The Centre of Action: Lutyens' Delhi
The heart of the BRICS summit will be the state-of-the-art Bharat Mandapam in central Delhi. Consequently, the city's most prestigious hotels, located in and around Lutyens' Delhi, have become high-security zones reserved for heads of state and top-tier
delegations. Properties like the Taj Mahal Hotel on Mansingh Road, The Oberoi, and Shangri-La Eros New Delhi are primary choices for their proximity to the venue, fortified security, and long history of hosting diplomatic guests. For the 2026 summit, it has been reported that Russian President Vladimir Putin will stay at the ITC Maurya, while Chinese President Xi Jinping will be at the Taj Palace. These hotels are effectively sold out, with entire floors booked to ensure the highest levels of security and privacy.
The Diplomatic Enclave: Chanakyapuri's Finest
Chanakyapuri, the city's diplomatic quarter, is home to some of the most sought-after luxury hotels. ITC Maurya, Taj Palace, and The Leela Palace are accustomed to the unique demands of state visits. These establishments are not just hotels but fortified temporary residences, featuring private entrances, dedicated culinary teams, and seamless coordination with security agencies. The Leela Palace, for example, is preparing to host delegates from five countries with specially curated menus that highlight Indian ingredients like millets and barley, while also accommodating specific dietary preferences. The proximity to both the airport and the summit venue makes this area a strategic choice for high-level delegations that require both convenience and extreme security.
The Business Hub: Aerocity and Gurugram
For many business delegates, journalists, and officials, proximity to the airport is a major advantage. Delhi's Aerocity, a hospitality district near Indira Gandhi International Airport, offers a cluster of world-class hotels like the JW Marriott, Andaz Delhi, and Pullman New Delhi. These hotels are designed for the international business traveller, featuring extensive conference facilities, business centres, and excellent connectivity. Staying in Aerocity allows for easy arrivals and departures, avoiding much of the city's traffic, while still being a manageable drive from the summit's events. With over 5,000 rooms in the vicinity, it serves as a crucial secondary hub for the summit, housing delegations and providing a base for corporate teams following the proceedings.
Practical and Premium: Connaught Place and Beyond
For those not part of a primary state delegation but still requiring premium service and a central location, the hotels around Connaught Place offer an excellent balance. Properties like The LaLiT, Le Méridien, and The Park are located just a few kilometres from Bharat Mandapam and provide five-star amenities. These hotels are accommodating delegations from several BRICS partner nations and international organizations. Beyond the five-star category, areas like Sunder Nagar and Jor Bagh offer upscale boutique hotels and guesthouses. For attendees on a more conservative budget, there are numerous well-regarded 4-star hotels in Connaught Place and Karol Bagh that provide comfort and convenience without the steep price tag associated with the primary delegation hotels.
Navigating the City During the Summit
With thousands of delegates in the city, navigating Delhi requires some planning. Over 3,000 rooms have been booked in key hotels, pushing tariffs at some luxury properties to over ₹2 lakh per night. Extensive security measures are in place, with around 15,000 police personnel deployed and traffic restrictions planned, especially in the New Delhi district. The Delhi Metro has announced that services will begin earlier on the weekend to facilitate movement. It is advisable for all visitors to allow extra time for travel, stay informed about traffic advisories issued by the Delhi Traffic Police, and consider using the metro for commuting to avoid road closures and VIP convoy movements.
