Quintessential plantation experience through the ages

“Nestled in a beautiful forested valley, surrounded by tea gardens and overlooking the river Rung Dung this is and idyllic location with views of Darjeeling, Sikkim and the Himalayas.

Accommodation in large suites within tea plantation managers bungalow – all wonderfully decorated and furnished in mid 20th century style and with spectacular views. Meals (breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner) are all included. A rotating menu of different cuisines (including traditional Raj period meals, Bengali, Nepalese, Bhutanese and international, etc. are served. All offering multiple course, veg and non-veg options and all cooked to perfection offering exquisite tastes – some of the best food I’ve tasted anywhere.

Plenty to do too – the tours of the tea gardens and factory (including tasting if the various teas the estate produces) taken by the manager or one of his assistants – teaches even the most experienced tea connoisseur everything they could ever wish to know about the propagation of tea, it’s harvesting and transformation (different techniques) to produce white teas, first/second flush, monsoon, autumn, oolong and green teas; as well as the history of tea growing and the estate. There’s also a wonderful lodge/camp on the river (about a 2 hour walk from the main bungalow); trips to Ghum, Darjeeling and Kalimpong.

The entry/exit roads are rough as you drop into the valley from the main road – and it’s about 2 1/2 – 3 hours transfer from the nearest airport or station – but well worth it

Stayed January 2017, traveled as a couple”