Ilbert Manor – A British Vintage hotel in the heart of Mussoorie

November 20, 2024
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Overview

Renowned for its impeccable service, The Ilbert Manor was Mussoorie’s first “Grand Hotel” and continues to reign today with its charm and service. The hotel is located on the mall road, one of the premier locations and shopping districts.

The hotel opened in 1840 and immediately enchanted the Victorian high society with comforts and luxuries which far exceeded their expectations. The legendary hotel continued to entertain the royalty, dignitaries, and celebrities with its elegantly appointed rooms and suites that evoke a welcoming, residential ambience.

Ilbert Manor offers world-class dining facilities, and is famed as the place where the tradition of afternoon tea was born.  

Location

It’s in a central location, inside a small lane on the Mussoorie  library road, but once inside you feel like you’re in another world altogether, and miles away from where it actually is.

Finding the hotel might not be an n easy task as it meanders through a small lane, (very expert drivers can maneuver through, or you can get the help of their local drivers or staff to steer the wheel to the property. It is located in an elegant mansion that occupies an entire block in the neighborhood. It’s the perfect base from which to explore the shopping on mall road, as well as trekking options like the camel back road.

Interiors

The design and build quality is just exceptional, as was the standard of service, facilities offered and a unique ambience for a boutique hotel.

The boutique hotel holds some of the most desirable artifacts in the property.  When you enter the hotel through the doors, and move towards the reception and up the staircase, you walk into an incredible 200 years of history.

The hotel still is the favored venue for royalty, artists, and musicians from around the country.

The hotel with impressive flower displays, and high ceilings, is very elegant. The reception and concierge desks are located on the ground floor, while elegant Victorian staircases guests to their rooms located on the first floor. When you step into the hotel, you are greeted by the signature scent, a refreshing, serene and subtle essence of ginger flower. The delicate aroma, which is dispersed through the air-conditioning systems, has a very nice and unique touch.

The elegantly appointed rooms and suites evoke a welcoming, residential ambience, while offering the conveniences of today. The accommodation is divided into Colonial quarters, Imperial chalets, and Victorian suites.

During our visit, we stayed in a lovely Imperial chalet, located on the first floor, overlooking beautiful mountains and the floating clouds. Part of the newly refurbished and executive rooms capture the essence of the Regency period, with historic detailing, an eclectic mix of artwork, and some striking color touches. While I loved my refurbished room, I found the bathroom to be a little underwhelming, with a small rain shower and a small sink.

The ultra-comfortable, king-sized bed was by far one of the best and largest beds that I have ever slept in. Period furniture and artifacts adorn all the rooms. Hard wood teak wood almirahs and dressing table take you the bygone era. Wi-Fi is complimentary in all the rooms.

The hotel’s chic and glamorous restaurant on the ground floor, conjures up classic and innovative dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and is open to walk-ins.

Breakfast comprises of an Indian spread buffet.  One of the highlights of the hotel is the art deco inspired Court, which opens up to breathtaking vistas.  Enjoying tea in a vintage setting is highly recommended. The rates of the dishes are nominal and it’s better to give the Chinese food a miss and try the Indian cuisine.

The staff and service at this hotel is decent. From the maids to concierge to the management, the service is pleasant.

The best part it is a pet friendly property.

Address: Chowk, Duggal Villa Estate Rd, Library, The Mall Road, Mussoorie, Uttarakhand 248179

Phone: 083021 90594

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