New Delhi Layover
Jun 03, 2009 | Comments 0
Stuck on a layover at New Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport? The airport offers services for those on a layover or caught with a delay between flights, and for those on a prolonged layover, there are many activities and things to do not far from the airport. If you’re trying to decide if you have enough time to leave the airport, here are some helpful tips.
The airport is currently under construction for an expansion expected to be completed in 2010, however, there are currently two terminals. There are duty free shops, banks, post office, and Internet kiosks in both terminals. In addition, you can find a pharmacy, medical facilities, baby care rooms and executive lounges with business facilities in both terminals, as well. For some rest, check out the airport hotel, The Centaur Hotel, located half a mile from terminal 2.
If you have any concerns or questions regarding passport or visa regulations, check out this page. You can also find health regulations here and FAQ here. The airport also has information and help desks available to assist you in both terminals.
For those looking to ditch their luggage to explore a little, there are left luggage facilities in both terminals and a baggage wrapping service in terminal 2.
The airport is about 10 miles from the city center. You can take a taxi into the city – you’ll find Delhi Traffic Police pre-paid taxi booths in the arrivals area where you will get a receipt that you can give the driver upon arrival to your destination. This is recommended for travelers, however, metered taxis and rickshaws are also available and the price can be negotiated. There are also bus and coach options, both can be arranged at the Arrivals Hall of Terminal 2. Please keep in mind, when traveling in India, to plan plenty of time for delays.
For those who may be new tourists to India, here’s a helpful guide to handling beggars in India.
Layover Guide’s Suggestions Of Things To Do On A New Delhi Layover
Gandhi Smriti
This is the location of Mahatma Gandhi’s home and assassination site. The home treasures many objects from his last 144 days alive as well as houses the museum. You can learn about the history and view photographs, sculptures, and relics from his life. The address is Old Birla House on 5, Tees January Marg, New Delhi.
Humayun’s Tomb
Built as Mughal Emperor Humanyun’s tomb, this site is a complex of architectural buildings dating back to the early 1500s. Here you can also see some additional tombs (Isa Khan Niyazi and Bu Halima), the Blue Dome and the mausoleum. It is located in in South Delhi close to the Dina-panah citadel.
Red Fort (Lal Quila)
Dating back to 1639, The Red Fort is a major tourist attraction in Delhi. Originally built as a new royal palace, it was named the red fort due to the huge red sandstone walls that surround it. For tourists new to India, be prepared for beggars.
Dilli Haat
In the heart of Delhi, the Dilli Haat is a street market/bizarre with crafts, food and activities. You can find food and crafts from various regions of India including handicrafts and handlooms. Be ready to negotiate! For tips on how to haggle in India, click here. If you’d prefer a more traditional mall for shopping, check out Metro Walk Mall.
Qutab Minar
The Qutab Minar is the world’s tallest brick minaret and is a great observation tower in Delhi. The monuments was built by the Refused Stones of demolished Jain Temples. Bring your walking shoes — it takes 399 steps to get to the top.
If you’re on a long layover and prefer an organized tour, Viator offers a wide selection here.
Have a suggestion for a New Delhi layover? Leave a comment below!
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Filed Under: Asia • India • layover • things to do
