Lodhi

A tranquil oasis in New Delhi, the Lodhi can seem imposing from the exterior—the building is large and dramatic—but its interior is cozy and cosseting, thanks to excellent design, superb service and thoughtful touches.

• The suite of pools and hammams are excellent for post-massage visits.
• Elephant woodblock-printed upholstery mixed in with contemporary sleek furniture makes for comfortable—and very Indian—interiors.
• Homemade, complimentary mini-bar treats, including cheddar crackers and chocolate truffles.

Formerly the Aman New Delhi, the Lodhi became an independent boutique hotel in 2013 but has maintained its Aman-like aesthetic and attention to detail. Set amid one of Delhi’s greenest neighborhoods (the setting of the Delhi Golf Course), the hotel exudes a chic sense of serenity. Public spaces are at once grand, with huge glass walls looking onto water features, but also warm with plush seating areas and a hushed ambience. With resident managers who are beloved fixtures in Delhi society, guests feel like honored visitors with insider’s access.

While the building is large and can seem imposing, the hotel holds only 40 guest rooms, so each guest receives personalized, excellent service. Guest room are the size of a small apartment with a sitting area, workstation, dressing room and spacious bathrooms. The pièce de résistance is each room’s large balcony and plunge pools with double chaise lounges upholstered in beautiful woodblock prints. Nothing could be more refreshing after a day of Delhi sightseeing than a dip in your private pool and emerging for a drink on the protected patio.

The Lodhi spa is particularly luxurious; treatment rooms each have their own showers, steam rooms, bathtubs and chaises. The state-of-the-art fitness area offers TRX, Pilates and personal training, as well as yoga classes, which can be taken in the adjacent park amidst parakeets and historic tombs. For the athletic-minded there is a 50-meter swimming pool, as well as tennis and squash courts.

Excellent dining options include the stunning OTW, a peaceful oasis built of glass that sits over one of the property’s many water features. Elan is a more casual restaurant option that serves a variety of Indian and Southeast Asian cuisine. Indian Accent, serving gourmet modern Indian cuisine, is a must for foodies.

Travelers who appreciate sleek design, well-sized rooms and phenomenal amenities. Those looking for a historic, antique-filled hotel would be happier at the Imperial.