11 Budget Luxury Experiences Only India Can Offer

6. Tea-Planter Bungalows and Estate Stays (Darjeeling / Munnar)

Sleep where tea is grown: colonial-era bungalows on working tea estates offer high ceilings, porches, and a quiet rhythm that feels indulgent. In places like Darjeeling and Munnar, many estates rent rooms in restored planter bungalows or run small guesthouses that include estate tours and guided tastings. Nightly rates often range from ₹2,500–7,500 (~$30–$95) depending on season and amenities. The experience is uniquely Indian because the region’s terrain, microclimate, and tea culture create a setting that combines landscape, history, and hands-on tastings. Morning fog, fresh plucked leaves, and a cup brewed the estate way make this feel luxurious without a big price. Best months vary by region; spring harvests showcase fresh flush leaves and tastings.