Constructed in the early 1900s, Delhi's Maidens Hotel is one of the city's oldest and most renowned heritage hotels. Its colonial architecture and designs have preserved its regal ambiance. The hotel is situated in a convenient area of the city, close to the well-known shopping district Chandni Chowk and some of the most impressive Mughal structures. Nonetheless, one may still unwind in this serene little piece of history and escape the bustle of Delhi thanks to its expansive grounds and lovely gardens.
A Glimpse Into History:
The Maiden brothers established the Maidens Hotel in 1894 under the name Metropolitan Hotel. In order to serve dignitaries attending the 1903 Durbar, which commemorated the coronation of King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra as Emperor and Empress of India, J. Maiden built the hotel in its present site in 1903. The hotel immediately established a reputation for exclusivity and luxury, and over the years, it was chosen by diplomats, movie stars, and royalty. Notably, when the layout of New Delhi was being planned, Sir Edwin Lutyens, the architect, lived at the Maidens Hotel.
In addition to having seen history, Maidens Hotel has played a prominent role in it. Due to its striking colonial setting, the hotel has appeared in several historical dramas and motion pictures:
- The Wind Cannot Read (1958), a British World War II romance.
- Sea Wolves (1980), starring Gregory Peck and Roger Moore.
- Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (2013), where it was transformed to depict international locales.
The Maidens Hotel remains intact, proud of its history, and steadfast in its dedication to conserving the past in a city that is changing quickly and is dominated by skyscrapers and upscale shopping centres. It is more than just a hotel; it is a living symbol of Delhi's illustrious past, a museum of memories, and a haven of style.
Where: 7, Sham Nath Marg, Prema Kunj, Civil Lines, New Delhi, Delhi, 110054.