[3] During 18th century, present-day Dharmapuri district was part of the Kingdom of Mysore and was called Baramahal.

As part of the Treaty of Seringapatam (signed on 18 March 1792) after the Third Anglo-Mysore War, Tipu Sultan agreed to give part of his territories including present-day Dharmapuri district to the British East India Company which was then merged into the Madras Presidency an administrative subdivision of British India.

Modhur, a village near Dharmapuri has remains that date back to the Neolithic age.

Excavations at another village, Perumbalai, have unearthed artifacts dating back centuries.

The whole district is surrounded by hills and forests, and the terrain consists mostly of rolling plains.

Vathalmalai, a mountain hamlet on top of Shervarayan hill chain has suitable conditions to cultivate coffee and jackfruit.

Wild boars and spotted deer are commonly seen in Morappur and Harur forest region.

The district has been divided into two revenue divisions, namely, Dharmapuri and Harur consisting seven taluks.

[9] The population of the district is roughly equal to the nation of Gabon[10] or the US state of Hawaii.

[13] Dharmapuri and Krishnagiri districts account for more than 60% to 70% total mango production in Tamil Nadu.