Many of the hotels in Sikkim and West Bengal are former retreats of the ruling Maharajahs which offer a glimpse of former glories whilst offering up to date facilities.
Darjeeling
New Elgin – built by the Maharaja of Cooch Behar this heritage property has 30 luxury rooms and a wealth of character
Mayfair Hill Resort – built as a summer palace, by the Maharaja of Nazargunj, the Mayfair has been recently renovated. There are 11 rooms in the house and a further 20 cottages in the grounds. Multi cuisine restaurant, library bar and landscaped gardens.
Windamere Hotel – probably the archetypal Raj residency this hotel is an institution. Well known to sophisticated travellers the world over, the Windamere is famous for its unique ambience and charm, and has been the subject of many leading stories in the international media.
Glenburn Tea Estate – a delightful plantation retreat on a hilltop above the River Rungeet. Home to generations of tea planters, the Glenburn Tea Estate was originally established in 1860 and remains today a working tea estate, owned and run by the Prakash family. The family has recently spent a great deal of time and effort in restoring the property and it is a wonderfully cosy, peaceful and comfortable place to stay. With 4 suites in the ‘Burra Bungalow’ and 2 rooms in the Glenburn Lodge down on the riverbank, it is the perfect place to be based for visiting Darjeeling (just an hour’s drive away) or for those who just want to enjoy the magnificent views and stunning countryside that surrounds the estate. Wildlife abounds and there is plenty to do by way of a private tour of the tea estate or walking, trekking, fishing, picnicking, birdwatching or simply relaxing on the verandah with a good book.
Kalimpong
Himalayan Hotel – built by David Macdonald in the early 1900’s this delightful heritage hotel is still run by his descendants. 16 ensuite rooms all with real charm and character.
Hotel Silver Oaks – built in 1930 in colonial style and positioned in manicured landscaped gardens.Well appointed rooms with views of the mountains or the gardens. Restaurant, bar and library.
Kalimpong Park Hotel - once known as Dinajpur House, the former summer residence of the Maharaja of Dinajpur is a hotel with great character, situated on a viewpoint, a short distance uphill from the downtown area.
Gurudongma House – a comfortable homestay overlooking the town owned by retd General Jimmy Singh.Nice rooms and gardens with friendly, interesting and knowledgeable hosts.
Gangtok
The Nor-Khill Hotel - was built by the King of Sikkim in 1932 and is the oldest heritage hotel in Gangtok. The “House of Jewels” is known for its traditional and ethnic Sikkimese ambiance. The Kanchan garden has a wonderful view of the mountains, with Kanchenjungha in the background, and inspired the Chogyal (King) of Sikkim to paint for hours. 32 well appointed ensuite rooms, bar, restaurant and lots of atmosphere.
