The sitting area of one of the suites at the Lodhi Delhi
Serenity isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when describing New Delhi, but after spending a few days at the Lodhi Delhi last monthI can tell you it exists in abundance at the Lodhi Delhi. The Lodhi Delhi boasts the largest rooms of any luxury hotel in the city (ranging from 1350 square feet to 2400 square feet).
The property was opened in 2009 as the Aman New Delhi but is now proudly an independent boutique property.While the name has changed, themanagement (including the delightful Joint General Managers, husband-wife team Robyn Bickford and Manav Garewal) and standards of service are still Aman Resorts-high.
City of Djinns By William Darymple, a thoughtful detail at the Lodhi
My Lodhi experience began the airport, when I arrived painfully early and was picked up by a driver sent by the hotel, who made the whole experience pleasant and as devoid of hassle as possible. The hotel is modern, zen and elegant with Moghul influences throughout.
Light and bright details in the rooms at the Lodhi Delhi
Fresh flowers in the guest rooms
My spacious Lodhi room was ready for me when I arrived and impressively large and included a balcony complete with a day bed and hot tub. After a quick shower in the large bathroom, my husband and went down and ate our first delicious breakfast at Elan, including my first lassi of the trip. Satisfied, we then took a nap in the incredibly comfortable king-sized bed. That nap lasted 5 hours (the bed is that comfortable).
Sink and vanity in a guest room at The Lodhi
My goal was to conquer jet lag at the Lodhi, and the property and staff has all the tools to help you do so. There is a large state of the art gym (shared with residents who live in the apartments housed in the same complex). There is a gorgeous outdoor courtyard pool, tennis courts, and hair salon and a large spa that offers everything from ayurvedic treatments to Swedish massage. I highly recommend booking a treatment in the palatially sized couples spa suite.
The spacious layout of a Lodhi room
The hotel also doubles as an art gallery of sorts, with exhibitions and pieces of modern Indian art displayed throughout the property. The exhibitions rotate and the works are also available for sale. I appreciated the Lodhi’s of-the-moment vibe. It is a refreshing change from the omnipresent colonial nostalgia that is somewhat inescapable in India.
The gym at the Lodhi is large and state of the art
Located in a leafy neighborhood filled with embassies, The Lodhi is close to sights such as Humayun’s tomb, which makes sightseeing excursions easy, even if you’re suffering brutal jet lag. The staff is more than happy to advise and make arrangements.
Floating marigold petals at the Lodhi
All the modern conveniences are present at the hotel, with ample outlets, fast laundry service and free wifi throughout the property.
Details from the Spa treatment rooms at the Lodhi Spa
The food is outstanding at the Lodhi. Even if you don’t stay here, OTW (On the Waterfront) restaurant is worth visiting for it’s gorgeous open kitchens dedicated to Asian and Italian cuisines. I fell in love with Indian breakfast dining at Elan. There is also a casual poolside restaurant.
Outdoor zen: the hot tub and day bed in my room at the Lodhi
The facilities are top notch, but the best thing about the Lodhi is definitely the staff. They are friendly, helpful, welcoming and take excellent care of you during your time on property.
A paper mache sculpture displayed in the hallway of the Lodhi
The Lodhi feels more like an intimate resort than a business hotel and it’s a gem of a find in the bustling Indian capital. It’s an excellent base if you’re coming to India to explore the Golden Triangle of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur.
The hallways double as art galleries at the Lodhi
Modern art hanging at Elan restaurant
Seating areas at the Lodhi
Bar interior at the Lodhi
The 50 meter pool in the Lodhi courtyard
Outdoor dining at Elan
OTW restaurant is worth visiting even if don’t stay at the Lodhi
The courtyard pool glowing at night
Room rates at the Lodhi Delhi range from $306 – $708 (USD) per night.
The Lodhi
Lodhi Road, New Delhi 110003
INDIA
Reservations: reservations@thelodhi.com
Phone: +91 124 4653333
Much thanks to Robyn Bickford and Manav Garewal, the Joint General Managers at the Lodhi Delhi who generously hosted me during my stay. Without them this post would not be possible.