansions eastward from the Kathmandu Valley after the fall of the Kirat dynasty around 300 CE. Archaeological evidence and ethnohistorical accounts indicate early settlements by proto-Kirati groups in the eastern Himalayan foothills, including areas around Dhankuta, supported by , , and trade routes connecting Tibetan plateaus to Indian plains. Limbu polities in , including those near Dhankuta, maintained alliances and rivalries among themselves while occasionally paying tribute to larger neighboring powers such as the Sen kings of Makwanpur or the Malla kingdoms, but retained autonomy in internal affairs. Oral histories recorded in Limbu scripts like Sirijanga emphasize resistance to invasions, such as those from Khas-Malla forces in the medieval period, underscoring a cultural emphasis on territorial . By the early , Dhankuta's locale served as a strategic hilltop settlement within central principalities, facilitating control over passes and fostering multi-ethnic interactions with neighboring Rai and Yakkha communities under Kirati cultural umbrellas. These pre-unification dynamics were characterized by decentralized rule, with no centralized state imposing uniform administration, allowing for the persistence of indigenous practices amid sporadic conflicts over resources like and salt trade routes from .

Unification and Kingdom Era

Dhankuta, situated within the region of eastern Nepal, was incorporated into the expanding amid Prithvi Narayan Shah's unification campaigns in the 1770s. As part of the Limbu principalities, the area figured prominently in the Limbuwan-Gorkha War (1771–1774), a series of conflicts sparked by Gorkhali incursions into Limbu territories to consolidate control over the eastern hills. Key battles, such as those at Chainpur—near modern Dhankuta—saw Gorkhali forces under commanders like Raghu Rana engage Limbu defenders led by figures including Kangshore Limbu, resulting in heavy casualties on both sides and temporary setbacks for the invaders. The war ended not through outright conquest but via the Salt-Water Treaty (Nun-Pani Sandhi) concluded on August 6, 1774, at Vijayapur and , where Limbu kings and Gorkhali representatives swore mutual oaths over salt and water—a culturally binding invoking divine retribution for betrayal. Under its terms, the 22 Limbuwan principalities acknowledged Gorkha , enabling to extend his realm eastward without further immediate hostilities, while Limbu elites retained limited autonomy, including oversight of the kipat communal land system central to their socioeconomic order. In the ensuing Kingdom Era under the , Dhankuta transitioned from a peripheral Limbu stronghold to an administrative outpost facilitating tribute collection, , and routes linking the hills to the . The 1816 , which curtailed Nepal's western and southern expansions after the , prompted internal reorganization into ten districts; Dhankuta-Chainpur governed all territories east of the Dudhkoshi River, encompassing diverse ethnic hill communities and underscoring the kingdom's emphasis on centralized fiscal and judicial authority over conquered peripheries. This structure persisted through the , with local Limbu subbas (chiefs) mediating Shah rule, though encroachments on traditional rights foreshadowed tensions in later eras.

20th Century Developments and Civil War Involvement

In the early 20th century, Dhankuta Bazaar established itself as an educational hub outside the , hosting Nepal's sole high beyond the capital region by , which later expanded to include a girls' high school and a campus affiliated with . This development reflected Dhankuta's role as a progressive administrative center for northeastern , fostering local literacy and administrative capacity amid limited national infrastructure. Administrative reforms in 1963 under King Mahendra's Panchayat system restructured into 75 , fragmenting the traditional Dhankuta region into approximately six units and diminishing its overarching authority, though it retained significance as a headquarters. Infrastructure advanced with the completion of the Dharan-Dhankuta road in 1981-1982, integrating the district into the network and facilitating and mobility in the Koshi hills, previously reliant on footpaths. These changes spurred economic linkages but also highlighted ongoing challenges in terrain stability, as evidenced by subsequent remediation efforts. During the Nepalese Civil War (1996-2006), Dhankuta district experienced multiple Maoist insurgent attacks targeting security forces and civilians, contributing to regional instability in the hill areas. On January 1, 2005, Maoists ambushed security personnel at Malbase along the Koshi Highway, killing at least 12. Further violence included the February 7, 2006, assault in Dhankuta where five security force members died and three were injured. Earlier, on June 24, 2004, insurgents hacked to death the nephew of former Prime Minister in the district, underscoring targeted political killings. These incidents, amid broader Maoist control efforts in rural zones, resulted in civilian displacement and economic disruption, with Dhankuta recording victims across conflict categories as documented in national tallies. The area's strategic location amplified its exposure, though government counteroperations limited sustained rebel dominance compared to more remote districts.

