Windamere Hotel - A Colonial Heritage

The story of Windamere Hotel is closely tied to that of Darjeeling's, when the region was acquired by the British East India Company to serve as both a military outpost and sanatorium resort. In 1939, Dr. Archibald Campbell took Chinese tea seeds from Kumaon and brought them to Darjeeling with the intent of studying and growing them in the serene mountain environment. The experiment was a resounding success, and soon, British farmers and businessmen were making their way to Darjeeling in a bid to make their fortunes.

The booming tea industry also saw the growth of the hospitality sector in Darjeeling. Ada Villa opened in 1841 as a boarding house for British farmers working the tea plantations. Come 1939, British control of India was beginning to wind down, and with it their control of the tea industry. A group of local businessmen looking to expand their endeavors purchased Ada Villa, turning it into a hotel. They named it the Windamere Hotel, inspired by the town and lake of Windermere back in England. In 1958, they purchased an adjacent property owned by the Maharaja of Cooch Behar, naming this new wing The Snuggery.

Windamere Hotel fully embraces its heritage aspects by providing an immersive stay in its well-preserved British Colonial Era houses. Each building is a carefully maintained example of 19th-century and early-20th-century Darjeeling life. The owners are quite keen on avoiding doing any renovations, just modern updates on comforts and amenities.

The accommodations at the hotel are individually named, themed, and decorated. Each one is equipped with matching period furniture and fixtures, creating a warm and comforting atmosphere that reminds travelers of visiting beloved relatives.

Windamere Hotel has venues available for official events and private functions, including weddings. Although primarily for conferences and seminars, the Rhodes Hall Conference Centre has ample space for private ceremonies with a limited number of guests. They also have lounges that can be prepared for smaller-scale gatherings. For inquiries, be sure to contact the hotel via their email or phone.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

While the modern Darjeeling developed only in the 19th century because of the tea industry, its scenic and secluded mountain setting is perfect for travelers looking to enjoy the beauty of the Himalayas while experiencing India's rich culture. The hotel can assist in arranging many exciting and educational experiences, such as visits to Darjeeling's tea plantations. One such tea estate is the Happy Valley Tea Garden, which was established back in 1854.

The lush and clean mountain environment is also perfect for scientific endeavors, which is why Darjeeling is a hotspot for botanical and biological research and conservation. The Lloyd Botanic Garden and the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park are two places nature lovers should not miss out on.

Last but not least is the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, which is a part of UNESCO's Mountain Railways of India World Heritage Site. More than just a train ride, this historic experience provides a unique trip through zigzagging rail lines across scenic crags and valleys of Northern India.

For days you aren't out sightseeing, the hotel holds yoga classes on the garden terrace that you can sign up for. There's also a boutique shop selling souvenirs and local crafts

Other Celebrations

Windamere Hotel will happily accommodate any corporate functions or retreats. Their Rhodes Hall Conference Centre has meeting rooms, seminar halls, and even private lounges that can be prepared for whatever suits your needs.

For guests who wish to celebrate a private birthday or anniversary affair, you can also look into booking one of these function rooms or lounges, should you prefer a higher degree of privacy. Alternatively, you can request for a private table at the restaurant, alongside a dash of personalized service.