Cochrane Place
If you have a nose for the finest teas in the world, then we have sniffed out Cochrane Place, the perfect staging post for your tea-tasting forays into the world’s best Darjeeling teas. Located a stone’s throw away from the finest organic tea estates of Makaibari and Ambootia, Cochrane Place is a quaint, warm mountain retreat filled with information and memorabilia of the Raj-era and run by generous and charming Rita Arora, owner and host.
You will be stunned to know that this is not a period dwelling, but rather a faithful reproduction of the 18th century East India Company officer’s house that once stood here. And the décor, the furniture and the memorabilia all lend itself to making you feel that you have stepped back in time. With Rita’s penchant for food and research, she has preserved and revived the dying tradition of Anglo-Indian cooking, to give us an authentic experience of what life in the Raj was all about. Stagger out of the restaurant, and you will find yourself ensconced in one of the hotel’s comfortable and atmospheric 31 rooms and suites, each with stunning views of the Kanchenjunga Himalayas and the verdant carpet of tea.
The town of Kurseong, located just 10 minutes from Cochrane Place, is a mere dot on the map and has always been overshadowed by its more popular cousin, Darjeeling. Which is a good thing, because life here is more laid-back, the air is crisp and clean, and the local people less jaded about tourism. Managed in a sustainable and responsible manner Cochrane Place is ideal for those who’re looking for an experience of a local hill town, long village walks and the facility of a retreat with great food and excellent company.
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