Darjeeling biodiversity and tea heritage face environmental pressures

The Darjeeling region in northeast India is home to both world-famous tea gardens and the endemic Himalayan salamander (Tylototriton himalayanus). This ancient amphibian, often referred to locally as ‘Pani Kukur’ or ‘water dog’, is considered a living fossil with ancestors dating back approximately 160 million years.

However, the species is currently assessed as vulnerable to extinction by the IUCN. A 2025 survey suggests that only an estimated 5,000 individuals remain in the wild. The decline is attributed to the drainage of wetland habitats for agriculture and irrigation, infrastructure development such as roads, the introduction of exotic fish, and unregulated tourism.

In addition to its biological significance, the region is defined by its seasonal tea harvests. During the monsoon, various Darjeeling tea varieties are highlighted, including the delicate first flush, the muscatel-flavored second flush, autumnal brews, organic green tea, and rare white silver tips.