Visiting North Bengal during the monsoons is a treat to the eyes with lush green stretches wherever you look. Covered with unending stretches of dense forest complemented by river Teesta, the Dooars are the foothills of the eastern Himalayas and an ideal destination for both mountain and forest lovers. After you drive 66.8km from the New Jalpaiguri railway station, through the forests, you will arrive at a verdant hilltop of a small town called Chalsa. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city life, this hilltop holds the Sinclairs Retreat Dooars, making it a perfect option for a staycation while you visit North Bengal.
Built in complete harmony with nature, Sinclairs Retreat is ideal for those who seek rest and rejuvenation. The USP of the property is to ‘come and live with nature’. Over the years, tourists of more than 50 nationalities have visited Sinclairs Retreat Dooars, putting Chalsa on the international tourist map. The brand acquired the 20-acre plot in 1995, when it was a barren hillock filled with wild grass and bushes infested with snakes. Today this green haven is filled with flora and fauna at its best. The resort boasts of 66 rooms and three suites in cottage styles. The spacious indoor and outdoor spaces of the resort are perfectly embraced by the vast greenery, making it ideal for destination weddings and conferences. The resort has two big lawns and a children’s park which hosts lawn parties, bonfire, ghazal nights and other recreational activities.
The region is known for famous wildlife sanctuaries, like Gorumara National Park, and Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary. There are beautiful tea plantations and other adventure spots like Samsing, Rocky Island and many more which are minutes away from the resort. The retreat also has the facility to curate and customise tours to these destinations. Apart from the tourist facilities, the resort also curates activities like cycling, pool volley ball, golf and fun group activities like tug-of-war, cricket, karaoke nights and many more.
”The USP of the resort is ‘live with nature’. Monsoon is not off-season to visit the region; in fact, after rains the entire valley is unbelievably green. If senior citizens are looking for a short break, this resort is ideal for them. There are many facilities within the resort to keep the guests engaged. Also, the road from either the railway station or the airport are extremely good and most part of the drive is picturesque,” said Navin Suchanti, chairman of Sinclairs Hotels and Resorts.
Functional and contemporary, the deluxe rooms offer a luxurious stay with a view of the main lawns
Spacioulsy created with a bedroom, living room and a dining area, this premium suite has a colonial look and feel, with wooden panes on the ceiling and heritage decor