Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
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!
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
After an adventurous journey from Darjeeling town by taxi (the in-house shuttle service is highly recommended) we reached the family-run Singtom Tea Resort and were immediately positively surprised by the impression of the "good old days". We lived in the "Steinthel Suite" (Kingsize) - stately, with a spacious living area, great old fireplace, which was turned on in the evening on request and a view of the mountains. For the cool nights in March there was a fan heater, very pleasant.
From the terrace, where breakfast was served in the morning sun, you can see the Kanchenjunga in clear view; unfortunately, we were not lucky enough. Friendly staff, especially the manager on site; at any desired time, complimentary tea with pastries was prepared for us and served in the room. The owner gave us tips for hikes through the tea plantation: a long way down to the riverbed - for the arduous way back a WhatsApp message was enough, after which a driver then picked us up. Great view and tea bushes without end. Just a pity that it was very dry and the tea harvest was delayed.
Dinner was available by pre-order, on one evening even together with the owner. He told us about his frequent sales trips to northern Germany, which we know very well, e.g. Hamburg and Emden. He personally knew the owner of a large German tea shop chain, having even named a tea variety. Very personal, all this.
Not quite cheap and a bit remote; but a unique opportunity to be close to the Himalya and spend a few decelerated days.
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Date of stay: March 2024
Value
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Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We enjoyed our stay at this heritage property. The creaking floorboards and dated fixtures and fittings are all part of the charm. The location would be spectacular on a clear day - unfortunately, it was misty when we were there.
The property is 20 minutes from Darjeeling down a viciously steep and bumpy switchback road. So steep, that when we left Singtom, our taxi (arranged by Singtom) couldn't make it round some of the corners - we had to get out and walk on two occassions!
By European standards, I would call this a heritage homestay rather than a hotel.
Others have raved about the food. We found it good, but not remarkable. Similar food we ate elsewhere was half the price.
If offered a tour of the tea factory, a tea tasting, or a lift to see the tea pickers at work, be aware that each of these will be charged for separately at 1000 INR (3000 INR per person).
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Date of stay: October 2023
Value
Location
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Trip type: Travelled with friends
Room Tip:Ask about the cost of any activity offered to you.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Our Singtom experience is truly one we will cherish forever. It was everything it promised, and some more. Clear views of the magnificent Kanchenjunga, mesmerising sunrises, wholesome meals served by the friendly staff, the endless cups of delicate Darjeeling tea.. we were transported to another era. A picnic at the 360 point, in the midst of the tea gardens was a dreamy experience in the backdrop of snowclad mountains. Each meal was freshly prepared with fresh ingredients and served piping hot at the table. Priyom and the entire staff were extremely attentive and tended to our every need. The old-time room with a fireplace along with hot water in the bathroom - it was the perfect blend of old-world and modern. The room was clean, comfortable, and cosy and provided most of the comforts one needs. I am already waiting to come back!
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Date of stay: December 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Hospitality Team, General Manager at Singtom Tea Estate & Resort
Responded 25 Jul 2024
Dear Guest, We're delighted that you had a great experience with us! When you're ready for another escape, we'll be here to make it just as enjoyable.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We had a wonderful 3-night stay at Singtom Tea Resort. It is a beautiful vintage property that feels homey and welcoming the minute you step inside, almost like going to your grandmother's house. The staff were professional, friendly and very accommodating. The manager looked after us carefully, the drivers were excellent and the kitchen staff were so sweet. My husband was feeling under the weather when we arrived and we were offered special non-spicy meals and dinners by the fireplace to make us warm and cozy. The food was outstanding and we felt so at home we never left the resort. We were fortunate that owner, Mr. Mohan, was there during our stay and we had a lovely time chatting and sharing some meals together. We very much enjoyed the tour of the tea factory. Although it was a bit foggy and misty for viewing the mountains, we were snug inside in the peaceful, relaxing resort. We did get a spectacular view the day we left which was a nice parting gift. We would highly recommend this property if you are looking for a place to enjoy delicious food, a quiet and restful atmosphere and lovely service.
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Date of stay: March 2024
Value
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Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Hospitality Team, General Manager at Singtom Tea Estate & Resort
Responded 25 Jul 2024
Dear Guest, Thank you so much for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear that you had a fantastic time at our resort. We look forward to welcoming you back soon!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
The property has a very good view of Kanchenjunga range from its open terrace. With weather permitting, you can view the range almost all thru the day. And this is and will remain a unique proposition of this property.
Currently they let out 4 rooms in the colonial bungalow. As is the case in these bungalows, the rooms are huge with bedroom, fire place, sitting area and attached toilet. The room and toilet were fairly clean but the upholstery or the couches need to vaccum cleaned as we found lot of dust on them.
