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Key Facts
- Airport: Indira Gandhi Airport (DEL)
- Country: India
- Layover window: 3 hours
- Recommended time outside: Stay airside — 3h is too tight
- Visa & Entry: India e-Visa required for most nationalities — apply at indianvisaonline.gov.in at least 4 days before travel. Available for 180+ nationalities. Some nationalities (Nepal, Bhutan, Maldives) visa-free.
Insider Tip
IGI has three terminals — T1 (domestic budget), T2 (not in use), T3 (international + Air India domestic). Confirm your terminal — T1 is 4km from T3.
Getting to Delhi City Centre
| Mode | Cost | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi Metro (Airport Express Line) | $2 | 20 min to New Delhi station |
| Taxi / Ola | $8–15 | 30–60 min |
Top Delhi: Where to Go
Qutb Minar Complex
30 min from city centreUNESCO site closest to the airport — 12th-century minaret in a garden. Open from sunrise, INR 40.
Chandni Chowk & Red Fort
45 min from city centreMughal-era bazaar street — paratha alley (Gali Paranthe Wali) is the most photographed food street in India.
Lodhi Garden
35 min from city centreFree 15th-century tombs in a green park. Popular with Delhi's morning joggers — peaceful and very photogenic.
Eat Like a Local in Delhi
Chole bhature at Sitaram Diwan Chand in Paharganj — Delhi's most famous breakfast, INR 100. Opens at 8am.
3-Hour Itinerary
0–30 min
Clear immigration & collect baggage (if exiting)
Leave airside only if you have the correct visa/stamp. Many airports offer transit without visa.
30–90 min
Airport terminal exploration & dining
Most airports have excellent food courts landside and airside. Delhi airport is known for good dining options.
90–150 min
Airport lounge or duty-free shopping
Priority Pass lounges are available in most major airports. Day passes cost $30–50.
150–180 min
Return to gate
Allow 30+ minutes to clear security and reach your departure gate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa for a 3-hour layover in Delhi?
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Many countries offer free transit visas or visa-on-arrival for layovers under 96 hours. Check your specific passport requirements before travel and confirm with your airline.
Is 3 hours enough to leave Indira Gandhi Airport?
3 hours is tight for leaving the airport. Consider staying airside and using the airport lounges and restaurants instead.
What is the best way to get from Indira Gandhi to Delhi city centre?
Delhi Metro (Airport Express Line) is typically the fastest and most affordable option at $2, taking approximately 20 min to New Delhi station. Rideshare apps are a convenient alternative.
Is there luggage storage at Indira Gandhi?
Yes, Indira Gandhi Airport has left-luggage facilities in the arrivals and departures hall. Typical cost is $5–15 per bag for up to 24 hours. Alternatively, many airport hotels offer left-luggage for non-guests.
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