Exploring Delhi Airport: Things To Do And See

what to do in del airport

Delhi Airport is one of the best in Asia, with plenty of amenities to keep travellers entertained during layovers. The airport offers a range of dining options, from regional Indian cuisine to international favourites, including Starbucks, Subway, McDonald's, KFC, and more. For those looking to relax, the airport features several lounges, such as Encalm, which offers comfortable seating, complimentary snacks and drinks, and charging points. Delhi Airport also boasts 5G connectivity and free Wi-Fi, allowing travellers to stay connected and entertained during their wait. Additionally, travellers can explore the various shops, including boutiques, duty-free outlets, and convenience stores. For those with longer layovers, the airport has a transit hotel located near the departure gates, providing a peaceful environment to rest.

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Relax in a lounge

If you're looking to relax in a lounge during a layover at Delhi Airport, you're in luck! The airport boasts some of the most opulent airport lounges in the country, with world-class amenities and a relaxing ambiance. Here are some options to consider:

Encalm Lounge

The Encalm Lounge, located in Terminal 1D of the domestic departures area, offers a peaceful and relaxing environment. It features cosy seating, delectable meal selections, and a calm ambiance, providing a respite from the hustle and bustle of the airport. Encalm Lounge prioritises your comfort and convenience, whether you need a moment to relax or catch up on work.

Terminal 3 Lounge

Terminal 3 is home to a luxurious lounge that spans over 30,000 square feet and accommodates more than 550 seats. It promises to redefine grandeur and elevate your airport lounge experience. Here, you can enjoy a peaceful ambiance, comfortable seating, and a range of amenities to relax and rejuvenate.

Air India Maharajah Lounge International T3

This lounge, located in Terminal 3, offers private rooms for those seeking quiet zones. It provides a tranquil environment to relax or catch up on work before your flight.

Encalm Privé Lounge

Also located within Terminal 3, the Encalm Privé Lounge offers sleeping pods for those looking to rest or nap during their layover. It provides a comfortable and tranquil space to unwind and recharge.

Domestic Lounge

The domestic lounge at Delhi Airport allows travellers to unwind and refuel before their departure. It offers a cosy ambiance, delectable food options, and a relaxing atmosphere to catch up on work or simply take a break.

Delhi Airport provides a range of lounge options to suit your needs, ensuring that your layover is comfortable and enjoyable. With peaceful environments, luxurious settings, and convenient amenities, these lounges are designed to enhance your travel experience and make your stopover memorable.

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Eat at restaurants, cafes, and bars

Delhi Airport has a range of restaurants, cafes, and bars to suit all tastes and time constraints. For those in a rush, there are several quick-service options, including Chaayos, McDonald's, Haldiram's, and Domino's. If you're after something a little more luxurious, you can choose from Starbucks, Café Delhi Heights, Bercos, and The Irish Bar.

Delhi Airport also offers a premium lounge experience, where travellers can relax in a peaceful environment and enjoy international cuisine options, a bar, and a live cooking station. If you're looking for something more substantial, the airport's transit hotel offers unique and innovative aqua pods and a gym, providing travellers with a comfortable and modern space to rest and recharge.

For those who wish to relax and rejuvenate, the airport's spa and wellness services offer a perfect blend of Thai and Indian massage techniques to revive tired muscles and prepare travellers for their onward journeys.

Delhi Airport promises to treat your taste buds and offers a convenient and tasty dining experience, ensuring that travellers won't go hungry during their stopover.

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Shop at boutiques, duty-free outlets, and convenience stores

Delhi Duty-Free, India's largest duty-free retail store, is located at Delhi International Airport Terminal 3, with outlets in both the Arrivals and Departures sections. The duty-free stores offer tax-free deals on liquor, perfumes, makeup essentials, clothing, footwear, accessories, watches, cosmetics, confectionery, and more. You can shop from a wide variety of luxurious international brands without being taxed locally.

There are 11 duty-free stores located inside the Delhi International Airport. As per customs regulations, only passengers with an international boarding pass and valid passport are eligible to shop duty-free.

You can also shop at Delhi Duty-Free online and avail of the 'Click and Collect' service, where you can book products online and collect them from the store on the day of travel. The website also offers special discounts if you order your products online.

In addition to duty-free outlets, Terminal 3 also has boutiques and souvenir shops, offering something for every traveller. Whether you're looking for high-end fashion brands, jewellery, gifts, travel accessories, toys, or cosmetics, you're sure to find what you're looking for at Delhi Airport.

