Maximize Your Layover! The Appeal of Day Use Hotels Stuck with long hours between flights?…
Transit in India: How to Make the Most of Your Stopover

A long layover can either be an endless waiting period or an unforgettable adventure.
Planning an 11-hour stopover in Delhi requires smart scheduling, offering you a chance to fully experience Indian culture and hospitality in a short amount of time.
Make the Most of Your Time: An Efficient Itinerary
Sample Itinerary
- 3:30 AM Arrival, immigration & luggage deposit (1.5 hours)
- 5:30 AM Rest for 3 hours at “Red Maple Bed and Breakfast”
- 8:30 AM Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the hotel
- 9:00 AM Depart for Aerocity
- 9:30 AM Quick shopping near the airport
- Recommended Spot: Aerocity
- Hours: Open 24/7
- Address: Aerocity, Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi
- Access: Approx. 20 minutes by taxi from Red Maple Bed and Breakfast.
- Recommended Spot: Aerocity
- 11:45 AM Depart for the airport
- Aerocity to the airport takes around 5 minutes by bus (time may vary due to traffic).
- 12:15 PM Return to the airport at least 2 hours before your next flight.
This itinerary strikes a balance between relaxation and exploration.
Think it’s too ambitious? Try it, and you might be surprised at what you can experience!
Do You Need a Transit Visa? A Quick Guide
Even for short stays in Delhi, you may need a transit visa.
Here’s what to check to ensure a smooth process:
- Requirements: Passport, flight details, purpose of entry into India
- Application: Apply for an e-Visa online here
- Processing Time: Several hours to 72 hours (For tourist visas, apply at least 4 days in advance.)
Once your visa is secured, you’re ready to plan your itinerary!
A related article about India’s transit visa is here!
Take a Break: Hotels Near Delhi International Airport
Feeling drained from travel?
A few hours of rest can help you recharge for your next adventure.
Conveniently located hotels near central Delhi offer ideal options for day-use.
Red Maple Bed and Breakfast
Located in the heart of Delhi, Red Maple Bed and Breakfast combines a prime location with a comfortable and modern ambiance.
Relax in clean rooms equipped with free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs, supported by 24-hour service to ensure a seamless experience.
- Availability: Overnight: 12:00 – 11:00
- Address: 49, Amrit Nagar, S.Ex- Part-I, 110003 New Delhi, India
- Access: Approx. 20 minutes by taxi from the airport (travel time may vary depending on traffic).

Hotel Mayank Residency
Located just 10 minutes from Indira Gandhi International Airport, Hotel Mayank Residency boasts 24-hour reception, free Wi-Fi, and air-conditioned rooms with modern amenities.
It’s also close to the popular Ambience Mall, making it a convenient and comfortable choice.
- Day-use Availability: 10-hour plan: 10:00 – 20:00, 18-hour plan: 6:00 – 24:00
- Address: A-230, Road no. 2, Mahipalpur Extension, 110037 New Delhi, India
- Access: Approx. 10 minutes by taxi from the airport (travel time may vary depending on traffic).

Savor Indian Cuisine: Dining Near and Within the Airport
Traveling on an empty stomach?
Delhi offers a chance to experience the depth of Indian flavors, even in a short amount of time.
AnnaMaya
Located in Aerocity, this café serves modern Indian cuisine made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
- Address: Asset No. 1, Aerocity, New Delhi
- Hours: Open 24/7
- Access:
- 20 minutes by taxi from Red Maple Bed and Breakfast
- 5 minutes by taxi from Hotel Mayank Residency
- 5 minutes by bus from the airport (time may vary depending on traffic).
- Official Website
With its round-the-clock service, AnnaMaya is perfect for travelers on a tight schedule who still want to enjoy delicious meals.

Travel Light: Utilize Luggage Storage Services
Heavy bags can ruin any adventure.
Thankfully, Delhi Airport offers convenient luggage storage services.
- Rates: Starting at 100 INR (approx. 1.2 USD) (varies by size and time)
- Location: Terminal 3, Indira Gandhi International Airport
- Hours: Open 24/7
- Learn More
Once your bags are stored, you’ll have the freedom to explore and enjoy to the fullest!

Important Tips for Transit in Delhi
While India’s culture is fascinating, first-time visitors should keep these points in mind for a stress-free experience:
- Traffic:
Delhi’s roads can be unpredictable, so plan extra time for travel. - Cash and Digital Payments:
While India is embracing cashless payments, having small amounts of cash is always helpful. - Safety First:
Always keep your valuables close and stay alert outside airport areas.
Conclusion: Turn Your 11 Hours in Delhi into a Memorable Experience!
An 11-hour layover in Delhi isn’t just a waiting period—it’s a unique opportunity to glimpse Indian culture and hospitality.
To make the most of your time:
- Plan Wisely:
Allocate time efficiently for luggage storage, rest, sightseeing, and dining. - Be Flexible:
Allow extra time for traffic or unexpected delays. - Enjoy Every Moment:
Embrace cultural experiences, savor Indian food, and make the most of this adventure!
With proper preparation, even a short stay can let you experience Delhi’s charm.
Use this guide to create a layover to remember!