It is an extensive area in the eastern end of the Dooars in West Bengal.

It is undulating country, largely forested, with numerous rivers flowing down from the outer ranges of the Himalayas in Bhutan.

There is high concentration of tribal people (scheduled tribes) in the three northern blocks of the district.

Around 2002-2004 the industry faced a crisis and at least 22 plantations were closed down in Jalpaiguri district, affecting 21,000 permanent workers and impacting a much larger population.

Kalchini block has 18 tea gardens, mostly in bad shape and some closed.