Looking for cheap tickets to India in 2025 without compromising comfort? You're not alone. With millions of travelers heading to India every year for tourism, family visits, business, and spirituality, securing an affordable flight is more important than ever. Whether you’re flying from London, New York, Toronto, or Sydney, knowing which airlines offer the best value can save you a significant amount.

The best airlines for cheap flights to India in 2025, smart booking hacks, and must-know tips to help you travel smarter and spend less.

Why India Is a Top Destination in 2025

India continues to shine as a global hotspot thanks to its diverse landscapes, deep-rooted culture, booming tech scene, and growing international connections. Whether you're planning a holiday in the Himalayas, a beach escape in Goa, or a spiritual retreat in Varanasi, there are countless reasons to fly to India.

But cheap flights to India , especially from Western countries, can add up. That’s why choosing the right airline makes all the difference.

Top Routes to India with Affordable Fares

Flying to India? These major international hubs offer the best flight options with competitive pricing:

  • London to Delhi/Mumbai/Hyderabad

  • New York to Delhi/Bangalore

  • Toronto to Amritsar/Delhi

  • Dubai to Chennai/Kolkata

  • Singapore to Kochi/Trivandrum

  • Sydney to Delhi/Mumbai

These routes are often served by both full-service and budget airlines, giving travelers multiple price points.

Best Budget Airlines Flying to India in 2025

1. Axen Holidays

The low-cost arm of axen holidays offers cheap fares with good service. It's especially popular on Middle East–India routes and domestic connections.

Pros:

  • Direct flights to Tier 2 cities

  • Low base fares

  • Free 20kg check-in baggage

Cons:

  • Limited inflight services

  • Older aircraft fleet

2. Scoot

Scoot, a subsidiary of Singapore Airlines, is a budget airline offering surprisingly cheap tickets to South India.

Pros:

  • Competitive pricing

  • Decent layover time in Singapore

  • Clean and modern aircraft

Cons:

  • No free meals or baggage

  • Charges for seat selection

3. AirAsia

AirAsia remains a strong contender for cheap cheap flights to India from Southeast Asia and Australia.

Pros:

  • Frequent promotions

  • Good connectivity to South Indian cities

Cons:

  • Basic cabin service

  • Long layovers possible

4. IndiGo

Though mostly a domestic Indian airline, IndiGo now flies international routes such as Dubai–Delhi and Singapore–Mumbai.

Pros:

  • Punctual flights

  • Clean cabins and efficient service

Cons:

  • No frills

  • Smaller legroom on long routes

Best Full-Service Airlines Offering Deals

5. Emirates

While not exactly “budget,” Emirates often runs seasonal offers and multi-city deals that make it one of the best value airlines for travel to India.

Pros:

  • Top-notch service

  • Extensive India network

  • Free meals and baggage

Cons:

  • Layovers in Dubai

  • Premium pricing without promotions

6. Qatar Airways

Qatar’s world-class economy experience and flexible pricing make it a top choice in 2025.

Pros:

  • Excellent in-flight entertainment

  • Award-winning service

  • Doha layover tours available

Cons:

  • Longer total flight duration

  • Prices spike during peak season

7. Turkish Airlines

Turkish Airlines is gaining popularity with flights to multiple Indian cities via Istanbul.

Pros:

  • Great onboard meals

  • Often cheaper than Emirates/Qatar

  • Flexible ticket change policies

Cons:

  • Not all flights are direct

  • Airport delays at Istanbul possible

8. Etihad Airways

Flying through Abu Dhabi, Etihad is another great airline that balances quality and affordability.

Pros:

  • Luxury feel at decent prices

  • Frequent sales from UK, EU, and US

Cons:

  • Limited destinations compared to Emirates

Best Airlines for Students Traveling to India

If you're a student flying to India, you may qualify for discounted airfares with extra baggage. Airlines like British Airways, Emirates, Qatar, and Lufthansa offer student deals that are not available on regular booking sites.

Tips:

  • Always check student travel portals or the airline’s official website.

  • Carry your valid student ID and proof of university admission.

  • Some airlines offer flexible change and cancellation policies for students.

When to Book for the Best Prices

Timing is everything when looking for cheap tickets to India. Here’s what you should know:

  • Book 2–4 months in advance for international routes.

  • Avoid peak seasons like July-August (summer holidays), December (Christmas), and March (spring break).

  • Travel mid-week (Tuesday to Thursday) for lower fares.

  • Set price alerts using tools like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Hopper.

Money-Saving Booking Hacks

Booking smart isn’t just about which airline you choose. Here are some insider hacks:

  • Use VPNs to check fares from different regions.

  • Clear your browser cache or use incognito mode when searching.

  • Combine two separate airlines for departure and return.

  • Redeem points or miles from your credit card or airline loyalty programs.

  • Consider layover flights, which are often cheaper than direct ones.

Direct vs. Connecting Flights: What’s Better?

Direct flights to India offer convenience but often come at a higher price. On the other hand, connecting flights can save you money but may involve long layovers or visa requirements in transit countries.

If you're flexible, choosing a one-stop flight via the Middle East or Southeast Asia can significantly reduce costs while offering a comfortable travel experience.

Top Airports in India for International Arrivals

India has a wide network of international airports. These are the busiest and most budget-friendly entry points:

  • Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) – New Delhi

  • Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) – Mumbai

  • Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) – Bangalore

  • Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD) – Hyderabad

  • Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) – Kolkata

  • Cochin International Airport (COK) – Kerala

Choosing less busy airports like Amritsar (ATQ) or Ahmedabad (AMD) can sometimes help reduce ticket prices due to lower airport fees.

Tools to Find the Cheapest Flights to India

Take advantage of free tools and websites to track the lowest prices:

  • Google Flights: Great for monitoring multiple dates

  • Skyscanner: Find flexible destination options

  • Momondo: Compares airline and OTA prices

  • Hopper: Predicts the best time to book

  • Kiwi.com: For mixing airlines on a single itinerary

Conclusion: Your Smart Travel Plan to India Starts Now

Booking a flight to India in 2025 doesn’t have to break the bank. Whether you choose a budget airline like Air India Express or a luxury carrier with frequent deals like Emirates, there are plenty of options to suit every traveler.

Use booking tools, stay flexible with travel dates, and always compare multiple platforms before hitting that “Book Now” button. If you plan ahead and apply the strategies in this guide, you'll not only save money but also enjoy a smoother, smarter journey to India.