Escape to Himalayan Heaven: Norbu Thungkar's Unforgettable Darjeeling Stay
Escape to Himalayan Heaven: Norbu Thungkar - My Darjeeling Dream (and the Slightly Less Dreamy Bits)
Okay, so you're thinking of a Darjeeling escape, right? Majestic Himalayas whispering secrets in the crisp air, rolling tea gardens, and… well, let's be honest, a healthy dose of Instagram envy. I get it. I just got back from a stay at Norbu Thungkar, and I'm here to give you the real deal, the messy, honest, and slightly rambling review you actually need. Because let's face it, those glossy travel brochures leave out the important bits: the rogue curry stains, the questionable plumbing, the sheer, unadulterated humanity of a good (or not-so-good) hotel experience.
Let's start with the basics: Accessibility. This is Darjeeling, people. Think winding, uphill roads. Think charm… and a total lack of accessibility. Norbu Thungkar, bless its heart, tries. They have an elevator, which is a HUGE win. But navigating the property with mobility issues? It’s going to be a workout. Best to call ahead and spell out your needs. I did see facilities for disabled guests listed, so maybe they're better equipped than I realized.
On-site Restaurants & Lounges: Right, the food. Oh, the food. Let's just say my tastebuds went on quite the adventure. They offer Asian breakfast, Asian cuisine in restaurant, International cuisine in restaurant, and even a vegetarian restaurant. (Yes, I’m a sucker for a good veg curry after a long day!) They have a bar (essential), a coffee shop (vital for those early sunrise views), and a poolside bar which, sadly, I didn’t experience because the pool was out of commission during my visit, which was a bummer, as I'm told is a Pool with view, but more on that later. The Restaurants offer A la carte in restaurant, Buffet in restaurant, Desserts in restaurant, and Happy hour (yes, please!). The Breakfast [buffet] was… well, it was there. A bit standard, honestly. A lot of coffee/tea in restaurant, which is good, and the Western breakfast was better. The Room service [24-hour] was a lifesaver after a particularly ambitious trek. The Snack bar offered quick fix. And the Soup in restaurant, and Salad in restaurant were well made.
The Cleanliness and Safety Situation (and My Slight Obsession with Germs)
Okay, real talk. With, you know, the world being what it is, cleanliness is paramount. Norbu Thungkar gets major points for taking this seriously. They had Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, and Rooms sanitized between stays. They also offer Room sanitization opt-out available, which is great. I noticed all the staff were trained in safety protocols and there was Hand sanitizer everywhere, which put my germ-phobic heart at ease. They also had First aid kit. They also have Doctor/nurse on call is a great benefit. Safe dining setup, Sanitized kitchen and tableware items and Individually-wrapped food options are very good too. They also have Physical distancing of at least 1 meter, but the staff also wear mask, something which I appreciated. And the Staff trained in safety protocol also.
Things to Do and Ways to Relax (Because, Himalayan Bliss!)
Okay, here’s where Norbu Thungkar really shines. Well, in theory. They have a Spa! And not just any spa, a spa that promises Himalayan relaxation! The Spa/sauna itself has Sauna, Steamroom, Body scrub, Body wrap, and Massage.
I was looking forward to the Pool with view, the outdoor Swimming pool [outdoor] and the Swimming pool, but, alas, it was closed. So I only got to enjoy the other stuff. The Gym/fitness center was available. They have a Foot bath. So I got massaged. On the subject of being pampered, the Breakfast in room and Breakfast takeaway service are helpful.
The Room Itself – A Tale of Two Halves (and Why I Needed More Tea)
The rooms? They're a mixed bag, honestly. Let's start with the good: They all have Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Wi-Fi [free]. And, crucially, great Internet access – wireless. You also get Complimentary tea and Free bottled water which is a major win. The Air conditioning and Air conditioning in public area are nice. I also found Bathtub, Bathrobes, Slippers, and Towels in available Additional toilet. There is Alarm clock, Alarm clock, Bathroom phone, Blackout curtains for a good sleep. The Coffee/tea maker meant I could fuel up for the day with a cuppa. The Daily housekeeping was excellent. The Free bottled water was good. Plus Hair dryer, Housekeeping, Interconnecting room(s) available, Internet access – LAN, Ironing facilities, Laptop workspace, Linens, Mini bar and Mirror. On-demand movies, Private bathroom, Reading light are also amazing. The Refrigerator, Satellite/cable channels, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, and Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Umbrella, Visual alarm, Wake-up service are also available.
Now, for the quirks: I had a room on a higher floor, which, by the way, wasn’t as high as advertised. But still, the High floor thing was good for views. The Non-smoking rooms are great, of course. I also saw Extra long bed and Carpeting and Closet in the room. I'd also say the Smoke alarms, Soundproof rooms, and Window that opens are awesome.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter (And the Ones That Don't)
Norbu Thungkar offers a whole bunch of services. They have Air conditioning in public area, Audio-visual equipment for special events, Business facilities, Cash withdrawal, Concierge, Contactless check-in/out, Convenience store, Currency exchange, Daily housekeeping, Doorman, Dry cleaning, Elevator, Essential condiments, Facilities for disabled guests, Food delivery, Gift/souvenir shop, Indoor venue for special events, Invoice provided, Ironing service, Laundry service, Luggage storage, Meeting/banquet facilities, Meetings, Meeting stationery, On-site event hosting, Outdoor venue for special events, Projector/LED display, Safety deposit boxes, Seminars, Shrine, Smoking area, Terrace, Wi-Fi for special events, and Xerox/fax in business center. Phew! The Cashless payment service is also appreciated. The Check-in/out [express] was actually express, which was great after a long journey.
For the Kids (and the Young-at-Heart)
They are Family/child friendly. They even have Babysitting service, if you need it! They offer Kids meal too.
Getting Around (or, My Love-Hate Relationship with Darjeeling's Roads)
They do offer Airport transfer, which is a huge bonus. There is the Taxi service, and Valet parking are also useful. They also have Car park [free of charge], Bicycle parking and Car park [on-site].
The Verdict: Would I Go Back?
Look, Norbu Thungkar isn’t perfect. It's a little rough around the edges. But its heart is in the right place. The location is phenomenal. The staff are genuinely friendly. And the spa made the trip. And the fact that they are so conscientious about COVID protocols is such a relief. Overall? Absolutely. Would I go back? Definitely. Especially if that pool is finally open next time!
Your Unique Darjeeling Getaway Awaits: Escape to Himalayan Heaven at Norbu Thungkar!
Tired of the ordinary? Craving an adventure that nourishes the soul? Then pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable escape to Norbu Thungkar, your gateway to the breathtaking beauty of Darjeeling!
Here's why you NEED to book your stay NOW:
- Unparalleled Himalayan Views: Wake up to snow-capped peaks and rolling tea gardens from the comfort of your room. Forget sunrise alarms – they'll do it for you.
- Pampering Paradise: Indulge in a rejuvenating spa experience with our signature body scrub, wrap, and massage. Let our expert therapists melt away your stress and leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized.
- Culinary Delights: Savor a diverse
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're about to dive headfirst into my Darjeeling disaster… I mean, delightful trip to Norbu Thungkar Homestay. Let's be real; this itinerary isn't going to be some perfectly timed symphony of sightseeing. No, no. This is more like a slightly off-key bluegrass band warming up in a monsoon. And frankly, I wouldn't have it any other way.
Phase 1: The Great Arrival & Altitude Angst (Or, Why Did I Pack That Much?)
Day 1: Arrival in Bagdogra & The Death-Defying Jeep Ride
- Morning: Landed at Bagdogra Airport. The air? Thick. The humidity? A slap in the face. Okay, breathe. Find the pre-booked taxi (God bless whoever invented pre-booking). The driver’s name was something like "Sonam," and he looked about seventeen but drove like a seasoned pro. Or maybe it just felt like he did because I was gripping the seat with the tenacity of a limpet. The road? Well, imagine a goat path… that someone paved with gravel… while blindfolded… and then added sheer drops that would make a mountain goat wince.
- Afternoon: The jeep ride went on. Hours. I remember a particularly hair-raising moment where the jeep actually lifted a little on a hairpin turn. I swear my life flashed before my eyes, mostly consisting of me eating pizza and accidentally breaking a wine glass. Thankfully, Sonam was a master. We went around curves that I knew I would never be able to manage driving myself, and somehow, we didn't end up as roadkill.
- Evening: Finally! Norbu Thungkar Homestay! The air was crisp, and the view… whoa. Lush green mountains, tea plantations clinging to the slopes like emerald scarves. Absolutely breathtaking. Except… then the altitude hit. My head felt like a drum being slowly pounded. Dinner was a blurry affair of momos and a desperate search for oxygen. I went to bed after barely making it through the first course, completely zonked. I remember waking up in the dead of night with a pounding headache and the vague feeling that I was going to throw up. Not a promising start.
Phase 2: Tea, Trekking & Trepidation (Or, Will I Ever Breathe Normally Again?)
Day 2: Tea Tasting & The Miraculous Staircase
- Morning: Woke up slightly less dead. Thank you, altitude gods! That view, though… still amazing. After this, I went straight for a large helping of breakfast so that I'd have energy for the tea plantation tour. The tea plantation tour was excellent from start to end. I learned about different types of tea leaves and that the best tea leaves are the ones that have been picked by hand.
