Nestled within the historic grounds of a functioning plantation established in 1859, guests of Glenburn Tea Estate are treated to spectacular vistas, lush gardens, invigorating mountain breezes, and a warm welcome from the hospitable hosts, all combining to create an unforgettable and enchanting stay.
Hotel
Perched amidst the stunning Eastern Himalayas with an enchanting view of snow-capped Kangchenjunga, the world’s third-highest peak, Glenburn boasts an idyllic setting spread across 1,600 acres of lush forests and tea estates bordered by the serene rivers Rangeet and Rung Dung.
Guests arriving at Bagdogra are greeted by a hotel chauffeur, offering a delightful journey with a small picnic and a taste of Darjeeling tea during the scenic four-hour drive to Glenburn, located at 3,200 feet above sea level. Brace yourself for a thrilling ride on rugged terrains.
Established by Scottish planters and currently under the ownership of an Indian family (Husna and Anshuman) deeply rooted in the tea industry, the retreat presents a captivating blend of historical charm and operational estate. The focal point of the property is the Burra Bungalow, constructed in 1930 as the manager’s abode, featuring a sprawling veranda overlooking lush lawns and manicured gardens. Adorned in a palette of green and white, complemented by cane furniture, planter’s chairs, botanical artworks, and teapots brimming with freshly-plucked blooms, the ambience exudes a seamless fusion of warmth and refinement.
The accommodation options at this idyllic retreat feature two exclusive bungalows, each complete with four well-appointed suites and shared spaces including expansive gardens, charming verandas, and inviting terraces and a solitary cottage with stunning views and a garden.
Room
Within the Burra Bungalow, one can choose from three lavish suites or opt for the slightly more affordable Simbong Butterfly room, located adjacent to the lounge and offering a cosy retreat. The lower Water Lily Bungalow, crafted in 2008 for a tranquil stay, houses an additional four suites. Among them, the Rung Dung and Singalila suites stand out with their charming four-poster beds. The garden cottage slightly away is like a little piece of heaven all to yourself.
Each room, adorned with embroidered bed linen, pink coat hangers, and equipped with mosquito screens on the windows, exudes a thoughtful composition. While all rooms, except the Planter’s Suite, feature baths, guests should be prepared for the vintage plumbing in the Burra Bungalow. In the absence of televisions, the accommodation provides an electric radiator and blanket to ensure warmth during the cool evenings at this altitude. To pamper guests, Darjeeling green tea toiletries are thoughtfully provided for a luxurious touch.
Food and drink
Every aspect of one’s stay is a soulful encounter, commencing from the warm airport reception featuring refreshing homemade lemonade garnished with a sprig of mint plucked from the garden. The journey unfolds with a delightful picnic offering home-baked chocolate brownies, hearty sandwiches, and an inaugural cup of Glenburn tea, presented elegantly in authentic China ware.
The nightly rate encompasses all dining experiences, designed to foster a profound connection with locally sourced ingredients artfully prepared by the estate’s culinary artisans hailing from nearby villages. Mornings begin with a gentle knock on the door delivering freshly brewed Darjeeling bed tea in a vintage teapot, complemented by a floral touch and freshly baked treats, setting a harmonious tone for the day. Guests are invited to witness the culinary magic unfolding in the open kitchen and partake in enriching cookery sessions.
Breakfast beneath the Pomello tree captivates with melodious bird songs, fragrant blooms, and breath-taking valley vistas, featuring renowned homemade croissants and fruit preserves. Lunch offers diverse settings, from serene verandas to scenic hikes, verdant tea plantations, or by the tranquil riverside, including a unique Nepali thali experience at Glenburn Orchard. Afternoon Tea delights with signature treats like Tea Leaf Pakoras, decadent cakes, and delectable sables.
Evening cocktails are savoured amidst lively conversations and picturesque backdrops, whether by the crackling bonfire, on a terrace, or under a starlit veranda. The day culminates in a communal candlelit dining affair, uniting guests in an ambience of refinement with fine wines, exquisite tableware, personalised name cards, and a varied menu featuring tantalising Tibetan, Burmese, Bengali, and Nepali cuisines alongside a tea themed culinary journey. Together, these offerings create an unforgettable tapestry of experiences for the discerning traveller.
To do
Challenge your culinary prowess with a hands-on cookery class utilising fresh herbs picked from the estate’s lush garden, or opt for a leisurely stroll or a car ride to Darjeeling town and back. Situated 90 minutes away and at an elevation over 3,000 feet higher, one can embark on the hotel’s half-day excursion. This experience includes a picturesque 45-minute ride on the UNESCO-listed Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, affectionately referred to as the ‘Toy Train’. For the adventurous spirits, a full day at Glenburn River camp awaits, offering an invigorating afternoon hike across the renowned suspension bridge to Manjitar in Sikkim.
Guests can indulge in rejuvenating treatments at the one-room spa located in the serene Water Lily Bungalow, offering therapeutic sessions such as massages using luxurious Darjeeling green tea oil. As part of the retreat’s offerings, all guests are welcomed to a complimentary factory tour, followed by an engaging tea tasting session. The retreat also provides a variety of guided walks, including a scenic stroll down to the Rangeet river for a delightful barbecue lunch, as well as the opportunity for fishing for the elusive golden mahseer from October through to March.
In a nutshell
Assisting Andrew, the amiable retreat manager, is a dedicated team of talented Nepali staff, who are on hand to help you immerse yourself in the tranquillity and beauty of Glenburn Tea Estate for an unforgettable sojourn amidst nature’s splendour.
Factbox
Rates are £539 approximately for a night for two including airport pick up and drop off, transport and local guide for all activities, all meals, excursions, laundry, nature walks etc. (Basically, everything except, spa, shopping and alcohol)
Address: Glenburn Tea Estate and Boutique Hotel, Darjeeling, West Bengal, India.
Phone: +91 33 2288 5630
Website: glenburnteaestate.com
