TravTalk India Online Magazine
As India’s luxury hospitality sector looks beyond established circuits to develop destination-led experiences, Darjeeling’s Makaibari Tea Estate is emerging as a compelling opportunity. EIH Limited’s latest signing reflects a growing industry focus on heritage landscapes that can support immersive, low-density luxury tourism while aligning with sustainability and community engagement.
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 will be developed within the historic Makaibari Tea Estate, one of the world’s oldest tea estates, established in 1859, and globally recognised for its organic and biodynamic farming practices.
Scheduled to open in 2030, the resort will feature 25 keys and has been master-planned to allow for future expansion in harmony with the landscape. The project is being developed in partnership with Luxmi Tea Co Private Limited and designed by Nava Design Studios Co., Ltd., Bangkok. The estate is located approximately 35 kilometres from Bagdogra International Airport.
Partner perspective on sustainability and skills
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 growth through management contracts
The signing strengthens The Oberoi Group’s strategy of expanding through management contracts, particularly in destinations with strong cultural identity and natural assets.
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.”
Community integration and long-term impact
The development places strong emphasis on local engagement, skill development and long-term livelihoods.
Vikram Oberoi, Chief Executive Officer, The Oberoi Group, says: “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.”
Part of a wider pipeline
The project forms part of EIH Limited’s development pipeline of 29 hotels and luxury cruisers, scheduled to open by 2030, adding approximately 2,251 keys across India and select international destinations. A significant proportion of these developments will operate under management contracts.
With the Makaibari signing, EIH Limited reinforces its focus on shaping luxury hospitality offerings rooted in heritage, sustainability and destination authenticity.