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Book a room at the transit hotel

If you're looking for a place to stay during a layover in Delhi Airport, the Holiday Inn Express New Delhi International Airport is a great option. The transit hotel is conveniently located inside Terminal 3, offering easy access to departure gates and the airport's metro station. The hotel provides hourly rates and day rooms, making it ideal for short stays.

Here's a step-by-step guide to booking a room at the Holiday Inn Express:

  • Go to the Delhi Airport website.
  • Find the Holiday Inn Express page, usually under 'Airport Hotels'.
  • Scroll down and look for the check-in details section.
  • Select the check-in date and time. Choose the month and dates for your booking, and then select your preferred check-in time.
  • Provide your departure flight details. To stay at the transit hotel, you must have a departure flight from Terminal 3 within 24 hours of your arrival at the airport.
  • Choose your room type and complete the booking process.

Please note that a physical boarding pass is required for accessing the International wing of Terminal 3. The hotel's check-in time is 2:00 PM, and check-out is at 12:00 PM. Early check-in and late check-out options may be available upon request.

The Holiday Inn Express at Delhi Airport offers a blend of comfort and convenience. The rooms are designed to be comfortable and well-equipped, ensuring a restful stay. The hotel also provides top-notch amenities and unparalleled hospitality, making it an excellent choice for transit passengers.

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Explore nearby attractions in New Delhi

If you have a long layover at Delhi Airport, there are plenty of attractions to visit nearby. However, some travellers advise against leaving the airport due to the time required for exiting and entering, which can take up to two hours. Additionally, visa and security checks for international flights should be considered, leaving little time to explore. Nevertheless, if you have a sufficiently long layover or some time to spare before your domestic flight, here are some nearby attractions you can explore:

Sulabh International Museum of Toilets

This unique museum, located near the airport, showcases the evolution of toilets from 2500 BC to the present. It features a wide collection of pictures, objects, and fascinating facts that make for an intriguing visit.

Qutub Minar

A popular attraction near Delhi Airport, Qutub Minar is a stunning example of Islamic architecture. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see for those interested in history and culture.

Indian Air Force Museum

For those fascinated by aviation and military history, the Indian Air Force Museum is an excellent choice. Explore the rich history of the Indian Air Force and admire the displays of aircraft and related artefacts.

Hauz Khas Fort and The Lodhi Art District

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of New Delhi by visiting Hauz Khas Fort, which offers a glimpse into the past. Pair it with a visit to the nearby Lodhi Art District, a vibrant hub for art enthusiasts, featuring galleries, studios, and street art.

Tomb of Mohd. Quli Khan

Located in the Archaeological Park of Mehrauli, this secluded tomb offers breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere. It is an ideal spot for those seeking a quiet escape from the bustling city.

Aerocity

If you're looking for a modern experience, Aerocity, located just outside the airport, offers a range of restaurants and facilities. It is a convenient option, especially if you don't want to venture too far from the airport.

Remember to consider your available time, visa requirements, and transportation options when planning your exploration of New Delhi's attractions during a layover.

Frequently asked questions

Delhi Airport offers plenty of amenities to keep you entertained during a layover. You can eat at various food outlets, including Chaayos, McDonald's, Starbucks, and Café Delhi Heights. The airport also has a range of shops, from small to large luxury brands, as well as duty-free stores. If you're looking to relax, the airport provides spa and wellness services, as well as access to lounges with free Wi-Fi, magazines, newspapers, and more.

Delhi Airport is located in the heart of the NCR region, with several attractions within a 15km radius. With a valid visa, you can visit historical sites such as Qutub Minar, Hauz Khas Fort, Rajon Ki Baoli, and The Lodhi Art District. The National Rail Museum and Sulabh International Museum of Toilets are also nearby. You can use the Delhi metro or book a cab to get around the city.

Leaving the airport during a layover in Delhi requires careful consideration of time. The process of getting out of the airport and going through immigration can take up to an hour or more. Returning to the airport, it is recommended to arrive 3 hours before an international flight and 1.5 hours before a domestic flight. Therefore, for a brief trip outside the airport, you should aim for a layover of at least 12 hours to avoid missing your flight.

Delhi Airport offers a variety of dining options to suit different preferences and budgets. For a quick and simple meal, you can visit Chaayos, McDonald's, Haldiram's, or Dominos. If you're looking for a more luxurious ambiance, Starbucks, Café Delhi Heights, Bercos, and The Irish Bar are great choices.

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