Food is vegetarian and homely. Some recommendations : various types of kachoris and aloo sabzi ( Nepali type), aloo paratha, momos, noodles / fried rice, Baigan bhartha.
Between the lawn, terrace or inside living area, you’ll find lot of places to read a book, play board games or just have a sip of Darjeeling tea. However, the tea that were served to us were sub-par compared to the ones that are typically available in this area.
Not all the time, but during significant periods we faced power cut outs. Geysers and electric kettles weren’t able to provide hot water during these period. With no backup power option and in this December cold weather it was inconvenient.
Overall a good place to stay if you feel worth viewing the Himalayan range at your will and leisure.
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Date of stay: December 2023Trip type: Travelled with family
Room Tip:1. Hire hill trained driver. the road to the property is steep, winding and broken.
2. Book all 4...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Hospitality Team, General Manager at Singtom Tea Estate & Resort
Responded 25 Jul 2024
Dear Guest, Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with us. Your feedback is invaluable in helping us improve our services for future guests. We really look forward to host you again :)
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Stayed in the resort for 2 Nights – 22nd and 23rd June with my wife. Overall, a great experience and would love to come back to the place again (sometime in Oct though when its not raining and Kanchanjunga is clearly visible from the property). Things we really liked:
1. It’s located inside a tea garden far from the hustle bustle and crowd of Darjeeling main city and hence the stay was peaceful and serene. 2. The rooms while having modern facilities still gave vibes of yester years and hence gave a feeling that we were living in history. 3. The staff (specially Suparna) was very cordial and attended to all our requests. She even presented us with a bouquet of roses plucked straight form their garden as a welcome gesture. 4. The free-flowing supply of freshly made tea is an added perk. 5. The dinner (completely Veg) was extremely homely as well as tasty. While I am a hard core non vegetarian, the paneer kofta and chhole masale were to die for and for a change I didn’t miss NV.
Do note that the approach road leading up to the property is a little tipsy turvy, but then again an experienced local driver should take care of it.
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Date of stay: June 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rooms in the main house are an authentic colonial experience, it was like a well kept Victorian museum home except you actually get to live and sleep it. Very peaceful, surrounded by tea estate and a welcome respite from the bedlam of Darjeeling town. Weather was dry, dusty and foggy at beginning of March - no Himalaya views. Host serves up a full range of exquisite Darjeeling teas FOC. Mattress were very hard, seems to be a regional trend that didn't suit us. Staff were courteous and respected our privacy, no argy-bargy or cons like some of the places we stayed in India which had glowing but faked reviews on Booking.com If we came to Darjeeling again, we would stay here.
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Date of stay: March 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled with family
Room Tip:Beware some reviews of hotels in India on Booking.com are faked. One impersonated me and gave a...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Hospitality Team, General Manager at Singtom Tea Estate & Resort
Responded 25 Jul 2024
Dear Guest, We're delighted that you had a great experience with us! When you're ready for another escape, we'll be here to make it just as enjoyable.
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Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We had such high hopes of our stay at Singtom, but we ended up extremely disappointed. The website gives a much more flattering picture than reality. Yes, the setting is beautiful and you can see the mountains on a clear day. The staff are very friendly and the food is tasty. However, the property is run down and not well maintained. The room we stayed in (Himalaya suite ) reeked of mould, one of the walls has a lot of water damage and the smell was very strong and unpleasant. If you do decide to book a room here, make sure it's not that one! The matrassen are old (smelly) and very hard (which many Indians are used to, so I guess that is a matter of taste). There is no wifi. While we were there, half the roof of the common area was gone because of construction. They were building extra rooms and there was a lot of noise throughout the day. I do not think it is correct that we were not advised of this when booking the rooms and that we were charged full rates when we had to endure construction noise from 9 in the morning until 5. Singtom is expensive, rates are nearly European and I think that it is fair to have certain expectations when you pay more than anywhere else. I am thinking of wifi, daily room cleaning, breakfast included (where else are we going to go?), a room that doesn't smell, peace and quiet. It is a real shame, because the property has a lot of potential. We couldn't help get the impression that the owner is more interested in making a quick buck than in creating a top resort.
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Date of stay: November 2022
Value
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip:Don't stay in the Himalaya suite, it stinks of mould.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Singtom Resort is located amidst tea gardens and commands excellent mountain & valley view. It is few miles away from Darjeeling town yet distant enough to get immersed in the serenity of its surroundings. Resort is a British era Bungalow, maintaining its Victorian charm. Rooms are super spacious, comfortable and beautifully decorated. Mr. Gautam is an excellent host, ensuring top notch hospitality and taking care of all needs of Guests. We stayed for 3 nights, enjoyed the surroundings and explored nearby villages but never felt a need to go on any excursion. Overall a memorable experience. I have couple of suggestion for them to improve. First is the booking process. I made a booking during day time, received a payment link only at 02 O'clock in the morning with a payment window of 06 hours. By the time I woke-up and made payment, it exceeded the payment window, my booking was cancelled and allotted to some one else. I had to reschedule my entire Darjeeling trip. I think they need to improve their website a bit and provide instant payment option. Secondly, they need to provide flexible/item-rate meal plans. At the moment they have combo meal plans for breakfast & dinner charged on per room basis (i.e. you have to take a combo for 2 persons). This can be sometimes expensive if you don't have a large appetite or if only one person wants to eat. Rest all was good.
