10 Best Hotels in Darjeeling for a Perfect Hill Station Vacation

Planning a trip of a lifetime to India and looking for the best hotels in Darjeeling? Look no further!

Lori and I are excited to bring you the ultimate list of the very best places to stay in and around this historic and captivating hill station in West Bengal.

Visitors have been coming to the “Queen of hill stations” for nearly two centuries, for its agreeable climate, world class tea estates, and breathtaking Himalayan views in the post-monsoon season.

Whether you are planning a visit for a few days or a few weeks, you can’t go wrong with any one of the superb heritage hotels, luxury resorts, and tea estates on this list.

So grab a cup of your favorite Darjeeling tea, and prepare to be impressed by the world class offerings on this list. No need to worry about looking for the perfect luxury stay in Darjeeling, because we’ve got that covered.

Here is our list of the 10 best hotels in Darjeeling for 2021 and beyond. Enjoy!

Best Hotels in Darjeeling | Top 5 Sneak Peak

When it comes to resorts and spas, tea estates, or luxury 5-star hotels in Darjeeling, there’s no shortage of options. So many well-reviewed and highly-ranked places to stay in Darjeeling — it’s difficult to choose just one.

Here’s a sneak peek at our Top 5 to make your decision super easy.

Also, be sure to check out our guide to riding the Himalayan Railway (aka Darjeeling Toy Train), packed with lots of helpful information for getting the best price on tickets and what to expect.

10 Best Hotels in Darjeeling, India | The Complete List

Finding luxury accommodation in Darjeeling will be a breeze with this list of the very best hotel options.

Whether you are looking to stay close to the center of the action (Darjeeling Mall), perch yourself on a hill with breathtaking Himalayan views, or step back in time on a tea estate, you’ll find it all below.

Use our helpful custom map to refer back to as you browse the list below. Each number on the map corresponds to the ranking of the properties on our list (click to view name). Scroll around or zoom out to view #5, #7, and #9.

1) Cedar Inn | Overall Best Hotel in Darjeeling

Nestled among evergreen trees on a hillside offering spectacular mountain views, Cedar Inn takes our number one spot for best hotel in Darjeeling, India.

This 4-star boutique hotel offers visitors old-world charm with handcrafted woodwork, with all of the amenities you’d expect in a luxury stay.

Cedar Inn is just close enough to the center to enjoy the bustling heart of Darjeeling, while being just far enough away to bask in peace and serenity.

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In their own words:

We welcome you to one of the best hotels in Darjeeling. The hotel location is arguably its greatest asset, setting it above and apart from the hustle of downtown and offering a visual treat of spectacular mountain vistas. The view is without a doubt one of the most memorable in the world.

Guest Review:

Everything was perfect. Excellent, courteous staff, good food, room upgrade, breath taking views of the hills and the valley, packed breakfast and staff being so very helpful always.

2) Mayfair Darjeeling | Best 5-Star Hotel in Darjeeling

Widely considered the grand dame of Darjeeling, the Mayfair Darjeeling offers world-class service in an elegant heritage property set on a serene wooded hill.

This 5-star hotel in Darjeeling is a favorite among luxury travelers and repeat visitors, boasting an excellent spa, well-appointed suites, and one of the best restaurants in town.

Mayfair Darjeeling caters to luxury travelers across the spectrum, making this one of the best hotels in Darjeeling for business travelers, honeymooners, and families.

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In their own words:

Mayfair Darjeeling is a heritage property that is one of the best hotels in Darjeeling. It exudes old world charm and quiet elegance. Wake up to birdsong and beautiful views as you soak in the blissful ambiance. The green foliage and the crisp mountain air will refresh your senses. Striking the perfect balance between the old and the modern, MAYFAIR Darjeeling ranks as one of the best luxury hill resorts in India.

Guest Review:

The rooms were very pleasant and clean. The grounds were extraordinarily beautiful and the staff was amazing. The restaurant and food were five star, including the staff there. The spa was also very wonderful.

3) Udaan Dekeling Resort | Best Stay for Families

Udaan Dekeling Resort is another exceptional luxury heritage property positioned to take advantage of spectacular views of Kanchenjunga and surroundings.

