Indira Gandhi International Airport: A Complete Traveler Guide

By -

Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI), located in New Delhi, India, is one of the busiest airports in the world and the largest in India in terms of passenger traffic. This sprawling airport handles flights to nearly every major domestic city and dozens of international destinations. With three terminals (T1, T2, and T3), IGI Airport is a hub for domestic airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and Vistara, and it serves millions of passengers annually.

Whether you’re traveling within India or heading abroad, here’s everything you need to know about navigating Indira Gandhi International Airport efficiently.

Indira Gandhi International Airport Information

  • Airport Code: DEL
  • Location: New Delhi, India (16 kilometers from the city center)
  • Website: https://www.newdelhiairport.in
  • Flight Tracker: Check live arrival and departure updates on the official website.
  • Airport Map: Terminal Layouts
  • Phone: +91 124 4797300
  • Address:  Indira Gandhi International Airport Road, New Delhi, Delhi 110037, India

Know Before You Go

Terminals Overview IGI Airport has three terminals:

  • Terminal 1 (T1): Primarily serves low-cost domestic carriers like IndiGo and SpiceJet. It is divided into T1D (Departures) and T1C (Arrivals).
  • Terminal 2 (T2): Handles select domestic flights and acts as an overflow terminal for low-cost carriers.
  • Terminal 3 (T3): The largest and most modern terminal, serving most international flights and premium domestic carriers like Air India and Vistara.

Pro Tip: Always double-check your terminal before you leave for the airport as domestic flights can sometimes operate from different terminals. A free shuttle service connects the terminals, but allow extra time for the transfer as traffic or crowds can cause delays.

Airlines Operating from IGI

Some of the major airlines operating out of IGI Airport include:

  • Domestic: Air India, IndiGo, Vistara, SpiceJet, GoFirst.
  • International: Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Lufthansa, British Airways, and Air India.

IGI is also a hub for international connections to major destinations in Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and North America.

Parking Options

IGI Airport offers a variety of parking options, with 24/7 security monitoring and parking staff available to assist.

  • Premium Parking: Closest to the terminal entrances, ideal for short-term parking or picking up passengers.
  • General Parking: More affordable for longer stays but located farther from the terminals.
  • Economy Parking: Best for long-term parking, with shuttle service available to take you to your terminal.

Tip: Pre-book your parking spot on the airport website for discounted rates, especially during busy seasons like holidays.

Suggested Delhi Packages:

Getting to and From Indira Gandhi International Airport

Getting to and From Indira Gandhi International Airport

By Car or Taxi

IGI Airport is well connected by road. From central New Delhi, it takes approximately 30–45 minutes to reach the airport, depending on traffic. Take NH-48 (Delhi-Gurgaon Expressway) and follow signs for the terminal you need.

Taxi Options:

  • Prepaid taxis are available at counters inside the arrivals hall.
  • App-based ride services like Ola and Uber are convenient and widely used.
  • Radio taxis (Meru or Mega Cabs) are also reliable.

Tip: If traveling late at night, make sure your driver uses GPS to avoid taking detours.

By Metro

The Delhi Airport Metro Express is the fastest and most affordable way to get to and from the airport. The line connects New Delhi Railway Station to Terminal 3 in just 20 minutes.

  • Trains run every 10–15 minutes from 4:45 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.
  • Tickets cost around ₹60–₹100 ($0.75–$1.25 USD) depending on your destination.

By Bus

Several buses run between the city and IGI Airport, operated by the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC). These buses connect the airport to major hubs like ISBT Kashmiri Gate and Connaught Place. While buses are economical, they can be slower due to traffic.

Also read Packages for Delhi:

Transportation and Popular Attractions

IGI Airport is well connected to central Delhi and its surrounding areas, making it easy for travelers to explore the city. Below are some of the most popular attractions near IGI Airport with approximate distances and tips to get there:

1. Qutub Minar

  • Distance from Airport: 13 kilometers (~25 minutes by taxi)
  • Why Visit: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 73-meter-tall minaret is one of Delhi’s most iconic landmarks.
  • How to Reach: Take a taxi, or use the Delhi Metro Yellow Line to Qutub Minar station.

2. India Gate

  • Distance from Airport: 15 kilometers (~30 minutes by taxi)
  • Why Visit: This war memorial is a must-visit for its historical significance and picturesque location in the heart of the city. Evening visits are especially beautiful when the monument is lit up.
  • How to Reach: Accessible by taxi or the Delhi Metro’s Yellow or Blue Line.

3. Connaught Place (CP)

  • Distance from Airport: 16 kilometers (~35 minutes by taxi)
  • Why Visit: A bustling hub for shopping, dining, and nightlife. CP is perfect for experiencing Delhi’s modern side with its colonial-era architecture.
  • How to Reach: Use the Delhi Metro Airport Express Line to Shivaji Stadium station or take a taxi.

