About Hotel New Elgin
The New Elgin is a heritage hotel at Darjeeling in eastern 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 New Elgin, warmth greets you. A silken Khada is draped around your neck in a traditional Northeast welcome, as sparkling cherry liquer spreads a Warm glow within. The phrase 'old world charm' is a palpable feeling of being sung and cosy in this quaint and charming 120 year old residence reminiscent of the heydays of the Raj. There is a lived-in look about the oldest hotel
in Darjeeling. It is justified, considering that royalty and distinguished Heads of State have spent many moments here, appreciating the lithographs by Daniell and etchings by G.Douglass that adorn its walls. Dominique Lapierre and Mark Tully have found inspiration to write in its relaxed interiors. New Elgin has hosted the Crown Prince of Sikkim Tenzing Namgyal, the royal family of Bhutan, US Ambassador Galbraith and many more renowned personalities.
Living in New Elgin can be an unforgettable vacationing experience by itself. Set aside a day from the tours to the beautiful spots in and around the town and enjoy the company of family and friends in an atmosphere of relaxation and enjoyment.
Living in New Elgin can be an unforgettable vacationing experience by itself. Set aside a day from the tours to the beautiful spots in and around the town and enjoy the company of family and friends in an atmosphere of relaxation and enjoyment.
The period Burma teak furniture, wooden 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 New Elgin hotel from 1911-1930. Stories of Mrs. Margaret Walker and her legacy of the lavish Christmas parties, is continued even today. After being run by Mrs. Walker from 1930-47, the charge of the hotel passed on to Mrs. Nancy
Oakley, who played host to the first Indian guests in 1950 and ran it till the present management took over in '68 colonial charm, is a tangible adjective at The New Elgin Darjeeling. When history surrounds you amidst all the comforts of today, it is a wonderful feeling that words and images cannot convey. It is to be experienced, time and again.
|
