Singtom Tea Estate Resort - Darjeeling

The owners have a rich history of vegetarianism spanning countless generations. In 1999, they acquired Singtom Steinthal tea gardens in Darjeeling, which are two of the oldest tea gardens in the region, spreading across a vast 1,662 acres. Exceptional teas have been cultivated here since 1852. One of the world's top tea experts attests to a 2012 blend from the Steinthal garden, which showcases the artistry of handcrafted teas. The best tea leaves are carefully selected and harvested at sunrise to ensure optimal flavor. The plump white buds and robust leaves are then hand-rolled to create the exquisite tea leaves. The medium-golden amber brew boasts a sparkling quality and a lively mouthfeel, with a smooth character complemented by notes of dark grapes and bright citrus hints. From the Singtom garden, one can experience a remarkable tea that is notably smooth, harvested between the first and second flush seasons. The medium cup delivers a refined aroma with undertones of pear and citrus fruits, leading to a lingering finish with a hint of sweetness. For those visiting, a significant portion of the tea is grown on steep hillsides. The journey from the summit of the tea gardens to the river involves a long, winding road. There are four hiking trails within the resort area, totaling 13 miles (or 22 km) in length. Each trail lies at an elevation between approximately 3,300 and 6,000 feet (1,000 to 1,800 meters) and offers picturesque views of Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world, standing at 28,169 feet (8,586 meters). Traveling here is convenient; Siliguri is just 77 km from Darjeeling. The closest airport is situated 90 km away, and the nearest railway station is also in Siliguri.

I reached out to them via the email address listed on their website while I was staying in Darjeeling, politely inquiring if I could come by for a vegan lunch. Unfortunately, I never received a response.