I would like to sincerely thank MD Sir for giving an opportunity to be part of the FAM tour to Darjeeling and Sikkim from 01st to 07th July 2025. The trip was insightful and helped deepen my understanding of both destinations.
Hence, I'm pleased to share my FAM Trip Report for your reference, including comments and suggestions on sightseeing spots and hotels.
The Indigo flight arrived on time at Bagdogra Airport (0915 hrs). Photography is not allowed at the airport. I was received by driver, Mr. Rupesh, who was professional and supportive throughout the tour.
Upon arrival, my first stop was Singalila Club Restaurant, Siliguri—about 30 minutes from Bagdogra Airport. It has two banquet halls (40 pax capacity each), a 20-seater restaurant, and a swimming pool. Though it looks like a hotel, it has no rooms. The space is well-decorated and serves only lunch and dinner with a multi cuisine menu.
I then proceeded to Darjeeling, with a brief en route visit to Salugara Monastery, Siliguri. Below is an overview of the sightseeing and experiences from the trip.
Salugara Monastery, Siliguri: Also known as the Great International Tashi Gomang Stupa, this Tibetan Buddhist site features a 100-foot stupa housing five sacred relics. Founded by followers of the Dalai Lama, it offers a peaceful atmosphere for reflection.
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM daily | Entry: Free
Best time to visit: October to March
My Comments: Located on the main road. The monastery was locked during my visit, so I couldn't see the interior but managed to take a few photos from inside the gate. Can be included in the itinerary if requested.
Tiger Hill and back: Known for stunning sunrise views over the Eastern Himalayas, Tiger Hill (2,590 meters) offers panoramic sights of Mt. Kanchenjunga and, on clear days, Mt. Everest.
I started at 3:00 AM (approx. 45 mins drive). Unfortunately, due to cloudy weather, the sunrise wasn't visible. Returned to the hotel by 6:00 AM.
My Comments: A key attraction but usually crowded. Entry fee of INR INR 50 a day prior to show on the check post as now a part of a nature reserve and maintained by the GTA (Gorkhaland Territorial Administration, erstwhile DGHC). My driver purchased it a day prior to show it at the check post.
Toy Train Ride, Darjeeling: The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a narrow-gauge train known for its scenic route and historic steam engines. My steam engine ride began at 09:25 AM from Darjeeling Station.
I arrived early and observed the train preparation process. The station is small and open, with locals walking along the tracks. The journey included a 15-min stop at Batasia Loop, featuring a war memorial for Gorkha soldiers, and a 30-min halt at Ghoom Station to visit the DHR Museum.
Best time to visit: October to December (clear views of Kanchenjunga).
My Comments: Worth experiencing once, especially for first-timers. However, the route mainly passes through market areas and roads—scenic views are limited.
Ghoom Monastery Darjeeling: One of the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in the region (est. 1850), known for its 15-foot Maitreya Buddha statue and rare Buddhist scriptures.
Timing: Open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM; entry is free
Best time to visit: September to November and March to May
My Comments: Could only view from outside as the door was closed due to fewer visitors.
Tibetan Refugee Center Darjeeling: Established in 1959, this center supports Tibetan refugees through housing, education, a clinic, and handicraft production. It also features a Gompa (monastery) and a carpet weaving center.
Timing: 9 AM to 0430 PM (Sunday closed); entry is free
Best time to visit: September to November and March to May
My Comments: A peaceful place with a rich history. The monastery is beautiful, and visitors can observe traditional carpet weaving in progress.
Pemayangtse Monastery, Pelling: Founded in 1647 by Lama Lhatsun Chempo, it's one of the oldest and most prominent monasteries in Sikkim.
Timing: Open daily from 7 AM to 5 PM; entry is INR 20 for Indians and Foreigners both.
Best time to visit: March to June; festivals during February-March (Losar).
My Comments: About a 20-minute uphill walk from The Elgin Mount Pandim. A beautiful and must-visit monastery in Pelling.
Darap Village Walk, Pelling: Located 8 km from Pelling, Darap is a serene, offbeat village inhabited mainly by the Limboo community. Visitors can engage in local activities like cow milking, gardening, cheese-making, and visiting a 200-year-old traditional Limboo house.
Best time to visit: March to May and September to November with clear skies and can experience the tour.
