The Imperial Hotel opened in 1936 in the heart of the Lutyens’ Delhi on Janpath, and if you are looking for the definitive ‘Grand Dame’ hotel in India, then the Imperial is your answer. Its marble-laid hallways are adorned with raj-era prints (the in house historian can even give you a tour). As you walk around you are struck by the sheer elegance of it all.
There are 234 rooms in total, blending art deco and colonial design. They lead in with the smaller Deco and Imperial Rooms, many of which look inwards to the courtyard so we generally suggest opting for the larger Heritage or Heritage Deluxe Rooms. Expect to find marble-laid bathrooms, linens from Porthault, brightly coloured rugs and antique furniture.
There are four exceptional restaurants; Spice Route is the pick of them serving up delicious Indian dishes. 1911 is the all-day dining restaurant, and opens out onto the lawns where you can dine al fresco. Daniell’s Tavern offers worldwide cuisine, and finally San Gimignano offers Italian fare. Kick back in Patiala Peg for a drink or two after dinner.
There is a superb spa, offering a host of treatments. The swimming pool is divine, especially after a day exploring dusty Delhi.