Goomtee Tea Retreat: A Serene Getaway in the Darjeeling Hills

Goomtee Tea Retreat is a hidden gem nestled amidst the lush hills of Kurseong, located on the way to Darjeeling along Hill Cart Road. This tranquil retreat offers visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of tea gardens, experience the legacy of colonial-era hospitality, and engage in various activities that connect them with the local culture and nature.

Goomtee Tea Garden

Goomtee Tea Garden is renowned for producing some of the finest orthodox teas in the region. Situated in the prime quality tea belt of the Kurseong Hills, it is flanked by the prestigious Jungpana Tea Garden to the east and Castleton Tea Garden to the west. Certified as an organic garden, Goomtee employs sustainable farming practices, ensuring that no chemical pesticides or fertilizers are used, thus preserving the natural harmony of the area.

Location

Goomtee and its neighbour Jungpana were both established by British planter Henry Montgomery Lennox in 1899. The garden is located close to Kurseong town near Mahanadi village. Goomtee Tea Resort is located about 45 km from Bagdogra airport and 40 km from New Jalpaiguri railway station and takes about 1.5 hours to reach. Kurseong town is about 8 km away. Mahanadi rail station of Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is just about 200 meters away.

Accommodation: The Heritage Bungalow

At the heart of the estate is a 100-year-old British Bungalow, known as the Bara Bungalow, meticulously restored to serve as a charming accommodation for tourists. Perched at an altitude of 4,500 feet, the bungalow offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and hills. It features four elegantly furnished wooden bedrooms equipped with picture windows, fireplaces, and modern bathrooms.

Facilities Include:

- Spacious rooms with attached bath and hot & cold water.
- Room heaters to keep you warm in the cool mountain air.
- An in-house kitchen offering garden-fresh organic vegetarian food.
- Indoor and outdoor games for leisurely entertainment.
- A library stocked with books for quiet reading sessions.

The on-site chef specializes in Indian, Continental, American, and Chinese cuisines, prepared with the freshest ingredients under strict hygienic conditions.

Activities at Goomtee Tea Garden

Goomtee offers a range of activities that allow guests to engage with the estate and its surroundings:
Tea Tours: Learn about the intricate process of tea manufacturing, including tea plucking, processing, and tasting various blends of Darjeeling tea.
Nature Walks and Birding: Explore the lush landscapes on guided nature walks or bird-watching tours through nearby forests.
Waterfall Bathing: Enjoy a refreshing dip under natural waterfalls (seasonal).
Village Hikes: Take a hike to nearby villages to meet the garden workers and gain insight into their way of life.
Toy Train Rides: Experience the historic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway with a ride from Mahanadi Heritage Station.
Cultural Experiences: Enjoy Gurkha cultural dance performances and bonfire evenings hosted by the garden workers.

Suggested Itinerary: 2 Nights, 3 Days at Goomtee Garden

Day 1: Arrival at Goomtee Garden
- The journey to Goomtee follows the Hill Cart Road, weaving through lush green tea gardens and quaint villages.
- Check-in at the colonial heritage bungalow, greeted by warm hospitality and traditional tea.
- After refreshments, take a short hike to a nearby hillock to soak in the scenic beauty and serenity.
- Unwind in the luxury of the bungalow, surrounded by nature's tranquillity.

Day 2: Exploring the Tea Garden
- Embark on a guided garden tour with the estate manager, witnessing tea plucking, processing, and tasting various blends of Darjeeling tea.
- Post-lunch, opt for a village hike to meet the garden workers and explore their livelihoods or take a toy train ride from Mahanadi Heritage Station.
- Spend a lazy afternoon reading or venture to a nearby waterfall for a seasonal bath under the falls.
- End the day with a cultural show, complete with tribal music, dance, and a bonfire.

Day 3: Morning Birding & Departure
- Start the day early with a bird-watching tour through the nearby forest.
- Return to the bungalow for breakfast, followed by a warm farewell from the Goomtee team as you depart for your next destination.

Optional: Extend Your Stay
For those wishing to extend their stay, Goomtee offers additional activities:
Day Trip to Darjeeling: Take the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway from Mahanadi Heritage Station to Darjeeling. This scenic journey offers stunning views of tea gardens and the picturesque hills of Darjeeling.
Riverside Picnic: Enjoy a picnic lunch in a picturesque natural setting by the riverside, surrounded by the serene beauty of the hills.
Return to the garden in the evening and spend the night in the cosy comfort of the bungalow, enjoying the warmth of the fireplace.

Best Time to Visit

Goomtee Tea Garden is a year-round destination with temperatures ranging between 7°C and 18°C. Its convenient access from Kurseong, Darjeeling, and Siliguri makes it an ideal retreat for travellers seeking a peaceful escape in the hills.