My Comments: Though I could only view the village from outside due to limited time and no guide, it's a peaceful spot and highly recommended for those seeking an authentic rural experience.
Ray Mindu Village and Ray Monastery, Gangtok: A traditional Lepcha settlement featuring a 300-year-old wooden house built without nails. The monastery, established in 1873 and recently rebuilt with vibrant murals, houses a Avalokiteśvara statue and overlooks scenic valleys.
Timing: Open daily from 6 AM to 6 PM; entry is free though donations are welcome
Best time to visit: March to May and September to October; festivals during January–February (Gutor/Losar).
My Comments: A short, peaceful climb through forests and prayer flags leads to stunning views and a serene spiritual experience. Highly recommended.
Lingdum Zumrang Kagyu Monastery: Founded in 1999, this monastery showcases traditional Tibetan architecture with multiple sacred rooms on a hillside. The prayer hall features a 5-meter gilded Buddha, a statue of Guru Padmasambhava, and vibrant thangka paintings.
Timing: Open daily from 6 AM to 6 PM; entry is free though donations are welcome
Best time to visit: March to May and September to October; festivals during January–February (Gutor/Losar).
My Comments: A large, relatively new but less explored monastery offering peaceful surroundings and views of Gangtok. Highly recommended.
Apart from the main sights, I explored Darjeeling's bustling Mall Road and Gangtok's MG Marg and Lal Bazaar markets, located close to each other but with different entry points.
Note: MG Marg shops are mostly closed on Saturdays, while Lal Bazaar is closed on Thursdays.
During this familiarization trip, Clubside Tours provided an AC Toyota Crysta with seat covers and mats but no cushions or mineral water. The driver was polite but not in uniform. I managed hotel visits and sightseeing independently. A knowledgeable guide was assigned last minute for two hidden Gangtok spots and was very helpful.
The drive from Bagdogra to Darjeeling was long (approx. 4.5 hrs) with heavy traffic and poor road conditions. The routes from Darjeeling to Pelling, Pelling to Gangtok, and Gangtok to Kalimpong were mostly smooth, passing through lush greenery and bamboo forests.
On the final day, the journey from Kalimpong to Bagdogra started smoothly with scenic views of the Teesta River but was delayed due to a landslide and traffic caused by highway construction near Sevoke. Despite challenges, the driver managed well and ensured I reached the airport on time.
En route, I passed the historic Coronation Bridge—an 87-year-old British-era structure over the Teesta River, linking Siliguri to the Darjeeling hills.
During my visit, the weather was humid but manageable, with rain almost every day. The mix of rain, sun, and cloudy mountains made the experience truly mesmerizing.
Rating: 6/10
Location: Perched on Gandhi Road, just a 5-minute walk from Mall Chowrasta.
Lobby: The hotel entrance and lobby is small. Not so appealing.
Total Rooms: 40 (Deluxe Room, Executive room and Attic Premium. They don't have proper extra bed.
Room Amenities: Average rooms including Tea/Coffee maker, Safety locker, no mini bar, Hair Dryer on request, bathrooms with bathtubs, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Hotel Amenities: 1 All day multi-Cuisine Restaurant (The Dining), fitness center and very small parking.
Remarks: The entrance and lobby are small, with no parking area. While higher-category mountain view rooms are good, the use of plastic bottles raises sustainability concerns, making it unsuitable for our clients.
Rating: 5/10
Location: Perched on Gandhi Road, just a 5-minute walk from Mall Chowrasta.
Lobby: Not so appealing and smelling the moment enter the hotel.
Total Rooms: The hotel has 46 rooms, including Deluxe Non-View Rooms, Premium Rooms, Family Rooms, and Suites. No provision for proper extra beds.
Room Amenities: Rooms are average, with a tea/coffee maker, safety locker, hair dryer on request, bathrooms with bathtubs, and complimentary Wi-Fi. No mini-bar.
Hotel Amenities: 1 all day multi-Cuisine Restaurant (Mount view) and fitness center.
Remarks: The hotel is accessed via narrow lanes, causing vehicle congestion. There's no parking; drivers must stay with vehicles. No elevator. Lobby and rooms have unpleasant odors, dirty carpets, and the hotel requires renovation.
Rating: 9/10
Location: Situated atop a prime hill opposite the Governor's House on Mall Road.
