Whether you're flying home for a wedding, Diwali or a summer visit, a little planning can save a lot of money and stress. This guide covers what non-resident Indians (NRIs) and Overseas Citizens of India (OCI holders) should know before booking.
Choosing your route
Nonstop or one-stop? Nonstop flights save time, but one-stop flights via the Gulf (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha), Europe (Frankfurt, Paris, Istanbul) or Southeast Asia (Singapore, Kuala Lumpur) are often much cheaper. On a family trip, the saving can be large.
Which Indian airport? If you're going to a smaller city, compare:
- a flight straight to the nearest airport, often with one stop; and
- a flight to Delhi, Mumbai or Bengaluru, then a separate domestic flight.
The second option is sometimes cheaper. Leave plenty of time between flights, because separate tickets don't protect you if the first flight is late.
Popular routes: London to Delhi, London to Mumbai, New York to Delhi, Toronto to Delhi, Sydney to Delhi, Dubai to Kochi. See all flights to India.
When to book
- December, Christmas and New Year: the busiest period. Book three to four months ahead.
- Diwali: the date changes each year, so check it early and book well ahead.
- Summer holidays abroad (July and August): busy from the UK, USA and Canada.
- Cheaper months: February to April and September to early November are often better value.
Read more in our guide to the cheapest time to fly to India.
Documents
- Indian citizens: a valid Indian passport.
- OCI holders: your OCI card plus your current foreign passport. Make sure the passport number linked to your OCI is up to date, as airlines check this.
- Other foreign nationals (including family members who aren't OCI holders): usually an Indian visa or e-Visa. Apply only through the official Government of India website.
- Children: each child needs their own passport and, where applicable, OCI or visa.
Entry rules can change. Always confirm current requirements with official government sources and your airline before you travel.
Baggage
Baggage allowances on routes to India vary a lot between airlines, routes and fare types. Some fares include generous checked baggage, while some basic fares include none. Compare the total cost, including bags, before choosing the cheapest fare.
Arriving in India
- Allow time for immigration and customs at busy international airports.
- Use official prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs, or arrange a pickup in advance.
- If you're connecting to a domestic flight on a separate ticket, collect your bags, clear customs, and check in again for the domestic flight.
Travelling as a big family group?
If 10 or more of you are travelling together, for a wedding, a family reunion or a pilgrimage, a group fare can be simpler and better value than booking individually. Send us a group booking enquiry and we'll get back to you.
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