Demographics

As of the 2021 National Population and Housing conducted by Nepal's , Dhankuta Municipality recorded a total of 35,983, consisting of 17,192 males and 18,791 females. This figure reflects a marginal decline from the 36,619 residents enumerated in the 2011 . The computed average annual growth rate over the decade was approximately -0.17%, indicating stagnation or slight depopulation amid broader regional patterns of out-migration. Historical data from earlier censuses show variability: the municipality's stood at around 28,000 in 2001, suggesting net growth in the preceding decade before the recent reversal. Factors contributing to the post-2011 slowdown include rural-to-urban migration within , particularly toward larger cities like , as well as international labor outflows to destinations such as the Gulf states and , driven by limited local employment opportunities. These trends align with district-level patterns, where Dhankuta District's fell from 163,412 in 2011 to 150,599 in 2021, yielding an annual decline of -1.37%, predominantly affecting rural wards through youth and family relocation. Urbanization pressures and infrastructural limitations in Dhankuta's hilly terrain have exacerbated these dynamics, with data highlighting higher out-migration rates among working-age cohorts (15-59 years), leading to aging demographics and reduced natural increase. Despite this, the 's remains moderate at 324 persons per square kilometer, concentrated in the central areas. Projections based on trends suggest continued challenges to sustaining growth without interventions in agriculture, education, and remittance-based development.

Ethnic and Linguistic Diversity

Dhankuta District exhibits significant ethnic diversity, characteristic of Nepal's eastern hill regions, with a population of 150,599 as per the 2021 National Population and Housing Census. The major ethnic groups include Khas-Chhetri, Rai (encompassing subgroups such as Bantawa), Yakthung/Limbu, Magar, and Tamang, reflecting a mix of Indo-Aryan and Tibeto-Burman origins. These groups constitute the bulk of the population, with smaller communities of Newar, (Bahun), , and indigenous Kirati peoples like Yakkha also present. The following table summarizes the top ethnic groups by population from the 2021 data:
Ethnic GroupPopulationApproximate Percentage
Khas-Chhetri30,01119.9%
Rai29,67419.7%
Yakthung/Limbu20,85513.8%
Magar15,58010.3%
Tamang9,8866.6%
This composition underscores the district's role as a hub for Kirati ethnicities, particularly Rai and Limbu, who trace origins to indigenous hill tribes, alongside Khas groups like who migrated historically from western . Linguistically, Dhankuta displays a high degree of diversity, aligning with Koshi Province's elevated Linguistic Diversity Index, driven by the coexistence of Nepali as the dominant and numerous . Nepali serves as the mother tongue for approximately 49% of residents (73,754 speakers), facilitating inter-ethnic communication, while account for over half of the remaining speakers, reflecting ethnic identities. Prominent minority languages include Bantawa (1,907 speakers, 1.3%), Chhintang (1,886 speakers, 1.3%), Belhare (1,276 speakers, 0.8%), and Magar Dhut (855 speakers, 0.6%), alongside Yakthung/Limbu and other Rai-Kirati variants like Chamling. These languages, spoken primarily by indigenous communities in rural wards, face pressures from Nepali dominance and urbanization, contributing to super-diversity where influences daily Nepali usage patterns. The district's supports cultural preservation efforts amid Nepal's broader trend of toward Nepali.