Lobby: Features antique décor, furniture, and beautiful paintings, giving the property strong character and charm.
Total Rooms: The hotel has 68 rooms—including Deluxe Campbell, Heritage Attic, Deluxe Orchid, Heritage, Lloyd's Cottage, Executive, Family Rooms, and Suites—with provision for proper extra beds.
Room Amenities: Spacious rooms with tea/coffee maker, safety locker, hair dryer, bathrooms with showers (some with bathtubs), and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Hotel Amenities: One all-day multi-cuisine restaurant (Magnolia), spa, indoor games, swimming pool, and ample parking. Fitness center under maintenance.
Remarks: Renovated in 2022, this spacious property features a unique collection of antiques and paintings. It has a large restaurant and lifts from the parking and front entrance, but upper-floor rooms require stair climbing. A new external elevator near the dining area provides direct Mall Road access. Staff are well-trained and professional.
Rating: 7/10
Location: Perched on Observatory Hill, the hotel overlooks Darjeeling's iconic Chowrasta / Mall Road.
Lobby: Small lobby with Victorian-Anglo colonial charm, featuring polished wood panelling, antique brass lights, and cozy upholstered seating areas.
Total Rooms: The hotel has 40 rooms—including Superior Garden View, Suites, Club Junior Suite, Royal Suite, Honeymoon Suite, Colonial Suite, and Family Cottage—with no provision for proper extra beds.
Room Amenities: Theme-based rooms with tea/coffee maker, safety locker, hair dryer, Victorian-style bathtubs, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Hotel Amenities: One all-day multi-cuisine restaurant (Dining Room), spa, small fitness center, indoor games, and ample parking.
Remarks: A timeless retreat evoking the British Raj era with Mall Road access. No elevator; all areas accessible by foot. Needs renovation. Soon to be taken over by Mayfair (unofficial). Staff are well-trained and professional.
Rating: 4/10
Location: 20 mins drive from mall road in the middle of the road.
Lobby: Lobby is big though but its open, not so appealing and small pond inside was smelling.
Total Rooms: 46 (Heritage club rooms and Heritage suite). They don't have proper bed.
Room Amenities: OK OK rooms including Tea/Coffee maker, no safety locker, Hair Dryer on request, bathtubs and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Hotel Amenities: 1 all day multi-Cuisine Restaurant (Dining), spa, fitness center.
Remarks: Rooms are large but below our standards. Lobby and rooms have unpleasant odors and resemble budget accommodations. Not recommended for our guests.
Rating: 8/10
Location: Located on Jalapahar Road below St. Paul's School. It's a 25–30 minute downhill walk to the Mall, but the uphill return is steep and challenging on foot.
Lobby: Cozy entrance down a few stairs leading to a small sitting area with a nearby library. Well-designed property with a neat, thoughtful layout.
Total Rooms: The hotel has 29 rooms—including Standard, Deluxe, Executive Suite, Observatory Suite, Family Room, and Cedar Villa—with provision for proper extra beds.
Room Amenities: Spacious wooden rooms with tea/coffee maker (fruit and cookie basket), safety locker, hair dryer, shower, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Hotel Amenities: One all-day multi-cuisine restaurant (Dining), spa, indoor activities, fitness center (under maintenance), and limited parking.
Remarks: Stayed in a cozy Deluxe Mountain View room in a separate block, featuring large windows with Kanchenjunga views and morning birdsong. Food was delicious. Hotel was under maintenance, so limited room access. Warm welcome from the General Manager and Sneha.
| Name |
|---|
| 5 Star Taj Chia Kutir Resort & Spa Mayfair Hill Resort |
| 4 Star & Heritage The Elgin Darjeeling (Classic Heritage) – mostly used by other DMC's Cedar Inn (Boutique) Windamere Darjeeling (Colonial) Udaan Himalaya Suites & Spa |
| 3 Star Hotel Viceroy Sinclairs Darjeeling |
On July 3rd, I checked out from Cedar Inn at 9 AM and drove 70 km to Pelling (approx. 4 hours), enjoying tea gardens and bamboo along the mountain highway. The road was slightly bumpy mid-journey but overall pleasant. Upon arrival, I visited The Elgin Mount Pandim Pelling and Darap village.
