Flights to India
Best student & youth fares right now to India
Below you’ll find our best fares right now from the UK to India, so have a browse and see if there’s anything there that’ll work for you.
Student flights from the UK to India
India is a truly incredible country and boasts some of the world’s most amazing attractions, from manmade wonders like the Taj Mahal, to natural ones like the mighty Ganges river, which flows for more than 1,500 miles through the northern regions.
It’s a hugely popular place for students and young people from the UK, with a seemingly endless array of opportunities for adventure, and some top places to study or join an internship, too.
StudentUniverse UK has partnered with numerous airlines that fly to and from India, which means we can offer exclusive student discounts on flights to India. If you sign up to our mailing list—or even better, join as a member—you’ll be treated to unbeatable fares to cities like Mumbai, Delhi and Calcutta. Search using the box above now to see what’s on offer!
What are the main India airport hubs?
India is a huge country with several large air hubs. The two biggest are New Delhi (India’s capital) and Mumbai (formerly known as Bombay).
New Delhi: The busiest airport in India—and the 12th busiest in the world— is Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL). It services 70 million passengers a year and is a major Indian transport hub. It’s the jumping off point for Golden Triangle tours and other major attractions.
Mumbai: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) is India’s second busiest airport, with almost 50 million passengers a year passing through it, and is the entry point to India for many international visitors.
Other major airports include those of Chennai, Calcutta, Kochi and Jaipur.
How to fly from the UK to India
Flying from the UK to India is very straightforward, with many direct flights departing from major UK airports every day of the week. A popular route is London to Mumbai (located on India’s west coast, which is the one closest to the UK), which takes around nine hours.
Airlines that connect the UK to India with nonstop (or direct) flights include British Airways, Air India, Virgin Atlantic, Jet Airways and TUI, and there are many more that can get you there on a connecting flight (sometimes a bit cheaper). These include Etihad, Emirates and Qatar.
When is the best time to fly to India?
It’s generally agreed, at least in a climate sense, that the best time to visit India is between October and March. During these months the weather tends to be dry and sunny, and the temperatures warm. This is especially desirable if you’re visiting the north and seeing mountain scenery. If you’re heading to the Himalayas, you might want to hang on until November, just to let the last of the monsoon rains clear.
Also keep in mind major festivals and events, which India has no shortage of! During these times popular locations can be busier and more expensive. Holi and Diwali are two of the best holidays to celebrate in India.
When is the cheapest time to book a flight from the UK to India?
Prices based on bookings made 60-91 days prior to departure.
Why do British students love visiting India?
India is a great country for British students and young people to visit, whether as part of a study programme or simply for a leisure trip during the holidays.
Indian universities and campuses
India has one of the largest higher education systems in the world, with a particular focus on engineering schools. While there aren’t that many British students studying in India right now (only around 200), both countries are stepping up their exchange efforts, and are aiming to at least double that number in the next couple of years. If you’re looking for a chance to work abroad, there are loads of opportunities to get involved in internships, volunteering placements and other vocationally-minded experiences. Start by checking with your home uni to see what might be available for you!
Indian lifestyle and culture
The culture and lifestyle of India is significantly different to that of Britain, especially in the big cities, which can be a little overwhelming for the uninitiated! It’s loud, extremely busy, and cows roam freely about the streets—they’re sacred in the Hindu religion, which is the dominant belief system. You’ll do well to enjoy lots of India’s delicious food—just be careful to avoid “Delhi belly” (aka traveller’s stomachaches). Avoid tap water and ice, wash fruits and veggies very carefully (or cook them first) and choose where to eat based on what seems popular with the locals. Visiting during a holiday or festival can be a great time to experience some of the best of India’s culture!
Exploring India on a student budget
India is a super-cheap place to travel for British visitors, even those on a tight budget. Accommodation, food and activities cost only a fraction of the price they would back home. You can expect to pay less than £10 for a fairly decent room, about £1 for an acceptable bit of street food and as little as £0.30 for a beer to wash it down. This makes it a great place for student travellers and backpackers!
Frequently asked questions about flying from the UK to India
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