Enchanting tales and vivid storytelling at its best from the land of Kanchenjunga
Rea Oberoi takes you on an unforgettable adventure through a land of sacred, wish-fulfilling places; countless legends; supernatural presence; and mysterious myths. Daughter of legendary hotelier—the late Brij Raj ‘Diamond’ Oberoi, who took the Elgin group of heritage hotels to new heights—Rea weaves a narrative that immediately transports you to the Himalayas and stirs your wanderlust.
In Kanchenjunga Whispers, discover forest shamans, bodhisattvas, hidden tribes, gods and goddesses and travel with them to the valley of flowers, the ruins of an ancient kingdom, sacred forests, magical caverns and mythical monasteries. Venture into the land of the thunderbolt and rolling tea gardens and join the author as she forages for Himalayan gold and tries to cross over to Shambhala—the land of enlightened beings.
With hair-raising accounts that unfold as darkness settles over the misty mountains and road trips that take you to uncharted realms, this collection will also give you a glimpse of the author’s Himalayan home, where Sansar (the visible world) meets Moksha (the soul).
Join Rea on this fulfilling journey of self-discovery and surround yourself with soaring mountains and the sweet aroma of the tea gardens.
Rea Oberoi is a hotelier by birth and a mountain girl by birth and choice. She is the daughter of the late Brij Raj ‘Diamond’ Oberoi, who was the nephew of the father of the Indian Hotel Industry—M.S. Oberoi. Her debut book gives you a glimpse of life in the Himalayan abodes of Darjeeling and Sikkim, especially the Elgin group of hotels.
The book has a beautiful cover and blurb so I instantly picked this book up. Here I will briefly summarise the blurb that will give you idea about the book. The story has been set up in Darjeeling, The Elgin Hotel is the home for the protagonist Rea Oberoi. She is the daughter of legendary hotelier the late Brij Raj “Diamond” Oberoi. The Elgin is a home for Rea. She took fifth floor room with a mountain view. Hotel staff is family for her and same with the staff. They are incredible in customer services. The book consists of incidents or stories from the hotels, more accurately we can say anecdotes. I liked how they have to give up the private room when the agent overbooked them. I liked the story of a Karmic connection too. Other incident I liked is hosting the spiritual leader. I liked the incident about forest. Author mentioned that “Our forest is worshipped and revered by its Himalayan caretakers.” That shows that author has done thorough research and written the book taking care of smallest details. I like mentioning of supernatural presence and mysterious myths. While reading I felt that I was visiting those places, the hotel and experiencing everything. I liked the idea of the book. Author has narrated each incident in well detailed manner. The language of the book is lucid so that everyone can pick it up. I enjoyed reading it. Good one.
This book literally peeped at me in the airport bookshop. I was going around in circles looking for something different and it called out to me 🙂.
Although I have visited the places mentioned in this book there are so many others I have not seen or experienced. The glimpse I had of Darjeeling on my visit, was not a happy one but after reading it from the author's POV I feel the need to make another visit and experience the north east at a different level.
The book takes us across the mystic land and beyond the tea gardens of Darjeeling. Being a hoteliers daughter she has discussed the hotel's staff, the events and her life at the Elgin with her family.
She, has taken us on a spiritual trip via her experiences and shared the customs, stories of the land (spirit stories too)
You may read this book if you would like to take a virtual trip across this part of the North East (India) or just have a glimpse beyond the usual tourist spots.
It will make you fall in love with Kanchanjunga. I stumbled on the name and then the cover, really this name is enough to tingle anyone's enthusiasm.
The book immediately transported me into the mystical land of the beautiful mountain, the tapestries of the stories of mountain dwellers is mesmerizing, a cocktail of mystics, natural beauty, shaman, hidden village, astonishing folklores, and in the midst it is Hotel Elgin felt like a magical journey. Rea Oberoi's debut book is a lavish journey for Kanchanjunga, you will really start feeling like this Kanchanjunga is really Whispering through the pages.
