Hotel Golden Dolma

Had a very bad experience; the reception staff/manager behaved poorly and had a bad attitude. The food was mediocre, and the rooms were just average. Overall, they seem to lack any understanding of hospitality.

Had a very bad experience; the reception staff/manager showed poor behavior and attitude. The food was average. The rooms were average as well. Overall, they seem to lack understanding of hospitality.

Service was good

My stay at Hotel Golden Dolma was so unsatisfactory that I feel the need to warn other travelers. The location was the first surprise — the hotel is tucked away in a narrow ravine where vehicle access is very tough. Carrying luggage along this path is difficult, especially for families with kids and elderly members. This crucial detail should be clearly stated during booking. Although the hotel might have been recently renovated, that doesn't make up for the poor service and unprofessional staff. We felt more like guests at a roadside inn than hotel customers. The worst moment was at check-in. I asked for help with my luggage; one big bag was taken, but when I requested help with the rest, the receptionist told me to carry it myself. Despite asking multiple times, no one assisted. I had my small son in one arm and had to carry several bags up two floors alone. Not a single staff member offered help, which made me regret choosing this hotel. Darjeeling was cold, and since I was with a young child, warm water was essential. The electric kettle in the room didn't work. When I asked for a replacement, the reception said they had no spare kettles as all rooms were occupied, showing no concern or apology. After a long discussion and repeated requests, they finally gave me another kettle. It's frustrating to have to argue for such a basic amenity. The food was disappointing too, mostly potato curry with little variety. We had dinner included, but even simple requests were met with reluctance and rude comments. One evening, I wanted to bring dinner to my room for a family member. Though they allowed it eventually, the staff's tone and behavior made me feel like I was asking for something unreasonable. Guests should never feel uncomfortable for such a simple ask. The biggest letdown was the staff's attitude. At many points, guests seemed like a bother rather than valued customers. There was little hospitality, empathy, or professionalism. Traveling far with family and a small child, I expected comfort, support, and basic courtesy. Instead, I ended up carrying luggage and child upstairs, arguing for a working kettle, dealing with indifferent staff, and questioning why I picked this hotel. Darjeeling is beautiful, but my experience at Hotel Golden Dolma left a very unpleasant memory. I strongly advise families, especially those with young children, to think twice before booking here.

The rooms are not convenient to use. The pictures are misleading. The food quality is poor. Overall, I am dissatisfied.