Glenburn Tea Estate at Where Darjeeling's Tea Legacy Meets Timeless Luxury. Perched on a hilltop above the banks of the River Rungeet and facing the snow-capped Himalayas, Glenburn Tea Estate is more than a place to stay at it's an experience that blends history, comfort, and the deep heritage of Darjeeling tea. Established in 1859 by a Scottish tea company and now family-run, Glenburn is a working tea estate with two colonial-era bungalows restored into one of India's most charming boutique hotels. It has earned global acclaim for its warm service, gourmet cuisine, breathtaking location, and immersive storytelling around tea and the land. For discerning travelers, Glenburn is the gold standard of slow, elegant travel in the hills. Location: A World Unto Itself Glenburn is located about 1.5 hours from Darjeeling town, and yet it feels like a private world, suspended in mist and memory. Nestled in a 1,600-acre private tea estate Overlooks Kanchenjunga and river valleys below, Surrounded by forests, streams, and walking trails, A short drive from Lebong and Darjeeling Mall (for excursions). Altitude: 3,200 feet & comfortably cool year-round. It's remote enough to disconnect, but close enough to explore Darjeeling's culture and markets on day trips. Bungalows: The Planter’s Dream. Glenburn offers two grand bungalow wings: The Burra Bungalow – The original planter’s house: Four suites with antique four-poster beds and bay windows, Vintage-style bathrooms with bathtubs, Drawing room with fireplace and library, Verandas with sunrise mountain views, Decor includes tea memorabilia, fine linens, and curated art. The Water Lily Bungalow – Slightly newer, overlooking the river valley, Four large suites with private terraces and garden access, More contemporary interiors with colonial flair, Outdoor lounge, spa treatment room, and sunny breakfast deck. Every suite is uniquely styled, named after local flora, and maintained with immaculate attention to detail. No two rooms are alike – but all evoke a sense of serenity and slow elegance. No two rooms are alike but all evoke a sense of serenity and slow elegance.Tea, Hospitality, and Stories. What truly sets Glenburn apart is its deep connection to tea history and estate life. Included with every stay: Guided Tea Garden Walks: Learn how tea is plucked and processed, Tea Tasting Sessions: Sample multiple Glenburn teas with experts, Factory Visit: Understand the craft from leaf to cup, Planter’s Lunch: A traditional lunch under trees, by the river or lawn, Storytelling Evenings: Tales of colonial days and tea trade, Riverside Picnic: Trek down to the river for a gourmet picnic. You’re not just visiting a hotel – you’re living inside a 150-year-old narrative. Dining: A Culinary Celebration Glenburn’s kitchen is often celebrated as one of the best in Indian boutique hospitality. Expect: European and Anglo-Indian menus with local twists, Fresh breads, organic vegetables, estate honey, and preserves, Three-course gourmet dinners with wines, Daily menus that change with the season, Alfresco breakfast with Kanchenjunga views, Glenburn Afternoon Tea with cakes, cookies, and local delicacies. All meals are included in the stay – and served in an elegant, unhurried way that echoes the slow charm of tea planter life. Wellness, Walks & Nature The Glenburn experience is immersive and uncommercial. Some highlights: Spa Treatments: Aromatherapy and Himalayan massages (on request), Birdwatching: Over 100 species seen on the estate, Hiking Trails: Walks through forests, orange orchards, and village paths, Craft Village Visits: Learn from local artisans, Reading Rooms: Multiple libraries across the bungalow, Stargazing and sunrise photography spots across the lawn. There’s no loud music or TVs – only rustling leaves, mountain winds, and curated quietude. Who It’s For Glenburn is a sanctuary for: Luxury travelers and tea connoisseurs, Couples and honeymooners seeking intimacy and views, Writers, artists, and thinkers drawn to solitude and story, Heritage travelers who appreciate authenticity, Slow travelers who value immersion over itineraries. Children are welcome, but the environment is calm and refined. Getting There: By Air: Bagdogra Airport 3.5 hrs away (car transfer arranged by Glenburn) By Train: NJP Railway Station also 3.5 hrs By Road: Pickup arranged from Darjeeling, Kalimpong, or Siliguri The final stretch includes estate roads – part of the charm! All transfers are handled with Glenburn's signature hospitality. Best Time to Visit March to May: Spring blooms and clear Himalayan views October to December: Autumn skies and golden light January to February: Cold and crisp, with misty charm June to September: Lush and green (low occupancy)