4. Humayun’s Tomb

  • Distance from Airport: 20 kilometers (~40 minutes by taxi)
  • Why Visit: A stunning example of Mughal architecture and another UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is often considered a precursor to the Taj Mahal.
  • How to Reach: Take a taxi or use the Delhi Metro Violet Line to Jangpura station.

5. Red Fort (Lal Qila)

  • Distance from Airport: 21 kilometers (~45 minutes by taxi)
  • Why Visit: This iconic red sandstone fortress is steeped in history and offers a glimpse into the Mughal Empire’s grandeur.
  • How to Reach: A taxi is the quickest option, or take the Delhi Metro Yellow Line to Chandni Chowk station.

6. Lotus Temple

  • Distance from Airport: 19 kilometers (~40 minutes by taxi)
  • Why Visit: Famous for its unique flower-like shape, this temple welcomes people of all religions for prayer and meditation.
  • How to Reach: Take a taxi or use the Delhi Metro Violet Line to Kalkaji Mandir station.

7. Dilli Haat

  • Distance from Airport: 14 kilometers (~30 minutes by taxi)
  • Why Visit: A vibrant marketplace showcasing Indian handicrafts, textiles, and street food from across the country.
  • How to Reach: Accessible by taxi or the Delhi Metro Yellow Line to INA station.

8. Kingdom of Dreams (Gurgaon)

  • Distance from Airport: 15 kilometers (~30 minutes by taxi)
  • Why Visit: A cultural hub offering live performances, food, and art from different states of India. Perfect for families or theater enthusiasts.
  • How to Reach: Best reached by taxi.

9. Akshardham Temple

  • Distance from Airport: 24 kilometers (~50 minutes by taxi)
  • Why Visit: A magnificent Hindu temple complex known for its intricate carvings, musical fountain, and cultural exhibits.
  • How to Reach: Take a taxi or the Delhi Metro Blue Line to Akshardham station.

10. Gurudwara Bangla Sahib

  • Distance from Airport: 14 kilometers (~30 minutes by taxi)
  • Why Visit: A peaceful Sikh temple with a beautiful sarovar (water tank). Visitors can enjoy langar (a free meal) served to all.
  • How to Reach: Accessible by taxi or the Delhi Metro Yellow Line to Rajiv Chowk station.

Dining and Shopping

IGI Airport offers a range of dining options, from quick snacks to full meals. Some popular choices include:

Restaurants & Cafes

  • Costa Coffee: For coffee, sandwiches, and quick snacks.
  • Street Food by Punjab Grill: For authentic Indian street food like chaat and parathas.
  • Delhi Heights: A sit-down restaurant offering Indian and international dishes.
  • McDonald’s/Burger King: For fast food lovers.
  • KFC/Subway: For on-the-go meals.

Duty-Free Shopping

  • Terminal 3 has duty-free shops offering discounted liquor, perfumes, electronics, and souvenirs.
  • Popular brands include Chanel, Dior, and Samsung.

Lounge Options

If you’re looking to relax before your flight, IGI Airport has several lounges:

  • Plaza Premium Lounge: Available at all terminals with access to Wi-Fi, food, and comfortable seating.
  • Air India Maharaja Lounge (T3): For business and first-class passengers of Air India.
  • Amex Platinum Lounge: For American Express Platinum cardholders.

Lounge access can also be purchased online or at the airport for around ₹2,000–₹3,000 ($25–$37 USD).

Free Wi-Fi

IGI Airport offers free Wi-Fi for up to 45 minutes. You can connect by entering your phone number to receive an OTP (one-time password). After the free session, additional data is available for purchase.

 Tips for Travelers of delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport

 Tips for Travelers of delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport

  • Security Tips: Arrive at least 2–3 hours early for domestic flights and 4 hours early for international flights, as security lines can be long during peak times.
  • Currency Exchange: Currency exchange counters are available in all terminals, but rates are better inside the city. ATMs are also widely available.
  • Smoking Areas: Designated smoking zones are located after security in all terminals.
  • Kids’ Play Area: Families with children can head to play zones near the boarding gates in Terminal 3.

Final Thoughts

Indira Gandhi International Airport is a modern, well-equipped airport that serves as a major gateway to India. With efficient metro connectivity, multiple dining options, and plenty of amenities, it ensures a comfortable experience for travelers.

Whether you’re flying domestically or internationally, a little planning can make your trip smoother. Don’t forget to check your terminal, book parking in advance, and enjoy a meal or some duty-free shopping while you’re there!

Ready to learn more? The blog is just a click away!

Also Check to Related topic:

Related Posts

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top