Rea Oberoi started her magical narrative from her Hotel Elgin, she effortlessly tells us about her family and members of Elgin, and slowly she explores the landscape of Kanchanjunga in her book Kanchanjunga Whispers. From Darjeeling to Nepal, Tibet she explored all and told us her experiences.
Did you know Lepchas was created by God Aitbu from the freshly fallen snow of the mighty Kanchanjunga, this is why they love to call themselves -Children of snowy peak. There's a hidden Village where every shaman goes but is not allowed to discuss the route, that is an enchanting magical village. History of Sandakphu, a Buddhist monastery, a Nypmh who appeared as beautiful deer on full moon night, legends of Red Tara and Green Tara, and many other personal experiences Rea enveloped in 47 short stories.
But this is not only a memoir or a travel story collection, Rea goes beyond the natural beauty and focuses on searching inner knowledge throughout the book, be it folktales, myths, legends, or beautiful vast landscapes she always tried to find inner peace in every aspect.
Her delicate narrative while romancing with nature will make readers feel every bit of the land and when she talks about her family and Elgin the warmth of her words will make readers feel goosebumps. Her beautiful prose is welcoming to explore more of the book and couldn't let you put down the book.
The book celebrates bonding, friendship, history, and family love in the midst of natural beauty, a land of mountains encrypted here like a fantasy world. A cup of coffee and a blanket would be a perfect combination with this book.
Reading this book was a heartwarming experience, this reading gave my heart pure solace. Rea's warm words make this book a notch high, it will remain with you for a long time after finishing the book.
"Kanchenjunga Whispers" by Rea Oberoi is a captivating exploration of the Himalayas, blending enchanting tales and vivid storytelling. As the daughter of the renowned hotelier Brij Raj 'Diamond' Oberoi, Rea brings a unique perspective, immersing readers in a world of sacred landscapes, wish-fulfilling places, and supernatural wonders.
The author skillfully weaves a narrative that transcends ordinary travel literature. The book takes readers on an unforgettable adventure, introducing them to forest shamans, bodhisattvas, hidden tribes, and divine entities. The journey unfolds against the backdrop of the majestic Kanchenjunga, leading us through the valley of flowers, ancient ruins, sacred forests, magical caverns, and mythical monasteries.
What sets this collection apart is its ability to evoke a sense of wanderlust and spiritual exploration. The author's forays into the land of the thunderbolt and rolling tea gardens are vividly described, creating a tapestry of sensory experiences. The quest for Himalayan gold and the attempt to cross over to Shambhala add layers of mystery and intrigue to the narrative.
The book is not merely a travelogue but a profound exploration of self-discovery. The author shares hair-raising accounts that unfold in the darkness of misty mountains and takes readers on road trips to uncharted realms. The juxtaposition of Sansar (the visible world) and Moksha (the soul) in her Himalayan home offers a unique perspective on the intersection of the material and spiritual realms.
The prose is evocative, painting a rich canvas of the Himalayan landscape and its mystical inhabitants. The author's deep connection to the region is palpable, and her storytelling prowess makes the mountains come alive. The book seamlessly blends folklore, mythology, and personal anecdotes, creating a tapestry of narratives that will leave readers enthralled.
It is not just a book; it's an immersive journey that transports readers to a realm where the mundane meets the extraordinary. Rea Oberoi's eloquent prose and the book's rich tapestry of tales make it a must-read for those seeking a profound and enchanting exploration of the Himalayas.
🏞️ Kanchenjunga Whispers by Rea Oberoi explores the beauty of the Kanchenjunga, the beauty of nature.
🏞️ Winters are the perfect time for traveling to mountains and snow – the chills, the pink aroma, mountains reflecting those yellow sunshine, making the green grass shine like gold in the morning, birds chirping playing.
🏞️ I really went there while reading this book, and recently i travelled and stayed in almost 3 hotels, so the details about hotels, their atmosphere, how it works, was something i found fresh to read.
