Dreamland Hotel, Dooars

The restaurant staff were lovely, and we especially enjoyed the boroli fish dishes. I was in a super deluxe room on the third floor. The balcony facing the jungle was a real draw, and the smart TV was useful after sunset. The rooms are spacious for a property set in the forest, and the whole site is accessible for elderly guests and people with mobility challenges. The pool rules need to be enforced. Signs ask guests to wear proper swimwear, but during my three-day stay, different families and groups went in wearing regular clothes and gamchas, with no staff stepping in. It happened every day. There were also issues at reception. Staff could use better training, and often seemed short on smiles and polish when speaking with guests. The place had the feel of a PSU office. I wasn't given a bill for a car booking made at the reception counter, and some food bills were charged to the wrong room numbers. Those mistakes were frustrating.

The quiet really lets you feel the nearby forest, especially in the evening when the grounds are lit softly. Peacocks often come right up to the balcony, and there’s plenty of open space since the hotel takes up only about 20 percent of the land. It’s a large property for Lataguri, in the Dooars, and sits next to the Gruumara safari entrance. You can get there by car or train. Food and other facilities are available with a single call, and the complimentary buffet breakfast was just ossum.

The owner was there and kind, and paid attention to what we needed. Sanjay, Aanchal, and Utpal also deserve a mention for their commendable service. We had a very good stay, with good food and service.

Mr Giri helped make our stay worthwhile, and the staff were friendly and helpful. The rooms were clean and neat, and the food was good. Our room was spacious, though the bathroom felt small beside it. Still, it was a pleasant experience overall.