Home Destinations Asia India Delhi Hotels The Imperial

The Imperial Review

Read our Delhi hotel reviews. Or post your own.

The Imperial

$$$$, Connaught Place

User Rating: ***** 5.0

Fodor's Review:

This landmark luxury hotel was designed by Edward Lutyens' associate D. J. Bromfield in a unique mixture of colonial, Victorian, and art deco styles. Opened in 1931, it was restored in the '90s and is easily the most appealing hotel in Delhi, with twisting hallways and small-pane windows. The driveway is lined with 24 soaring king palms, and the terrace of the Royal Imperial Suite peeks out from above the entrance. Inside, the entire building is lit and decorated in warm creams and taupes, and hung with original lithographs and engravings from the hotel's enormous collection. Guest rooms continue the Raj look with quilted bedspreads, wardrobes, and marble or parquet floors; "Heritage" rooms have sitting areas and are significantly more sumptuous than the cheapest rooms. Restaurants are top-notch, especially the other-worldly Spice Route and the garden section of 1911, with its tile floor and cane furniture. A spa, with ayurvedic treatments and squash and tennis courts, will open in late 2004.

Member Reviews & Ratings: