A legendary 1936 colonial-era hotel on Janpath, The Imperial is Delhi's grandest heritage property, combining art deco elegance with Mughal influences. Its collection of 5,000 artworks spanning the colonial period is unrivaled in any hotel worldwide. The 1911 bar, Spice Route restaurant, and pristine palm-lined pool make it a Delhi institution beloved by dignitaries and discerning travelers for nearly a century.
The Imperial New Delhi is one of India's most celebrated heritage hotels, occupying a landmark building on Janpath constructed in 1936 during the late colonial era. The address places guests within walking distance of Connaught Place, Rajiv Chowk Metro station (Blue and Yellow lines), Jantar Mantar, and the National Museum, making it one of the most centrally situated luxury properties in the capital.
Designed by D.J. Blomfield in an art deco style informed by Lutyens' New Delhi, the property blends colonial grandeur with Mughal and Victorian influences. Its collection of over 5,000 artworks spanning prints, oil paintings, and sculptures from the eighteenth to the twentieth century constitutes one of the most significant collections of colonial-era art in any hotel worldwide. Guests who book the hotel's heritage walk gain access to a curated tour with a trained art historian.
The 231 rooms and suites are appointed in a refined colonial palette: four-poster beds, period furnishings, marble bathrooms, and writing desks that recall the hotel's literary past — notable guests including Jawaharlal Nehru and Muhammad Ali Jinnah frequented these corridors during the negotiations that preceded Partition. Superior and Deluxe rooms are the most recently renovated; the Maharaja and Viceroy Suites occupy corner positions with sweeping views of the palm-lined forecourt.
Dining centres on three acclaimed venues. Spice Route, ranked among Asia's best restaurants, serves Southeast Asian cuisine in a room decorated with hand-painted murals and carved panels that took seven years to complete. The 1911 Restaurant, the signature all-day venue, offers European and Indian cuisine beneath a historic cupola. The 1911 Bar and Patiala Peg provide cocktails and light bites in settings of considerable period atmosphere.
The hotel's palm-fringed outdoor pool, Ayurvedic spa, tennis court, and fitness centre offer recreational completeness. Despite its heritage status, The Imperial operates with attentive modern service and a concierge team deeply knowledgeable about Delhi's cultural and culinary landscape.
Amenities
- pool
- spa
- multiple restaurants
- art collection
- fitness center
- concierge
- valet parking
- tennis court
- heritage tours
Location
Janpath, New Delhi 110001
28.6236, 77.2195 View on map
Highlights
- Over 5,000-piece collection of colonial-era art, the largest of its kind in any hotel globally, spanning the eighteenth to twentieth centuries
- Spice Route restaurant, repeatedly ranked among Asia's top dining venues for its Southeast Asian cuisine and extraordinary hand-painted interior
- Landmark 1936 art deco building on Janpath, walking distance from Connaught Place and Rajiv Chowk Metro interchange
- Complimentary heritage art walk curated by art historians, revealing the collection's historical significance to hotel guests
- 1911 Bar and Restaurant serving cocktails and cuisine in an atmospheric setting frequented by historical figures during India's independence era
Tips for visiting
- Request a room overlooking the heritage forecourt and palm avenue for the most iconic Imperial view — higher floors in the main wing are best
- Dinner at Spice Route requires advance reservation; the restaurant fills quickly, especially on weekends during October to February
- Ask the concierge about the complimentary art collection tour — a genuine highlight that many guests overlook entirely
- The 1911 Bar offers afternoon tea with finger sandwiches and house-baked pastries; reserve by noon on the day for a table
- Janpath market, immediately outside the hotel, sells affordable textiles and handicrafts — a convenient browse before or after check-in
Accessibility
The Imperial New Delhi provides elevator access to all floors and step-free pathways between the main entrance, lobby, pool, and restaurants. Wheelchair-accessible rooms with adapted bathrooms are available; the heritage building's wide corridors accommodate standard wheelchairs. Guests with specific mobility requirements should contact the hotel in advance to arrange appropriate accommodation.
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Frequently asked questions
Is The Imperial New Delhi close to the airport?
Indira Gandhi International Airport is approximately 22 km from the hotel, roughly 45–60 minutes by car depending on traffic. The hotel can arrange private airport transfers.
What makes The Imperial's art collection special?
The hotel houses over 5,000 artworks spanning the eighteenth to twentieth centuries, including rare prints, oil paintings, and sculptures documenting colonial and Mughal India. Curated guided tours are available for hotel guests.
Is The Imperial suitable for business stays?
Yes. The hotel has multiple meeting rooms, a business centre, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a concierge team experienced in coordinating government appointments, secure transport, and translation services.
What is the hotel's cancellation policy?
Cancellation policies vary by rate type and season. The hotel typically requires 48-hour advance notice for standard reservations; flexible and non-refundable rates differ. Confirm at the time of booking.