Impressive Imperial

A landmark in its own right, the grandeur and old world charm of The Imperial in New Delhi floors Jyoti Koul

Parliament House, India Gate, Qutub Minar and the Imperial have one thing in common. All are landmarks in Delhi. While monuments like Parliament House, India Gate and Qutub Minar are important on account of their historical background; The Imperial is special because it has 'character'. A fine blend of colonial grandeur and contemporary style, The Imperial is situated in the heart of the capital city. Older than India's independence, the hotel was built by Bromfield, an associate of Edwin Lutyens in 1931. A legend in the hospitality industry, it was Lady Willingdon who conferred the name 'The Imperial' to the hotel and the lion insignia.

The standalone property till date stands tall amidst the competition of the international hotel chains that have sprung up on the scene. Its location, service, food, ambience and style define perfection. Spread over eight acres of land, the hotel has lush gardens and dozens of tall palm trees that welcome the guest from the entrance all the way to the porch. Once you step inside you are soaked in warm hospitality. Billed as the most luxurious hotel in the city with 232 well-appointed rooms and 44 suites,the property caters to the needs of both leisure and the business travellers with élan. Tastefully designed and thoughtfully decorated rooms are all about comfort, indulgence and luxury. Impressive decor, Italian marble floors, rosewood and Burma teak furniture, soothingly elegant upholstery and floral tribute bequeath a distinct personality to the interiors.

The hotel provides excellent conferencing facilities and is well equipped to cater to the diverse needs of corporate clients. It has many convention venues ranging from Royal Ballroom to Emily Eden Room from Hodges' Room to sprawling lawns taking care of meetings, conventions and events of any size and nature. Equipped with all the modern facilities, the hotel offers an array of leisure and entertainment facilities that include fitness center, shopping centres, swimming pool, beauty saloon etc. A veritable museum with a rare and original collection, the hotel showcases different forms of art that includes paintings, lithographs, sculptures and intricately painted murals. To enchant guests, the hotel is also remodeling the swimming pool. And to further enrich the luxurious experience the hotel is also adding a world-class spa by the renowned Six Senses Spa & Resorts.

Dining at the property is also an experience by itself with an array of options. The famous Spice Route, Daniell's Tavern, 1911, San Gimignano, Brasserie, The Atrium and La Baguette are some of the options to pamper the taste buds. To satisfy the connoisseurs the hotel boasts of the famous Patiala Peg and 1911 Bar, the two watering holes. Its not surprising that the prestigious Tatler Travel Guide selected The Imperial as one of the 101 Best Hotels and one of the Best City Hotels in the world.