Delhi

Delhi Overview

Chinese Name: English IPA: Location: Population (city): Language: Zip code: Tel code: Time zone:

Traveling from Delhi (India) to the main cities of China is relatively easy, with multiple flight options and connections available. Here’s a guide on how to travel:

1. By Air:

The most common way to travel from Delhi to China is by air, and Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) serves as a major international hub with both direct and connecting flights to various cities in China.

a) Direct Flights: There are direct flights between Delhi and several major cities in China, including:

  • Beijing (PEK)
  • Shanghai (PVG)
  • Guangzhou (CAN)

Airlines offering direct flights from Delhi to China:

  • Air India (Direct flights to Beijing and Shanghai)
  • China Southern Airlines (Direct flights to Guangzhou)
  • China Eastern Airlines (Direct flights to Shanghai)
  • Air China (Direct flights to Beijing)

b) Connecting Flights: If there are no direct flights available to your desired destination, you can take connecting flights through major hubs such as:

  • Via Hong Kong: Cathay Pacific or Dragonair (Direct flights to Hong Kong, then onward flights to mainland China)
  • Via Dubai: Emirates (Direct flight to Dubai, then connecting flights to major Chinese cities)
  • Via Singapore: Singapore Airlines (Connecting flight to Singapore, then onward flights to Chinese cities)
  • Via Doha: Qatar Airways (Connecting flight through Doha)

2. Flight Duration:

  • Delhi to Beijing: Around 6–7 hours direct.
  • Delhi to Shanghai: Around 6–7 hours direct.
  • Delhi to Guangzhou: Around 5.5–6 hours direct.
  • Delhi to Hong Kong: Around 5 hours direct.

For connecting flights, total travel time (including layovers) typically ranges from 9 to 12 hours, depending on the length of the layovers.

3. Visa Requirements:

  • Chinese Visa: Indian citizens need to obtain a tourist visa (L visa) or a business visa (M visa) to visit China. The process involves submitting an application form, passport, photographs, and supporting documents like flight tickets and hotel bookings.
    • Visa Processing Time: Typically takes 4–7 working days for regular processing. Expedited services are also available.
  • Hong Kong: If traveling to Hong Kong, Indian passport holders do not require a visa for stays of up to 14 days. However, if you’re planning to visit mainland China from Hong Kong, you will still need to apply for a Chinese visa.

4. Main Cities in China to Visit:

Once you reach China, you can explore the following major cities:

  • Beijing: The capital city, known for historical sites such as the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Temple of Heaven.
  • Shanghai: A global financial hub with a skyline that includes the famous Oriental Pearl Tower and The Bund.
  • Guangzhou: A key port city known for its Cantonese culture and delicious food.
  • Hong Kong: Known for its skyscrapers, shopping, and vibrant food culture.
  • Chengdu: Famous for pandas and spicy Sichuan cuisine.
  • Shenzhen: A modern tech hub and shopping destination.

5. Travel Tips:

  • Language: The primary language in China is Mandarin Chinese. English is not widely spoken outside major cities, so it may be helpful to use a translation app or learn some basic phrases.
  • Currency: The currency in China is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). Credit cards are accepted in many places, but it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand. Mobile payment systems like Alipay and WeChat Pay are also widely used.
  • Time Zone: China operates on China Standard Time (CST), which is GMT+8, the same as Delhi.