Reviewed by
Mary-Anne Denison-Pender
An elegant blend of Victorian, colonial and Art Deco styles, the Imperial Hotel is undoubtedly Delhi’s finest. Built in 1931 by Bromfield, it's rich in history and has undergone extensive and immensely stylish renovations to restore it to its former glory. With its Italian marble floors, Burma teak and rosewood furniture, high ceilings, spacious gardens and superb restaurants, this hotel exudes luxury, right in the heart of Delhi.
The Deco Suites are truly stunning and the Imperial and Heritage Rooms are amongst the largest to be found in the capital. The grand and impressive public areas and restaurants, replete with outstanding works of art, will make you feel like a Rajah.
Situated on Janpath, just a stone’s throw from the renowned shopping and commercial district of Connaught Place, you'll find museums, theatres, monuments, parks and cultural sites at your doorstep.
The Deco Suites are truly stunning and the Imperial and Heritage Rooms are amongst the largest to be found in the capital. The grand and impressive public areas and restaurants, replete with outstanding works of art, will make you feel like a Rajah.
Situated on Janpath, just a stone’s throw from the renowned shopping and commercial district of Connaught Place, you'll find museums, theatres, monuments, parks and cultural sites at your doorstep.
Highs
- The hotel has been sensitively and stylishly refurbished over the years
- The wonderful, central location means you can walk out to the shops and sites
- There's an amazing choice of restaurants
- The Deco Suites are to die for - huge, state of the art and good value
- The atmosphere is relaxed and refined - this is a wonderful place to start or end your trip in India
Lows
- The hotel restaurants are becoming very popular and are open to outside guests, so booking ahead is often necessary
- If the hotel is busy, the service in the coffee shop can be slow
- There's limited parking
- With over 200 rooms, it's huge by i-escape's standards, but it's Delhi's best hotel
Best time to go
The best time to visit is from October to early April, when there is generally a dry heat with very little humidity. The city can get pretty cold in the mornings and evenings during December, January and February, though it's warm and sunny during the daytime. The weather begins to get humid in May and June, when temperatures can get uncomfortable. The monsoon breaks in July and lasts until September. October and November are still warm, but not too wet.
Our top tips
Although there's no official dress code, this is a luxurious city hotel - change into something smart for dinner and you'll feel more comfortable in the on-site restaurants.