Discover the top 3 luxury hotels in Darjeeling, explore their history, costs, nearby attractions, best visiting times, famous foods, and more in this comprehensive guide.
Nestled in the serene mountains of West Bengal, Darjeeling is a haven for travelers seeking breathtaking views, tranquil settings, and a taste of luxury. Known for its iconic tea plantations, stunning vistas of the Himalayas, and colonial charm, Darjeeling offers an array of luxurious accommodations that enhance the experience of this picturesque hill station. In this guide, we’ll dive into the top 3 luxury hotels in Darjeeling, delving into their histories, amenities, costs, nearby attractions, and more.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Luxury Hotels in Darjeeling
1. The Elgin, Darjeeling
History of The Elgin, Darjeeling
The Elgin, Darjeeling, originally known as the “New Elgin Hotel,” was built in 1887 during the British colonial era. This magnificent heritage hotel has seen the vicissitudes of time and has managed to retain its old-world charm while incorporating modern amenities. The Elgin has hosted many dignitaries, including the likes of Dalai Lama and Nobel laureate, Tagore.
Visit Cost and Amenities
- Cost: Rooms start at approximately $150 per night, with suites costing around $300 per night.
- Amenities:
- Colonial-style rooms with modern comforts
- Fine dining restaurant serving local and international cuisine
- Spa and wellness center
- Library with a collection of rare books
- Garden area for leisurely walks
Nearby Locations
- Darjeeling Mall (Chowrasta): A popular town square just a short walk away.
- Himalayan Mountaineering Institute: About 2 miles from the hotel, perfect for history buffs and adventure seekers.
- Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park: Roughly 2 miles away, home to unique Himalayan fauna.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit The Elgin is between March to May and September to November when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear.
2. Mayfair Darjeeling
History of Mayfair Darjeeling
Mayfair Darjeeling, a boutique resort, is part of the renowned Mayfair Hotels & Resorts chain. Established in the early 1990s, the hotel has quickly become synonymous with luxury in Darjeeling. The property was once the summer house of a British Governor and has been meticulously restored to offer an exquisite blend of old-world charm and contemporary luxury.
Visit Cost and Amenities
- Cost: Standard rooms start at around $120 per night, while suites can go up to $250 per night.
- Amenities:
- Lavishly decorated rooms with panoramic views
- Multi-cuisine restaurant and bar
- Spa and wellness center
- Gym and fitness center
- Kids’ play area
Nearby Locations
- Darjeeling Mall (Chowrasta): A leisurely 10-minute walk.
- Japanese Peace Pagoda: Located about 3 miles from the hotel, offering spiritual serenity and stunning views.
- Rock Garden and Ganga Maya Park: Around 5 miles away, ideal for nature lovers.
Best Time to Visit
The prime months to stay at Mayfair Darjeeling are from March to May and September to November, coinciding with the tourist season.
3. Windamere Hotel
History of Windamere Hotel
Windamere Hotel, an exquisite heritage hotel, dates back to the 19th century when it served as a boarding house for British tea planters. Post-World War II, it was converted into a hotel and has since maintained its quaint colonial charm. It is often referred to as a “Museum Hotel” due to its vast collection of artifacts and antiques.
Visit Cost and Amenities
- Cost: Rooms start at about $180 per night, with more luxurious suites costing up to $350 per night.
- Amenities:
- Antique-furnished rooms with modern amenities
- Fine dining restaurant offering Anglo-Indian cuisine
- Traditional English tea service
- Spa and wellness treatments
- Guided tours and cultural programs
Nearby Locations
- Observatory Hill: Just a short walk from the hotel, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas.
- Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train): The station is about 1 mile away, perfect for a nostalgic ride.
- Bhutia Busty Monastery: Located around 2 miles away, offering spiritual peace and cultural insights.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Windamere Hotel is from March to May and September to November, when the weather is comfortable for sightseeing.
Famous Foods in Darjeeling
While staying at these luxurious hotels, don’t miss out on the local culinary delights. Some must-try foods include:
- Momos: Steamed dumplings filled with meat or vegetables.
- Thukpa: A hearty noodle soup with meat or vegetables.
- Darjeeling Tea: Enjoy a cup of world-famous tea, preferably at a tea estate.
- Naga Cuisine: Featuring spicy dishes, particularly those using fermented bamboo shoots.
- Aloo Dum and Sel Roti: Popular street food combo, perfect for a quick snack.
Nearest Airport to Darjeeling
The nearest airport to Darjeeling is Bagdogra Airport (IXB), located approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles) away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to reach Darjeeling. The journey typically takes around 3 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions.
Conclusion
Darjeeling, with its enchanting landscapes and rich colonial history, offers a luxurious retreat for travelers. The top 3 luxury hotels in Darjeeling – The Elgin, Mayfair Darjeeling, and Windamere Hotel – each provide a unique blend of heritage charm and modern comfort, ensuring a memorable stay. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, these hotels are sure to cater to your needs. Plan your visit between March and May or September and November for the best experience, and don’t forget to savor the local cuisine and explore the nearby attractions.
FAQs
1. What are the top 3 luxury hotels in Darjeeling?
The top 3 luxury hotels in Darjeeling are The Elgin, Mayfair Darjeeling, and Windamere Hotel.
2. What is the history of The Elgin, Darjeeling?
The Elgin, Darjeeling was built in 1887 during the British colonial era and has retained its old-world charm while incorporating modern amenities. It has hosted many dignitaries over the years.
3. What is the visit cost for Mayfair Darjeeling?
Rooms at Mayfair Darjeeling start at around $120 per night, with suites costing up to $250 per night.
4. What are some nearby locations to Windamere Hotel?
Nearby locations to Windamere Hotel include Observatory Hill, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train), and Bhutia Busty Monastery.
5. When is the best time to visit Darjeeling?
The best time to visit Darjeeling is from March to May and September to November when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear.
6. What are some famous foods in Darjeeling?
Famous foods in Darjeeling include Momos, Thukpa, Darjeeling Tea, Naga Cuisine, and Aloo Dum with Sel Roti.
7. How far is the nearest airport from Darjeeling?
The nearest airport to Darjeeling is Bagdogra Airport, which is approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles) away. The journey from the airport to Darjeeling takes about 3 hours.
Explore the charm and luxury of Darjeeling by staying at these top-notch hotels, savoring the local cuisine, and visiting the scenic and cultural attractions nearby. Enjoy your trip!