How to Get from Chennai to Delhi
How to get from Chennai to Delhi: non-stop flights of about 2.5 hours and the overnight trains, with times and practical tips.
Contents
Bridging the coastal south and the political heart of the north, the journey from Chennai to Delhi is a leap across the subcontinent. You trade the humid breeze of the Bay of Bengal and the scent of filter coffee for the Red Fort, sprawling markets and the sharp seasons of the capital, and the Dravidian temples of the south for Mughal and colonial grandeur.
The aerial distance is about 1,760 km,[1] so most travelers fly. This is one of India's busiest domestic corridors, serving business travelers, officials and tourists alike, and the trains are a long but scenic alternative.
Chennai to Delhi by Flight
Flights go from Chennai International Airport (MAA) to Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL). IndiGo lists a flight time of generally around 2.5 hours, and sample non-stop departures take 2 hours 50 minutes to 2 hours 55 minutes. IndiGo fares are generally around ₹6,000 to ₹10,000.[1] The Chennai Metro is often faster than a taxi through the traffic.
Departures run through the day, with some very early in the morning. Full-service airlines usually include a meal or snack, whereas low-cost carriers such as IndiGo sell food on board. You can compare options and book on GoAsia.cc.
Chennai to Delhi by Train
If you have the time, the train lets you watch the whole country roll past. The 12621 Tamil Nadu Express leaves Chennai Central at 22:00 and reaches New Delhi at 07:05, and the 12615 Grand Trunk Express leaves Chennai Central at 19:15 and reaches Delhi Sarai Rohilla at 07:10.[2] Book a berth well ahead.
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Details |
|---|---|
| Flight | About 2.5h non-stop from MAA to DEL, generally about ₹6,000 to ₹10,000[1] |
| Train | Tamil Nadu Express from Chennai Central at 22:00, Grand Trunk Express at 19:15[2] |
Tips for Traveling from Chennai to Delhi
- Airport Transit: The Chennai Metro is well connected to the airport. In Delhi, the Airport Express Metro line is the quickest way to New Delhi Railway Station and the city centre.
- Seasonal Changes: Expect a big temperature shift. From December to February Chennai is pleasantly warm, while Delhi can drop below 10 degrees Celsius, so pack layers.
- Check-in Times: Arrive at least 2 hours before a domestic departure, and expect long security queues at peak morning and evening hours.
- Fog: In winter, heavy fog in Delhi can delay flights, so a midday departure often has better visibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Use the booking tool on this page to compare the transport options currently available from Chennai to Delhi, including current prices and schedules.
Book an economy flight in advance. IndiGo fares on this route are generally around ₹6,000 to ₹10,000, and they rise if you book at the last minute or in peak season.
Flying. Non-stop flights take about 2.5 hours, and the trains are a long ride.
A non-stop flight takes about 2.5 hours, and sample IndiGo departures take 2 hours 50 minutes to 2 hours 55 minutes.
All flights from Chennai land at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL). Check your ticket for the terminal before you arrange a pickup.
Yes, this is a very common route for solo travelers. In Delhi, use official airport taxis or ride-hailing apps such as Uber.
It depends on the airline. Full-service carriers usually include a meal, while low-cost carriers such as IndiGo sell snacks and drinks on board.
Sources and background
Numbers in the text such as [1] refer to these sources.
- [1] IndiGo: Chennai to Delhi Flights Ticket. Retrieved November 1, 2026.
- [2] Indian Railways (CRIS): Mail/Express/Superfast Train Names with Details. Retrieved November 1, 2026.
Guide prices and journey times are indicative, not live quotes. A booked package may include transfers and waiting time as well as the main journey. Check the selected offer, pickup point and current conditions before booking.