Rating: 9/10
Location: Located at Monastery Road, Pemayangtse Pelling, Sikkim.
Lobby: The heritage reception features colonial-style furnishings, rich wood panelling, plush carpets, and period decor, showcasing timeless elegance. Walls are adorned with historical artifacts, vintage maps, and framed pictures reflecting the property's royal Sikkim heritage.
Total Rooms: The hotel has 30 rooms—including Deluxe Non-View, Deluxe Suite, Deluxe Cottage, Premium Cottages, and Deluxe Kanchenjunga View rooms—with provision for proper extra beds.
Room Amenities: Spacious wooden rooms with mountain views, featuring tea/coffee maker, safety locker, hair dryer, bathtubs, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Hotel Amenities: One all-day multi-cuisine restaurant (The Magnolia), spa, indoor activities, and ample parking.
Remarks: A spacious luxury property with views of Singalila and Kanchenjunga, away from the hustle. Within walking distance to Pemayangtse Monastery. Highly recommended for inbound clients. Staffs are well-trained and professional.
Rating: 7/10
Location: Located uphill at main Pelling surrounded by lush gardens and greenery
Lobby: Simple yet elegant Sikkimese style architecture.
Total Rooms: 30 (Deluxe rooms, Super Deluxe rooms and Cottages). They don't have proper extra beds.
Room Amenities: Includes tea/coffee maker, no safety locker or hair dryer, showers with curtains, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Hotel Amenities: One all-day multi-cuisine restaurant (Dining), spa, and parking area.
Remarks: Deluxe and Super Deluxe rooms are average, while cottages in separate blocks are spacious with mountain views. Staffs are well-trained and professional.
Rating: 5/10
Location: Located downhill at main Pelling surrounded by lush gardens and greenery.
Lobby: Basic look with large sitting area.
Total Rooms: The hotel has 30 rooms, including Deluxe Rooms and Cottages, with no provision for proper extra beds.
Room Amenities: Rooms include tea/coffee maker, showers with curtains, and complimentary Wi-Fi. No safety locker or hair dryer.
Hotel Amenities: One all-day multi-cuisine restaurant (Dining), spa, and parking available.
Remarks: My stay was disappointing—staffs were on leave due to off-season, with only one unprofessional person attending. A power cut during dinner lasted 15 minutes without backup, creating a scary atmosphere. Insects like spiders and flies were present in the room due to the monsoon. Overall, a poor experience.
| Hotel Category | Name |
|---|---|
| 5 Star | The Elgin Mount Pandim (Heritage) – one of the luxury property at this location and used by all DMC's |
| 3 Star | Norbu Ghang Retreat & Spa Norbu Ghang Resort |
On 4th July, I checked out from Norbu Ghang Resort and drove to Gangtok—approx. 145 km in 5 hours—enjoying lush green mountains and bamboo-lined roads. The journey was smooth throughout.
Rating: 8/10
Location: Located in the peaceful Ranipool–Samdur area, about 10 km (20–25 minutes by road) from central Gangtok.
Lobby: Spacious reception lobby with high ceilings and traditional Sikkimese design, blending monastic and colonial styles for an elegant, welcoming ambiance.
Total Rooms: 93 (Deluxe room with Pvt Balcony, Executive room with Pvt Sit out, Premium cottage with Pvt Balcony, Family room with Pvt sit out, Family Suites and Crown Villa with Pvt Pool) with a provision of proper extra beds.
Room Amenities: Spacious rooms with tea/coffee maker, safety locker, hair dryer, large bathrooms with shower cubicles (some with bathtubs), and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Hotel Amenities: Two all-day dining restaurants (The Orchid – Multicuisine, Jungle Café – Sikkim cuisine), spa, salon, indoor activities, swimming pool, infinity pool, and ample parking.
Remarks: A spacious property featuring unique antiques, paintings, and small temples on-site. Expanding further. Staffs are well-trained and professional.
Rating: 7/10
Location: Nestled 8 km from central Gangtok in tranquil East Sikkim hills, the resort offers a peaceful retreat from the city.
Lobby: A warm, colonial charm, seamlessly blending traditional Sikkimese architecture with modern comforts.
Total Rooms: 56 (Classic room, Valley view Classic Room with Balcony, Garden view Premier room with Balcony, Valley view Premier Room with Balcony and Valley view Privileged Suite with Balcony with a provision of proper extra beds.
