Travelling to India has never been easier, with a growing number of direct flights to India from the UK connecting major cities across both countries. Whether you’re heading to Delhi for business, Mumbai for family, or Amritsar for heritage travel, flying direct can save hours of transit time and make your journey far more convenient.
Key Direct Routes
London to Delhi
- Route: London Heathrow (LHR) → Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL)
- Flight Time: Around 8 hours 45 minutes to 9 hours 30 minutes.
- Frequency: Multiple daily flights offered by both UK and Indian carriers.
- Typical Cost: Economy return fares usually start around £500–£700 when booked in advance, though prices can rise significantly during holiday seasons.
Delhi is India’s busiest international gateway, with a wide range of onward domestic connections. The route remains one of the most popular for both business and leisure travellers.
London to Mumbai
- Route: London Heathrow (LHR) → Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM)
- Flight Time: Roughly 9 to 10 hours.
- Frequency: Several direct services per day, including overnight options.
- Typical Cost: Prices are broadly similar to the Delhi route, though early bookings and off-peak travel can bring costs down.
Mumbai’s position as India’s financial capital means year-round traffic, but travellers can still find cheap flights to India when booking well ahead of peak holiday times.
Birmingham to Amritsar
- Route: Birmingham Airport (BHX) → Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport (ATQ)
- Flight Time: Approximately 9 to 10 hours.
- Frequency: Direct flights several times a week.
- Typical Cost: Economy fares often range between £550 and £750, depending on the time of year.
This route is especially popular among travellers visiting family in Punjab, offering a convenient alternative to flying via London.
Benefits of Flying Direct
A non-stop journey to India can make a huge difference in comfort and timing. Without the need for connecting flights or layovers, you’ll spend less time in transit and arrive fresher. Direct flights also reduce the risk of missed connections and baggage delays, and they’re generally more reliable for tight itineraries.
While indirect routes can sometimes be cheaper, the difference is often small when booked early, and the extra comfort and time savings usually make direct flights worth the investment.
Travel Tips for Long-Haul Comfort
Spending nine or more hours on a plane can be tiring, but a few smart habits can make your flight much smoother:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink water regularly and limit caffeine or alcohol.
- Dress Comfortably: Light, layered clothing helps with fluctuating cabin temperatures.
- Move Often: Stretch your legs every couple of hours to improve circulation.
- Pack a Travel Kit: Include an eye mask, earplugs, and a neck pillow for better rest.
- Adjust Your Sleep Schedule: Try to match your rest to the destination’s time zone.
- Choose Seats Wisely: Aisle seats are best for easy movement; window seats are better for uninterrupted rest.
These small steps can make a big difference to your comfort on long-haul journeys.
Entry Requirements for UK Citizens
Before travelling, ensure your documents are in order:
- Visa: UK citizens require a valid visa or e-visa to enter India. Apply online before travelling and check your visa type matches your travel purpose.
- Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your arrival date and contain blank pages for immigration stamps.
- Travel Insurance: Strongly recommended for all visitors, covering health, cancellations, and personal belongings.
- Customs and Health Declarations: Complete any required forms or health declarations prior to travel if applicable.
Final Thoughts
Direct flights to India from the UK offer a seamless and time-saving way to travel between the two countries. The most popular routes — London to Delhi, London to Mumbai, and Birmingham to Amritsar — run regularly throughout the year, with flight times averaging around nine hours.
Whether you’re travelling for business, family visits, or tourism, booking a direct flight ensures comfort and simplicity. And with a bit of timing and flexibility, you can still find cheap flights to India that fit your schedule and budget — making the journey as smooth as the destination is memorable.
