Narela Delhi, India Travel Guide
Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL): This is the single, main airport serving Delhi and the entire National Capital Region. All international and most domestic flights arrive here. Narela is about 40-50 kilometers (25-31 miles) north of DEL. The travel time travel from the airport to Narela varies significantly due to Delhi's traffic conditions.
Direct flights connect DEL to major cities across Asia, Europe, North America, Africa, and Australia. You find numerous connecting flights through these hubs. Check airline websites for current direct flight information. Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner are options.
Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) extensive facilities for traveler comfort. Terminals: Mostly T3 for international/domestic. Services: Duty-Free, Lounges, Restaurants, Currency Exchange, SIM card kiosks, Medical Services, Prayer Rooms, Luggage Services.
Delhi Metro Airport Express Line (Orange Line) connects T3 to New Delhi Metro Station. From there, transfer to reach Narela. Pre-paid Taxis: Counters outside terminals, fixed fare. Ride-sharing Apps (Uber/Ola): Readily available, upfront fare estimates.
Allow 1.5 - 2.5 hours from DEL to Narela by road. Traffic conditions heavily influence travel duration. Plan accordingly for connections.
Narela Rail Depot (NUR) serves local trains. For long-distance trains, use major Delhi stations: New Delhi (NDLS), Old Delhi (DLI), Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM). Book tickets well in advance. IVisa can confirm travel docs.
Maharana Pratap ISBT at Kashmere Gate main inter-state bus terminal, connections to northern states. Narela connected to ISBT by DTC buses and Metro. Book via the web or at terminals.
Self-driving in Delhi generally not recommended for foreign tourists. Traffic dense, chaotic. Chauffeur-driven cars a more relaxed and safer option. DiscoverCars.com offers options.
Delhi Metro: Extension of Red Line to Narela underway (completion by 2026-2027). Closest operational stations are Holambi Kalan or Yellow Line stations (Samaypur Badli). DTC Buses: Extensive network connects Narela to Delhi. Budget-friendly, reach areas not covered by Metro.
Licensed taxis: Less common than ride-sharing. Hailing: Auto-rickshaws hailed directly; verify the price. Ride-sharing: Uber and Ola dominant. Offer in-app payment/cash. Safety: Verify driver/vehicle with app details.
Generally operates from approximately 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM. Frequencies vary, more often during peak hours. Smart Card provides discounts.
Operate from early morning (around 5:00 AM) until late evening (around 10:00 PM or 11:00 PM). Frequencies depend on the route; major routes see at shorter intervals buses.
Avoid peak hours (8-11 AM & 5-8 PM). Use Delhi Metro Rail app and Google Maps. Always carry small cash denominations.
Self-drive car rental available from companies like Zoomcar and Revv in Delhi. Requires a valid national driving license from your home country, an International Driving Permit (IDP), and adherence to age restrictions (typically 21+).
Road safety a concern. Drivers often disregard lane discipline or traffic signals. Pedestrians and cyclists must use great caution. Avoid walking or cycling alone in deserted areas after dark. Main highways and heavily trafficked roads unsafe for pedestrians and cyclists.
Major arterial roads leading to and from Narela generally well-maintained. Inner streets inside Narela differ in condition, with some being uneven or prone to potholes.
Delhi's congestion is heavy and often undisciplined. Honking is common but usually not aggressive. Be prepared for slow-moving traffic and congestion, notably during peak hours.
Designated parking areas are available but can be crowded and sometimes expensive in commercial zones. Street parking is common but may not always be safe or legal.
Exit fees typically included in air ticket price. For international flights, arrive at DEL 3-4 hours prior to departure. Domestic flights require 2-3 hours. Allow 1.5 - 2.5 hours travel time from Narela to DEL, accounting for traffic. Facilities at DEL extensive, including lounges, dining, shopping. IVisa can verify any visa extensions if needed.