Room Amenities: Spacious view rooms with tea/coffee maker, safety locker, hair dryer on request, large bathrooms with bathtubs, and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Amenities: One all-day dining restaurant (Sunthaley Chulo – Multicuisine), spa, kids' playroom, indoor activities, and limited parking.
Remarks: Spacious view rooms are good; suitable as an alternate if preferred hotels are unavailable.
3. The Royal Plaza Casino Sikkim Gangtok (4*)
Rating: 6/10
Location: Conveniently located near key attractions such as MG Marg, Enchey Monastery, and the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology.
Lobby: A blend of traditional Sikkimese style and modern luxury, featuring rich wood accents, plush seating, and soft lighting for a warm, inviting ambiance.
Total Rooms: Total 64 but as of now operating only 25 (Non-view rooms, View Rooms and Executive Suite) with a provision of proper extra beds.
Room Amenities: Tea/coffee maker, safety locker, hair dryer, bathrooms with bathtubs, and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Amenities: One all-day dining restaurant (The Orchid-Multicuisine), fitness center, kids' playroom, indoor activities, and parking.
Remarks: Need renovation. Take bookings through Trip advisor, Agoda like online portals. Mostly into domestic, corporates and events.
4. Denzong Regency Gangtok (4*)
Rating: 8/10
Location: Short walk or drive to MG Marg, Enchey Monastery, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology
Lobby: The lobby blends heritage architecture with modern comfort, offering a serene and upscale mountain retreat ambiance.
Total Rooms: 59 rooms (Heritage Deluxe rooms, Club rooms, The Royal Suite, Regency Suite and Kanchenjunga Suite) with a provision of proper extra beds.
Room Amenities: Spacious view rooms with tea/coffee maker, safety locker, hair dryer, large bathrooms with showers, and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Amenities: One all-day dining restaurant (Mayal-Multicuisine), huge swimming pool, infinity pool, fitness center, indoor activities, and parking.
Remarks: Recommended by a Clubside guide I met during my visit, so just went walking. Spacious, well-appointed rooms with antique décor, professional staff, and frequent inbound guests. Soon to be taken over by ITC.
5. Taj Guras Kutir Resort & Spa Gangtok (5*)
Rating: 9/10
Location: Set on 14 acres of forested hills, the resort is about 12 km from MG Marg and 4–5 km from Tashi View Point and Kabi Lungchok.
Lobby: The lobby blends regional architecture, natural materials, and mountain views to create a serene, elegant space rooted in Sikkimese tradition with a good collection of antiques and books.
Total Rooms: 69 rooms (Deluxe room with Himalayan view, Luxury room with Himalayan view, Deluxe suite with Himalayan view, Luxury Suite with Balcony and Himalayan view and Presidential suite with Himalayan view) and with a provision of proper extra beds.
Room Amenities: Kanchenjunga view rooms with tea/coffee maker, safety locker, hair dryer, large bathrooms with showers and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Amenities: One all-day dining restaurant (Machan-Multicuisine), fitness center, spa, indoor activities, and huge parking.
Remarks: Away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Approx. 30 mins away from the main town. They have a lot of activities like nature trails and evening rituals by monks in the lobby.
6. Ramada by Wyndham Gangtok Casino (4*)
Rating: 8/10
Location: Approximately 1 km (10-minute walk) from MG Marg, Gangtok's main shopping and dining hub
Lobby: A welcoming, upscale experience—bright, spacious, and seamlessly functional—framed by views that hint at the majestic Himalayan valley beyond.
Total Rooms: 57 rooms (Deluxe room no view, Deluxe room with Valley view, Executive room valley view, Executive Suite valley view and Executive suite) with a provision of proper extra beds.
Room Amenities: Valley view rooms with tea/coffee maker, safety locker, hair dryer, bathrooms with showers and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Amenities: One all-day dining restaurant (Trinity-Multicuisine), Swimming pool, fitness center, spa, indoor activities.
Remarks: Close to main market MG Marg at approx. 30 mins walk.
7. Netuk House Gangtok (A Heritage Boutique)
Rating: 7/10
Location: Netuk house is located, just above the oldest hospital in Sikkim Sir Thutob Namgyal memorial hospital, in Tibet Road which was the principle trade route connecting Sikkim and Tibet.
