Best Airport In India: A Complete Traveler’s Guide

An image of the exterior of Indira Gandhi International Airport, the best airport in India

The best airport in India is more than just places to catch a flight, it also shows the country’s culture and progress. India has many modern airports that offer great services, smooth travel, and a comfortable experience. Choosing a good airport can make your journey better, whether you travel often or occasionally. Indian airports provide top facilities with modern buildings, luxury lounges, tasty food, and shopping options.

Location

A view of Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, with a modern terminal building.

Photo: Ganesh Mohan T / Wikimedia Commons

Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi is India’s largest and best airport, known for its top facilities and smooth travel experience. It covers 5,100 acres and has three terminals for both domestic and international flights. Terminal 3 is one of the biggest in the world, offering luxury lounges, high-end shopping, and fast services. IGI Airport has won many awards and is a popular airport in India.

How To Reach

An image of the Delhi Metro Station’s Pink Line travel network at Anand Vihar ISBT

Photo: Kool Nerd 123 / Wikimedia Commons

You can reach IGI Airport in Delhi by air, metro, road, or rail, with multiple convenient transport options ensuring smooth connectivity.

By Air: IGI Airport is the main air hub in Delhi, managing both domestic and international airport in India flights. It connects easily with major cities across India and the world through direct flights.

By Metro: The Airport Express Line is the quickest way to reach Terminal 3 from New Delhi Railway Station in just 20 minutes. Trains run often, making travel easy at this international airport in India.

By Road: Taxis, app-based cabs, and DTC buses run all day and night, making travel easy across the city. They provide smooth transport to and from the international airport in India.

By Rail: The nearest railway station is New Delhi Railway Station, 16 km away. Passengers can easily reach the popular airport in India by metro, taxi, or bus for a smooth and hassle-free journey.

Facilities & Services At IGI Airport

Indira Gandhi International Airport is known for its state-of-the-art facilities, making it the best airport in India for travellers. Here are some key highlights:

1. World-Class Lounges

An image of a lounge with comfortable seating, buffet dining, and relaxing ambience

Photo: Eugene Dimarsky / Wikimedia Commons

IGI Airport has top-class lounges like Plaza Premium Lounge, Encalm Lounge, and Air India Maharaja Lounge, making travel more comfortable. These lounges provide free meals, fast Wi-Fi, cosy seats, and showers, helping passengers relax during long layovers. You can enjoy tasty food, rest in a peaceful space, and refresh before your next flight. These lounges offer a luxury experience whether you are travelling for work or a holiday.

2. Shopping & Duty-Free

Image of a luxury shopping area inside Delhi Airport featuring top international brands.

Photo: Pinakpani / Wikimedia Commons

The duty-free shopping at IGI Airport is one of the best in Asia, offering a variety of luxury and local products. At Terminal 3, travellers can shop from top brands like Gucci, Michael Kors, and Burberry. There are also premium liquor, cosmetics, and electronics available. It is a best place for those wanting Indian souvenirs, shops sell handicrafts, silk products, and jewellery.

3. Sleeping Pods & Transit Hotels

An image resembling a sleeping area at Delhi Airport, providing a private space.

Photo: ManuelaJaeger / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

For travellers with long layovers, India’s largest and best airport, Indira Gandhi International Airport, offers sleeping pods and transit hotels for a comfortable stay. The Holiday Inn Express in Terminal 3 has cosy rooms with Wi-Fi, showers, and meal services, making it easy to rest before your next flight. Sleeping Pods provide a private space for short naps, making travel more relaxing.

States Near Indira Gandhi International Airport And Their Highlights

Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi connects travellers to some of the most beautiful states in North India. Here are five states near IGI Airport that you can explore:

1. Uttar Pradesh – The Land Of The Taj Mahal

An Image of the Taj Mahal, which is considered as one of the seven wonders of the world.

Photo: Yann / Wikimedia Commons

Uttar Pradesh is a state full of history, culture, and spirituality. It is home to the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Cities like Agra, Varanasi, and Lucknow have beautiful Mughal buildings, old temples, and rich traditions. You can visit places like Fatehpur Sikri, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, and Bara Imambara. The state is also known for its tasty street food, such as chaat, kebabs, and sweets like malai and peda.

Must-Have Experiences: Visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise, explore the ghats of Varanasi, and taste Lucknow’s kebabs

2. Rajasthan – The Land Of Royals

An Image of Royal Cenotaphs in Jaisalmer, which is one of India’s best airports in India.

