This district, with Silgadhi as its headquarters, covers an area of 2,025 square kilometres (782 sq mi) with a population of 207,066 in 2001 and increasing marginally to 211,746 in 2011.

It was founded by Niranjan Malla Dev, the last son of the Katyuri dynasty and younger brother of Abhay Pal of Askot.

Previously, the area between Ramganga in the west and the Karnali River in the east was under the control of the Raikas (rulers of the Doti kingdom, alternately Kumaun or Rainka Maharaj).

[4] The seven other known states are: The Katyuri Kingdom's dissolution is attributed to the invasion of Khas Kings Ashoka Challa and Krachalla, from the Karnali zone (Dullu) in 1191 and 1223 respectively.

[17] Ethnicity/caste: 57.7% were Chhetri, 12.3% Kami, 7.9% Hill Brahmin, 4.6% Damai/Dholi, 3.5% other Dalit, 3.5% Thakuri, 3.4% Magar, 2.4% Sarki, 1.4% Badi, 1.1% Lohar, 0.5% Newar, 0.5% Sanyasi/Dasnami, 0.2% Kumal, 0.1% Gurung, 0.1% Majhi, 0.1% Musalman, 0.1% Tamang, 0.1% other Terai, 0.1% Tharu and 0.2% others.