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Indira Gandhi International Airport

India’s grand travel gateway

Airport in India

Delhi (14 km)

152 destinations

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Indira Gandhi International Airport serves as India’s main international gateway in Delhi. It handles millions of passengers each year, connecting travelers to cities across Asia and beyond. The airport has modern terminals with shops, restaurants and lounges for comfort. Trains and buses link the terminal to central Delhi, making it easy to reach hotels or other parts of the city. Daily operations include flights from major airlines, cargo services and a range of amenities designed for both short stops and long layovers.

Last update: 12 Oct 2026

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Delhi Airport Summary

Indira Gandhi International Airport is an airport near Delhi in India. It currently offers regular passenger service to 152 destinations operated by 68 airlines.

Top airlines

IndiGo (6E)

1689 flights per week

Air India (AI)

1532 flights per week

Air India Express (IX)

368 flights per week

Top destinations

BOM Mumbai

HYD Hyderabad

CCU Kolkata

Cheapest destinations

JAI Jaipur

IXC Chandigarh

LKO Lucknow

Best destinations

NRT Tokyo

HND Tokyo

SIN Singapore

India – Quick facts

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Power Grid:	230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type D , Type M Type C: Type D: Type M: Read about power adapters
Currency:	Indian Rupee (INR) £1 ≈ ₹126.52
Cashless info:	Rating 4/5 Cashless payments are becoming more common in India, especially in urban areas. Credit cards and mobile payment apps like Google Pay, Paytm, and PhonePe are widely accepted in cities. Save with a travel credit card
eSIM providers:	Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison

Tipping:	Tipping is appreciated in India but not mandatory. A 10% tip in restaurants is common. Tipping taxi drivers and hotel staff is also customary, typically 10-15% for good service.
Public drinking:	Public drinking is not commonly seen in India. Alcohol is typically consumed in licensed bars, restaurants, and hotels.
Public smoking:	Smoking is prohibited in many indoor public spaces, including restaurants, bars, and public transport stations.

Independence Day (15 August)	A national holiday celebrated with flag hoisting and parades
Diwali (October-November)	The Festival of Lights, celebrated with fireworks and festivities

Emergency contact:	Emergency Number: 112
Taxi apps:	Ola, Uber
Other:	India is a vast and diverse country with a rich cultural heritage, offering a wide range of experiences from ancient temples to modern cities. Prepare for varying infrastructure and safety conditions depending on the region.

Indira Gandhi International Airport impresses with its modern terminals, especially Terminal 3, which frequently ranks among Asia’s best for its design and amenities. The airport handles tens of millions of travelers yearly, featuring extensive shopping, dining and comfortable lounge facilities. It balances international expectations with local character, creating a unique ambiance.

Travelers should be aware that despite the airport’s advances, congestion during peak hours can lead to long queues, particularly at immigration and security checkpoints. Transfers between terminals may require time and effort, so plan accordingly. Facilities are generally clean and well-maintained, but certain older zones lag behind the premium standards of newer areas.

Accessing the city and neighboring regions is straightforward, with the Airport Express Metro Line providing a swift and economical link directly into central Delhi. Taxis and pre-booked private transfers are also convenient, but traffic delays can add significant travel time. Free Wi-Fi is available, though connection quality may vary.

All in all, Indira Gandhi International Airport offers a blend of India's energy and hospitality wrapped in a modern travel experience, but patience is advisable to navigate peak crowds and busy transit times.

Helpful tips for Indira Gandhi International Airport

Arrive two hours early for security and immigration checks.
Use the airport's free Wi‑Fi to download local maps before departure, ensuring smooth navigation through Delhi’s traffic.
Check visa requirements in advance; Indian e‑visa processing can take up to 48 hours if not pre‑approved.
Explore the airport’s art installations and cultural displays, which reflect Delhi’s heritage and offer unique photo opportunities.

Available airport lounges

Air India Maharaja Lounge

Designed for Air India’s premium passengers, this lounge provides Indian-themed decor, diverse food options, and a quiet atmosphere for rest and work during layovers.

Encalm Lounge Terminal 3

Located in Terminal 3, Encalm Lounge offers a tranquil environment with freshly cooked meals, comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, and shower facilities. Access is available via lounge memberships or paid entry; it’s perfect for long layovers or business travellers.

Plaza Premium Lounge Terminal 3

This lounge features extensive dining options, beverage service, shower facilities, and workspaces. It welcomes Priority Pass customers and allows walk-ins on payment.

American Express Lounge

Accessible to Amex cardholders with offers including cocktails, snacks, and comfortable seating for relaxation before flights. It caters mainly to international travellers in Terminal 3.

Where to stay near Indira Gandhi International Airport

New Delhi offers a large range of accommodations near the airport and in central locations like Connaught Place, from budget guesthouses to premium international hotels. Many travelers prefer staying close to Aerocity for convenience and upmarket amenities.

Hotel recommendations

*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.

Roseate House New Delhi

8.8

Holiday Inn New Delhi Aerocity By IHG

8.7

Radisson Blu Plaza Delhi Airport

8.7

Radisson Blu Hotel New Delhi Dwarka

7.9

Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Dwarka, New Delhi

8.0

Lemon Tree Hotel, Delhi Airport

8.2

Lemon Tree Premier Delhi Airport Hotel

8.1

Taj Palace, New Delhi

9.2

Pride Plaza Hotel, Aerocity New Delhi

8.3

The Umrao

7.7

Explore more accommodations

How to get from Delhi Airport to popular destinations

To New Delhi City Center:
The Airport Express Line metro connects Terminal 3 to New Delhi railway station in about 20 minutes for roughly ₹60 (£0.47). Taxis and app-based cabs are available outside all terminals, taking roughly 30-60 minutes depending on traffic, with fares around ₹500 – 900 (£3.95 – 7.10). Private pre-booked transfers provide a hassle-free option.

To Aerocity:
Aerocity, a modern business and hotel district next to the airport, is accessible by a short shuttle or taxi ride in 5-10 minutes. Some hotels offer direct shuttle services; cabs are readily available as well.

To Gurgaon:
Gurgaon (Gurugram) is reachable via taxi or app-based cars, which take about 45-60 minutes depending on traffic. The metro line extends nearby but requires a combination of transport modes. Pre-booked car services are recommended for convenience and safety.