The Chumbi Mountain Retreat

The damaged roads on the way in make the drive a real roller coaster, but once you arrive, the resort feels like an oasis, with good views of Kanchenjunga and several terraces for activities. The studio room is especially spacious, and the resort is well laid out, with the bar and spa in a separate building across from the main reception. Inside, the furnishings and decor are exquisite, with heritage black-and-white photographs on the walls. Staff were very helpful and receptive. They also have a small cinema where they screen documentaries about Sikkim in the evenings. One of the best Club Mahindra associate resorts I've stayed at.

The property is clean and well maintained, and when the weather cooperates, the view of Kanchenjunga is fantastic. Getting there is another matter. The approach road is terrible, bumpy and broken, as seems typical of All Mahindra properties. The bathroom layout was impractical too. The open wardrobes sit inside the bathroom next to the shower, and the luggage rack is in there as well. We tried the local Sikkimese dinner after prebooking it for Rs.2800 per person. We waited 40 minutes in a cold restaurant, then got a few everyday vegetables and two pieces of cold chicken. For Rs.500, an everyday meal at another roadside Sikkimese joint is much better. It left us feeling scammed by Mahindra. The heater wasn't working either. The buffet was just okay.

The welcome tea was refreshing, and the food was just as good. Our rooms were very clean and luxurious. There are activities like crafts, painting, live music, and bonfires, too. The views of Mt. Kanchenjunga are stunning. Best resort in my Pelling, a must visit.

We spent three nights in the raj and yoksum suites, and the staff were so friendly and quick to help. They really went above and beyond. The hotel was almost perfect, though it has no wheelchair access or elevator, which is a small gripe for senior citizens.