Located in lesser Himalayan ranges, Darjeeling is one of the most popular hill stations in India. The town rose to fame back in the pre-independence era. High-ranking British officials would escape to this quiet hilly town to escape the summer heat. Even today, best place to stay in Darjeeling are guest houses and estates build during the colonial period.
The British were also responsible for starting the commercial production of tea in Darjeeling. The high altitude, cold temperature and the rainfall received in the region were ideal conditions for growing tea. Today, Darjeeling Tea is highly valued all around the world. It is also referred to as the ‘Champagne of Teas’. Tea cultivation in Darjeeling was started sometime during the 1850s. Some of the tea estates in Darjeeling have been commercially growing tea for more than 100 years now. Darjeeling is, in fact, one of the most important tea-producing regions in the world.
Located at an elevation of 2,042 meters above sea level, Darjeeling has plenty of tourist attractions to make it a popular holiday destination. It is most known for its spectacular views of Kanchenjunga. Tiger Hill is a famous spot, o0ffering the best sunrise views of the Himalayas and Kanchenjunga range. Darjeeling is also home to some of the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries. The town also has the famous ‘Toy Train’ ride, officially known as the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Line. The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is also here; the largest high altitude zoo in India.
An enduring quality of Darjeeling that has stood the test of time is the region’s lush green tea plantations. Tea tourism in this region has quite high demand. The best place to stay in Darjeeling are old tea estates that have opened their doors for the tourist population. Tea tourism can be thought of as an Eastern counterpart to Europe’s famous wine tourism. Tourists get a chance to stay at a tea estate and witness the entire process of tea production – from plucking tea leaves to factory visits.
More and more tourists are willing to pay large sums of money for a chance to stay at a tea bungalow in Darjeeling. Most of these tea estates were originally built during the British rule. Surrounded by lush green tea gardens on all sides, these bungalows or resorts are decorated in a colonial style to give an old world charm. The interiors are warm and comfy, designed for the maximum comfort of guests. These tea estates are built in the outskirt regions of Darjeeling. Away from the chaos of the city, these resorts are nestled into the lap of nature.
Staying at a tea estate resort gives tourists a chance to enjoy the raw natural beauty of Darjeeling. The rooms offer the most spectacular views of snow-capped mountains on one side and the green cover of tea plantations on the other side. These resorts offer 24 hours warm water supply, room heaters, free Wi-Fi, spa services, and other modern amenities. Perched on top of a hill, these tea bungalows are the best place to stay in Darjeeling. It is ideal for a relaxed and blissful holiday.
While staying at a tea estate, guests can witness the process of tea cultivation from up-close. They can go for relaxing walks among the tea gardens, participate in the tea plucking activity, speak to the local tea workers and learn more about the types of tea and its distinguishing features.
To promote tea tourism, some of these tea garden resorts offer guests a complimentary tea tasting session, together with an entire procedure of how exactly tea tasting is done. A collection of unique blends are presented in the session. If the tea estate belongs to some well-known tea manufacturing company, it may also arrange factory visits where guests can witness the commercial processing of tea.
Living at a tea bungalow in Darjeeling is the highest form of leisure travel. The adjoining tea gardens on all sides and the mesmerizing views of snow-clad mountains make it a tranquil experience. It is truly the best place to stay in Darjeeling. Catch beautiful sunrise views directly from the comfort of your rooms. A stay at a tea estate resort will be a memorable experience of a lifetime.