Hotel Snapshot

Having opened in 1936, The Imperial New Delhi is the definitive Grand Dame of India’s capital. The property stands on an 8-acre estate and represents a masterful blend of Victorian elegance and British colonial architecture. Housing over 5,000 original prints, lithographs, and rare art pieces along its high-vaulted corridors, the hotel serves as a serene sanctuary for first-time visitors, art enthusiasts, and New Delhi regulars.

Design & Character

The minute you’re on the grounds, you feel as though you’ve entered a different world. Royal palms line the long private driveway, setting an immediate tone and ushering guests into marble-paved hallways adorned with Burmese teak and British Indian art you’d expect to find in a premier gallery.

The interiors require and properly maintain an extraordinary level of historic preservation without feeling like a dusty museum. The surroundings and vaulted ceilings have the ability to transport guests to New Delhi in the 1930s while making sure to deliver lavish accommodations and service.

The Food & Drink

As much as The Imperial is a historical journey, it’s a culinary experience, anchored by a collection of iconic dining destinations you won’t want to miss. In the morning, breakfast is served under their glass dome or within the sprawling garden lawns of the 1911 Restaurant. The breakfast spread incorporates rich North Indian curries with European pastries.

The main culinary focus on the property is The Spice Route, the world-renowned restaurant that took over seven years to trace with the spice trading route from Malabar to Vietnam. Serving Southeast Asian flavors surrounded by antique temple pillars and hand-painted murals is certainly a way to immerse yourself in New Delhi culture.

If you find yourself craving a classic Italian dish, do not fret. San Gimignano is situated in an intimate patio setting, creating the perfect backdrop for dinner alongside an exceptional wine list. And when cocktail hour hits, which can truly be anytime on vacation, Patiala Peg, the historic portrait bar, is where you can find historic 75ml “royal” pours.

The Amenities

Beyond the culinary triumphs, guests can enjoy the outdoor pool surrounded by lush greenery, complimentary morning yoga sessions, or art tours led by the hotel’s resident experts to unpack the stories behind the thousands of historical pieces on display. The hotel even boasts a collection of on-site boutiques selling curated Indian fashion, jewelry pieces, and handicrafts. Additionally, the concierge team is available 24 hours a day for guest services and can arrange further amenities like a private luxury car fleet to make excursions across New Delhi seamless.

Spa & Wellness

The Imperial Spa is truly magnificent, spanning a staggering 44,000 square feet. The underground palace offers private hydrotherapy suites and focuses on deep-rooted Ayurvedic healing blended with modern European wellness, using organic oils. Also on the property is a boutique salon and gym, allowing The Imperial to become one of the capital’s most opulent wellness retreats.

Location & Neighborhood Recs

Positioned directly on Janpath in Central Delhi, you’ll be a brisk five-minute walk from Connaught Place's energetic shopping colonnades and the 18th-century astronomical observatory of Jantar Mantar. Iconic landmarks like India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhavan, and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib are all just a quick 10-minute drive away.

Fast Facts

Address: Janpath Lane, Connaught Place, New Delhi, Delhi 110001, India

Neighborhood: Janpath / Connaught Place

Nearest Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL)

Star Rating: 5-star

Starting Rate: Approx. $250–$350 USD, varying significantly by season

Room Count: 235 rooms and suites

Vibe: Atmospheric heritage, museum-grade elegance, and tranquil luxury.

Best For: Culture seekers, heritage enthusiasts, luxury couples, and high-end solo travelers wanting an oasis in the city center.

Amenities: 24-hour concierge, valet parking, temperature-controlled pool, full-service spa, 4 specialty restaurants, 2 bars, 24-hour room service, complimentary Wi-Fi, and fitness center.

Nearby: Connaught Place, Jantar Mantar, Janpath Market, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, India Gate

Our Favorite Thing: Walking through the quiet, museum-like hallways lined with centuries-old art after stepping straight out of the vibrant energy of Janpath.