The surreal splendours of Himalayan vistas in India’s northeastern expanses of Sikkim offer an unforgettable summer holiday.
The lush forests, gorgeous lakes and Himalayan pinnacles have been drawing visitors from all over the globe. Trekking, hiking, camping under the stars and chilling out in lavish hotels and picturesquely set homestays remain some of the most alluring activities to draw you up-close and personal to its natural heritage, its people-to-people connectivity and its deep-seated cultural roots.
The Elgin Nor-Khill Gangtok, should definitely be your choice of stay. Situated in the heart of Gangtok town, 5000 feet up in the Himalayas, it was the private residence of the Chogyals (Kings) of Sikkim since the 1930s. Today you can have the privilege of a sojourn in this royal palace, all because it now serves as a luxury Elgin heritage hotel. The Elgin chain has long established its reputation for restoring and preserving heritage properties in Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Kolkata with deep sensitivity, which appeals to a growing discerning clientele. Diamond Oberoi, the man behind the vision of The Elgin Hotels and Resorts, has painstakingly recreated an atmospheric setting of elegance and grace at The Elgin Nor-Khill which intertwines the past and present with seamless ease.
This is no hard backed modern-day hotel…bristling with fancy accoutrements and cheerless hospitality. Rather, The Elgin Nor-Khill exudes old-world warmth and welcome while providing you all the present-day comforts expected of a starred property. From that welcome drink of the local cherry liqueur to the traditional silken Khada (scarf) draped around your neck, it will warm the cockles of your heart…a wonderful overture for the even more pleasant things to come.
As you enter the beautifully curated space of the lobby you are transported to another era… far from the din and clamour of traffic of present-day Gangtok. Your eyes are pulled in every direction, greedy to take it all in — the fabulous array of folk art, the compelling design motif of dragons and flame symbols, the thangkas. The Elgin Nor-Khill has a long history of hospitality having hosted state guests and celebrities going all the way to the days of the first Chogyal.
Abandon yourself to the charms of its original grandeur, underpinned by the period Burma teak furniture, lavish oak floorboards and panelling, crackling fireplaces, enhanced further by the etchings of G.Douglas, lithographs of Daniell, the candle-lit tables and strains of music from the grand piano.
The snug warmth and elegant splendour of The Elgin Nor-Khill spills into its 25 deluxe rooms and suites which open up to views of the mountains and lush valleys. Enjoy a candle-lit traditional Sikkimese dinner summoned up by signature Chef who once worked as the personal Chef to the late King of Sikkim in the Royal Palace Kitchen. As you await your repast in the elegant Shangri-La dining room, soak yourself in the mood created by the exquisite wooden panelling, magnificent chandeliers and lithographs.
The well-equipped on-site spa is great for unwinding amidst these glorious unspoilt Himalayan spaces. Within walking distance of Gangtok’s high street (MG Road) The Elgin Nor-Khill is perfect for forays into town and further field.
You can start your adventure with an easy 1-hr, 3km walk from Gangtok to Tashi Viewpoint which takes you through oak forests dotted with cottages and even offers views of Mt Khangchendzonga on a clear day. On another day venture into the stunning environs of the historic Rumtek Monastery. Plan to visit the legendary Tsomgo Lake and historic Nathu-La Pass one morning.
Gangtok also offers alluring forays to nearby attractions such as Pelling (4 hrs), where the Elgin has another property. You can walk (40 min) to the 300-year-old Pemayangtse Monastery. You get some of the choicest views from here of Mt Khangchendzonga, the world’s 3rd highest peak. Another lovely trail from Pelling is the Rabdentse Ruins Walk (1.45mins). Rabdentse was an earlier capital of Sikkim.
If you plan an extended stay in Sikkim, (highly recommended) there are numerous unspoilt vistas to explore at leisure. The state has established itself as one of the world’s foremost adventure sports destinations, rewarding visitors with vast swathes of natural beauty, adrenaline-pumping activities, cultural delights and deep -delighting heritage experiences. Time to get your bookings done at The Elgin Nor-Khill, before the rooms are taken!