Summit Hotels & Resorts has signed a 24-key property in Samthar, West Bengal, expanding its presence across lesser-explored destinations in the Eastern Himalayas. The hotel, Summit Samthar – The Offbeat Collection, is scheduled to open between October and November 2026.
Located around 30 km from Siliguri, Samthar is surrounded by forests, tea gardens and Himalayan landscapes. The emerging destination offers opportunities for nature-based and slow travel, hiking and birdwatching, while remaining relatively outside established tourist circuits.
The upcoming property will feature 24 rooms facing Kanchenjunga, each with a private balcony. Facilities will include an in-house restaurant, private lawn, tea garden, children’s play area, common seating spaces and extensive outdoor areas.
Sumit Mitruka, Founder & CEO, Summit Hotels & Resorts, said Samthar fits the company’s strategy of developing hospitality in lesser-known destinations. He added that properties in emerging markets can contribute to local employment, demand for transport and other services, and sourcing from local businesses and suppliers.
The signing forms part of Summit’s Offbeat Collection, which focuses on destinations beyond conventional tourism circuits. The company said hospitality development in such locations can support local economies while encouraging longer stays and introducing new travellers to emerging destinations.
Summit expects the Samthar property to expand the destination’s appeal among leisure travellers and encourage visitors to include lesser-known parts of North Bengal in their itineraries. The company is also developing its portfolio through three propositions — Offbeat, Signature and Mandir — covering emerging destinations and other specialised travel segments.