Religion and Social Structure

Hinduism is the predominant religion in Dhankuta, practiced by approximately 49% of the district's population, followed by at 14% and smaller shares adhering to , , and other faiths among the Kirati ethnic groups. , the indigenous animistic and shamanistic belief system of groups like the Rai and Yakkha, emphasizes reverence for , ancestors, and deities such as Sumnima and Paruhang, often syncretized with Hindu practices but recognized separately in censuses. Religious sites include Hindu temples and Buddhist monasteries, with festivals like and observed alongside Kirati rituals such as Sakela. Dhankuta's social structure combines Nepal's Hindu hierarchy with the clan-based systems of indigenous Janajati groups, resulting in a multi-layered ethnic stratification. Upper such as Hill Brahmins and Chhetris, comprising significant portions of the population alongside Newars, hold traditional positions of influence, while groups like experience historical exclusion and in access to resources and intermarriage. Among Tibeto-Burman ethnicities like Rai (including Aathpariya subgroups), Limbu, and Yakkha—together forming over 25% of residents—social organization revolves around egalitarian clans (thums) and kinship ties rather than rigid varna divisions, though integration into national structures has introduced hierarchical influences. Patriarchy dominates family and community dynamics, with male-headed joint households common in rural areas, though and out-migration have shifted toward nuclear families and increased female participation in and labor. Inter-ethnic marriages remain rare due to endogamous norms, perpetuating group identities, while government since 1990 aims to address Janajati and disparities, albeit with limited enforcement in local governance.

Economy

Agricultural Sector

Agriculture constitutes the backbone of Dhankuta's economy, with the majority of households engaged in smallholder farming that combines subsistence production of cereals like , , millet, and with commercial cultivation of and fruits. The district's mid-hill and terraced landscapes enable diverse cropping patterns, though vegetable and horticultural outputs have increasingly driven generation and adaptation to environmental challenges. Vegetable farming predominates, featuring high-value temperate crops such as , , , , , , and green leafy vegetables, alongside broad-leaf mustard and garden peas. In 2021, Dhankuta produced 133,457 metric tons of vegetables from 5,983 , yielding 22.31 metric tons per hectare. The district achieves Nepal's highest cabbage productivity at 26.2 megagrams per hectare, positioning it as a key exporter within the eastern hills. This sector enhances livelihoods by diversifying income beyond staples, with studies showing improved socio-economic conditions through market-oriented vegetable sales. Horticulture, particularly fruits, has expanded amid shifting crop preferences and efforts. Citrus varieties, researched at the National Citrus Research Program in Paripatle since 2000, include mandarins and sweet oranges targeted for export potential. Avocado cultivation surged after orange declines due to pests and market issues, with numbers rising from 1,963 in 2018 to 4,926 by 2022, supported by higher profitability and suitability to local soils. Dhankuta Municipality's designation as Nepal's "Avocado Capital" on June 22, 2018, formalized promotion of commercial avocado farming as a climate adaptation measure. Other cash crops like large thrive in sub-valleys such as Pakhribas, contributing to regional export value. Farmers employ innovations like tunnel houses, plastic ponds, and mulching to counter erratic rainfall and droughts, as seen in villages recovering via permaculture after mid-2010s water shortages. Cold storage infrastructure, operational since around 2021, minimizes losses for perishable pears and other organics from Dhankuta and nearby districts, aiding market access despite limited government branding support. These adaptations, backed by initiatives from organizations like UNDP, sustain productivity amid broader agricultural vulnerabilities in Nepal's hills.

Emerging Industries and Trade

![Looking north to Dhankuta bazaar from roof of house in Chuliban](.assets/Looking_north_to_Dhankuta_bazaar_from_roof_of_house_in_Chuliban_%28_26%C2%B057'47.23%22N_87%C2%B020'50.05%22E) Dhankuta Municipality has positioned avocado cultivation as a key emerging agricultural industry, declaring itself the "avocado capital" in 2019 to promote commercial production. Annual output reached approximately 80 metric tons by 2024, with over 4,900 farmers engaged, up from 1,963 in 2018, following a shift from orange farming due to higher profitability and market demand. Farmers reported selling 239.4 tons in recent years, generating significant income through local and inter-district trade, including potential exports to . The sector represents another growing industry, with Dhankuta designated a tea zone in 1982 and featuring high-elevation gardens like Jun Chiyabari, established in 2000 at 1,650–2,110 meters. Orthodox tea production here contributes to Nepal's eastern tea exports, emphasizing quality Himalayan varieties for international markets. Local cooperatives, such as the Tea Producer Cooperative Federation, support expansion and problem-solving for farmers. Tourism is emerging as a service-based industry, with initiatives since 2021 focusing on responsible and climate-resilient models integrating watershed management and community homestays. Dhankuta's natural heritage and cultural sites attract low-impact visitors, fostering local employment and sustainability efforts in collaboration with organizations like ICIMOD. Trade in Dhankuta leverages its historical role as a transit hub since 1885, connecting northern districts to broader markets via the Dhankuta Chamber of Commerce and Industry, established in 1972. By mid-2019, 537 industries were registered, including 62 tourism-related and 162 service providers, alongside agricultural exports like avocado and tea, though manufacturing remains limited at 26 units. Local bazaars facilitate commerce, with monitoring by district offices to ensure fair practices.

