The Elgin Nor-Khill, Gangtok, Sikkim

Meaning "house of jewels", Nor-Khill's bounty refers to the abundance of surrounding natural beauty. Built by the King of Sikkim in 1932, it was a favourite spot of his, where he sit in the Kanchen garden with his brushes and easel, and paint the scenery. Located at an altitude of 5000m, and nestled in the Himalayas, Nor-Khill has some impressive vistas. Formerly royal guesthouse for receiving visiting heads of state and dignitaries, it is now a luxury boutique hotels with 25 guestrooms. Depicting traditional regal Sikkamese décor, rooms feature local artworks including silk thankas, and dragon motifs. The Shangri-La dining room serves local, North Indian, and European set menus, in a refined setting, or enjoy a drink at The Dragon Bar. Sip on the finest Darjeeling tea in The Gazebo or in The Tea Lounge accompanied by the tinkle of an old piano. The spa provides a menu of Swedish and Indian treatments, as well as a hot tub, sauna, and steam room – though no pool as you'll find it a little too cold most of the year! A stay amidst the history of Sikkim, Nor-Khill is without exception the best hotel in Gangtok.