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How to Get to Delhi

How to Get to Delhi

Delhi India Travel Guide

Air Travel: Indira Gandhi International Airport DEL

Flights & Airlines

DEL is among India's busiest airports, a major hub for international and domestic flights. Every international arrivals/departures and most domestic full-service flights use this airport.

Routes & Carriers

  • Foreign Carriers: Air India, Vistara, IndiGo, SpiceJet, Emirates, Qatar Airways, British Airways, Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines, United Airlines.
  • Domestic Airlines: IndiGo, Vistara, Air India, SpiceJet, Akasa Air.
  • Typical Routes: Direct flights from major global hubs (London, Dubai, Doha, Singapore, Frankfurt, Paris, Amsterdam, New York, The Bay area, Chicago, Sydney). Extensive domestic network.

Seasonality & Facilities

Flight prices change based on demand and seasonality. DEL offers a range of services for travelers.

Airport Info

  • High Season (Oct-Mar): Higher prices. Book well in advance.
  • Low Season (May-Aug): Lower prices due to reduced demand. Use Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for deals.
  • Facilities: Duty-free shops, lounges, restaurants, currency exchange, ATMs, healthcare providers, free Wi-Fi.

Metro Airport Express

Fastest and most efficient way to New Delhi Train Station (20-25 mins).

Taxis

Prepaid taxis (fixed fare) or app-based cabs (Ola/Uber) from dedicated zones.

Private Transfers

Many hotels offer airport pick-up. Chauffeured services bookable in advance.

Land Transportation: Trains & Buses

Train Connections

  • Major Railway Stations: New Delhi (NDLS), Old Delhi (DLI), Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM), Anand Vihar Terminal (ANVT).
  • Services: Various classes, from general compartments to AC first class.
  • Booking: Advance booking recommended. Online via IRCTC, MakeMyTrip, or Goibibo.
  • Connectivity: Extensive across India.

Long-Distance Bus Options

  • Interstate Bus Terminals (ISBTs): Kashmere Gate (northern states), Sarai Kale Khan (Rajasthan, MP, UP), Anand Vihar (UP, Uttarakhand).
  • Companies: Government-run (DTC, HRTC) and private companies (comfortable AC sleepers).
  • Booking: Online or at terminals.
  • Alternative: Good for inter-city travel, less convenient within Delhi.

Self-Driving & Road Conditions

Self-Driving

An International Driving Permit (IDP) with your national driving license is legally required. Self-driving is generally not recommended for tourists in Delhi. Traffic flow is chaotic, driving styles aggressive, and roads poorly marked. DiscoverCars.com for renting.

Road Conditions

Roads differ from multi-lane expressways to narrow, congested streets. Potholes are common, especially after monsoon. Traffic congestion occurs during peak hours.

Safety Concerns

Driving in Delhi can be dangerous due to lack of lane discipline, frequent horn usage, and a mix of vehicles, pedestrians, and animals. Accident rates are high. Use Metro or ride-ride-sharing apps for city travel, or hire a car with a driver for inter-city.

Sea/River & Departure

Sea/River Arrivals

Delhi is a landlocked city.

Not Applicable

  • Sea or river arrivals are not applicable for reaching Delhi directly.
  • India shares land borders with Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Myanmar.
  • Tourists typically use designated border crossings when traveling to these neighboring countries.

Departure Information

Prepare for your departure from Delhi by understanding the procedures and timing recommendations.

Departure Procedures

  • Timing: Arrive at DEL at least 3 hours before international flight, 2 hours before domestic flight.
  • Procedures: Complete check-in, luggage drop-off, security checks. For international, travel through immigration.
  • Facilities: Lounges, duty-free shopping (international terminal), restaurants, currency exchange, ATMs, Wi-Fi.

Exit Fees or Taxes

You won't pay exit fees are levied directly on passengers departing India by air.

Included in Airfare

  • All relevant charges are usually included in your airfare.
  • Confirm with your airline or travel agent if you have concerns.
  • No additional payments at the airport for these fees.

Pre-Departure Checklist

Before heading to the airport or transportation hub, perform a final check.

Final Review

  • Passport and Visa: Ensure they are secure and accessible.
  • Tickets: Confirm flight or train times and terminal/platform.
  • Baggage: Check weight limits for checked and carry-on luggage.

Border Crossing Information

  • Delhi is an inland city. Border crossing information does not apply directly for arriving in Delhi.
  • India shares land borders with Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Myanmar.
  • Tourists use designated border crossings when traveling to these neighboring countries.
  • Research specific country entry and exit requirements.
  • Customs and immigration checks take place at these land borders.
  • Ensure all required visa and travel documents are in order for both countries.

Travel Essentials Summary

Air Travel Checklist

From booking to boarding, a streamlined air travel process is .

Before You Fly

  • Confirm flight details and terminal (T3 for most international).
  • Arrive early: 3 hours for international, TWO hours for domestic flights.
  • Consider Metro Airport Express for fastest city access.

Land Travel Strategies

Navigating India's vast network by land may be an adventure.

Inside India

  • Trains: Book well beforehand through IRCTC for comfort and reliability.
  • Buses: Utilize ISBTs for long-distance routes. Private buses offer better comfort.
  • Driving: Hire a car with a driver for inter-city travel; self-driving in Delhi is not recommended.

Pre-Book Transfers

Arrange airport or station transfers in advance, especially upon arrival.

Check Schedules

Verify flight, train, or bus schedules a day before departure for any changes.

Confirm Payments

Ensure all travel-related payments are confirmed, especially for booked tickets.

Final Departure Advice

Airport Departure Tips

Make your... more efficient departure from Delhi's airport with these recommendations.

Smooth Exit

  • Online Check-in-in: If available, perform online check-in to save time.
  • Documents Ready: Keep passport, boarding pass, and any other travel documents easily accessible.
  • Security Screening: Prepare for security checks by having electronics and liquids ready for inspection.

Railway/Bus Station Departure Tips

For onward journeys by train or bus, these points ensure a hassle-free departure.

Station Navigation

  • Station Navigation: Understand the layout of the station (platform numbers for railway travel, gate numbers for buses).
  • Arrival Time: Arrive at least 30-60 minutes before scheduled departure for trains/buses.
  • Crowds: Stations can be highly congested. Keep belongings secure and stay aware of your surroundings.

Baggage Management

Weight Limits

Check airline or railway baggage weight and size restrictions to avoid excess fees.

Labeling

Clearly label all luggage with your name, contact information, and destination address.

Valuables

Keep valuables, documents, and essential medications in your carry-on your bag.

Farewell from Delhi

Your trip through Delhi culminates here. Reflect on the memories and secure ready for your next adventure.