Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport has several lounges travellers can use. From luxurious full service lounges with spa services, to something more basic, Delhi has airport lounges to suit every traveller.
I fly through Delhi often, both domestically and internationally, and have used the lounges many times. That’s what happens when you live in Delhi, but have family back in Canada! This is the most current list of Delhi airport lounges.
Delhi Airport Lounges
What you should be aware of is that there is a lounge shortage at the Delhi airport. During Covid many lounges closed, and most never re-opened. Once travel started again in earnest, long lineups to get into the few remaining lounges was not uncommon. The opening of the Encalm Lounges has somewhat alleviated the problem.
Currently Air India is only airline lounge at the Delhi Airport. The other lounges are membership based, or pay per use.
Lounges in Terminal 3
This is the international terminal at the Delhi airport, and it also handles some domestic flights. It is the largest terminal at DEL and has the most lounges for international and domestic travellers.
Air India Maharaja Lounge – International Departures
Even though this is one of the better lounges in the Delhi airport, it’s not great. I’ve been through it a number of times and while it’s better than sitting by the gate, it’s pretty lacklustre.
Fortunately, it’s set for a major redesign, expansion and overhaul of its services. It should be pretty spectacular when complete.
There is always a selection of hot and cold dishes (mostly Indian, but good), beverages, complimentary Wi-Fi, showers and business facilities. It’s located on the upper level by the food court after security. Passengers with an onward Air India or Star Alliance airline flight in business or first class can access this lounge. Pets are allowed.
Encalm Prive Lounge – International Departures
The newest and largest lounge in Delhi airport, Encalm Prive is located where the Lufthansa and Singapore Airlines lounges used to be (both closed during Covid). It caters solely to business and first class passengers of partner airlines.
It’s currently the nicest lounge at Delhi airport, with a good selection of hot and cold foods, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, lots of seating and dining tables, pod rooms for sleeping, a yoga room and showers. Pets are not permitted (I usually travel with my dog, so this is something I always check out).
Encalm Lounge – International Departures
Located on the food court level, this is a pay per use lounge and the one Priority Pass members can access. It has a selection of hot and cold foods and beverages, but alcoholic drinks are not complimentary. The lounge can accommodate 245 guests and there’s free Wi-Fi. Pets are not permitted.
Air India Maharaja Lounge – Domestic Departures
Air India has a Maharaja Lounge in Domestic departures, after security. Those flying Air India or another Star Alliance airline in business or first class can use this lounge. The lounge has hot and cold dishes, beverages, complimentary Wi-Fi, showers and business facilities. Pets are allowed.
Centurion Lounge – Domestic Departures
American Express has a Centurion Lounge in the Delhi airport by gates 27 and 28. This lounge is exclusively for those with certain American Express cards. Not having an Amex card, I have never been inside this lounge, but the Centurion lounges have a reputation for being very nice.
Hot and cold food, complimentary beverages, Wi-Fi, showers and business services are available. Passengers can book a spa treatment for an extra fee.
Encalm Lounge – Domestic Departures
Located on the mezzanine level, this is a pay per use lounge. Priority Pass holders also have access to the Encalm Lounge. Guests can enjoy a selection of hot and cold foods and beverages (alcoholic drinks must be paid for), and free Wi-Fi. Pets are not permitted.
Encalm Lounge – Arrivals
This is the only lounge in Terminal 3 Arrivals. It’s located near Gate 4. Like the other Encalm Lounges, it’s pay per use, unless you’re a Priority Pass holder or have privileges through your carrier.
Lounges in Terminal 2
At the moment, Encalm Lounge is the only one at Terminal 2. Remember the lounge shortage I mentioned?
Encalm Lounge
Just like the other Encalm Lounges, there’s hot and cold food, beverages, and free Wi-Fi. Alcoholic drinks must be paid for. Pets are not allowed.
It’s located on the second floor near the food court, after security. This is a pay per use lounge that Priority Pass members have privileges at.
Lounges in Terminal 1
At the moment Encalm Lounge is the only lounge in Terminal 1.
Encalm Lounge
You can expect hot and cold food, beverages, and free Wi-Fi. Alcoholic drinks must be paid for. Pets are not allowed.
You’ll find the lounge on the mezzanine level after security. This is a pay per use lounge that Priority Pass members have privileges at.
The Wrap-Up Guide to the Delhi Airport Lounges (DEL) 2024
There is a shortage of lounges in the Delhi airport which is pretty disappointing, given that DEL is the busiest airport in India and one of the busiest in the entire world. Air India is going to expand and overhaul their lounge in Terminal 3, so that will improve things.
Unless you have Encalm Prive Lounge privileges, keep your expectations in check. There’s actually some relaxing things to do at Terminal 3 besides hanging out in a lounge, like the Encalm Spa or Oxygen Bar. See my guide to Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport for the details.
Looking for more? You might also like…
- How to Get from Indira Gandhi International Airport into Delhi
- First Time in Delhi: Complete Guide and Itineraries for Delhi
- Where to Stay in Delhi – Best Areas and Hotels for Every Budget
Don’t forget travel insurance! It’s always a good idea to carry travel insurance just in case something goes wrong. I really like and use SafetyWing
