Your first hour in India sets the tone for the whole trip. Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport is modern and well organised, but stepping out into the arrivals hall for the first time can still feel overwhelming. This Delhi airport arrival guide for foreign tourists explains exactly what happens after you land and how a Delhi airport pickup with a private driver makes it easy.
Before You Fly
- Visa: most nationalities can apply for an Indian e-Visa online. Apply only on the official government website and print the approval.
- Send us your flight details: flight number, arrival time and hotel. Your driver tracks the flight, so delays are no problem.
- Save our WhatsApp number so you can message as soon as you connect to the airport Wi-Fi.
- Carry a little cash or a travel card for your first day, and tell your bank you are travelling to India.
After Landing: Immigration and Bags
Most international flights arrive at Terminal 3. Follow the signs to immigration, where e-Visa holders have their own counters. Immigration can take 15 minutes or over an hour depending on how many flights land together. Then collect your bags, pass customs and walk out into the arrivals hall.
Meeting Your Private Driver
Only travelers are allowed inside the terminal, so drivers wait just outside the arrival gates. Your driver will hold a sign with your name. If you cannot see them, stay at the gate and message us on WhatsApp; never follow someone who simply says they are “your driver” without your name.
Your driver helps with your luggage, walks you to the car park and drives you to your hotel. Late-night arrivals are completely normal: many flights from Europe and North America land between midnight and 4 AM, and the roads are quiet at that hour.
SIM Card, Cash and Payments
- SIM card: mobile operators have counters in the arrivals hall. You need your passport and visa, and activation can take a few hours. An international eSIM bought before you fly is often easier.
- Cash: ATMs and currency exchange counters are in the arrivals hall. Keep some small notes for tips, water and snacks.
- Cards and digital payments: hotels, good restaurants and big shops take cards. Small shops and street stalls prefer cash or UPI, and some apps now let foreign visitors use UPI too.
Avoiding Taxi Touts
Outside arrivals you may be approached by people offering taxis or telling you your hotel is “closed” or “full”. Politely ignore them. With a pre-booked Delhi airport transfer with driver you go straight to your own car with a known driver and an agreed price, which is the calmest way to start your trip.
Ajay’s Insider Insight
"After a long flight, the best first day in India is a slow one. Sleep, have a good breakfast, then do a gentle half day: Humayun’s Tomb and India Gate in the afternoon. The big sightseeing can wait until tomorrow."
Your First Day in Delhi
If you land in the morning and feel fresh, your driver can take you on a half day of New Delhi sightseeing: India Gate, the government buildings, Humayun’s Tomb and the Lodhi Gardens. If you land at night, rest first and start your tour the next morning.
From Delhi, most of our guests continue on the Golden Triangle tour with an English speaking driver to Agra and Jaipur, or take a same day Delhi to Agra tour to see the Taj Mahal. Planning a longer trip? Read our 7, 10 and 14 day India itineraries.
Book your Delhi airport pickup or message us on WhatsApp with your flight details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which terminal do international flights use at Delhi airport?
Most international flights arrive at Terminal 3 of Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport. Check your ticket, and send us your flight number so your driver tracks the right terminal and any delay.
What if my flight lands late at night?
That is very normal. Many flights from Europe and the USA land between midnight and 4 AM. Your driver tracks your flight and waits at arrivals with a name sign, whatever the time.
How long does it take from Delhi airport to central Delhi?
Usually 30 to 60 minutes to Connaught Place, Paharganj or Aerocity hotels, and longer in rush-hour traffic. At night it is much quicker.
Can I buy an Indian SIM card at Delhi airport?
Yes, mobile operators have counters in the arrivals hall. Bring your passport and visa; activation can take a few hours. An eSIM bought before you fly is another easy option.
Can we start the Golden Triangle tour straight from the airport?
Yes. If you land in the morning you can go straight to Delhi sightseeing or even drive to Agra. After a night flight we usually recommend resting first and starting the next morning.
