Tourism Breaking News
As luxury hospitality increasingly aligns with nature-led destinations and heritage-driven experiences, Darjeeling is emerging as a strategic focus for long-stay, experiential travel. EIH Limited’s decision to bring The Oberoi brand to the iconic Makaibari Tea Estate signals growing confidence in the eastern Himalayas as a premium tourism and investment destination.
EIH Limited, the flagship company of The Oberoi Group, announces the signing of a management agreement for The Oberoi, Makaibari Tea Estate, Darjeeling, on 15 December 2025. The luxury resort is located within the historic Makaibari Tea Estate in Darjeeling, West Bengal, and is scheduled to open in 2030.
The project is developed in partnership with Luxmi Tea Co Private Limited, designed by Nava Design Studios Co. Ltd., Bangkok, and will feature 25 keys, with scope for future expansion. The estate is located approximately 35 kilometres from Bagdogra International Airport, offering accessibility while retaining a secluded, natural setting.
Partner perspective on heritage and sustainability
Rudra Chatterjee, Managing Director, Luxmi Tea Co Private Limited, says: “Makaibari is a living legacy shaped by nature, craftsmanship and community over 150 years. With its pristine forests, panoramic Himalayan views and rare biodiversity, it offers a setting that is truly exceptional. We are delighted to partner with EIH Limited and The Oberoi Group to create a resort that reflects this heritage and brings a new dimension of experiential luxury to Darjeeling. The Oberoi Group’s enduring legacy of excellence makes it the ideal partner for this venture. The hotel will also play an important role in training and skilling local people, enabling long-term employment opportunities within The Oberoi Group. Every aspect of the development will prioritise sustainable practices, ensuring that the estate’s existing flora and fauna remain fully protected.”
Strategic fit for The Oberoi Group
Arjun Oberoi, Executive Chairman, The Oberoi Group, says: “The Oberoi, Makaibari Tea Estate, Darjeeling, is an inspiring addition to our development portfolio. Makaibari’s natural beauty, artisanal traditions and historical significance make it an extraordinary setting for an Oberoi resort. This partnership reflects our commitment to creating transformational experiences in destinations where nature, culture and heritage come together in meaningful ways. We also see exceptional potential in the broader eastern Himalayan region, including parts of the Northeast, which is blessed with unspoilt natural beauty and remains largely unexplored. As New India seeks to explore the country’s most exceptional landscapes, we believe authentic luxury hospitality can play a meaningful role. Management contracts such as this remain central to our long-term growth strategy, enabling us to expand thoughtfully in regions that hold extraordinary promise for immersive luxury experiences.”
Community-led development focus
Vikram Oberoi, Chief Executive Officer, The Oberoi Group, adds: “Makaibari is an extraordinary location, distinguished by its natural beauty, rich biodiversity and remarkable heritage. As we develop this resort, our priority is to honour this exceptional setting and contribute meaningfully to the communities that have long been its custodians. We are committed to creating sustainable employment, advancing skill development and strengthening long-term community initiatives. Our endeavour is to shape an experience that reflects the timeless character of Makaibari complimented by warmth, sincerity and attention to detail that define The Oberoi Group.”
Part of a wider expansion pipeline
The announcement aligns with EIH Limited’s expansion roadmap, which includes 29 upcoming hotels and luxury cruisers scheduled to open by 2030, adding approximately 2,251 keys across India and select international markets. Management contracts remain central to the company’s long-term growth strategy.
With this signing, EIH Limited reinforces its focus on developing destination-led luxury hospitality anchored in heritage, sustainability and community engagement.