- Afternoon: The physical tour of the tea plantation was beautiful, but the climb up the steps was painful. I was out of breath for the entire time, but at least I got to see the tea leaves. The tea tasting was a delight. I tried every type of tea I could get my hands on, including the rare Silver Tip White Tea, which was delicate and floral. Afterward, back at the homestay, I felt like I was floating. This led me to believe that the teas were stronger than I had anticipated.
- Evening: The homestay owner, Mr. Norbu, a wonderfully kind man with a smile that could melt glaciers, offered me some local ginger tea. It was incredibly soothing and, miraculously, helped with the headache. I spent the evening chatting with other guests – a couple from London, a solo traveler from Germany – swapping travel stories and marveling at the stars. The stars! They're absolutely incredible out there, so bright and clear, unpolluted by city lights.
Day 3: Tiger Hill Sunrise & The (Possibly Over-Ambitious) Trek
- Early Morning: Woke up at 4 am for the dreaded Tiger Hill sunrise. Again, the jeep ride was insane, but worth it. The sunrise was spectacular, but the sheer number of tourists… it felt like a rock concert. Everyone jostling for the perfect Instagram shot. I managed to find a quiet spot and just… breathe. The views were phenomenal. I really let myself soak it in.
- Morning/Afternoon: Back at the homestay, I thought I'd be all adventurous and go for a trek. This was a mistake. Don't get me wrong, the trails were gorgeous, winding through forests, past gurgling streams and prayer flags fluttering in the wind. BUT… this altitude… it was a brutal experience. I was panting like a dog, willing every breath, and by the end, I was so done. So, so tired.
- Evening: I spent the evening curled up with a book and a massive pot of ginger tea. Dinner was a quiet affair, and I was in bed by 8 pm. The altitude was making me weary.
Phase 3: Food, Faith, and Final Farewells (Or, I'm Going to Miss This Place!)
Day 4: Darjeeling Exploration & The Momo Manifesto
- Morning: Decided to explore the town of Darjeeling. It was a colourful, bustling place, full of life and interesting smells. Had to fight through crowds due to the number of tourists. Visited the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and Zoo. The zoo felt a bit sad… The animals were cramped. But the views… still amazing.
- Afternoon: Spent far too much time (and money) indulging in Darjeeling's famous momos. I tried every variety: steamed, fried, veggie, meat… each one a small, perfect parcel of deliciousness. I might have developed a slight addiction. Maybe.
- Evening: Back at the homestay, I befriended a local monk and spent a long time discussing life, death, and the meaning of momos. He had the kindest face, and his serenity was infectious. It made me reflect on the simplicity of life and the importance of just… being.
Day 5: Departure & The Heartbreak of Leaving
- Morning: Woke up feeling slightly less terrible (praise the gods!). Breakfast was a final feast of momos, pancakes, and Mr. Norbu's incredible chai. I spent hours just sitting on the veranda, gazing at the mountains, and feeling a deep sadness at the thought of leaving.
- Afternoon: The jeep ride back to Bagdogra Airport? Grueling, of course. But this time, I wasn't as scared. I was too busy replaying those amazing moments I lived in Darjeeling.
- Evening: Said goodbye to Norbu and his family. It was emotional. I left with a bag full of tea, a heart full of memories, and a deep sense of peace. I'll be back. As soon as I can catch my breath.
Quirks & Rambles
- The Food: Forget diets! Food is everything in Darjeeling. Especially the momos. I probably ate enough momos to feed a small nation.
- The Jeep Ride: The jeep rides are, to put it mildly, terrifying. But they're also part of the adventure. You feel a bond with your driver after surviving those roads.
- The People: The warmth and kindness of the people in Darjeeling are something else. I've never felt so welcome.
- The Altitude: It's a real thing. Respect it. Drink lots of water. And don't over-exert yourself, you won't be able to breathe.
- Final Thoughts: Darjeeling isn't perfect. It's a bit chaotic, a bit overwhelming, and the altitude can be a struggle. But it's also beautiful, inspiring, and utterly unforgettable. Go there. Just… pack extra oxygen. And definitely, definitely eat the momos.
So, Darjeeling. Why Norbu Thungkar specifically? What's the *deal*?
Okay, view. Let's talk about THIS view. Is it *really* as breathtaking as everyone says? Because let’s be REAL here…
The Rooms. Were they as charming as the photos promised? And, since we're being honest, what *weren't* they showing you?
The Food. Oh, the food. Tell me the food was worth the trip
Let's cut to the chase: The *Staff*! What were they like? And who was the grumpy-but-lovable owner?
That walk... You mentioned wanting to eat more. Tell me about the walks around the hotel.
The Downsides? Anything I would, absolutely, need to be aware of? The real, unvarnished truth?
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