🏞️ Author started the book with her Hotel journey – Hotel Edgin. The opening of the book was on point, because at that time, you will get hooked instantly with the narration instead of looking like a travel story.
🏞️The book takes you through heaven on earth – Darjeeling, Sikkim, Kanchenjunga – the beauty of those mountains.
🏞️My favourite chapters were Hotel Secrets and Mahakal – The land of time.
🏞️ Talking about hotel secrets, belive it or not, every hotel has some secrets, as well as some secret rooms – when i travelled recently, there was only a door in my room, apart from the bathroom, which was lock from inside, and the hotel staff told us that there was nothing in the room, but eventually, me being Sherlock Holmes, kept wondering: What secret does that room hold?
🏞️ At the same time the book explores the beauty of friendship, love , connection with nature, royalty in heredity emotions and relations.
🏞️ Why should a hotel have a room that has nothing in the middle of guest rooms?
🏞️ So when the author talks about hotel secrets, I can totally relate to it.
🏞️ When talking about Mahakal – I visited Mahakal – Ujjain recently, so I felt those feelings again while reading the chapter.
🏞️ This book is really not a normal non fiction that will explain about the beauty or about the place or its history but the author will literally take you to these places with its flowing writing and poetic words.
🏞️ Definitely recommend to lose yourself into the beauty !
In the entrancing pages of "Kanchenjunga Whispers," author Rea Oberoi invites readers on an extraordinary adventure, a soul-stirring journey through the sacred landscapes, wish-fulfilling realms, and mystical myths that paint the canvas of the Himalayas. As the daughter of the legendary hotelier Brij Raj 'Diamond' Oberoi, Rea's narrative becomes a tapestry woven with the threads of her family legacy, transporting readers to the heart of the Himalayas and igniting a profound sense of wanderlust. The narrative unfolds like a mesmerizing tapestry, revealing a world where forest shamans, bodhisattvas, hidden tribes, gods, and goddesses coexist in harmony. Through Rea's evocative storytelling, readers traverse the valley of flowers, explore the ruins of an ancient kingdom, and delve into sacred forests, magical caverns, and mythical monasteries. The author's vivid descriptions create a sensory experience, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Himalayan landscapes. One of the book's strengths lies in its ability to seamlessly blend folklore and reality, transporting readers not only to physical locations but also into the realm of legend and myth. As the author embarks on road trips to uncharted territories, the narrative takes on an adventurous spirit, mirroring the unexplored landscapes of the Himalayas. "Kanchenjunga Whispers" is more than a travelogue; it's a lyrical symphony that resonates with the essence of the Himalayas. Readers are not just spectators; they become companions on Rea's fulfilling journey, surrounded by soaring mountains and immersed in the sweet aroma of tea gardens. The book's narrative brilliance lies in its ability to evoke a sense of reverence for the mystical and the natural, ultimately inspiring readers to embark on their own journey of self-discovery amid the breathtaking landscapes of the Himalayas.
Kanchenjunga also called as Khangchendzonga is the 3rd highest peak in the world.
Book - Kanchenjunga Whispers: Legends and Tales from The Elgin Author- Rea Oberoi Genre - Non Fiction (travelogue)
Place - Darjeeling, Sikkim.
Rea Oberoi is the daughter of legendary hotelier - the late Brij Raj 'Diamond' Oberoi. Being a hotelier's daughter, hotel was home for her. And in her debut book she gives us a glimpse of her Himalayan home The Elgin Hotel and also talks a lot about life in Himalayan abodes of Darjeeling and Sikkim.
In this book she beautifully describes the elgin hotel in great detail - its people, surroundings and secrets. She talks about the flora in Darjeeling and also of secret caves and temples in that region, the tribes, forest shamans, mythical monastery, supernatural presence etc.
