The Claridges, a historic hotel in Lutyens' Delhi

Opened in 1952, The Claridges ranks among India's first 5-star hotels. Its location in the Lutyens' Delhi district, designed by British architect Edwin Lutyens in the 1920s-1930s, places it firmly within the history of independent India's early years. The property features 132 rooms and suites divided between two wings—one dating from its original era, the other recently renovated.

Why stay here

• A landmark address in institutional New Delhi, near official avenues and the gardens of Lutyens' Delhi.
• Recognized hotel heritage: one of India's very first 5-star palaces, opened in 1952.
• Architecture blending early 20th-century British vocabulary with contemporary comfort.
• A central base for those combining heritage exploration with business engagements in the capital.

The atmosphere

The Claridges cultivates a hushed, refined atmosphere inherited from post-war British hospitality. Common areas—lounges, lobby, restaurants—preserve understated elegance with crown molding, woodwork, and classic furnishings. The hotel attracts a clientele of business travelers, diplomats, and Delhi regulars, lending it a measured rather than ostentatious tone. Interior gardens and a swimming pool offer welcome respite from the capital's heat.

The rooms

The hotel offers 132 rooms and suites split between two distinct wings: a heritage-focused "classic" wing faithful to the original style, and a recently renovated contemporary wing. This duality allows guests to choose between a room rich in historic character and accommodation with more modern lines. Categories range from standard rooms to suites, with several intermediate levels.

Note: the precise configuration of room categories may evolve; we invite you to check availability at the time of booking.

Services and dining

The Claridges houses several acclaimed dining venues reflecting Delhi's culinary scene (North-West Indian cuisine, themed restaurants, bars). The hotel also offers:

• an outdoor swimming pool surrounded by gardens;
• a spa and fitness center;
• meeting and reception spaces, regularly used for official events;
• standard 5-star services: concierge, room service, shuttle on request.

Location

The hotel sits on Aurangzeb Road (now Abdul Kalam Road), at the heart of Lutyens' Delhi, the administrative and residential district designed during the colonial era. This zone encompasses the country's principal institutions—Rashtrapati Bhavan, India Gate, Parliament House—and remains one of the capital's quietest and most tree-lined neighborhoods. Allow approximately 30 to 45 minutes' travel from Indira Gandhi International Airport depending on traffic.

What to see and do nearby

• India Gate and Rajpath avenue, minutes by car.
• Khan Market, one of Delhi's most sought-after shopping districts, with bookstores, cafés, and restaurants.
• Lodhi Gardens, a vast historic park scattered with 15th and 16th-century tombs.
• Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO-listed site, approximately 15 minutes away.
• National museums and the modern art gallery, clustered in the Janpath sector.

Extend your journey through India

After a few days in Delhi, many travelers continue to Rajasthan and its palaces converted into hotels. The Castle Mandawa Hotel opens the doors to the Shekhawati region, while Alsisar Haveli and Alsisar Haveli in Jaipur offer authentic Rajasthani haveli experiences. For a princely palace stopover, the Hotel Surya Vilas Palace is well worth the detour. To build a complete itinerary, consult our India journeys.