Monday newsletters always feature top 10 travel lists to inspire.
Today (September 30, 2019): Top 10 best luxury hotels in New Delhi.
Delhi, the capital of India and one of the oldest cities of the world, is unlike any other city on the planet. It’s a place that not only touches your pulse but even fastens it to a frenetic speed. With a history that goes back many centuries & empires, Delhi is an intense blend of diverse cultures, sprawling greenery, rich architecture and a famed cuisine. From the labyrinth of narrow lanes, old havelis and colorful bazaars of Old Delhi to the best features of a modern city such as gleaming malls and bustling markets, there’s a lot to see and do in Delhi. This includes a visit to the World Heritage Site of Humayun’s Tomb, the first substantial example of Mughal architecture in India. New Delhi is also home to some great luxury hotels, which are a playground of jet setters and fashionistas. Here’s my countdown of the 10 best hotels in the city.
There is more information (with reviews and Youtube clips) below the slideshow. Think I missed one? Leave it in the comments or take my poll below.
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10. JW MARRIOTT HOTEL NEW DELHI AEROCITY
This 5-star hotel, managed by the JW Marriott hotel brand, offers 511 stylish rooms and suites, personalized service and an ideal location for a stay in India. The property is near Delhi’s international airport and the Ambience Mall and Qutab Minar. The luxury rooms and suites feature indulgent bedding, mini-bars, marble bathrooms, ample workstations, free Wi-Fi and 24-hour room service. The property has five remarkable restaurants and bars, including a chic speakeasy, a popular multi-cuisine buffet and a Japanese restaurant with a Korean influence. The hotel also features an upscale day spa, heated outdoor pool, modern fitness center, and event space, including one of the largest banquet halls in Delhi.
- Hotel website: JW Marriott Hotel New Delhi Aerocity
9. ITC MAURYA, A LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL
The stateliness of ITC Maurya is situated in the diplomatic enclave of New Delhi and has long been the favored accommodation of heads of state, royalty and business leaders from across the world. Inspired by the grand Mauryan dynasty, one of the world’s largest and most powerful kingdoms at its zenith, this 5 star luxury hotel expresses the refined courtliness and majesty resembling this mighty empire. The 437 rooms and suites encapsulate the luxury hotel experience with exemplary service and warm hospitality soaked in Indian traditions. The hotel also features excellent restaurants including the iconic and world renowned Bukhara, banqueting facilities, and an upscale spa and wellness center.
- Hotel website: ITC Maurya, a Luxury Collection Hotel
8. TAJ PALACE NEW DELHI
Located in the diplomatic enclave, minutes from downtown and the presidential palace, the Taj Palace Hotel has had the privilege of hosting historic visits and global summits for more than 30 years. The property is spread out over six acres of lush gardens in the heart of India’s capital city, and represents an oasis of calm while still being right in the middle of the city’s action. The hotel pays tribute to the Mughal era by bringing you some of its art, traditions and cuisine in a modern setting. The hotel features 403 luxury rooms and suites that have played gracious host to royalty, heads of state, and Bollywood celebrities. The Taj Palace is also home to a several multi-award-winning fine-dining restaurants specializing in Vietnamese, Continental-European and Indian cuisines.
- Hotel website: The Taj Palace New Delhi
- Tip: get complimenary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and a complimentary 50-minute massage for two).
7. ANDAZ DELHI
Conveniently located in Aerocity, the hotel is within easy reach of downtown Delhi and the business hub of Gurgaon. Designed to capture the spirit of Delhi by renowned architect Bauer Latoza Studio and interior designer Virgile, the hotel integrates traditional Indian elements, colors and flavors into a modern design inspired by the unique craftsmanship of India. Andaz Delhi offers 401 residential-style guestrooms, including 45 suites. Each guestroom at Andaz Delhi features a unique curated piece of art that celebrates a reason to “fall in love with Delhi.” Facilities include a heated swimming pool, sun deck, a fully furnished gym and a “European food hall”, where guests sample delicious European and local cuisine inspired by the colors and flavors of India.
- Hotel website: Andaz Delhi
- Tip: get complimenary VIP perks when booking a Hyatt Prive rate via Classic Travel (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and a $50 USD hotel credit).
6. SHANGRI-LA EROS HOTEL NEW DELDHI
Situated in beautifully landscaped gardens in the historic government district, Shangri-La Hotel New Delhi is located just 12 miles (19 km) from the airport. The property overlooks Connaught Place and other major shopping and business centers and is convenient to New Delhi’s historical sites, museums and art galleries. The hotel is a self-contained oasis equipped to cater to its guests every need. Facilities include a sparkling outdoor pool, childrens pool, fully-equipped 24-hour fitness center, and luxurious day spa. Also available are two superb restaurants, a bakery/delicatessen, and conference facilities. Accommodations include 320 beautifully appointed guestrooms and suites – each furnished in a contemporary style inspired by Indias rich history and culture.
- Hotel website: Shangri-La Eros Hotel New Delhi
- Tip: get complimenary VIP perks when booking via Classic Travel (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and a complimentary 50-minute massage for two).
