Indira Gandhi International Airport

Welcome

Indira Gandhi International Airport's Terminal 3 (T3) serves as a bustling nexus for NRIs and travelers alike, marrying the chaos of a major hub with the luxury of a high-end shopping mall. At T3, you're just as likely to haggle over jewelry and indulge in regional Indian cuisine as you are to traverse long distances between gates. With lounges like Plaza Premium and ITC Green Lounge, frequent flyers can always find a place to relax, eat, and even shower, despite the late-night rushes.

At a glance

Handling over 72.2 million passengers annually, Indira Gandhi International Airport lies 16 km southwest of the New Delhi city center. Serving as a hub for IndiGo, Air India, and Vistara, this airport offers three active terminals: T1, T2, and the expansive T3. While T1 and T2 cater primarily to domestic low-cost carriers, T3 functions as the mainstay for international airlines and offers a wealth of amenities in its own right.

Terminals & layout

Indira Gandhi International features three terminals: T1 for domestic flights on IndiGo, SpiceJet, and GoAir; T2 as an overflow for the same carriers; and T3, the international gateway hosting Air India, Vistara, and major global airlines like British Airways. Be prepared for long walks in T3, but you’ll find them softened by the rich selection of dining and shopping, with outlets like Haldiram’s and premium jewelers beckoning to travel-weary passengers.

Getting to and from the city

The Airport Express Line whisks you downtown in roughly 20 minutes, and at INR 60 per trip, it's both economical and stress-free. Delays and frustration mar road travel, so it’s wise to avoid taxis during rush hours or face crowds of cash-demanding Uber and Ola drivers. If you must use ride-share apps, specifying a terminal pickup point can mitigate cancellation risks. Alternatively, explore the Feeder Bus Service for INR 40, although this is slower than the metro.

Traveller essentials

Expect tight security checks; power banks must go in cabin baggage, and electronics are best pre-packed to avoid holdups. Parking options range from short-stay parking at T1 and T3 for ₹600/day to valet services at T2 for ₹800/day. Large windows and quieter spots near far gates in T3 can make for good plane-spotting when you've time to spare.

Dining & shopping highlights

At T3, indulging in Indian sweets at Haldiram’s is a popular last-minute indulgence before boarding international flights. For a local dash, try the chaat or North Indian plates over international fast food like KFC or McDonald's. Shopping aficionados will find unmatched selections of luxury watches and jewelry, with some travelers successfully negotiating small discounts.

Lounges

T3 is almost synonymous with its plethora of lounges. The Plaza Premium Lounge remains a robust choice for Priority Pass holders looking for hot food and showers, especially if you rush there after security. On the quieter side, the ITC Green Lounge offers superior Indian dishes, making it a hidden gem for those with access.

Insider tips

• Insider: Skip the landside chaos and head airside after check-in opens for better food and lounge options, but budget 30–60 minutes extra for late-night immigration queues at T3.
• Time: Purchase meals at Sagar Ratna or Bikanervala as a 'lounge alternative' on domestic T3-side, saving the thali for budget-conscious, filling dining.
• Avoid: Uber/Ola drivers often cancel on short trips; pick a terminal landmark and communicate it immediately to reduce cancellations.
• Quiet: For a calmer wait, find seating near the cleaner, quieter metro station at the airport rather than chaotic arrival curbs.
• Local: T3’s Haldiram’s outlet is a prime spot for Indian sweets and snacks ideal for travel gifts when city trips are not feasible.
• Money: Airport dining at Haldiram’s in T3 offers better value than typical fast food—try tasty regional items before your flight.
• Local: Enhance your layover by exploring spa services near Encalm Lounge in T3 for affordable massages during downtime.