Economic Challenges and Growth Indicators

Dhankuta Municipality faces acute economic challenges stemming from limited local employment opportunities and high youth outmigration, which exacerbate labor shortages in agriculture and hinder diversification. Local businesses struggle to absorb the workforce, driving many residents to foreign labor markets, particularly in Gulf countries and Malaysia, where they remit earnings back home. This migration pattern contributes to a negative population growth rate of -0.78%, signaling demographic stagnation and potential long-term decline in the local tax base and productive capacity. Remittances provide a critical lifeline, often funding household consumption, education, and healthcare, but their productive use remains low, with minimal reinvestment in agriculture or entrepreneurship, perpetuating dependency rather than fostering self-sustaining growth. Youth unemployment poses a particular risk, as returning migrants encounter barriers to reintegration, including skill mismatches and stigma, further straining local resources. The economy's heavy reliance on rain-fed agriculture amplifies vulnerability to climate variability and low productivity, limiting overall income generation. Key growth indicators reflect modest resilience amid these pressures: the unemployment rate stood at 4.44% in 2020 per national census data, below the national average of around 10.7%, though this likely masks widespread in subsistence farming. Remittance inflows mirror national levels, supporting household stability but not translating into robust GDP expansion at the local level, where diversification into non-agricultural sectors remains nascent. Municipal initiatives, such as reintegration policies for returnees adopted in 2025, aim to leverage migrant skills for local development, potentially boosting if paired with infrastructure improvements.

Government and Politics

Administrative Structure

Dhankuta Municipality functions as the headquarters of in under Nepal's federal system, which decentralizes governance to 753 local units nationwide following the 2015 Constitution and 2017 restructuring. The municipality covers 111 square kilometers and is divided into 10 wards, the smallest administrative subunits, each led by an elected ward chair and committee handling grassroots services like registration, , and . Governance at the municipal level follows a mayor-council model, with elections held every five years; Chintan Tamang serves as mayor and Bhima Devi Khanal as deputy mayor following the 2022 local polls, supported by a municipal executive committee. Day-to-day operations are managed by the Chief Administrative Officer, Dasharath Rai, who oversees specialized sections including revenue collection, environmental management, and social security distribution, ensuring compliance with national laws while addressing local needs. Dhankuta District Administration Office, headed by Chief District Officer Shiva Ram Gelal, coordinates across the district's seven local governments—three municipalities (Dhankuta, Mahalaxmi, Pakhribas) and four rural municipalities (Chaubise, Chhathar Jorpati, Khalsa Chhintang Sahidbhumi, Sangurigadhi)—focusing on provincial integration, security, and resource allocation without direct local service delivery.

