This offering is located on Observatory Hill and is part of a colonial bungalow—ideal for those who like to stay in places that are steeped in history. The property is tastefully decorated, with elegant interiors that take you back in time. The room is cosy and luxurious, with wood panelled floor and walls, a plush, king-size bed, a set of cushioned chairs with coffee table placed on a carpet, a compact fireplace and a smart writing desk. Pastel walls and subtle lighting give the room a warm tone. The washroom too is nicely done up and is a mixture of old and new. It has a classic claw foot bathtub with western fittings.
Those interested in history will love the corridor that has a number of old pictures adorning the walls. A terrace sit-out looking out at mist-clad mountains makes for a great spot for that morning tea. There is also a bar with carpeted floor and voluptuous couches that give it warmth—a drink here would be difficult to forget. Those in need of some deep relaxation can head to the spa, while others can just walk barefoot on the lush, well-tended lawn and feel peace settle in.
What is it about this 40-room place, dating back to the 1800’s and the times of the British Raj Tea Planters, that makes it so appealing? All of our “houses on Observatory Hill” were formerly British Raj Boarding Houses for Bachelor Planters away from home. The rooms are exactly the same as they were back then, with roaring coal fires; hot water bottles in the beds; huge closets (that housed everything that the Tea Planter would ever have needed for his stay) and, best of all, a personal and warm service from the staff that is second to none. These old colonial houses are nestled in wonderfully blooming gardens, peeking out from behind picket fences and climbing roses. They are the only houses on Observatory Hill (the hill is an ancient “holy shrine”, with the Pundits and Monks offering blessings at the temple above); this elevation affords the guest a panoramic view of the mountains.. The food is legendary, with both Continental and Indian menus.
Guests are requested to provide valid ID proof at the time of check-in.
Local Experience
Excursions :
Lloyd Botanic Garden in Darjeeling
It seems in the character of Britons to create botanical gardens wherever they happily settle. And so they created the Lloyd Botanical Garden in Darjeeling, which offers a protected habitat for many species of Himalayan trees and plants. The Garden is open from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, except for the main conservatory which is closed on Sundays. A popular tourist attraction of more recent origin is the Rock Garden which is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute
The world renowned Darjeeling Himalayan Mountaineering Institute had Sherpa Tenzing Norgay of Mount Everest fame, as its first field director. His nephew, Nawang Gombu, the first man to climb Mt. Everest twice, continues in the footsteps of his illustrious uncle as field director.
The World Famous Himalayan Zoo
Various Tea Gardens
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
Betasia Loop
Ghoom
The Dhirdham Temple
Senchal Lake
Tiger Hill
Timings
Check In: 12:00 pm
Check Out: 11:00 am
