Effects of Tourism Growth on Local Resources and Communities: Darjeeling

Darjeeling, a ridge-constrained Himalayan hill station, has experienced rapid tourism-driven transformation, resulting in socio-spatial, infrastructural, and environmental stress. This study investigates the spatial distribution of tourism clusters, built-form changes, water infrastructure deficits, and community-level impacts, with a focus on Chowrasta as the central tourism spine. Using a mixed-methods approach that integrates spatial mapping, municipal data, and field observation, the research identifies systemic vulnerabilities arising from ridge-centric development, tourism dependency, and weak governance. Key findings highlight the Resource–Infrastructure Paradox, unsustainable built-form transformations, and socio-ecological imbalances. Recommendations include terrain-responsive planning, carrying capacity-based regulations, water resource governance, and heritage-sensitive architectural interventions.