Taj Mahal Hotel

The Taj Mahal Hotel is set within six acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, and serves as one of the most recognizable properties in New Delhi -- particularly among the Taj brand. Lush lawns surround the 11-story building, with sky-high Mughal architecture and a pink sandstone facade. On the inside, Indian-inspired decor is classic and elegant. Old antique furniture and traditional accents are blended with contemporary touches, creating a number of opulent public spaces that draw the suit-and-gown set for all-day drinks or afternoon tea. The vast lobby has highly-polished floors, blooming floral displays, ornamental rugs, a domed roof, and plush velvet armchairs where corporate guests often gather for casual meetings. A grand carved marble staircase takes guests to the restaurants and outdoor pool, which have a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere. The rooftop bar is a go-to for city views and evening drinks, while the gardens have plenty of quiet spots to take a break. Guests are a mix of business travelers and tourists, with many Western and Indian travelers staying here. 

The Taj Mahal Hotel is ideally located for business travelers and tourists alike. It's close to the central government and diplomatic areas of Delhi, as well as many tourist attractions. Upscale Khan Market is a 10-minute walk away, while beautiful Lodhi Gardens -- with its ancient tombs and flowering pathways -- are a five- to 10-minute walk away. Other attractions include India Gate, the Presidential Palace, and National Museum, which are all around a 10-minute drive from the hotel. Connaught Place will also take about 10 minutes to reach by car, while the chaotic and atmospheric lanes of Old Delhi are a 30-minute drive from the hotel. The nearest metro station is at Khan Market, while Indira Gandhi International Airport is about 40 minutes away by car. However, it can take significantly longer to reach due to heavy traffic during peak hours. Cabs are easily accessible outside the hotel, and chauffeurs can be booked directly with the Taj.

The hotel offers a variety of different room types, with views of the city that range from nice to stunning. All are spacious and elegant, though the classical decor might be a little old-fashioned for some. Patterned carpets and warm gold tones are combined with antique-style furniture, while king size beds are topped with white linens. Standard in-room amenities include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, electric kettles, fully-stocked minibars, phones, safes, and pillow menus. The button-controlled side panels look a little held over from the '90s, though they are functional. Spacious marble-finish bathrooms are immaculately clean, and include shower/tub combos or deep-soaking tubs and separate showers, plus hairdryers, robes and slippers, and toiletries. All rooms have seating areas with comfortable sofas and glass-topped coffee tables, while some Suites add dining rooms, kitchens, and access to the Club Lounge. Some also include balconies. Taj Club rooms allow access to the Club Lounge with free food and beverages, banking services, one-way airport transfers, and free daily newspapers. Female guests traveling alone are offered extra security with video-door entry, plus female room attendants. Free shoe shines are a nice perk for those on the go. Garment pressing is also offered, but limited to one free piece per day.

The hotel has resort-style facilities and multiple dining options. There's a 24-hour international eatery, plus a Cantonese and Szechuan specialty restaurant called House of Ming. Varq offers modern Indian dining, while Wasabi by Morimoto serves contemporary Japanese cuisine. Emperor Lounge is an elegant place for intimate meetings over tea or coffee, while Rick’s Wokkerie and Lounge Bar serves a wide selection of malts, fine wines, and cocktails. The Grill Room is located on the rooftop, for relaxed dining and stunning panoramic views of the city. Room service is available around the clock, and a breakfast buffet with Western and Indian options is available for a fee. Keep in mind that this hotel is one of Delhi's most exclusive, and prices in all venues reflect that fact.

Most extras here are geared toward relaxation, with an outdoor pool that's surrounded by sun loungers and umbrellas. Poolside service is available, with free lotion, towels, and cold water. Guests can unwind at the Taj Spa, which offers a range of traditional massages and treatments plus a sauna, steam room, and hot tubs. There's also a beauty salon and 24-hour fitness center, which is equipped with modern cardio equipment, free weights, and resistance machines. 

Child-friendly amenities include special menus, toys, books, DVDs, popcorn, babysitting for a fee, and tennis and art classes for a fee. For corporate travelers, there's a 24-hour business center with three meeting rooms, plus a free manager's reception in the lobby. The Club Lounge provides free food and beverages plus business-ready extras for those staying in higher-category rooms. Other features include a concierge, laundry, a boutique, chauffeur services, airport transfers for a fee, free parking, and free Wi-Fi.