Review of The Imperial Hotel Delhi: Birthday Staycation Edition

Can you tell I loved my birthday staycation?!

Having spent two consecutive birthdays at The Imperial Hotel, Delhi, I can write this post with authority. With its distinctive old-world charm and modern amenities, it’s the perfect place for a staycation- you won’t want to leave the hotel!

I chose the Spa Summer Wellness Retreat for INR 16,999 (inclusive of taxes) for my birthday. Our package included an early check-in with a late check-out, buffet breakfast for two, fruit platter, 60 minutes spa service for two, 30 minutes hydrotherapy for two, 30 minutes salon service for two. We booked the Imperial Room but were kindly upgraded to the Heritage Room.

THE HISTORY:

Opened in 1936, this colonial hotel was built as per the Master Plan of Lutyens’ Delhi. Many historical decisions of note have been made here with the ‘who’s who’ of the country frequenting it. Today, the hotel has maintained its historic character while adopting international standards of hospitality.

The swimming pool

GENERAL INFORMATION:

How to Get There:

The capital city of Delhi is well-connected to the rest of the country as well other countries by air, rail and car. The hotel is located in the heart of the city on the prestigious Janpath walkway.

Types of Rooms:

Starting from INR 10,000 per night, the hotel offers various categories of rooms and suites along with different packages.

Poolside eats

THINGS TO DO:

Recreation:

Swimming

The Imperial has one of the loveliest pools in Delhi owing to its colonial design. The water is at a depth of 4.5 ft and the temperature is cool. There is a separate hot tub/Jacuzzi available for those interested. The pool is open only to guests of the hotel.

Art Tour with High Tea

Guests of the hotel can be given a guided tour of the gorgeous period art of this hotel followed by high tea for INR 3000 plus taxes.

Culinary Classes

For foodies and cooks, the Imperial often hosts culinary sessions where one can learn in-house cooking secrets.

Shopping

There are a few shops where one can pick up Indian curios and books. The famed shopping street of Janpath is a stone’s throw from the hotel, for those who’d like some variety.

WiFi Access

The hotel offers free wifi for 3 devices, which works well.

The Imperial Spa

Wellness:

Spa & Salon

The Imperial Spa is housed in a gorgeous glass building. They offer 6 types of oils to choose from and 6 types of massages depending on your needs. The masseuses are highly skilled and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my massage every time. The spa is only open to guests of the hotel.

The salon is open to public yet is a quiet place. I got an excellent pedicure which I highly recommend.

Health Club and Yoga Studio

You won’t miss your workout as the spacious resident gym is well-stocked with the latest machinery. Yoga classes and the unique Aquayogarobics are regularly held in the studio and the pool respectively.

The Bianca Royale pizza at San Gimignano

Dining:

The Spice Route

I love all the restaurants in this hotel, but I have a soft spot for this one. The South-East Asian cuisine is phenomenal and the décor transports you to a different location.

The 1911 Bar

Fancy a drink before your delicious meal? There are two bars on the property, of which the 1911 Bar is more popular. They have a large selection of spirits that won’t disappoint.

Patiala Peg

This tiny bar next to Daniell’s Tavern is great for a quiet rendezvous.

Daniell’s Tavern

We visited this pan-Indian restaurant on the last day of a Coastal Cuisine Festival, and loved everything we tried. (Check out my Zomato review here)

San Gimignano

This Italian restaurant has perfected its Italian flavors and European vibe. (Check out my Zomato review here).

Buffet Breakfast at 1911 Restaurant

1911 offers an extensive breakfast buffet that won’t disappoint. The breakfast ends at 10:30 a.m. so keep that in mind before sleeping in!

Cakes & Bakes

The hotel generously sent over a delicious chocolate cake and bouquet of roses on finding out it was my birthday. I really appreciated the gesture and absolutely loved the cake!

The 1911 Bar

Meetings & Conferences:

The hotel offers a couple of conference rooms and a large ballroom for fancier occasions.

Miscellaneous:

The hotel is a lovely place to host events and celebrations. I had my engagement lunch in the San Gimignano lawns on a sunny January afternoon. The leafy greens and period decoration is perfect for merriment of all kind.

The complimentary chocolate cake and bouquet I received for my birthday

WHY YOU SHOULD STAY HERE:

I return frequently to this place because of its regal atmosphere. The history and charm enhance the experience so it stands apart from its competitors. Guests feel transported to another era with the ambiance and attentive service.

If you’re visiting Delhi, the Imperial is a fantastic choice for its location and uniqueness. If you live in Delhi and are looking for a quick escape from regular life, this quiet and alluring hotel is your best bet.

HOTEL RATING: 5/5

(Please excuse some of the clips that are out of frame! This is my first time making a vlog. Also please give me tips on how to edit the frame of the videos on iMovie :))

*Featured image of the blog post courtesy: http://www.tripadvisor.in

**This is not a sponsored post

The breakfast buffet at 1911 Coffee Shop

Doi Maach with Malabari Paratha during the Coastal Cuisine Festival at Daniell’s Tavern

The salon in the hotel

The Heritage Room

The toiletries in the bathroom

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