The way the author narrates is super hypnotizing. You will get lost in it. She describes even a tiny moment in great detail such that it will suck you in and you will find yourself there.She brings alive the scenes. The words have made love to my imagination. You will have an urge to disconnect from your regular life and go to the himalayas. Very few travelogues will make you feel like this.
I love the simple non pretentious writing with a whole lot of information on the land of thunderbolt. It is divided into small chapters and hence its fast paced and engaging.
What sets this book apart is that it is the author's personal experience that has been put to words and not just random information and besides the basic stuff it lets us know of many unknown/ lesser known things about Darjeeling.
For me this was like a 'feel good' and soothing read.
All the lovers of travelogue and non fiction mustn't miss out this book.
Kanchenjunga Whispers' by Rea Oberoi is a grand, grand exposure to the queen of hills Darjeeling aka our very own Kanchenjunga and the tales this beautiful region harbors! Taking us subtly into the heart of this mountain Rea tells us of the people, the belief and the culture of here. Being a bengali, Kanchenjunga is much revered amongst us and this mountain range call us everyday and we wait when we will get to see Her in all glory! . The USP of this book lies actually in the authors capability to merge the relevant myths, folktales with the realities of contemporary life. Be it shamans , Bodhisatvas to my favourite one about Green Tara ( I chant the chant too) which believe me brings immense peace to the heart. . The Elgin obviously as a star hotel is the highlight here at the start but the focus for me is again the people, her family, her staff and the warmth with which everything functions - eating oranges,Mr. Butler being the prime of all stories, her time with her elder sister Aanyaa to her dogs - the blend of non fiction into an almost unreal perfection is so attractive! . Having enjoyed nature at close Rea describes perfectly how the forests and nature in its totality is revered as God as it should be. Have not gone to Sandakphu yet but loved the way she has put forward its history and mythological connection. The Tsongmo lake chapter describes all the iconic places (Nathu la, Baba Mandir) and the essential Yak too! . Overall being a deep lover of the Himalayas, especially this North Eastern side, this book instantly took a top place in my heart because I could relate to most of the 47 stories. .
🌟 Embark on an unforgettable journey through sacred landscapes, mythical monasteries, and enchanted caverns in Rea Oberoi's "Kanchenjunga Whispers." Dive into a world of forest shamans, hidden tribes, and supernatural beings, guided by the sweet aroma of tea gardens and the allure of Himalayan gold.⭐
📚 As darkness settles over misty mountains, hair-raising accounts and road trips to uncharted realms unfold. The narrative weaves through the valley of flowers, ruins of ancient kingdoms, and the thunderbolt-laden land. It's a tapestry of legends, gods, and goddesses that captivates the soul.📚
👩💼 Meet Rea Oberoi, the architect of this captivating odyssey. Her Himalayan home serves as the backdrop, where the visible world meets the soul. Through her lens, experience the intersection of Sansar and Moksha, adding a personal touch to the mystical journey.📚
🤔 Immerse yourself in a fulfilling journey of self-discovery. "Kanchenjunga Whispers" offers more than a story—it's a sensory experience. Feel the magic of sacred forests, hear the whispers of ancient myths, and explore the author's quest for enlightenment in Shambhala.✨
🔍 In the pages of this book, find solace amidst soaring mountains. Rea Oberoi invites readers to transcend the ordinary and savor the essence of the Himalayas. "Kanchenjunga Whispers" is not just a tale; it's an expedition into the realms of wonder and enlightenment. 💫
"Kanchenjunga Whispers" by Rea Oberoi encapsulates an exquisite tapestry of enchanting tales spun against the backdrop of the mystical Himalayas. With a masterful narrative, Oberoi leads readers through a spellbinding journey, unveiling a world steeped in ancient legends, mysticism, and the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayan landscapes.
Through her evocative prose, she invites readers on an unforgettable expedition, weaving together a rich tapestry of narratives that transport one straight into the heart of the Himalayas. The book serves as a gateway to an ethereal realm, where forest shamans, bodhisattvas, and hidden tribes coexist alongside gods and goddesses. Journeying through this mystical landscape, readers encounter the allure of wish-fulfilling places, the remnants of ancient kingdoms, and the serenity of sacred forests, each locale imbued with its own mystique and charm.