Lobby: A traditional Sikkimese heritage with an intimate, community‑oriented charm.
Total Rooms: 13 rooms (Comfort Valley view rooms and Heritage rooms) with a provision of extra mattress.
Room Amenities: Tea/coffee maker, bathrooms with showers and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Amenities: One all-day dining restaurant (with Multicuisine & Sikkimese thali speciality).
Remarks: Small decent boutique property with basic rooms. Sikkimese thali is the speciality. Can be recommended to those who are looking for small heritage boutique property.
8. Sonam Delek Gangtok (3*)
Rating: 7/10
Location: Located on Tibet Road, the hotel sits between the Ridge and MG Marg—both just a 10-minute walk away.
Lobby: A cozy, relaxed welcome with a warm, communal atmosphere.
Total Rooms: 20 rooms (Deluxe rooms, Super Deluxe rooms and Suite) with a provision of proper extra bed.
Room Amenities: Tea/coffee maker, bathrooms with showers and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Amenities: One all-day dining restaurant (with multicuisine) and spa.
Remarks: Approx. 20 mins drive to main market, nice rooms with basic amenities. Run by local Sikkimese. Featured in Lonely Planet and good Trip advisor reviews.
9. The Elgin Nor-khill Resort & Spa Gangtok (5*)
Rating: 9/10
Location: Set within lush, landscaped gardens, the property is tucked away in greenery, offering tranquillity while being within ~1 km (under 15 min walk) of MG Marg, cafes, restaurants, Paljor Stadium, and Gangtok's main street
Lobby: A graceful heritage elegance with plush sofas and classic upholstered chairs are arranged in cozy conversation areas, complemented by oriental carpets and good traditional collections.
Total Rooms: 25 rooms (Deluxe room, Deluxe Suites and Premier Suites) with a provision of proper extra beds.
Room Amenities: Spacious wooden rooms featuring tea/coffee maker, safety locker, hair dryer, bathtubs, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Hotel Amenities: One all-day multi-cuisine restaurant (The Shangri-La), spa, salon and ample parking.
Remarks: A charming heritage property with traditional appeal, evening hi-tea sessions, a library, a friendly dog (not harmful) and peaceful surroundings. No elevator. One of the luxury hotel at this location and mostly used for Inbound guests. Staffs are well-trained and professional.
10. The Maple Residency Gangtok (3*)
Rating: 7/10
Location: Positioned against the backdrop of lush green hills and mountain vistas, offering scenic surroundings. 15 mins walking from MG road cafes, restaurants, Paljor Stadium, and Gangtok's main street next to The Elgin.
Lobby: A clean, bright, and welcoming atmosphere.
Total Rooms: 37 rooms (Executive valley view rooms and Suites) with a provision of extra mattress.
Room Amenities: Spacious rooms featuring tea/coffee maker, safety locker, hair dryer, shower and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Amenities: One all-day multi-cuisine restaurant (Dining), spa and small parking.
Remarks: Good spacious valley view rooms. Close to main markets and other sightseeing places.
Here's the ranking of Gangtok hotels based on my observation, from best to lowest.
Name
5 Star
The Elgin Nork-hill Resort & Spa – mostly used by other DMC's
Taj Guras Kutir Resort & Spa
Mayfair Spa Resort & Casino Gangtok
4 Star
Denzong Regency Gangtok
Ramada by Wyndham Gangtok Casino
The Royal Plaza Sikkim Gangtok
3 Star /Heritage
Sonam Delek
Netuk House (A Heritage Boutique)
The Maple Residency
Sterling Gangtok
On 6th July, checked out from The Maple Residency and drove to Kalimpong - approx. 90 km in 2 hours - enjoying another scenic view throughout the journey.
KALIMPONG HOTELS:
1. Sinclairs Retreat Kalimpong (4*)
Rating: 8/10
Location: Nestled in the virgin green surroundings, Sinclairs Retreat Kalimpong prominently stands out over five acres of aesthetically landscaped green.
Lobby: Offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, blending traditional charm with modern comfort.
Total Rooms: 44 rooms (Premier room, Premier plus room, Premier Attic room, Premier suite and wooden cottage room) with a provision of proper extra beds.
