Darjeeling is inhabited by people belonging to various ethnic groups: 'Lepchas' or 'Rongpa' (the ravine folks), they are of Mongolian in feature. 'The Khampas' another branch of Lepchas, who are warrior like and recent immigrants from Tibet.

The greater number of people in the hills are 'Gorkhas' who are industrious, enterprising and speak various dialects. They are renowned for their military prowess the world over, and the first to be decorated with the coveted Victoria Cross. Among the population are also the 'Newars' or best known, the world over as the 'Sherpas'. They are well known for their courage, stamina and surefootedness and for their immeasurable contributions to Mountaineering. Also, 'Bhutias' community is in significant number in state, further divided into Tibetan, Bhutanese, Dharma and Sikkimese Bhutias.