Glenburn Tea Estate, Darjeeling

Location

The Glenburn Tea Estate is a small plantation retreat that lies above the banks fo the River Rungeet in the Himalayas, with spectacular views across the Kanchenjunga mountain range. The plantation was established by the Scottish tea company in 1859, before being taken over by one of India’s pioneering tea planting families, the Prakashes. The lodge is full board, and gives you the opportunity to learn first-hand about tea production.

Accommodation

At the lodge, guests stay in one of two bungalows – the Burra Bungalow or the Water Lily Bungalow – that each have four suites as well as common areas, a garden, veranda and terrace. All rooms feature hand-embroidered bed linen, electric blankets, private bathrooms, and Darjeeling Green Tea toiletries. Take the Kanchenjunga Suite for a beautiful view across the mountains, or the Planter’s Suite that’s got a private veranda and view across the Simbong Valley.  

Dining

All menus are planned according to the preferences of each guest, and comprise of a range of cuisine, including traditional Indian dishes, exotic Southeast Asian delicacies, and a selection of European dishes made with herbs and salad leaves grown in the well-stocked kitchen garden. Enjoy breakfast and lunch in either the Morning Room or on the Front Veranda, or organise a picnic if you’d prefer. Dinner is usually served as a sit down, candle-lit meal in the Dining Room. 

Facilities

The main attraction of the Glenburn Tea Estate is its full or part day tea-tasting tours, which consist of a 1.5-3 hour walk or drive through fields and processing plants. Other activities on offer include hiking, day trips, fishing, massage and beauty treatments, as well as cookery classes. There’s also a fantastic Lodge and Campsite that’s located in the middle of the wilderness and offers a rustic and comfortable experience for two families.