The Resumption of a Key Air Corridor
Direct air travel between India and China, which was suspended for several years, is making a significant comeback. Following the reinstatement of several routes in late 2025, China Southern Airlines is set to launch a new daily non-stop service between Delhi
and Guangzhou starting September 21, 2026. This move, along with services already launched by IndiGo on the same route, marks a crucial step in strengthening trade, tourism, and business travel between the two nations. The resumption of these flights has been eagerly awaited, promising to reduce travel time and costs for passengers who previously relied on lengthy connecting flights.
Airlines, Schedules, and Booking
Both IndiGo and China Southern Airlines now operate direct flights between Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) and Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN). China Southern's daily service, Flight CZ360, is scheduled to depart Delhi at 8:20 PM IST and arrive in Guangzhou at 4:15 AM CST the next morning. The return flight, CZ359, leaves Guangzhou at 3:35 PM CST and lands in Delhi at 7:00 PM IST. The route is operated by a Boeing 737-8 aircraft. IndiGo also offers daily non-stop flights on this popular route. Travellers are advised to book tickets well in advance, especially during peak seasons, through the airlines' official websites or reputable travel agencies to secure competitive fares.
Visa Requirements for Indian Travellers
Indian citizens require a pre-arranged visa to enter mainland China for tourism or business. There is no visa-on-arrival facility for Indian tourists. To apply for a Chinese Tourist Visa (L-visa), you will need a valid passport with at least six months of validity and at least two blank pages. The application process involves filling out an online form via the Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC), which has offices in New Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. You will also need to provide supporting documents, which typically include a recent passport-sized photograph, a detailed travel itinerary with round-trip flight bookings, and proof of hotel reservations.
Navigating the Journey: Airport and In-Flight
Your journey from Delhi will begin at the modern Terminal 3 of Indira Gandhi International Airport. It is recommended to arrive at least three to four hours before your international departure to allow ample time for check-in, baggage drop, and immigration procedures. The direct flight from Delhi to Guangzhou takes approximately five and a half hours. Onboard, you can expect standard international service, including meals and in-flight entertainment, though specific offerings will vary by airline. Upon arrival at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN), one of China's busiest hubs, you will proceed through health screening, immigration, and customs before collecting your baggage.
Welcome to Guangzhou
Guangzhou, historically known as Canton, is a sprawling port city and a major commercial hub in southern China's Pearl River Delta. Once you clear airport formalities, you have several options to get to the city center, including the Metro, airport buses, and taxis. The city is renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, particularly Cantonese cuisine, and offers a mix of modern landmarks and historical sites. Popular attractions include the futuristic Canton Tower, the historic Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, and tranquil Shamian Island. For business travellers, the city hosts the famous Canton Fair, a massive trade event held biannually.