Offering seven spacious, elegant, and well-appointed family rooms, Dekeling is also our number one upmarket pick for families.

With so many comforts of home, choice amenities, and world class service, set against a spectacular backdrop, you may truly never want to leave!

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In their own words:

Udaan Dekeling Resort, Darjeeling is a Heritage Grand Resort with rich wooden floors, glowing fireplaces, panoramic mountain views and a well-stocked library. The luxurious amenities in the rooms, fine dining options, the immaculate services and facilities will make your holiday indulgent and memorable.

Guest Review:

The staff at the hotel are excellent and so welcoming. The location is great, close enough to the town centre to walk in but far enough away to get some peace and quiet. The view from the hotel is incredible in a clear day. I fully recommend this place.

4) Hotel Villa Everest | Best Selection of View Rooms

Situated among a stunning tea garden landscape, Hotel Villa Everest brims with Old World charm at every corner.

Take a step back in time strolling the halls and grounds of this masterfully-restored 19th century villa, once the summer home of the Mayor of Calcutta (Kolkata).

And enjoy spectacular views of Kanchenjunga and surroundings on a clear day from every room.

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In their own words:

A Family run Hotel with spacious rooms, bathrooms and view of the mountains from every room. While you enjoy your stay amidst the enchanted tea gardens and the green mist-covered hills that Darjeeling has to offer, Hotel Villa Everest, with a homely atmosphere is here to provide to all your hospitality needs.

Guest Review:

Staff is so kind. Room service terrific. Food superb. Room very functional, comfortable. Loved the window seat.

5) Ging Tea House | Best Tea Estate Stay

Ging Tea House offers luxury accommodation, world class service, and the comfort of home in one of the oldest tea plantations around Darjeeling.

Dating from 1864 and now tastefully restored, the Tea House was one of the first colonial tea planter’s residences in the region.

Take in the breathtaking Himalayan views and wonder 600 hectares of tea estate as you take a step back in time and a break from the demands of modern life.

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In their own words:

Come see the beauty of the tea flower, smell the leaves and the earth, taste the romance of life in a cup & experience being pampered by us. Spoil yourself with the luxurious bed teas, take a walk along the picturesque greenery and soak in the sunrise at Tiger Hill. Escape the hustle- bustle of ordinary city life to unwind and reconnect with nature.

Guest Review:

Andrew, Nikesh and the whole team treated us like royalty. The scenery was stunning, food Devine and service is 5*. We feel privileged to have stayed here. Thank you for the experience.

6) Sinclairs Darjeeling | Centrally Located & Views

Looking for a central location offering luxury service and amenities with some of the best views of Kanchenjunga in the area? Sinclairs Darjeeling is all that at more!

This superb property located just minutes away from central Darjeeling’s best restaurants and top attractions, offering 46 rooms and suites that exude Victorian charm and elegance alongside modern features and amenities.

A long-time favorite for business travelers, corporate functions, and honeymooners visiting the area.

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In their own words:

Strategically located a few minutes from the town centre, Chowrasta, Sinclairs Darjeeling offers splendid views of Mount Kanchenjunga, unmatched by any other hotel in the region. Kanchenjunga, the world’s third highest peak, is the reason to be here.

Guest Review:

Excellent service and quality. Close to Darjeeling Mall. Has excellent views from hotel. Staff is very helpful. Breakfast is superb as well. Location is a plus as well.

7) Singtom Tea Estate | Scenic 19th Century Private Estate

Singtom Tea Estate is an exceptional historic luxury resort nestled among 1,600 acres of private estate.

Escape the hustle and bustle of central Darjeeling for the serenity of the world’s oldest tea estate-resort. Visit Darjeeling for the day, then return to a stunning and storied oasis.

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In their own words:

Built in 1862, we are the world’s oldest tea estate-resort. Located only 20 minutes away from Darjeeling, we offer an authentic, heritage tea plantation experience with breathtaking, panoramic views of the world’s highest mountains. We are the only destination in India where you can walk all day through 1,600 acres of private estate, and return to luxury at night… all at an affordable price!

