EIH Limited announces The Oberoi, Makaibari Tea Estate, Darjeeling

EIH Limited, the flagship company of The Oberoi Group, has entered a management agreement to develop an Oberoi luxury resort within Darjeeling’s historic Makaibari Tea Estate. This initiative advances the Group’s strategic vision to offer distinctive hospitality encounters in remarkable natural environments.

Established in 1859, Makaibari is revered globally for its Himalayan panoramas, ancient forests, and ecological diversity. Spanning 1,236 acres, the estate houses one of the world’s oldest operational tea factories—crafted entirely from wood, bamboo, and cast iron—showcasing preserved industrial heritage. As the first certified organic tea estate (1988), Makaibari has been a trailblazer in biodynamic farming practices decades before their widespread adoption.

Beyond agriculture, the estate exemplifies sustainable community development through equitable labor standards, economic empowerment initiatives, and sustained support for resident families. This approach resonates with The Oberoi Group’s commitment to fostering local community wellbeing.

Scheduled for a 2030 opening, the resort will feature 25 accommodations designed by Nava Design Studios Co. Ltd. of Bangkok. Developed alongside Luxmi Tea Co. Private Limited, the property will lie 35 kilometers from Bagdogra International Airport, balancing accessibility with immersion in the Eastern Himalayas’ secluded landscapes. The master plan allows for potential future expansion that respects the surroundings. Guest experiences will draw inspiration from Makaibari’s heritage, tea traditions, and dramatic terrain.

Rudra Chatterjee, Managing Director, Luxmi Tea Co Private Limited, remarked, “Makaibari embodies a 150-year symbiosis of nature, craftsmanship, and community. Its diverse ecosystems and mountain vistas create an extraordinary canvas for hospitality. Partnering with EIH Limited and The Oberoi Group allows us to craft a destination celebrating this legacy while introducing unmatched experiential luxury to Darjeeling. Alongside delivering locally skilled employment opportunities, environmental stewardship will remain paramount throughout development.”

Arjun Oberoi, Executive Chairman, The Oberoi Group, commented, “Makaibari’s artistic heritage and breathtaking geography make it an ideal setting for an Oberoi property. This venture aligns with our pursuit of transformative travel in culturally rich landscapes. We also foresee immense promise in India’s eastern Himalayan belt—an underexplored region offering pristine natural beauty. Management agreements like this remain pivotal to our measured growth strategy in high-potential destinations.”

Vikram Oberoi, Chief Executive Officer, The Oberoi Group, added, “Our development philosophy prioritizes honoring Makaibari’s ecological and social fabric. We aim to generate sustainable livelihoods, enhance local capabilities, and support community-driven initiatives. Every detail will echo our signature warmth and craftsmanship, creating an authentic reflection of this unparalleled setting.”

This project forms part of EIH Limited’s active expansion, with 29 hotels and luxury cruisers planned globally by 2030—adding approximately 2,251 keys. A substantial majority will operate under management contracts, highlighting this model’s strategic role in the company’s roadmap.