5. TAJ MAHAL HOTEL
On Number One Mansingh Road stands The Taj Mahal Hotel, a tribute to timeless hospitality and service, which complements the broad boulevards and leafy splendor of Delhi’s chief architect, Edwin Lutyens. Its proximity to the seat of government, the city’s diplomatic corps and business district has furthered the hotel’s reputation as the epicenter of Delhi. Reflecting the heritage of Mughal Delhi, this hotel offers graceful architecture with modern facilities. The hotel has 294 executive rooms including 27 suites. Dining options include Indian cuisine at Varq, Japanese fare at Wasabi, and authentic Chinese cuisine at House of Ming. Be sure to experience the hotel’s spa, where holistic therapies with Indo-Western influences await you.
- Hotel website: The Taj Mahal Hotel
- Tip: get complimenary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and a complimentary 50-minute massage for two).
4. THE IMPERIAL NEW DELHI
Reckoned amongst Asia’s finest hotels, The Imperial is a legend that offers a unique experience embracing facets of India’s history. Built in 1931 by Blomfield, a Lutyens’ associate, the hotel is known for its contemporary colonial style. The property is located on Janpath, the erstwhile Queensway. It is steps away from the renowned shopping district Connaught Place and major city attractions and a half-hour drive from the international airport. The 235 rooms and suites overlook verdant gardens and offer total privacy and serenity. The Imperial houses award-winning restaurants, with a culinary palette that ranges from Southeast Asian, multi-cuisine and Indian to French and Italian.
- Hotel website: The Imperial New Delhi
- Tip: get complimenary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and complimentary Wifi).
3. THE LEELA PALACE NEW DELHI
The Leela Palace New Delhi is located at the very heart of the capital’s prestigious Diplomatic Enclave and exemplifies the magnificent architecture, grace and elegance of Lutyens’ Delhi. The 254 guestrooms, as inviting as they are opulent, offer top-end comfort, service and technology, and rank among the largest in the city. When you book a Royal Club rooms (or higher), you also get complimentary transfers, food and beverage throughout the day and more. The hotel’s culinary offerings include two international fine dining institutions: modern-Japanese restaurant MEGU and French-Italian restaurant Le Cirque. Recreational facilities are Spa by ESPA London and a temperature-controlled rooftop pool. You’re just a short distance from India Gate and other iconic city landmarks.
- Hotel website: The Leela Palace New Delhi
- Tip: get complimenary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and a complimentary dinner for two).
- Review: read my review of The Leela Palace New Delhi here.
2. THE LODHI NEW DELHI
Just minutes from the grandeur of Rashtrapati Bhavan, the peaceful Lodhi gardens and many other iconic sites, The Lodhi Hotel provides one of the world’s most colorful and cosmopolitan capital cities with a tranquil retreat. Offering essential respite in spacious surrounds, this city-based resort is an elegant haven exuding an air of sophisticated calm, and provides guests with an ideal base from which to experience the city. The Lodhi ethos is simple and easy luxury. But it’s also an ethos of ‘contrasts’, from the dynamic and vibrant atmosphere in the restaurants, courtyards and public areas to the seclusion, peace and club- like atmosphere of the seven floors of guest accommodation. The Lodhi Hotel was known as an Aman resort until 2013.
- Hotel website: The Lodhi
- Tip: get complimenary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and a complimentary 50-minute massage for two).
- Review: read my review of The Lodhi here.
1. THE OBEROI NEW DELHI
Reopened in 2018 after an extensive refurbishment, The Oberoi New Delhi hotel reflects the spirit of India’s capital city in a harmonious blend of tradition and contemporary sophistication. The property offers spacious, light-filled rooms and suites with cutting-edge technology and sweeping views of Delhi Golf Course and Humayun’s Tomb. Restaurants include Threesixty for all-day fine dining, a contemporary Indian specialty restaurant and a rooftop Chinese restaurant. There is also an open-air rooftop bar, a wine cellar and a new cigar lounge. Wellness facilities include The Oberoi Spa, temperature-controlled indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and a 24-hour fitness center.
- Hotel website: The Oberoi New Delhi
- Other accolades: The Oberoi New Delhi also features in my top 10 list of the best hotels in India.
- Tip: get complimenary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and one complimentary lunch).
- Review: read my review of The Oberoi New Delhi here.
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I agree with the ranking, but you destroy your credibility when you write the JW Marriott is “near the U.S. Embassy.”
Great post you have been shared. Must add Eros hotel in the list. One of great hotel.
A very comprehensive report about the top 10 luxury hotels. but ITC Maurya should be the number one in the list as it hosts the head of the states like US president for many years.
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In chennai, we have the best beach side resorts called Kaldan Samudhra Palace. Kaldan is located on the beautiful shores of Bay of Bengal, 2 Kms before the Temple city of Mahabalipuram. With its 106 luxurious rooms, suites and villas Kaldan is ready to welcome and treat you as Kings and Queens of the Palace.
In Mahabalipuram near chennai, we have the beach side resort called Golden Sun Beach Resort. Beautiful and Serene Beach, Good rooms and decent restaurants and best food
Thank you for compiling this comprehensive list of the best hotels in New Delhi! It’s evident that a lot of thought and research went into selecting these establishments. The detailed descriptions and beautiful photographs have sparked my wanderlust, and I’m already envisioning myself exploring the vibrant streets of Delhi and retreating to one of these luxurious hotels at the end of the day. Looking forward to more travel recommendations from you in the future