The Imperial

New Delhi, India

The term ‘grande dame’ in the context of hotels can be overused, but The Imperial New Delhi more than deserves the accolade. Built in eight acres of landscaped gardens in the heart of big-busy-bright New Delhi, it was the first hotel to open in the city, welcoming its inaugural guests in 1936. In the ensuing decades, movie stars, politicians, royalty and Mahatma Gandhi have all swept up the palm-tree-lined drive towards the striking Art Deco building to take tea on the pillared verandahs, walk in the cool of the gardens and mingle with the creme-de-la-creme of society in the grandiose ballroom. The magic remains to this day, in part due to the interiors – Italian marble floors, polished Rosewood furniture, Persian hand-knotted carpets and 5,500 artworks – but also the immaculate service. Though it may be one of India’s longest-established hotels, the 192 rooms and 43 suites seamlessly integrate all the mod-cons, and the restaurants set the bar for contemporary fine dining. The meticulously restored mural art and ancient temple pillars at The Spice Route are as much a conversational starting point as the award-winning Asian cuisine. Do drag yourself away from the outdoor pool, yoga sanctum and Ayurvedic spa to make the day trip to the Taj Mahal.

Key Information

• Rooms: 235
• Starting Rate: $178
• High Season: September-March
• Dining: The Spice Route
• Drinking: 1911 Bar
• At the Hotel: Pool, gym, yoga, spa, hair salon, gardens, guided tours, car fleet
• 91 11 4150 1234
• Visit The Imperial's Website

Location

Janpath Lane, Connaught Lane, Janpath, New Delhi, 110001