The primary catalyst for this price surge is the upcoming India AI Impact Summit 2026, scheduled to take place at Bharat Mandapam from February 16 to 20. Billed as the largest AI gathering ever held in the Global South, the event is expected to draw over 35,000 registrations, including 15 to 20 heads of government and more than 100 global CEOs.
Suites at ₹5 Lakh a Night?
For independent travelers, the "summit effect" is a sticker-shock reality. Data from major booking platforms like Ixigo and MakeMyTrip show that standard rooms in the Lutyens’ and Aerocity belts—which typically retail between ₹20,000 and ₹40,000 have surged by 45-60%.At premier properties, the numbers are even more staggering:
- The Leela Palace: Rooms are listed at approximately ₹2.75 lakh per night for peak summit dates, a massive jump from the usual ₹50,000 range.
- The Oberoi: Some premium categories have reportedly touched the ₹5 lakh mark, with several dates already showing "sold out" signs.
- Taj Palace: Entry-level rooms are hovering around ₹85,000, while top-tier suites have climbed into multi-lakh territory.
The ‘Shubh Muhurat’ Factor
It isn't just the tech world driving the demand. The week of the summit coincides with several "Shubh Muhurat" dates - auspicious days in the Hindu calendar for weddings. This local demand for banquet halls and guest rooms has effectively removed the remaining "buffer" inventory from the market.A Logistical Challenge
Beyond the cost of a stay, the city is bracing for significant logistical shifts. To accommodate the VIP movement, Delhi Police will deploy over 4,000 personnel across 10 specialized zones, covering the airport, major hotels, and the Bharat Mandapam venue.For those who must visit the city during this window, travel consultants are recommending looking toward the NCR outskirts. "The AI-inflation is concentrated in the luxury districts of South and Central Delhi," says one travel analyst. "Boutique stays in Gurgaon or Noida borders remain the only way to escape these peak-event prices."
As India prepares to showcase its AI prowess on the world stage, the hospitality sector is already reaping the rewards—albeit at a price that is leaving many regular travelers out in the cold.