Perched gracefully on the Observatory Hill in Darjeeling, India, Windamere Hotel is more than just a place to stay—it’s a journey back in time. With a heritage dating back to the 19th century, Windamere is renowned for its old-world charm, colonial elegance, and unmatched views of the Eastern Himalayas, including the majestic Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest mountain.
Originally established as a boarding house for British tea planters in the late 1800s, Windamere transformed into a full-fledged hotel in 1939. Today, it continues to offer an experience that beautifully blends history, luxury, and serenity. For travelers seeking a unique escape steeped in nostalgia and breathtaking natural beauty, Windamere is the perfect sanctuary.
The Charm of Colonial Architecture
Windamere Hotel is divided into two wings—The Windamere and Little Windamere—each telling its own story. The cottages and suites, with their cozy fireplaces, four-poster beds, antique furniture, and vintage photographs, preserve the atmosphere of the British Raj era. The warm wooden interiors, soft lighting, and handcrafted décor create a homey and intimate environment that feels timeless.
Guests are often enchanted by the lovingly maintained gardens, teeming with Himalayan flora and peaceful walkways. The tranquil ambiance offers a welcome contrast to the bustling streets of Darjeeling just below.
A Culinary Journey Through Time
Windamere Hotel
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Positives
- Food
- Location
- Service
Negatives
- Cleanliness
- Sleep Quality
- Rooms
Breakdown
- Accommodation 5.0/5
- Location 5.0/5
- Foods and Drinks 5.0/5
- Service 5.0/5
Dining at Windamere is an experience in itself. Meals are served in the hotel’s traditional dining rooms, complete with white-gloved service and classic silverware. Guests are treated to a rotating menu of Anglo-Indian dishes, traditional British cuisine, and local delicacies. Signature offerings include hearty stews, freshly baked scones, Darjeeling tea, and rich puddings.
Breakfast on the verandah overlooking the Himalayas is a memory that guests cherish long after their visit. The hotel also offers high tea in the afternoons, often accompanied by freshly baked treats and, of course, the finest Darjeeling teas.
A Place of Literary and Historical Legacy
Windamere’s walls whisper stories of the past. It is famously known as the place where Vivien Leigh (of Gone with the Wind fame) stayed before her rise to stardom. Over the years, Windamere has hosted royalty, writers, actors, and adventurers—all drawn by its charm and privacy.
The hotel houses an in-house library with rare books, old letters, and journals that give insight into the colonial history of the region and the evolution of Darjeeling as a hill station.
Gateway to Darjeeling’s Attractions
Windamere Hotel enjoys a central yet secluded location, making it ideal for exploring Darjeeling’s attractions. The Mall Road, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) are all within close reach.
Guests can also embark on early morning trips to Tiger Hill to witness the famous sunrise over Kanchenjunga—a surreal and unforgettable experience.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a weary soul seeking peace, Windamere Hotel offers a rare kind of retreat—one where time slows down, stories unfold, and beauty is found in quiet details. It’s not just a hotel; it’s a living museum of memories, lovingly preserved in the heart of Darjeeling.
For those seeking authenticity, heritage, and a touch of magic, Windamere Hotel stands as a timeless treasure waiting to be discovered.