Guest Review:

One of the best places we stayed near Darjeeling. Location wise, the place is simply great – not too far from Darjeeling, yet totally away from the crowd of Darjeeling. The best part of the place is that it is located in the middle of tea gardens with an amazing view of the mountain ranges, Kanchenjunga included.

8) Summit Swiss Heritage Hotel & Spa | Best Hotel Spa & Guest Favorite

An exceptional heritage property and favorite among travelers to Darjeeling for decades, Summit Swiss offers a taste of history and luxury at affordable rates.

Choose from a variety of bright and spacious rooms, including heritage rooms, suites, and family cottages. Take advantage of an array of onsite amenities including an excellent restaurant and spa.

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In their own words:

Summit Swiss is located in the heart of the city, just 5 mins away from the famous Mall Road. Known as one of the finest hotels in Darjeeling, Summit Swiss Heritage Hotel boasts of a rich history with its historic British style colonial architecture dating back to 1914, it is well equipped with all the basic modern amenities.

Guest Review:

Very, very peaceful ambience with amazing view of Kanchenjunga from the room and garden area. Great value, highly recommend and will definitely stay again when visiting Darjeeling.

9) Sterling Darjeeling | Superb Family & Activity Oriented Hotel & Spa

Set in the neighborhood of Ghum (Ghoom), at the highest point in Darjeeling district, Sterling Darjeeling offers amazing views of Kanchenjunga.

Enjoy luxury amenities and an onsite holiday activity centre. Choose from 101 well-appointed rooms, many of them offering commanding views of the Kanchenjunga Range on a clear day.

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In their own words:

Enjoy the nippy morning air, an aromatic steaming cup of Darjeeling tea and the regal Kanchenjunga at our resort. The resort is situated in the charming neighbourhood of Ghoom Heritage Railway Station, the highest Railway Station in India (7,407 feet), which provides the convenience of hopping onto the toy train when you wish.

Guest Review:

The location was perfect for the family trip. The resort was well maintained & up to our standard.

10) Summit Grace Hotel | Panoramic Views & Excellent Spa

From the same folks that brought you Summit Swiss (#8), Summit Grace Hotel is another consistently fabulous property in Darjeeling at an affordable price.

Panoramic views of the mountains, elegant interiors, and top-notch service might make you think you’ve booked a 5-star hotel for a steal.

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In their own words:

Located in the foothills of the Himalayas Summit Grace Hotel is just 10 mins drive away from the main town of Darjeeling. Our lavish, wood-furnished rooms at Summit Grace Hotel will make you want to cocoon yourself and stare at the misty landscape of mount Kanchenjunga.

Guest Review:

The hotel is located in a very good place overlooking the mountains, staff are friendly and food was awesome!

BONUS! Ramada by Wyndham Darjeeling | Best International Hotel in Darjeeling

While we wanted to keep this list largely focused on the best 5-star hotels, heritage boutique resorts, and tea estate stays, we didn’t want leave out the exceptional Ramada by Wyndham Darjeeling.

The Darjeeling Ramada caters largely to business travelers, but travelers across the spectrum have reported excellent stays and high satisfaction with the level of service offered at this international hotel in the heart of Darjeeling.

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In their own words:

Ramada by Wyndham Darjeeling is a contemporary business hotel in Darjeeling with an excellent location in the heart of the city, just 500 m from the main market, Chaurasata famously known as the Mall Road.

Guest Review:

Everything is spanking clean; the rooms are very spacious and wifi connection works like charm. The quality of food at ‘Darjeeling’, their flagship restaurant, is top notch.

Did We Miss Any of Your Favorite Darjeeling Hotels? Let Us Know in the Comments!

We always enjoy writing helpful articles focused on exceptional stays in one-of-a-kind destinations, and this one is no exception!

Darjeeling is a worthwhile place to base yourself for a number of days, offering unforgettable experiences you won’t find anywhere else. It’s no wonder why many visitors end up staying for much longer than they planned and come back for more!

If you are planning a trip to Darjeeling, India, be sure to check out our other helpful article(s) for putting together the best travel itinerary possible!:

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