ITC Grand Chola in Chennai ranks among India’s largest hotels and was constructed with an investment of around Rs. 1,200 crores. I vividly remember the first time I passed by this grand property and wondered if I would ever get the chance to stay here. Five years later I did. Below is my experience at this impressive luxury hotel.
Table of Contents
- Booking
- Location
- Check-in & Lobby
- The Room
- Bedroom
- The iPad
- Bathroom
- The Property
- Interiors
- Swimming Pool
- Breakfast & In-Room Dining
- Bottomline
Booking
I booked two consecutive nights using SPG award night vouchers I received as part of a targeted promotion. The booking was completed over the phone with SPG customer service and the confirmation arrived quickly by email. These vouchers allowed me to experience one of India’s most iconic hotels without paying the room rate.
- Revenue cost: Approximately Rs. 20,000 for two nights
- I Paid: Nil (SPG Award Nights)
Location
ITC Grand Chola is situated in a prime area of Chennai, roughly 10 km from Chennai International Airport. Within a five-kilometre radius you’ll find shopping malls, restaurants and other amenities, but once you’re inside the hotel you’ll likely find everything you need on site.
Check-in & Lobby
The hotel has multiple entrances and our cab dropped us at a service apartment entrance rather than the main arrival area. Staff guided us through to the main check-in lobby, an air-conditioned, palace-like space. Check-in was quick—around five minutes. I asked about an upgrade but was told the hotel was fully booked; later I learned that SPG’s redemption pays a modest amount to the hotel, which likely limits upgrade availability.
The Room
Bedroom
The room exemplifies luxury: a comfortable queen-size bed with bedside lamps, cozy armchairs with a round coffee table, layered curtains and a large wall-mounted smart TV. The décor is refined and the furnishings are thoughtfully placed for comfort and convenience.
The iPad
Each room includes an iPad that greets you by name and acts as a control hub for the space. The tablet controls lighting, AC temperature and even the main door; you can view anyone outside via a door camera and unlock the door with a tap. It’s an intuitive, modern feature and I had fun exploring the controls.
Bathroom
The bathrooms are a standout. Thoughtful design, generous space and mirrored elements give a sense of luxury and openness. Fixtures and finishes are premium, creating a relaxing, hotel-spa atmosphere.
The Property
Interiors
The property feels like an air-conditioned palace with grand public spaces, artwork on display and numerous lounges. The scale and attention to detail in the interiors create a sense of occasion wherever you walk. There are even escalators in some sections and a selection of retail outlets, coffee shops and bakeries for casual shopping or a quick bite.
Swimming Pool
The outdoor pool area is ideal for relaxing with a drink and soaking up a gentle breeze. It attracts many international guests who enjoy lounging poolside with a cocktail and a magazine. I personally avoided long sun exposure but the poolside atmosphere is undeniably appealing.
Breakfast & In-Room Dining
- Breakfast: INR 1,500 + GST per person
The breakfast rate is steep, and my booking did not include it, so I opted not to pay the premium. We also had a late start on the first day and an early departure on the second, so I didn’t sample the breakfast. In-room dining is convenient via the iPad, though menu prices are significantly higher than typical dining options outside the hotel.
Bottomline
ITC Grand Chola delivers a memorable luxury experience—opulent public spaces, excellent room design and modern conveniences like the in-room tablet. The room rate feels justified by the quality and scale of the property, though food and dining prices are notably premium for a city hotel. For a once-in-a-lifetime indulgence or a special occasion, it’s well worth experiencing. I would happily return, likely with family next time.
- Cardexpert Rating: 4.5/5
Have you stayed at ITC Grand Chola or planning to visit? Share your thoughts in the comments below.