Room Amenities: Nice rooms with tea/coffee maker, safety locker, hair dryer, large bathrooms with shower cubicles (some with bathtubs), and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Hotel Amenities: One all-day dining restaurant (The Silver Oaks-Multicuisine), swimming pool, fitness center, indoor activities and ample parking.
Remarks: Approx 30 mins away from the main city, nice cozy rooms. Can be recommended to budget clients.
2. The Elgin Silver Oaks Kalimpong (5*)
Rating: 9/10
Location: This boutique hotel offers a tranquil retreat surrounded by lush pine forests and oak trees, providing guests with panoramic views of the majestic Kanchenjunga mountain range on clear days.
Lobby: The presence of vintage lithographs and curated bookshelves adds to the old-world charm, offering a glimpse into the properties storied past.
Total Rooms: Total 25 rooms (Deluxe rooms and Deluxe Suites) with a provision of proper extra beds.
Room Amenities: Spacious wooden rooms featuring tea/coffee maker, safety locker, hair dryer, large bathrooms with bathtubs and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Hotel Amenities: One all-day multi-cuisine restaurant (The Silver Dining), spa, salon and ample parking.
Remarks: A charming heritage property with traditional appeal, evening hi-tea sessions, a library, and peaceful surroundings. No elevator. Like any other Elgin hotels, this is also one of the luxury hotel at this location and mostly used for Inbound guests. Staffs are well-trained and professional.
3. Mayfair Himalayan Spa Resort Kalimpong (5*)
Rating: 8/10
Location: Located at a close proximity to Kalimpong Science Centre, Durpin Dara Hill, and the Kalimpong Arts and Crafts Centre, making it an ideal base for exploring the town's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Lobby: a harmonious blend of colonial charm and modern luxury.
Total Rooms: Total 68 rooms (Heritage room, Heritage suite, Deluxe Cottage, Deluxe Kanchenjunga view room, Deluxe sunset view room, Family room, Executive room and King suite) with a provision of proper extra beds.
Room Amenities: Spacious rooms with tea/coffee maker, safety locker, hair dryer, large bathrooms with shower cubicles and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Hotel Amenities: One all-day dining restaurant (Tiffany's– Multicuisine), spa, salon, fitness center, indoor activities, swimming pool and ample parking.
Remarks: Spread-out property featuring unique antiques and paintings. They have a movie theatre close to the lobby. Staffs are well-trained and professional.
4. Fortune Resort Kalimpong – Member ITC hotel group (4*)
Rating: 7/10
Location: Located on Upper Cart Road in Basuripul, the resort offers panoramic views of the majestic Mt. Kanchenjunga and the lush green valleys below.
Lobby: A warm and elegant welcome with its spacious, well-lit area featuring tasteful wood accents, plush seating, and subtle traditional décor.
Total Rooms: Total 44 rooms (Deluxe room, Premium room, Premium valley view rooms, Premium valley view suite and Garden view suite) with a provision of proper extra beds.
Room Amenities: Nice rooms with tea/coffee maker, safety locker, hair dryer, shower cubicles and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Amenities: One all-day dining restaurant (Zodiac– Multicuisine), fitness center, indoor activities, swimming pool and ample parking.
Remarks: Good rooms but mostly for domestic and corporates. Staffs are well-trained and professional.
5. Sterling Park Kalimpong (4*)
Rating: 5/10
Location: Situated approximately 1 km from Kalimpong's town center.
Lobby: Very small and basic
Total Rooms: Total 25 rooms (Classic Heritage room, Maharaja Dinajpur suite and Maharaja Dinajpur Family suite) with a provision of extra mattress.
Room Amenities: Small rooms with tea/coffee maker, shower cubicles and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Amenities: One all-day dining restaurant (Dining- Multi Cuisine and ample parking.
Remarks: Basic rooms, run down property. Need complete renovation.
Here's the ranking of Kalimpong hotels based on my observation, from best to lowest.
Name
5 Star
The Elgin Silver Oaks – mostly used by other DMC's
Mayfair Himalayan Spa Resort
4 Star
Sinclairs Retreat
Fortune Resort – Member of ITC group
3 Star /Heritage
Sterling Park Kalimpong
I hope you will find the information useful and please ask me if you need any more details.
Thanks & Regards
Marina
