Royal Sarovar Premier

The room was dirty and badly kept, with bird droppings on the window and broken wooden flooring. I’ve attached photos. At checkout, the card machine wasn’t working, so I was held up for over 20 minutes. I’d already booked an Uber to Bagdogra Airport, and another delay might have meant a cancellation and a missed flight. No one even apologized. They also charge INR 1500 to book an airport cab, double the actual price. The reception was poor from the start. At check-in, the staff didn’t greet me and looked expressionless. I greeted them, but only one male staff member replied; two female staff members ignored me. I’m an NRI, and I’ve stayed in many five-star properties in India and abroad, but I’ve never been made to feel so humiliated as when I returned late after dinner with friends. A reception staff member named Suresh stopped me in front of another customer and demanded my room number. I was alone and had no guests with me. He said rudely that it was hotel policy and that he’d never seen me before. That felt like hostel security, not a supposed four-star property. If they have this policy, they should install access-controlled elevators instead of embarrassing paying guests. I’m very fitness-conscious and always check for a gym before booking. This hotel has one, but it smelled bad and was full of mosquitoes. On my first day I asked reception for mosquito repellent and room freshener for the gym. They promised several times, but nothing arrived, even after I followed up repeatedly. At checkout, I said customer requests weren’t taken seriously. One of the reception ladies just said, “Please go ahead,” as if feedback didn’t matter. I gave two stars only for the spa, restaurant, and room service. The rest of my stay, especially dealing with reception, was extremely disappointing and far below what I’d expect from a four-star hotel. I’ll never recommend this place.

The poolside high tea was a treat, and I also enjoyed a discounted spa massage. Breakfast had a wide spread. I had asked for an early check-in, but there was a delay. The staff apologized and made me comfortable, and they brought me complimentary coffee when I asked. The restaurant staff were a little slow, but I had a wonderful stay at Royal Sarovar Portico, Siliguri.

The playing options were the best part of the property and added some fun to the stay. For a short stopover it could be okay if you can put up with a few service issues, but I found the rest average. Breakfast needs more variety, and housekeeping fell short both in the rooms and around the property. The location feels a bit off, and the staff didn’t seem very professional. Check-in took almost an hour, and paying in advance wasn’t convenient. The hotel has potential, but several things need improvement.

The food was really good, with plenty of variety at decent prices. Add the complimentary breakfast to your booking if you can. There’s also a pool. I stayed one night and found the hotel peaceful, clean, and well maintained, even though the building is a bit old. Good value for money.