Delhi Airport Terminal 3 has over 14 commercial lounges — more than any other Indian airport. Whether you are departing internationally, waiting for a domestic connection, or arriving early and need a place to freshen up, there is a lounge for every need and budget.

International Departure Lounges (T3 Airside)

Premium Lounges

  • Air India Maharaja Lounge: 16,000 sq ft flagship lounge opened February 2026. Access for AI First/Business class, Star Alliance Gold, and select credit cards
  • Encalm Privé: Luxury lounge with spa, shower suites, and à la carte dining. Walk-in: $15
  • ITC Maurya Lounge: Fine dining experience by ITC Hotels. Walk-in: $15
  • Plaza Premium First: Premium tier with private suites. Walk-in: $70

Standard Lounges

  • Plaza Premium Lounge: Multiple locations. Walk-in: $15-2,500. Priority Pass accepted
  • Travel Club Lounge: Budget-friendly option. Walk-in: $15

Domestic Departure Lounges (T3)

  • Encalm Privé Domestic: Best domestic lounge in India. Spa, showers, hot meals. Walk-in: $15
  • Plaza Premium Domestic: Solid option with buffet and drinks. Walk-in: $15
  • IndiGo Bluebird Lounge: For IndiGo passengers (paid add-on or loyalty tier)

Arrivals Lounges

  • Encalm Arrivals Lounge: Ground floor near arrivals exit. Perfect for freshening up after a long flight. Showers, light meals, Wi-Fi. Walk-in: $15
  • Plaza Premium Arrivals: Similar facilities near Gate 4. Walk-in: $15

How to Access Delhi Airport Lounges

1. Credit Card Access (Most Popular)

Many Indian credit cards offer complimentary lounge visits:

  • HDFC Infinia / Diners Black: Unlimited visits (Priority Pass)
  • Amex Platinum: Unlimited visits
  • ICICI Sapphiro / Emeralde: 4-8 visits per quarter
  • SBI Elite: 6 visits per year
  • Axis Magnus: 8 visits per quarter

2. Priority Pass

Accepted at Plaza Premium lounges. Comes bundled with premium credit cards or can be purchased separately ($99-$429/year depending on plan).

3. Walk-In Payment

All commercial lounges accept walk-in guests. Prices range from $15 to $70 depending on the lounge tier. Payment at the lounge reception.

4. Airline Status

Business/First class tickets and airline loyalty elite status (Star Alliance Gold, SkyTeam Elite Plus, oneworld Emerald) provide complimentary access to partner lounges.

5. Meet and Greet Add-On

When you book a departure meet and greet service, lounge access can be included as an add-on. Your greeter escorts you through fast-track security and immigration, then accompanies you to the lounge. This is ideal if you do not have a credit card with lounge access or want the complete VIP experience.

Pro Tips

  1. Arrive early enough to enjoy the lounge — at least 3 hours before international flights
  2. Most lounges have a 3-hour maximum stay policy
  3. Children under 2 are usually free; ages 2-12 get 50% off at most lounges
  4. Shower facilities fill up fast during peak hours — head there first
  5. The Encalm Arrivals lounge is a hidden gem for red-eye flight passengers who need to freshen up before meetings

Book Delhi Airport Departure Service with Lounge Access →