Staying in a tea garden bungalow often feels out of reach for middle-class travellers due to high tariffs. However, there are a few tea estates where you can spend a night amid colonial charm without burning a hole in your pocket. Here are three such estates where affordable stays are still possible.
Rolling green tea gardens all around, wooden bungalows built during the British era, and from the veranda, a glimpse of the majestic Kanchenjunga, spending a night in such a setting is both a privilege and an adventure. While most tea estate bungalows charge hefty prices, a handful remain surprisingly affordable.
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Fagu Tea Estate
Fagu is not among the most popular tourist destinations in the Dooars. Located just 20 km from Malbazar, the Fagu tea garden houses a British-era bungalow set amid lush greenery. The cost of staying here is around ₹4,000 per night, excluding taxes. From Fagu, travellers can explore Gorumara forest, Suntalekhola, Rishyap and Lava.
Soureni Tea Estate
At Soureni Tea Estate, room tariffs start at just ₹2,800 per night. Prices increase depending on room category and package selection. Located close to Mirik, this nearly 100-year-old tea estate spreads across 137 hectares. Soureni is 42 km away from New Jalpaiguri and offers a memorable experience for those who are looking to stay amid tea gardens at a moderate cost.
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Gomti Tea Estate
Established in 1899, Gomti Tea Estate is situated near Kurseong and offers a distinctly calm experience. Staying at the estate’s retreat starts from approximately ₹4,700 per night. The retreat is well-known for its vegetarian cuisine and Darjeeling tea. Gomti is about 36 km from New Jalpaiguri and takes nearly two hours to reach by road.