Confirming Your Flight Details
The resumption of services on this popular route brings more choice for travellers. Currently, two airlines operate direct flights between Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) and Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN): IndiGo and China
Southern Airlines. IndiGo offers a daily service, while China Southern Airlines is set to begin its daily flights on September 21, 2026. The flight duration is approximately five and a half hours. Flights from Delhi depart from Terminal 3. When booking, double-check baggage allowances, as these can vary between carriers. It's also wise to reconfirm flight times closer to your departure date, as schedules can change.
Visa and Documentation: No Surprises
This is the most critical step for a hassle-free trip. Indian passport holders require a pre-arranged visa to enter mainland China for tourism or business. There is no visa-on-arrival facility for Indian tourists. The most common visa for tourism is the 'L' visa. The application process must be started well in advance at a Chinese Visa Application Service Centre (CVASC). Key documents required typically include a passport with at least six months of validity and two blank pages, a completed application form, recent photographs, proof of round-trip flight bookings, and confirmed hotel reservations for your entire stay. You will also likely need to provide a day-by-day travel itinerary and recent bank statements to demonstrate sufficient funds for your trip.
Health and Safety Protocols
While many pandemic-era restrictions have eased, some health-related procedures remain. Travellers are no longer required to take a pre-departure COVID-19 test before boarding. However, you must complete a Health Declaration Form for China Customs. This can be done online via a web portal or the China Customs APP within 24 hours of your travel. Upon arrival, customs officials may conduct random sampling inspections. If a passenger shows symptoms like a fever, they may be required to take an antigen test. A positive result could lead to a period of self-quarantine. It is always recommended to carry personal hygiene items like masks and hand sanitiser for your comfort and safety.
Navigating Guangzhou Baiyun Airport (CAN)
Upon landing at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, follow the signs for international arrivals. You will first go through health and quarantine inspection, followed by immigration. Keep your passport, visa, and boarding pass handy. After clearing immigration, you will proceed to the baggage claim hall to collect your luggage. Your flight number will be displayed on screens indicating the correct baggage carousel. The final step is passing through customs. If you have nothing to declare, you can take the green channel. Multilingual self-service kiosks are often available to help you complete your arrival card quickly.
Money, Connectivity, and Other Tips
Before you leave Delhi, it's a good idea to exchange some Indian Rupees for Chinese Yuan (CNY) for immediate expenses like taxis or snacks upon arrival, though airport exchange counters are also available. For connectivity, consider activating an international roaming plan with your Indian service provider. Alternatively, you can purchase a local Chinese SIM card at the airport for more affordable data and local calls. Remember that many popular international apps and websites are blocked in China, so if you need access to services like Google or WhatsApp, you may need to arrange a VPN service before your travels. Finally, pack a universal travel adapter to ensure you can charge your electronic devices without any issues.
