Windamere Hotel

Windermere’s setting among the hills is breathtaking. Waking up to misty mountains and fresh air felt magical, and the property blends beautifully with its natural surroundings. It was peaceful and luxurious at the same time. The hospitality was warm, the ambience cozy, and the views unforgettable. It’s a lovely place for a relaxing getaway or making memories with the people you love. The experience stays with you after you leave.

Windamere Hotel gave us a magical stay, with beautiful hill views from spacious, cozy rooms. The staff were warm, polite, and attentive, always ready to help with a smile. The food was delicious, especially the traditional dishes in the historic dining room. That added to the royal atmosphere. The hotel captures old colonial Darjeeling so well, it feels like stepping back in time.

My wife and I stayed at Windamare Hotel from 24th to 27th February, 2026. The food was very good, and we found the staff friendly and courteous. It’s served in the room, though we preferred the dining hall or the open air deck during the day. The hotel is beautifully maintained, with its old charm intact alongside modern facilities and fixtures. It sits on Observatory Hill overlooking the Mall. Walking the path around the hill takes you to an observation point where you can see the Kanchejunga Range in clear weather. The surrounding mountain views from the walkway are exhilarating. The location also brings to mind scenes from Satyajit Ray’s Kanchenjungha, filmed here and at the Windamare. One suggestion for management: double-glazed windows would make the rooms much cosier in the colder months.

We stopped by for lunch and were let down by the average food and understaffed service. The soups could have been better, and some menu items, including shepherds pie and a few other signature continental dishes, weren’t available. We also had to get the cutlery and glasses replaced, so you can guess why. One server kindly stayed past his shift to help us out. The location and views are phenomenal, though, and we enjoyed taking photos. It’s a charming place with colonial heritage.