A Major Boost for Connectivity
The resumption of direct flights between New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) and Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) is a significant step in reconnecting India and China after a prolonged gap. This route is crucial for traders
and business executives heading to the industrial heartland of the Pearl River Delta, as well as for students and tourists. The non-stop connection slashes travel time, eliminating the need for lengthy layovers in other cities. The return of these flights signals a gradual restoration of air links and is expected to boost commercial, educational, and cultural exchanges between the two nations.
Airlines and Flight Schedules
Two primary airlines currently operate direct flights on this popular route: IndiGo and China Southern Airlines. China Southern Airlines commenced its daily non-stop service from September 21, 2026. Their flight, CZ360, departs Delhi at 8:20 PM (IST) and arrives in Guangzhou at 4:15 AM (CST) the next morning. IndiGo also offers a daily service, flight 6E1701, which departs Delhi around 8:10 PM (IST) and lands in Guangzhou at 4:00 AM (CST) the following day. The average flight duration is approximately 5 hours and 20-30 minutes. Both airlines operate from Terminal 3 at Delhi and arrive at Terminal 2 in Guangzhou.
Booking and Ticket Costs
Travellers can book these flights directly through the airlines' official websites or via various online travel agencies. While prices are dynamic and fluctuate based on demand, season, and how far in advance you book, round-trip economy fares typically start from around ₹28,000 ($340). Business class options are also available, particularly on China Southern, for those seeking extra comfort. Given the popularity of the route for business travel, it is advisable to book tickets well in advance to secure more competitive pricing, especially during peak trade fair seasons in Guangzhou.
Essential Baggage Information
Baggage allowance is a critical detail to check before flying. For international flights, allowances differ significantly from domestic rules. On its Guangzhou route, IndiGo typically offers a 30kg checked baggage allowance. China Southern's international routes usually allow one or two pieces of checked luggage, each up to 23kg in economy, but this can vary, so confirming at the time of booking is essential. For cabin baggage, both airlines generally permit one bag weighing up to 7kg, along with a small personal item like a laptop bag or purse.
Visa and Entry Requirements
This is the most important step in your travel planning. Indian passport holders require a pre-arranged visa to enter mainland China; there is no visa-on-arrival or e-visa facility for tourists or business travellers. You must apply for the appropriate visa category—typically a Tourist (L) visa or Business (M) visa—through the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre (CVASC). The process involves filling an online application, gathering required documents like a valid passport, flight bookings, hotel reservations, and a detailed itinerary, and then submitting them at the centre. While visa fees were reduced for 2026, the process still requires careful attention to detail and several days for processing.
Welcome to Guangzhou
Known as the 'Canton' of old, Guangzhou is a sprawling port city and a global trading hub. It's famous for the Canton Fair, a massive trade expo held biannually. Beyond business, the city offers a rich cultural experience. Visitors can marvel at the modern architecture of the Canton Tower, explore the historical Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, or enjoy the tranquility of Shamian Island, with its colonial-era buildings. And no trip is complete without sampling the city's celebrated culinary scene, especially its world-famous dim sum.
