The Elgin, Darjeeling Step Into 19th Century Grandeur High above the misty valleys of Darjeeling, where the air carries the scent of pine and tea, stands one of the finest examples of colonial heritage hospitality The Elgin, Darjeeling. Built in 1887, this stately mansion was once the summer residence of the Maharaja of Cooch Behar, and today stands fully restored as a luxury heritage hotel. Every corner of the property whispers tales from the Raj era of mountain lords, aristocrats, and British officers sipping tea by roaring fireplaces. A Colonial Landmark From the cobbled entrance to the sweeping lawns lined with rhododendrons, The Elgin is unmistakably regal. Guests are welcomed by:White-trimmed bay windows and gabled rooftops, Antique Burmese teak furniture, Grand chandeliers and hand-knotted carpets

Marble fireplaces in the lobby and suites, A curated collection of 19th-century paintings and lithographs. It's like walking into a period film an except with modern-day comfort woven seamlessly into the experience. Rooms with a Regal Touch The Elgin offers 25 heritage rooms and suites, each crafted to transport you to a more elegant era. Highlights include: Period-style four-poster beds with plush duvets, Working fireplaces in select rooms, Polished wood floors and hand-woven rugs, Victorian-style dressing tables and writing desks Garden, mountain, or city views from large sash windows, En-suite bathrooms with modern fittings and warm lighting. Each room has a name and story, and the staff are happy to share its legacy. Dining: An Affair of Taste & Tradition The dining room at The Elgin is a jewel in itself, with oak-panelled walls and candlelit ambiance. Here, you'll enjoy: English breakfasts with scones and Darjeeling tea, Multi-course lunches blending Indian, Anglo-Indian, and Continental cuisine, Nepali delicacies like gundruk soup, sel roti, and spicy chutneys, Special high-tea served daily with cakes, cookies, and estate teas, Personalized meals based on dietary preferences. The hotel's chef sources ingredients locally and serves meals with the elegance of a bygone aristocracy. Living Heritage: Tea & Tales Though not part of a tea estate, The Elgin immerses guests in Darjeeling's tea culture with: Tea-tasting sessions of single-estate varieties, Curated visits to local estates like Happy Valley or Glenburn A vintage tea room with a curated wall of teas Stories about the British planters who once sipped here by the fire. The staff is trained in the legacy of Darjeeling's tea trade and can make recommendations based on your palate. Library Lounge, Garden & More When not out exploring, the property itself offers plenty of experiences: Library Lounge: Stocked with books on mountaineering, Himalayan flora, and British India. Garden Terraces: Lined with wildflowers and wrought-iron benches, ideal for morning tea or an evening scotch. Games Room: With chess, carrom, and playing cards for rainy days. Elgin Spa (at select hours): Offering rejuvenation therapies using Himalayan herbs. There is even a music corner where a pianist may occasionally perform live on weekends. Explore Darjeeling's Icons: The Elgin is conveniently located near Darjeeling's most iconic spots: 5-min walk to Mall Road (Chowrasta), 10 mins to Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoo, Close to Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and Peace Pagoda, Short drive to Ghum Monastery, Batasia Loop, and Tiger Hill. You can explore on your own or request a guided tour from the hotel's concierge. Best Time to Visit: Spring (Mar to May): Cool and colorful with flowers in bloom Autumn (Oct to Nov): Crisp weather and clear skies Winter (Dec to Feb): Fireside romance and snowy peaks in view Monsoon (June to Sep): Lush and misty & best for slow travelers and readers Legacy of Service: More than just a place to stay, The Elgin is a living museum. Its staff wear traditional attire, greet you with hot towels and herbal tea, and serve with warmth reminiscent of grand households of the past. The hotel is still family-run and emphasizes: Low-impact tourism, Fair-trade sourcing, Local employment and artisan support, Storytelling and cultural preservation. It's one of those rare places where the walls remember, and the service feels like home.