The Imperial

This gracious establishment (built in 1931) is the best large hotel in Delhi -- certainly for anyone wanting something more atmospheric than any chain, no matter how luxurious, can offer. Only at The Imperial can you recover from your jet lag in the elegance of colonial-era Delhi -- without even setting foot out of the lobby. It's also incredibly convenient (only a short stroll to Connaught Place) yet tranquil, and has one of the deepest, largest pools in Delhi. Spacious guest rooms (no need for a suite; opt for an Imperial or Heritage Room) with wonderfully high ceilings are furnished in colonial-era elegance. However, it is the public areas, like the double-volume colonnaded veranda and grand 1911 bar, that are a sheer delight -- huge, elegant, and everywhere a showcase of Delhi's imperial past. A huge collection of original art adorns every corridor (a veritable museum of 18th- and 19th-c. art, which you can explore with the resident curator). Silver-service breakfasts are among the best in the world, and Spice Route one of our favorite restaurants.

In room: A/C, TV, butler service (luxury suites only), DVD player (all except Imperial Rooms), fax machine (on request), hair dryer, minibar, Wi-Fi (Rs 300/hr., Rs 1,200/day).

Facilities:
5 restaurants; 2 bars; pastry shop; airport transfer (Rs 2,600); art gallery babysitting; concierge; currency exchange; doctor-on-call; fitness center; heated pool; room service; valet

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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