This boutique heritage hotel was once a royal summer residence, so make it your home when you're in Darjeeling
Location
Found at 6,000 ft in the Himalayan foothills, The Elgin sits right in the heart of Darjeeling town, a gentle five-minute stroll from the Mall and Chowrasta.
Rooms
We love the way the rooms at The Elgin blend old-world charm and comfort. Built in 1887 as the summer residence of the Maharaja of Cooch Behar, the property still carries its timeless story in teak-panelled interiors, fireplaces, and panoramic windows facing the hills.
Amenities
From the cosy tea lounge where you’ll sip Darjeeling’s finest blends, to the library and spa inviting you to unwind, The Elgin offers thoughtful touches all around. The location also makes it easy: you’re central yet serene, with leafy gardens and mountain vistas that make every moment feel like a breath of fresh air.
Activities
Step out and take a ride on the heritage Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (the classic “toy train”), walk among tea plantations, or sip sunset views of Mount K Kangchenjunga from nearby vantage points. The Elgin makes a superb base for diving into Darjeeling’s nature, history and relaxed mountain rhythm.
Sustainability
The hotel’s heritage-led refurbishment and its deep roots in the local environment shows a respect for place and preservation.
Best places to stay in Darjeeling Holidays
Darjeeling Holidays Trip Inspiration
When to visit India
Find out the best time to visit India with our month by month guide.
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
January is a great option for sightseeing in the north, days are clear and warm with minimal fog in the mornings. During this month, southern India provides a warm, sunny escape - properties in Kerala can fill quickly. If all that wasn't enough, visitors can experience some of the best mountain views in the Himalaya's - but you'll need to wrap up warm!
- Kite Festival in Gujarat
- Bikanar Camel Festival in Rajasthan
- Republic Day 26th January
February
February sees all the fog clearing in Northern states and it is regarded as one of the best months to travel as the whole country is warm and sunny. Visiting Delhi and the Golden Triangle are amazing during February and March, October and November but you will experience crowds at these popular sites.
March
One of the more popular months to travel, March is great for both weather conditions and cultural experiences, including Holi celebrating the victory of good over evil. If you're looking to go hiking, March is perfect in the Western Ghats. Visiting Delhi and the Golden Triangle is amazing during February and March, October and November but you will experience crowds at these popular sites.
- Holi Festival - world famous paint throwing celebration.
April
April sees temperatures sore country-wide, making it one of the driest and best months to go elephant and tiger spotting. As daytime temperatures can reach over 40 degrees we recommend excursions based in the mornings and evenings.
May
Temperatures and humidity continue to rise in May, reaching 45 degrees, which can make it uncomfortable. But wildlife viewings continue to be at their best as animals search for water sources.
June
From June, Ladakh is accessible offering incredible scenery and a complete contrast to the rest of India. Days are warm and bright, but you will need to pack layers for added warmth.
We recommend not travelling to Southern India and the Himalayas as humidity is high and thunderstorms are frequent as the country awaits the monsoon season.
July
Much like June, July offers incredible views across Ladakh whilst elsewhere monsoon season rains are imminent.
August
August is the perfect time to cruise along the Ganges thanks to the monsoon and its increased water levels.
September
September marks the end of the monsoon season and weather can still be unsettled across the country. If you're looking for good value travel, there can be some good deals in Rajasthan. Travel to Ladakh comes to a close as the season ends.
October
October is peak travel season, the rains end and the north of the country is warm. Visiting Delhi and the Golden Triangle is amazing during October and November but you will experience crowds at these popular sites.
- Mahatma Ghandi's birthday is celebrated on the 2nd October and is a national holiday.
- Diwali, the ancient Hindu festival of lights dazzles and illuminates the sky.
November
November is one of the best months to travel anywhere in India. Visiting Delhi and the Golden Triangle is amazing in November but you will experience crowds at these popular sites.
December
Southern India is sunny and warm in December, making it a popular option for yuletide celebrations. If you want to delve into northern culture, daytime temperatures as beautiful, however mornings and evenings can be cold and sometimes foggy.
Speak to a India expert today
and start planning your tailor-made holiday
Nia
India Expert