The Claridges Hotel

Most luxury hotels built in Delhi since have chased height — glass towers, sweeping skylines, a room on the twentieth floor as a selling point. The Claridges never has. A low-rise, three-story property spread across three acres in two connected wings, it remains one of the few five-star addresses in the capital where the experience is horizontal rather than vertical — expansive lawns, tree-lined walkways, and a sense of space that a tower simply can't replicate. Located at 12, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Road (formerly Aurangzeb Road) in the diplomatic enclave of Lutyens' Delhi, The Claridges opened in 1955 as independent India's first five-star hotel, a distinction that places it at the very beginning of the country's modern luxury hospitality story, not simply among its early examples.

A Living Monument to Post-Independence India

Being first mattered less over time than what The Claridges chose to remain. Surrounded by embassies, government bungalows, and the quiet grandeur of colonial-era architecture, the hotel has spent seven decades hosting royalty, heads of state, diplomats, and artists, all while resisting the pull toward flashier, larger-scale luxury that's reshaped much of Delhi's hospitality landscape since. Its art deco-influenced architecture, dating to the 1930s design sensibilities of its era, still carries that original character rather than a renovated approximation of it — a rarer thing to find intact than most guests realize until they're standing in the garden themselves, under one of the property's shaded outdoor canopies.

Location: The Heart of Diplomatic Delhi

One of The Claridges' greatest strengths is its location. Situated in the Motilal Nehru Marg Area and the Tees January Road Area, the hotel enjoys proximity to some of New Delhi's most important landmarks. India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhavan, the Parliament House, and Khan Market are all within easy reach, making it an ideal base for business travellers, political delegates, and tourists alike. The surrounding neighbourhood is among the greenest and most serene parts of the capital — a welcome contrast to the bustling energy found elsewhere in Delhi. Guests stepping outside the hotel are greeted by wide, tree-canopied roads and an atmosphere of diplomatic calm that is uniquely Lutyens' Delhi.

Accommodation: Where Comfort Meets Classic Style

The rooms and suites at The Claridges are thoughtfully designed to reflect the hotel's colonial heritage while offering every modern comfort a luxury traveller would expect. Each room is equipped with air conditioning, a flat-panel television, a writing desk, an in-room safe, a universal electric socket, a coffee maker, and round-the-clock room service. The interiors strike a balance between old-world charm and contemporary convenience, creating spaces that feel both welcoming and distinctly special. With room rates starting from ₹16,500 per night, guests can choose from a range of meal plans including AP (all meals), MAP (breakfast with one other meal), CP (breakfast included), or EP (room only), offering flexibility to suit different preferences and schedules.

Dining: A Culinary Journey

Dining at The Claridges is an experience in itself. The hotel features a well-regarded restaurant and a stylish bar and lounge, both of which have built loyal followings among Delhi's food-savvy residents and frequent visitors. The culinary offerings reflect a commitment to quality, with menus crafted to satisfy both Indian palates and international tastes. Whether it is a leisurely breakfast before a day of sightseeing, a business lunch with a colleague, or a candlelit dinner after an evening at the nearby cultural venues, the dining experiences at The Claridges consistently deliver.

Amenities: Five-Star Comfort in Every Detail

As a five-star property, The Claridges spares no effort in ensuring that guests are completely comfortable and well-catered for throughout their stay. The amenities list is extensive and thoughtfully curated. A 24-hour front desk ensures round-the-clock assistance, while a dedicated travel desk helps guests plan excursions, airport transfers, and sightseeing tours across Delhi and beyond. The hotel features a well-equipped fitness centre and gym for guests who wish to maintain their wellness routines, as well as rejuvenating spa services for those seeking relaxation and therapy. A swimming pool provides a refreshing retreat, particularly during Delhi's warm months, while the lush garden spaces offer quiet corners for reflection or informal meetings.

Business travellers are well-served by a fully equipped business centre and conference hall, making The Claridges a strong choice for corporate stays, executive retreats, and small-scale conferences. Banquet facilities are also available for private events, social functions, and formal gatherings. Other practical amenities include laundry service, porter and bellhop assistance, reliable power backup, a parking facility, an elevator, and wheelchair and disability access — reflecting the hotel's commitment to being inclusive and accessible to all guests.

Service: The Claridges Difference

What truly sets The Claridges apart from its contemporaries is the quality and warmth of its service. In an age where hospitality has increasingly become transactional, The Claridges retains a deeply personal approach. Staff are trained to anticipate guest needs, remember preferences, and deliver assistance with the kind of discreet attentiveness that is the hallmark of truly great hotels. This culture of care has been built over seven decades and is considered the hotel's most prized asset. Guests often remark that staying at The Claridges feels like being looked after by old friends who happen to run an immaculate luxury establishment.