Delhi Airport Lounges: What You Should Know 2026
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. This is the most current list of Delhi airport lounges.
Pets are no longer allowed in any lounges. The exception is registered service dogs (not emotional support).
Delhi Airport Lounges
What you should be aware of is that there is a lounge shortage at the Delhi airport. During the pandemic 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.
Complete Guide to Indira Gandhi International Airport
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.
Air India Maharaja Lounge – International Departures
This lounge reopened in 2026 after a long closure for renovations. I have not been through it since it reopened, but I know there is separate area for first class passengers with enclosed sleep suites.
It was pretty lacklustre before, so I’m looking forward to seeing the improved version. If you’ve been through the new lounge I would love hear what you thought of it.
The Maharaja Lounge is 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 it.
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. It caters solely to business and first class passengers of partner airlines.
It’s currently the nicest business class 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.
Encalm Xenia Lounge – International Departures
There is now a dedicated and super luxurious lounge for first class passengers. I do not fly first class, but it is supposed to be one of the very best non-airline premium lounges in the world.
Guests at Encalm Prive have the option to upgrade to the Xenia Lounge for a fee.
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.
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.
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.
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
This is a pay per use lounge that Priority Pass members have privileges at. Like the other Encalm Lounges, there’s hot and cold food, beverages, and free Wi-Fi. Alcoholic drinks must be paid for.
It’s located on the second floor near the food court, after security. Because it’s the only lounge in Delhi’s Terminal 2 crowding can be an issue.
Lounges in Terminal 1
Terminal 1 is a domestic terminal. There are now 2 lounges here after the Centurion Lounge moved from Terminal 3 in 2026.
Encalm Lounge
You can expect hot and cold food, beverages, and free Wi-Fi. Alcoholic drinks must be paid for.
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.
Centurion Lounge
American Express has a Centurion Lounge in the Delhi airport by gate 2. 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 and business services are available.
Last Words on Delhi Airport Lounges: What You Should Know
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. However, the newly renovated Air India Maharaja Lounge and the Encalm Prive Lounge are very nice.
