EIH Limited, the flagship company of The Oberoi Group, has announced the signing of a management agreement for a luxury Oberoi resort at the legendary Makaibari Tea Estate in Darjeeling. The signing marks a significant milestone in the Group’s long-term vision of developing exceptional hospitality experiences in destinations defined by heritage, nature and cultural depth.
The upcoming resort, to be known as The Oberoi, Makaibari Tea Estate, Darjeeling, will be set within one of the world’s most storied tea estates, offering guests an immersive experience shaped by Himalayan landscapes, living heritage and sustainable practices that have defined Makaibari for over a century and a half.
Makaibari Tea Estate: A Living Legacy of Nature, Craft and Sustainability
Established in 1859, Makaibari Tea Estate spans 1,236 acres (500 hectares) and is globally recognised for its dramatic Himalayan views, lush primary forests and rare biodiversity. The estate is home to one of the world’s oldest functioning tea factories, constructed entirely of wood, bamboo and cast iron, offering a rare glimpse into living industrial heritage that continues to operate today.
Makaibari holds the distinction of being the world’s first fully certified organic tea estate, achieving certification in 1988. Long before sustainability became an industry imperative, the estate pioneered biodynamic and permaculture farming practices, setting global benchmarks for responsible agriculture.
Beyond cultivation, Makaibari has built a strong legacy of community development, fair labour practices and livelihood support for worker families. This ethos of responsibility towards people and place closely aligns with The Oberoi Group’s philosophy of care, stewardship and long-term value creation.
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Resort Details and Development Vision
Set within this extraordinary environment, The Oberoi, Makaibari Tea Estate, Darjeeling will feature 25 keys and is scheduled to open in 2030. The resort is being developed in partnership with Luxmi Tea Co Private Limited and has been designed by Nava Design Studios Co. Ltd., Bangkok.
Located approximately 35 kilometres from Bagdogra International Airport, the property will offer convenient access while maintaining a sense of seclusion amid the eastern Himalayan landscape. The master plan also allows for the addition of future keys, ensuring that any expansion remains thoughtful and in harmony with the surrounding environment.
The guest experience will be deeply rooted in the estate’s heritage, tea culture and breathtaking natural setting, reflecting the timeless character and rare authenticity of Makaibari.
Partner Perspective: Preserving Heritage Through Experiential Luxury
Speaking on the partnership, Rudra Chatterjee, Managing Director, Luxmi Tea Co Private Limited, said,
“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 them 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.”
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Oberoi Group Leadership on Vision and Regional Potential
Highlighting the strategic importance of the project, Arjun Oberoi, Executive Chairman, The Oberoi Group, said,
“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.”
Commitment to Community, Sustainability and Long-Term Impact
Reinforcing the Group’s focus on responsible development, Vikram Oberoi, Chief Executive Officer, The Oberoi Group, added,
“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 Robust Long-Term Growth Pipeline
The announcement comes as EIH Limited continues to advance a strong expansion roadmap. The company currently has a pipeline of 29 upcoming hotels and luxury cruisers scheduled to open by 2030, adding approximately 2,251 keys across India and select international destinations.
A significant portion of these developments will operate under management contracts, reinforcing the strategic importance of this asset-light model in EIH Limited’s long-term growth strategy.
Shaping Iconic Destinations Anchored in Heritage
With The Oberoi, Makaibari Tea Estate, Darjeeling, EIH Limited further strengthens its vision of shaping iconic hospitality destinations where heritage, nature and sustainability converge. The project stands as a reflection of the Group’s commitment to excellence, authenticity and thoughtful luxury in some of the world’s most extraordinary settings.