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Date of stay: November 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Hospitality Team, General Manager at Singtom Tea Estate & Resort
Responded 20 Dec 2021
Dear Guest, Thank you for your kind words. We look forward to having you visit once again in the near future. Warm regards, Resort Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We booked Singtom Tea estate & resort for our stay from Nov-20, 2021 until Nov 22, 2021. We had requested pick-up from bagdogra airport as the road to the resort is on steep hill top away from Darjeeling town.
Resort: The resort is a colonial bunglow built in 1862. The rooms are large, well heated with electric blankets and has a European fireplace. The fire is lit on request. The bathroom & toilet are provided with 24 hour hot water. The place has internet connectivity as our personal portable Airtel & Reliance Jio dongle provided full connectivity.
Gardens: There is a garden in the front of the bunglow and in the november month there were flowers all around the resorts. We had morning sunbath and morning breakfast in the front lawns on all days.
Cuisine: The kitchen and dining are provided on the rear side of the bunglow. The resort served only vegetarian food. The food is made to order and provide Indian, Chinese & Global Cuisine. The food is fresh, tasty and served with love & care. Although the kitchen staff are all local they still manage to cook very tasty food. We ate Chinese & Indian meals on all the days.
Staff & Service: All the staff are cordial and provide prompt service at request. The rooms are cleaned and towels replaced daily.
Resort Manager: Mr. Gautam Paul is the resort manager and hosts the guest with respect & humility.
Kanchenjunga View: The resort has a view of Kanchenjunga from the rear balcony. However due to poor & cloudy weather we missed Kanchenjunga view on all the three days.
Tour of the estate: We had a walking tour of the estate viz. the tea estate & tea factory.
Summary: Visiting from noisy & hectic schedule in Mumbai, we enjoyed a quite, peaceful & relaxing stay at Singtom tea estate & resort.
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Date of stay: November 2021
Rooms
Location
Service
Room Tip:Its a quiet colonial bunglow and hence all the rooms are equally good.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Hospitality Team, General Manager at Singtom Tea Estate & Resort
Responded 20 Dec 2021
Dear Guest, Thank you for your kind words. We look forward to having you visit once again in the near future. Warm regards, Resort Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Dear Guest,
The road from the airport to our place is 80 km.
Out of this, the first 75 km of the road are in very good condition. This is the same stretch of the road that takes you to Darjeeling (we are just 4-5 km from Darjeeling).
The last 5 km are also in good condition -- with major repairs having been conducted in August 2019. However, this road is a steep, winding mountain road with stunning views of the mountains.
Dear Guest,
The road from the airport to our place is 80 km.
Out of this, the first 75 km of the road are in very good condition. This is the same stretch of the road that takes you to Darjeeling (we are just 4-5 km from Darjeeling).
The last 5 km are also in good condition -- with major repairs having been conducted in August 2019. However, this road is a steep, winding mountain road with stunning views of the mountains.
As far as other traveller's comments are concerned, please note:
1. Traveller skkvusa: This traveller's comments have been reported to TripAdvisor in the past. This gentleman, named Sunil Jain from the USA, seems to be a little vindictive and borderline crazy. He seems to love us so much that he has taken it upon himself personally to respond to every question asked here. He must have a lot of time.
2. Traveller manjusampat: We are 20 minutes away from Darjeeling and are the closest tea estate to the city. If you want to stay at a tea estate, you will be 20 mins + away (whether you stay at ours or someone else). If you classify this as a "khud", then we are a khud. However, the world recognises us a tea estate instead :)
3. Traveller YogeshMahajan: This customer is absolutely correct. When he stayed with us, the concerned road was not in a good condition. However, as we mentioned earlier, the condition is good as of end August 2019.
Darjeeling to Singtom is 20 minutes by car.
The first 5 minutes take you to Singmari from Darjeeling.
The next 15 minutes take you to the resort from Singmari. This stretch can be only covered in a 4WD car (4 wheel drive car). This road is a newly created mountain road that is steep and descends about 1500 feet in 15 minutes. It is an absolutely stunning road through the tea bushes that offers spectacular views of the world's highest mountains.
There are more places to choose from in the Darjeeling area.
LOCATION
IndiaWest BengalDarjeeling DistrictDarjeeling
NUMBER OF ROOMS
8
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