The Elgin, of the Elgin Heritage Group of Hotels at Darjeeling in the Himalayas. Darjeeling is known as the 'Queen of the Hills'. The name derives from 'Dorji Ling', or the God of Thunder. Small wonder then, that the weather varies from the pleasant to cold, to very cold.
As you enter, the heritage - The Elgin, warmth greets you. A silken Khada is drapped around your neck as a traditional Himalayan welcome, as sparkling cherry liquor spreads a Warm glow within. The phrase 'old world charm' is a palpable feeling of being snug and cozy in this quaint and charming 120 year old residence reminiscent of the heydays of the Raj. It is justified, considering that royalty and distinguished Heads of States have spent many moments here, appreciating the lithographs by Daniell and etchings by G.Douglas that adorn its walls. Dominique Lapierre and Mark Tully have found inspiration to write in its relaxed interiors. The Elgin has hosted the Crown Prince of Sikkim Tenzing Namgyal, the royal family of Bhutan, US Ambassador Galbraith and many more renowned personalities.
You can immerse yourself into books from our well-stocked library. There is something about settling down with a good book surrounded by old pictures and paintings on the walls and antic furniture that is such a special experience.
The period Burma teak furniture, oak floor boards and paneling, the crackling log fireplaces, the candle-lit dinning tables and the soft strains of the melodies wafting from the piano… each has a story to tell. Stories of the stylish life-style of its first owner, the Maharaja of Cooch Bihar, of John William Pavion and his lady wife Edith Agnes Pavion, who took the building on rent from the Maharaja and ran it as The Elgin hotel from 1911-1930. Stories of Mrs. Margaret Walker and her legacy of the lavish Christmas parties which is continued even today. After being run by Mrs. Walker from 1930-47, the hotel passed on to Mrs. Nancy Oakley,
who played host to the first Indian guests in 1950. Colonial charm is a tangible adjective at The Elgin Darjeeling. When history surrounds you amidst all the comforts of today, it is a wonderful feeling that words and images cannot convey.