What sets this book apart is its ability to not only recount thrilling adventures but also provide a glimpse into the author's Himalayan heritage, where the boundaries between the tangible world and spiritual enlightenment blur. Oberoi's narrative invites readers to delve deeper into her personal experiences, which intertwine seamlessly with the essence of the Himalayas.
An enchanting journey of a woman travelling across Himalayas.
🏔️INSIGHT: The author of the book Rea Oberoi is the daughter of the late Brij Raj Oberoi, a great hotelier. The book is inspired by the real-life experiences of Rea. Rea, in the book, meets different kinds of people and travels to different places like Sikkim, Darjeeling, and Tibet, and in the process, she discovers the history and the mysterious nature of the Himalayas.
🏔️REVIEW: The book transports you to beautiful locations across the Himalayas. The author did a great job describing the places vividly. Even minute sensory details were added to enhance the reading experience. This is bound to draw the reader into the book. In addition to that the book shares some historical and mythological stories, and introduces interesting characters who add an extra dimension to the mystical nature of the Himalayas. However, the book drifts away at times and discusses spirituality too much.
🏔️STRENGTH: 1. Good Descriptions of the places. 2. Good language and Vocabulary. 3. Interesting short mythical tales
🏔️WEAKNESS: More focus on main character would have been better.
🏔️TARGET READERS: This book is ideal for people between the age group of 18-40.
I am a mountain dweller. A hill person. And by that I don’t mean I take an annual vacation to the hills. No, I’ve been living in Dharmsala, Himachal Pradesh for more than two years now. I have been extremely fortunate to do so since I got posted here as an army officer in the last quarter of 2021. Since then, I’ve been spoiled rotten by Dhauladhar, the local name for this side of the Himalayas.
Therefore, I can totally understand the charm these mountains cast upon Oberoi for she too has been living in the nature’s lap. In her case, well, it’s not just nature’s lap but luxury’s lap too. With an army of housekeeping staff at her disposal, she is free to dance and roam in the Himalayas and then tell those stories. She introduces herself as the daughter of a legendary hotelier, complete with his privileged middlename (nickname?) whom I didn’t know. Us mere mortals miss the Himalayas but the writer talks to the Hindu deities and Himalayas alike, asking them if they missed her. I am, for the first time, seeing someone who asks the god of rain if he missed her!
Kanchenjunga Whispers, the name itself rings something enigmatic. And with a cover like that it sure feels a lot serene. This memoir by Rea Oberoi gifts you with surreal experience.
Adorned with an enchanting cover, the book unfolds its beauty across 47 chapters introducing 'The Elgin Hotel' in Darjeeling. Authored by Rea Oberoi, the daughter of the late hotelier Brij Raj 'Diamond' Oberoi, the narrative weaves through temples, monasteries, valleys and the origin of Darjeeling tea. This familial link adds authenticity, offering a panoramic view of Darjeeling's folklore, nature and lakes. Oberoi's vivid descriptions evoke a virtual tour, transporting readers to the crisp mountain air and the whispers of Kanchenjunga. As the final pages unfold, a compelling urge arises to experience 'The Elgin' hotel's magnificence and embark on the Sandakphu trail.
The author Rea Oberoi is the daughter of the late Brij Raj 'Diamond' Oberoi. They are both hoteliers associated with the Elgin group of hotels in Darjeeling. She has collected stories, myths and legends of the Himalayan region. The book is extremely well written and takes the reader to magical, mythical and spiritual locations throughout the Himalayas. I have had the privilege of trekking though the Himalayas 3 times. Each trip was around three weeks. These stories took me back to these magical experiences. The book is filled with history, myth and legend of the region. I didn't want the book to end. I recommend it highly.