EIH Limited’s decision to develop an Oberoi luxury resort at Makaibari Tea Estate points to a growing preference among hotel companies for heritage-led, low-density projects in ecologically and culturally significant destinations. As experiential luxury and destination authenticity increasingly shape development strategies, the Darjeeling signing places the eastern Himalayas firmly back on the hospitality investment map.
EIH Limited, the flagship company of The Oberoi Group, announced on 15 December 2025 the signing of a management agreement for The Oberoi, Makaibari Tea Estate, Darjeeling. The resort will be developed within the historic Makaibari Tea Estate in partnership with Luxmi Tea Co Private Limited. Scheduled to open in 2030, the project will feature 25 keys in its initial phase and has been designed by Nava Design Studios Co. Ltd., Bangkok.
“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,” said Arjun Oberoi, Executive Chairman, The Oberoi Group.
A legacy estate at the centre of the project
Established in 1859, Makaibari is among the world’s oldest tea estates and is globally recognised as the first fully certified organic tea estate. Spread across 1,236 acres, the estate is known for its primary forests, rare biodiversity and one of the world’s oldest functioning tea factories, constructed using wood, bamboo and cast iron.
The resort has been master-planned with the potential for additional keys in the future, allowing for measured expansion while remaining aligned with the estate’s heritage and natural environment.
Design intent, scale and setting
Located approximately 35 kilometres from Bagdogra International Airport, the site offers accessibility while maintaining a sense of seclusion. The design approach aims to integrate the resort into the estate’s terrain and tea culture, preserving its agricultural and ecological character.
“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, complemented by the warmth, sincerity and attention to detail that define The Oberoi Group,” said Vikram Oberoi, Chief Executive Officer, The Oberoi Group.
Community engagement and sustainability focus
Makaibari has long been associated with community-led practices, including fair labour standards, livelihood support and long-term engagement with worker families. The resort project is expected to build on this foundation through training and skilling initiatives aimed at creating sustained employment opportunities.
“Makaibari is a living legacy shaped by nature, craftsmanship and community for 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,” said Rudra Chatterjee, Managing Director, Luxmi Tea Co Private Limited.
Aligned with EIH’s expansion roadmap
The Darjeeling project forms part of EIH Limited’s broader expansion pipeline, which includes 29 upcoming hotels and luxury cruisers scheduled to open by 2030. These developments are expected to add approximately 2,251 keys across India and select international destinations, with management contracts continuing to play a central role in the company’s growth strategy.
With the Makaibari signing, EIH further strengthens its focus on destination-driven hospitality developments rooted in heritage, nature and long-term value creation.
