Can I tap with a foreign bank card?

Most systems now support open-loop contactless. Keep a backup paper ticket when traveling with a group to avoid tapping each person manually.

Buses rarely charge extra, but airport expresses may require storing big bags in designated racks.

DELIndiaTPL: fare-hacker-playbook

Indira Gandhi International Airport

Delhi, India

Drop-off

Connaught Place / New Delhi Railway Station

Pin before customs

Fastest

Delhi Airport Metro Express (Orange Line)

metro · 10-15m

Data

Nov 28

Audit

Quick verdict

Fastest into town

Service: Delhi Airport Metro Express (Orange Line)
Headway: 10-15
Backup: Delhi Metro Yellow Line (New Delhi – Rajiv Chowk) · 2-5m

Note

High-speed metro from IGI Airport (T3/T2 station) to New Delhi Metro Station by Connaught Place, taking about 20 minutes. Trains run roughly 04:45–23:30 with about 10-minute headways in peak times and 15 minutes off-peak, connecting directly to the Yellow Line for wider central Delhi access.

Budget focus

Delhi: Fare Hacker Playbook

Ways to shave costs without blowing your schedule. Targets queries likedelhi airport busanddel to city centerfor eSIM funnels.

Cheapest viable route

Brief

Usually slower but dramatically cheaper than the flagship airport express.

Service: DTC Airport Bus IGI Airport T2 – Regal (Connaught Place)
Mode: bus
Freq: 10m
Note: Delhi Transport Corporation operates city buses from IGI Airport Terminal 2 to Regal stop at Connaught Place, near the city centre. Services are reported about every 10 minutes, taking roughly 1 hour depending on traffic; check DTC for current timetable and route numbers.

Passes and bundles

Brief

Look for day passes that include the airport zone plus metro, tram, or ferry transfers. Load value online to avoid kiosk surcharges.

When to splurge

Brief

Worth the premium when you have back-to-back meetings or tight onward connections downtown.

Service: Delhi Airport Metro Express (Orange Line)
Mode: metro
Freq: 10-15m
Note: High-speed metro from IGI Airport (T3/T2 station) to New Delhi Metro Station by Connaught Place, taking about 20 minutes. Trains run roughly 04:45–23:30 with about 10-minute headways in peak times and 15 minutes off-peak, connecting directly to the Yellow Line for wider central Delhi access.

eSIMComing Soon

Stay connected from landing

Skip the airport SIM queue. We're partnering with eSIM providers to get you online before you even leave the gate.

✓Instant activation✓Local rates✓No SIM swap

FAQs

01Can I tap with a foreign bank card?: Most systems now support open-loop contactless. Keep a backup paper ticket when traveling with a group to avoid tapping each person manually.
02Any luggage fees?: Buses rarely charge extra, but airport expresses may require storing big bags in designated racks.