Key Political Events and Protests

In 2009, during the transitional period following the , cadres of the Unified Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) seized control of Dhankuta Municipality, declaring Ganesh Bista as mayor and Kabita Rai as deputy mayor while appointing ward-level officials. This action reflected ongoing Maoist influence in local governance amid national political instability. In May 2010, amid a Maoist-led demanding the resignation of , clashes occurred in Dhankuta when Youth Force activists aligned with the (Unified Marxist-Leninist) attacked a Maoist rally enforcing market closures, prompting deployment of 15 police personnel to restore order. Dhankuta has been a focal point for protests demanding designation as the permanent capital of Koshi Province (formerly Province No. 1), driven by its central location and historical administrative role in eastern . On January 12, 2018, locals enforced a across the district to press this claim. Escalation followed on January 17-18, 2018, with protesters setting fire to the Regional Administration Office—destroying furniture, computers, and documents—and clashing with police, injuring at least three individuals and leading to a . Similar demonstrations recurred in January 2019, with residents staging rallies for permanent capital status. Tensions reignited in May 2019 after the provincial assembly endorsed as capital, prompting a one-hour chakkajam (complete shutdown) by Dhankuta locals. By January 2025, protesters intensified actions despite a government-imposed prohibitory order, continuing demands for capital recognition. On June 30, 2020, groups in Dhankuta organized a demonstration against the U.S.-Nepal (MCC) compact, viewed locally as infringing on ; participants submitted a memorandum expressing opposition to the foreign aid agreement. More recently, on May 21, 2025, residents joined protests across Dhankuta, Bhojpur, Sunsari, and Udayapur districts against the proposed Saptakoshi High Dam, citing risks of displacement, flooding, and environmental damage from the India- joint project. These events underscore Dhankuta's role in broader debates over resource development and federal restructuring, often intersecting with national political currents.

Governance Issues and Irregularities

In , bodies have faced a notable increase in reported irregularities, particularly in 2019/20. Data from the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) indicate that 50 cases of alleged abuse were filed district-wide, with 25 directly linked to local levels such as municipalities and rural municipalities. This marked a doubling of cases compared to the prior , highlighting challenges in oversight and enforcement at the grassroots administrative tier. The sector emerged as the most affected area, accounting for 11 of the cases, often involving mismanagement of resources or procedural lapses in school-related funds and appointments. Overall, 22 cases were resolved through settlements or administrative actions by February 2020, while 28 remained under investigation, reflecting ongoing delays in adjudication. District Coordination Committee Chief Tanka Bahadur Chauhan pointed to the formulation of rules serving personal interests as a contributing factor during a local interaction program. These patterns align with broader patterns of administrative vulnerabilities in Nepal's federalized local governance, where limited technical capacity and accountability mechanisms exacerbate minor procedural abuses into systemic concerns, though Dhankuta-specific high-profile prosecutions remain limited in . No major election-related irregularities unique to Dhankuta have been documented in recent national polls, but routine complaints underscore persistent transparency deficits in and .

Infrastructure and Services

Healthcare Facilities

The principal healthcare institution in Dhankuta is the , a government-operated facility located in Hulak Tole, Dhankuta Municipality. Originally established as Tri Chandra Hospital in 1913, it serves as the main referral hospital for the district and surrounding areas in . As of November 2024, the hospital, which operated with 15 beds prior to upgrades, is being expanded to a 100-bed capacity to address longstanding infrastructure deficiencies and growing demand. The hospital offers essential services including 24-hour emergency care, ambulance availability, laboratory testing, pharmacy operations, diagnostic procedures, inpatient treatment, and minor surgical interventions. Despite these provisions, the facility has historically struggled with inadequate and equipment; for instance, in 2022, it occupied only 16 ropanis of land, far short of the 50 ropanis required for a modern 100-bed hospital. Ongoing provincial initiatives aim to transform it into a to enhance specialized care and training opportunities. Supporting the district hospital are numerous primary-level health posts categorized under Nepal's system, such as Type 4 health posts in areas like Kuruletenupa within Chhabise . Examples include the Belhara Health Post and Bhirgaun Health Post, which provide basic outpatient services to rural populations. The Eastern Regional Health Directorate, based in Dhankuta, coordinates regional services, including supervision and resource allocation across eastern . The Health Training Center Koshi Province, also situated in Dhankuta, focuses on professional development by conducting trainings for health workers to improve service quality at provincial and local levels. These facilities collectively form the backbone of Dhankuta's healthcare system, though access remains challenged by geographic terrain and resource limitations in remote hilly areas.

