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Top 10 Indian Airports for International Travellers: What to Expect

2026-03-10 6 min readBy AirportPorterService Team

India welcomes millions of international visitors each year. If you're flying in from abroad, here's what to expect at the country's major international airports — and how airport assistance can make your arrival smoother.

1. Delhi (DEL) — Indira Gandhi International Airport India's busiest international gateway. Terminal 3 is world-class but immigration queues can stretch to 60+ minutes. Fast-track service is highly recommended.

2. Mumbai (BOM) — Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport Second busiest. Terminal 2 is stunning with art installations. Customs can be slow for passengers with dutiable goods.

3. Bengaluru (BLR) — Kempegowda International Airport India's tech capital. The new Terminal 2 (opened 2024) is excellent. Well-organised but distant from the city centre.

4. Chennai (MAA) — Chennai International Airport Gateway to South India. Smaller but functional. Immigration is generally faster than Delhi or Mumbai.

5. Hyderabad (HYD) — Rajiv Gandhi International Airport Modern single-terminal airport. One of the most efficient in India. Great lounges.

6. Kolkata (CCU) — Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport Gateway to East India and Northeast. The newly renovated international terminal is a big improvement.

7. Kochi (COK) — Cochin International Airport The world's first fully solar-powered airport. Gateway to Kerala and popular with Gulf travellers.

8. Ahmedabad (AMD) — Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport Growing rapidly with the new Terminal 2. Gateway to Gujarat's business hub.

9. Jaipur (JAI) — Jaipur International Airport Gateway to Rajasthan tourism. Small but increasingly busy with international flights.

Why International Travellers Should Book Assistance

  • Language: Not all airport staff speak English fluently, especially at smaller airports
  • SIM cards & currency: Our assistants can guide you to the best exchange counters and SIM card desks
  • Customs: If you're carrying electronics, alcohol, or gifts, assistance navigating customs declaration saves time
  • Safety: A dedicated assistant ensures you're not approached by unauthorised taxi touts

Book for Any Airport

We currently operate at all 12 major Indian airports with expansion to international airports coming soon. Book on our website for any airport and travel date.

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