Photo: Jasleen Bedi / Wikimedia Commons

Rajasthan is a land of kings, grand palaces, and beautiful forts. Cities like Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jaisalmer have famous places like Hawa Mahal, City Palace, and Jaisalmer Fort. The colourful markets here sell handicrafts, textiles, and jewellery. The food is delicious, with dishes like dal baati churma and laal maas. Rajasthan is also known for its cultural festivals, folk music, and dance.

Must-Have Experiences: Explore Jaipur’s Amber Fort, enjoy a desert safari in Jaisalmer, and take a boat ride in Udaipur

3. Haryana – A Blend Of Urban And Rural Beauty

Image resembling the sunset of Haryana, one of the States nearest to India’s best airport

Photo: Quang Nguyen Vinh / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Haryana is a state that mixes modern cities with traditional culture. Gurgaon is a fast-growing city with tall buildings, big shopping malls, and exciting nightlife. At the same time, places like Kurukshetra and Pinjore offer history and culture. Some top attractions include the Kingdom of Dreams, Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary, and Brahma Sarovar. Haryana is also known for farm tourism, where visitors can enjoy village life, ride bullock carts, and try pottery making.

Must-Have Experiences: Enjoy Gurgaon’s nightlife, visit Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary, and explore Kurukshetra’s spiritual sites

4. Punjab – The Land Of Five Rivers

Agricultural fields of Punjab, known as one of the largest producers of wheat and rice.

Photo: deepay / Wikimedia Commons

Punjab is a state full of culture, history, and delicious food. The Golden Temple in Amritsar is a peaceful and beautiful place to visit. The Wagah Border Ceremony is a patriotic event, and Jallianwala Bagh is an important historical site. Villages in Ludhiana show Punjab’s traditional way of life. Punjabi food, like butter chicken, makki di roti, and lassi, is loved by many.

Must-Have Experiences: Visit the Golden Temple, watch the Wagah Border Ceremony, and try authentic Punjabi cuisine

5. Uttarakhand – The Land Of The Himalayas

Himalayan range passing through Uttarakhand, one of the beautiful places near the Airport.

Photo: Paul Hamilton / Wikimedia Commons

Uttarakhand is a beautiful place for nature lovers and those seeking peace. It has famous spots like Char Dham, Rishikesh, Nainital, and Mussoorie. You can enjoy river rafting in Rishikesh, boating in Nainital, and trekking in the Himalayas. The state is also known for yoga centres, wildlife parks, and the stunning Valley of Flowers. Uttarakhand’s food is unique, with dishes like Aloo ke Gutke and Bal Mithai.

Must-Have Experiences: Try river rafting in Rishikesh, explore Nainital’s lakes, and visit Jim Corbett National Park

Other Factors To Consider

An image of Indira Gandhi International Airport, one of the Best airports in India.

Photo: Ramesh NG / Wikimedia Commons

Average Cost Of Traveling

While travelling through IGI Airport, you can expect varying costs depending on your preferences. An airport taxi can cost between ₹350 – 1,000, depending on your location. If you prefer public transport, the Delhi Metro Airport Line charges ₹60 – 100 per trip, depending on your starting point. Access to airport lounges can range from ₹1,500 – 4,000, with some offering complimentary entry through specific credit cards. Meals within the airport can cost anywhere from ₹200 – 1,000 per person, depending on where you choose to dine.

Tips For Travellers

  • Arrive at least 3 hours before international flights and 2 hours before domestic flights.
  • Use the DigiYatra app for faster check-in and security clearance.
  • Keep offline copies of tickets and IDs, as network issues can occur inside the terminal.
  • If travelling late at night, pre-book airport cabs for safety.
  • Explore sleeping pods if you have a long layover for added comfort.

Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi is India’s largest and best airport, offering top facilities, easy connections, and great services. It makes travel smooth and stress-free with comfortable lounges, luxury shopping, and tasty food. IGI Airport is a top choice, whether you travel for work or holidays. Book your flights, hotels, and travel packages with TripXL for an easy and enjoyable trip.

Cover Photo: Akash Bhairav Gupta / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

Indira Gandhi International Airport is ranked as the best airport in India due to its world-class amenities, efficient operations, and excellent passenger experience.
Delhi and Mumbai airports have some of the best premium lounges, including the Plaza Premium Lounge and the GVK Lounge, which offer luxurious amenities.
Delhi's IGI Airport is the busiest in India, handling over 70 million passengers annually.
Delhi and Mumbai airports offer the best duty-free shopping experiences with global brands like Gucci, Swarovski, and Chanel.
Cochin International Airport is the world's first fully solar-powered airport, making it India's most eco-friendly airport.

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