Education and Literacy

The literacy rate in Dhankuta District, as per the 2021 National Population and Housing Census, stands at 81.8%, surpassing 's national average of 77.4%. Male literacy is reported at 88.2%, reflecting a persistent gender disparity typical of rural and semi-urban areas in eastern , where female lags due to factors such as early , household responsibilities, and limited access to schooling. Dhankuta hosts a network of public and private educational institutions, with 58 public schools operating within Dhankuta Municipality alone, catering primarily to primary and secondary levels. Higher education is provided through institutions like Dhankuta Multiple , an affiliated unit of offering bachelor's and master's programs in arts, science, and management, and several higher secondary schools such as Triveni Higher Secondary School. Enrollment in (grades 1-8) aligns with national trends, though district-specific data indicate retention challenges beyond primary levels due to geographic isolation in hilly terrains. Educational outcomes face hurdles from infrastructural and environmental factors; studies in Dhankuta's community schools highlight that long travel distances—often exceeding 5 kilometers over rugged paths—correlate with lower learning achievements, particularly in , where approximately 60% of grade 10 students scored below proficiency in Secondary Education Examination results. Initiatives like the Nepal Early Grade Reading Program have distributed teaching materials to over 5,000 students in the district, aiming to bolster foundational , yet systemic issues such as teacher absenteeism and resource shortages persist, mirroring broader Nepali education sector inequities.

Transportation, Media, and Utilities

Dhankuta Municipality is primarily served by road transportation, connected to the national highway network via the , which links it southward to and the (National Highway 01). This connection integrated Dhankuta into the broader road system in 1981, facilitating access to eastern Nepal's plains and beyond. Public bus services operate regularly to (approximately 15 hours via taxi-assisted routes through and ) and regional hubs like , with local taxis and microbuses handling intra-district travel. The extension supports northward links to Terhathum District, historically boosting goods transport into the Kosi Hills from around 10,000 tonnes annually pre-road development. The nearest operational airport is Tumlingtar Airport (TMI), situated about 39 km northeast in , serving flights to for regional access. Local media outlets in Dhankuta include Radio Dhankuta, a community FM station, and the Dhankuta branch, which broadcasts provincial news and programs. The Dhankuta Herald serves as the area's first daily , covering local events alongside national distribution. Residents access national television channels via or cable, with no dedicated local TV station identified. Electricity distribution is handled by the Nepal Electricity Authority's Dhankuta Distribution Center (contact: 026-520091), drawing from a 132 kV substation to power the municipality and surrounding wards. Water supply infrastructure falls under the and Sanitation Division Office, Dhankuta, which oversees pipelines and sanitation projects, though rural VDCs have faced shortages, with over a dozen areas affected as of 2016 due to drying sources. Recent initiatives include systems installed in 2023 to mitigate scarcity in partnership with local authorities.

Culture and Society

Cultural Traditions and Festivals

Dhankuta's cultural traditions are shaped by its ethnic diversity, including significant populations of Rai, Limbu, and Athpariya (Aathpahariya) communities, who maintain indigenous practices alongside national Hindu and Buddhist observances. Festivals emphasize agricultural cycles, ancestor veneration, and community bonding, often involving music, dance, and rituals tied to the region's hilly terrain and farming economy. Prominent national festivals such as , Tihar, and are widely observed, featuring family gatherings, animal sacrifices during (typically September-October), lamp lighting and deity worship in Tihar (October-November), and ritual bathing and sesame-lentil consumption on (mid-January). These events draw participation across ethnic lines, reinforcing social cohesion in the district's rural municipalities. Among Athpariya traditions, the Mangshire Festival, known locally as Wadagmet, unfolds over a month in the Nepali calendar's Mangshir (November-December), culminating in a three-day pilgrimage to Barahakshetra for river bathing in the Kokaha, head and beard shaving, and worship of the Baraha deity to honor deceased relatives and newborns. The festival concludes with a fourth day of communal dances like , , and Dallo Naach in Dhankuta's , marking the end of year-long mourning periods and preserving Athpariya heritage amid modernization pressures. Athpariya also celebrate Baishake (Bisu) in April-May to inaugurate the cultivation season and Bhadaure (Chamanwagi) in August-September to conclude harvesting, both highlighting agricultural rhythms unique to their highland communities. Rai communities in areas like Khalsa observe the Papani Festival (also Wadangmi), commencing on the first Tuesday after Kartik (late November) and spanning 15 days, with continuous singing and dancing for the initial six days and nights to invoke ancestral Khudahanga and spirits from Mundhum texts, alongside dove releases and fairs at historic forts in Khoku, Chhintang, and Aankhisalla. This draws participation from subgroups like Chyulung, Namchahang, and Bantawa, comprising about 50% of local Rai and 80% of Sahidbhumi Rural Municipality's population. Kirati groups, including Rai and Limbu, further mark seasonal migrations through Ubhauli (spring upward movement, May) with Sakela dances praying for bountiful crops. Tamang residents celebrate over 15 days starting late January, featuring traditional attire, music, and feasts that blend with broader district festivities. These events underscore Dhankuta's role as a cultural crossroads in eastern , though some practices, like kite-flying during , face decline due to .

