Direct flights to India are available with Air India, British Airways, and Virgin Atlantic from London Heathrow, serving cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, and Hyderabad. London Gatwick also has limited nonstop options, including Amritsar and seasonal flights to Goa. Birmingham and Manchester have offered direct flights on selected schedules. Many other airlines, including Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad, KLM, Turkish Airlines, and Singapore Airlines, provide one-stop connections via hubs like Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi, Istanbul, and Amsterdam, which can open up access to smaller Indian airports.
Direct flights from London to Delhi or Mumbai take between 8h 30m and 10h 30m depending on the airline and routing. Direct services to southern India, such as Bangalore or Chennai, are usually closer to 10–11 hours. One-stop connections through the Middle East or Europe can take between 12 and 16 hours, while longer routes via Southeast Asia may take 15 to 20 hours in total.
Airfares are often lowest outside peak holiday periods. April to June usually offers the cheapest flights, while October to March is the most popular travel season with higher demand. December and January see the highest fares due to Christmas and New Year. Prices also rise around Diwali and other major festivals. Booking three to six months in advance generally provides the best balance of price and availability, and being flexible with your dates can make a significant difference in cost. One-stop flights to India from the UK through the Middle East are often cheaper than nonstop services.
Yes, most UK passport holders require a visa to enter India. Tourist visas are commonly issued as e-visas, available online, and can be valid for 30 days, one year, or five years depending on the type chosen. It is important to apply before travel and ensure your passport has at least six months’ validity from your date of entry. Travelers visiting family, working, or studying will need to apply for the appropriate category of visa. Please always check the official Government of India website for visa requirements, and refer to the UK Government’s travel advice website for additional guidance.
Yes, on selected fares you can secure your booking with a low deposit starting from £75 per person. The balance is usually due 90 days before departure, and instalments can be made up to that date. The very cheapest tickets often require full payment at the time of booking. Deposits are non-refundable if the balance is not paid, but our advisors will guide you on all terms and help you choose the best option for your budget.
Baggage allowance depends on the airline and ticket type. Economy fares typically include one or two pieces of checked luggage, while premium economy and business class fares usually offer more generous allowances. Some one-stop carriers via the Middle East also allow larger weight limits, which can be helpful for longer stays or family visits. Always confirm your allowance at the time of booking.