1. History and Legacy
Located in the prestigious Diplomatic Enclave, The Leela Palace Hotel New Delhi is a stunning example of what modern luxury should be. The hotel opened its doors in 2011, and while relatively new compared to some of its peers, it has quickly established itself as one of the premier hotels in India. The Leela Palace is part of The Leela Group, a chain of luxury hotels founded by Captain C.P. Krishnan Nair, whose vision was to blend India’s rich cultural heritage with world-class luxury.
The architecture of The Leela Palace New Delhi reflects the palaces of Rajasthan and Lutyens’ Delhi, a combination that pays homage to India’s regal past. Every detail within the property, from the grand domes to the intricate frescoes, is a testament to the hotel’s dedication to luxury and traditional craftsmanship. The Leela brand is synonymous with luxury, and their Delhi location has managed to elevate that standard even further.
2. Architecture and Design
Stepping into The Leela Palace feels like entering a royal Indian palace. The grandeur of the building is immediately evident, from its imposing marble facade to the intricately carved arches and columns. The hotel spans over 2 acres, with lush, manicured gardens surrounding the property, offering an oasis of calm amidst the bustling city.
The interiors are equally magnificent, with luxurious chandeliers, Persian rugs, and hand-painted frescoes adorning the walls. The hotel’s design takes inspiration from the grand palaces of Rajasthan, with a blend of Lutyens’ New Delhi architecture, giving it a regal yet modern feel. The palace’s golden domes and Mughal-inspired design elements are striking, creating a fusion of tradition and contemporary aesthetics that pleases the eye at every corner.
3. Room Types and Amenities
The Leela Palace offers 254 rooms and suites, each designed to provide the ultimate in luxury and comfort. The rooms range from the 550-square-foot Grande Deluxe Rooms to the 4,800-square-foot Maharaja Suite, which comes with its own private infinity pool and personal butler service.
Each room is decorated with a blend of traditional Indian elements and modern amenities. The plush furnishings, hand-carved furniture, and beautiful art pieces create an atmosphere of sophistication and luxury. The bathrooms are just as opulent, with Italian marble floors, rain showers, and soaking tubs offering stunning views of the city.
For those who prefer to stay connected, the hotel offers high-speed Wi-Fi, international direct-dial telephones, and high-definition LED televisions. Each room is equipped with touch panels to control lighting, temperature, and room service, making it easy for guests to personalize their experience.
4. Dining Experiences
Dining at The Leela Palace is an experience in itself. The hotel boasts several fine dining options that cater to a variety of palates, from traditional Indian to international cuisine.
- Jamavar is the hotel’s signature restaurant and is recognized as one of the best places to experience authentic Indian cuisine in Delhi. Inspired by the rich culinary heritage of the North and South, Jamavar offers a fine selection of kebabs, curries, and biryanis in a luxurious setting.
- MEGU, a world-class Japanese restaurant, brings the flavors of Japan to the heart of Delhi. With its minimalist design and focus on fresh ingredients, MEGU has become a favorite among international guests.
- Le Cirque is the place to go for European and French-Italian fusion cuisine. This rooftop restaurant offers panoramic views of the city, along with a menu that includes signature dishes like black truffle risotto and lobster ravioli.
- The Library Bar is an elegant venue to enjoy premium wines, cocktails, and spirits. With plush leather chairs, vintage books, and dark wood decor, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a long day.
For guests seeking a more casual dining experience, The Qube offers international cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere, with both indoor and al fresco dining options.
5. Unique Selling Points
One of The Leela Palace’s most unique features is its commitment to personalizing the guest experience. From the moment you arrive, the staff ensures that every aspect of your stay is tailored to your preferences. Whether it’s arranging a private city tour, customizing the room temperature, or providing a curated list of things to do in Delhi, the service is impeccable.
Another highlight is the hotel’s rooftop infinity pool, which offers stunning views of the city and provides a tranquil retreat for guests. The hotel also has a world-class spa, ESPA, which offers a wide range of treatments designed to rejuvenate the mind and body. The spa combines traditional Indian therapies with modern techniques, creating a unique wellness experience for guests.
6. Location and Accessibility
Located in the heart of New Delhi’s Diplomatic Enclave, The Leela Palace is ideally situated for both business and leisure travelers. It’s close to key landmarks like Rashtrapati Bhavan, India Gate, and the business district of Connaught Place. The hotel is a 15-minute drive from the Indira Gandhi International Airport, making it convenient for international travelers.
Despite being in the center of the city, The Leela Palace offers a peaceful atmosphere, thanks to its beautifully landscaped gardens and soundproofed rooms. Whether you’re in Delhi for a quick business trip or an extended vacation, the hotel’s location makes it easy to explore the city’s sights and sounds.
7. Who Should Stay Here?
The Leela Palace New Delhi is perfect for those who seek the highest level of luxury and personalized service. Whether you’re a business traveler looking for comfort and convenience, a couple on a romantic getaway, or a family looking to explore Delhi, this hotel has something to offer everyone.
For luxury seekers, the hotel’s amenities, dining options, and attentive staff make it one of the best choices in Delhi. The Leela Palace also caters to high-profile guests, including celebrities, politicians, and business moguls, thanks to its privacy and top-notch security.
8. Price Range and Value
Staying at The Leela Palace doesn’t come cheap, but for those seeking the ultimate in luxury, it’s worth every penny. Prices start at ₹25,000 ($300) per night for a standard room, with suites ranging upwards of ₹350,000 ($4,500) per night. While expensive, the attention to detail, personalized service, and luxurious amenities make it a great value for those who expect the best.
For guests looking to indulge further, the hotel offers a range of packages that include spa treatments, dining experiences, and exclusive city tours. These packages provide a more immersive experience of Delhi’s rich culture and history, making your stay even more memorable.
Conclusion: The Leela Palace Luxury Hotel in New Delhi represents the pinnacle of luxury in India’s capital. With its regal architecture, world-class dining, luxurious accommodations, and impeccable service, it’s no wonder that it’s consistently ranked as one of the best hotels in Delhi and the world. Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, a stay at The Leela Palace is sure to leave you feeling pampered and relaxed, with memories that will last a lifetime.