Tourism Potential and Attractions

Dhankuta's tourism potential stems from its scenic hill landscapes, , and cultural sites, attracting primarily domestic visitors and tourists from neighboring seeking respite from lowland heat. The district features diverse natural attractions, including pine forests and orange groves, which support eco- and hiking activities. However, limited infrastructure and remote access compared to major hubs like constrain international appeal, with growth noted in recent years through improved road connectivity. A primary attraction is Namaste Jharana, an 80-meter-high waterfall located in , approximately 13 kilometers from Dhankuta , popular for its cascading waters amid lush greenery and drawing crowds from districts like Jhapa, Morang, and Sunsari. Visitors often combine trips with nearby viewpoints, including the Skywalk View Tower, offering panoramic vistas of the Mahabharat range and cooler ambiance ideal for short escapes. Hiking to Dhoje Hill provides opportunities to glimpse Himalayan peaks such as and on clear days, enhancing adventure prospects. Cultural sites bolster the district's draw, with temples like Buddhasubba and Jalpa offering spiritual experiences tied to local Rai and Hindu traditions, while Chhintang Park commemorates historical events amid serene surroundings. Nearby Hile, 13 kilometers away, serves as a quaint for tea garden views and homestays, fostering community-based . Events at Chhotlung Park in Basantapur provide spots and local festivals, contributing to seasonal visitor influxes. Overall, Dhankuta's untapped potential lies in sustainable development of these assets, potentially rivaling eastern Nepal's emerging destinations if accessibility improves.

Social Dynamics and Community Life

Dhankuta's social fabric is marked by ethnic diversity, with principal groups including Kshetri, Athpahariya, Rai, Newar, and Tamang, alongside others such as Brahmin, Limbu, Magar, and Yakha, reflecting the broader multi-ethnic composition of eastern Nepal's hill regions. This heterogeneity supports cultural interchange but necessitates municipal efforts to promote inclusion, as outlined in local resilience planning that addresses diversified ethnic needs. Out-migration has reshaped community dynamics, with substantial emigration from rural areas—primarily among , , Newar, Yakha, and Rai groups—leading to depopulated villages and altered social networks by 2023. In response, Dhankuta Municipality adopted Nepal's inaugural local "Foreign Employment and Reintegration Policy" on August 23, 2021, targeting sustainable reintegration of returnees through skill-building and economic support to mitigate labor shortages and family disruptions. This initiative underscores causal links between overseas labor flows and local social strain, prioritizing vulnerable households affected by events like the . Community life revolves around agricultural livelihoods and kinship-based structures, bolstered by non-governmental organizations such as SOLVE Nepal, founded October 26, 1989, which addresses poverty through targeted interventions, and HUSADEC Nepal, established May 11, 1993, focusing on advocacy and development for marginalized segments. Gender imbalances persist, with municipal leadership predominantly male as of 2024, highlighting ongoing inclusion challenges despite broader ethnic harmony. Local efforts in community tourism and resilience-building further enhance social capital, fostering inter-group collaboration amid environmental and economic pressures.

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  134. https://spcsnnepal.org/member/husadec-nepal/
  135. https://www.insidehimalayas.com/community-tourism-in-nepal/
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