EIH Limited, the flagship company of The Oberoi Group, today announced the signing of a management agreement for an Oberoi luxury resort at the iconic Makaibari Tea Estate in Darjeeling. The project marks a significant milestone in the Group’s long-term plan to create exceptional hospitality experiences in the most extraordinary natural settings.

One of the world’s oldest and most storied tea estates, established in 1859, Makaibari is celebrated for its stunning Himalayan views, lush primary forests, and rare biodiversity. The 1,236-acre (500-hectare) estate includes one of the world’s oldest functioning tea factories—built entirely of wood, bamboo, and cast iron, providing a rare glimpse into living industrial heritage. Recognized globally as the world’s first fully certified organic tea estate (1988), Makaibari has led the way in biodynamic and permaculture farming long before these practices became mainstream.

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.”

The estate’s longstanding dedication to sustainability goes beyond agriculture. Makaibari has created a model for community development, including fair labor practices, livelihood improvements, and long-term support for worker families - an ethos that strongly aligns with The Oberoi Group’s philosophy of caring for and taking responsibility toward local communities.

Set within this remarkable environment, the resort will feature 25 keys and is scheduled to open in 2030. Designed by Nava Design Studios Co. Ltd., Bangkok, and developed in partnership with Luxmi Tea Co Private Limited, The Oberoi, Makaibari Tea Estate, Darjeeling will offer convenient access—just 35 kilometres from Bagdogra International Airport—while preserving an atmosphere of seclusion amid the natural beauty of the eastern Himalayas. The resort has also been master-planned with the potential for additional keys in the future, allowing for thoughtful expansion in harmony with the landscape. Rooted in heritage, tea culture and the region’s breathtaking terrain, the experience will be crafted to reflect the timeless character and extraordinary setting of Makaibari.

Arjun Oberoi, Executive Chairman, The Oberoi Group, further added, “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.”

This announcement comes as EIH Limited continues to implement a strong expansion plan, with a development pipeline of 29 upcoming hotels and luxury cruisers scheduled to open by 2030. These projects across India and selected international destinations will add approximately 2,251 keys to the portfolio. A significant portion of these developments will operate under management contracts, highlighting the strategic importance of this model in the company’s long-term growth strategy.

Vikram Oberoi, Chief Executive Officer, The Oberoi Group, said, “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 warmth, sincerity and attention to detail that define The Oberoi Group.”

With The Oberoi, Makaibari Tea Estate, Darjeeling, EIH Limited further reinforces its vision of creating iconic destinations rooted in heritage, nature, and a steadfast commitment to excellence.