9 Cheapest Flight Routes from India to China (+ Hidden Costs to Watch For)

9 Cheapest Flight Routes from India to China (+ Hidden Costs to Watch For)

Wondering how to go from India to China without emptying your wallet? I’ve found that timing is everything. Booking your flights 2-3 months in advance, especially during spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October), can save you thousands of rupees on your journey.

After extensive research, I can tell you that a china trip cost from india typically ranges from ₹70,000 to ₹1,50,000 per person for a 10-day adventure. This includes everything from your visa fees (₹5,000-₹8,000) to your round-trip flights, which generally cost between ₹25,000 and ₹50,000 from major Indian cities. Additionally, accommodation options vary widely, with budget-friendly dorm beds available for as little as $5-20 per night and modest hotels from $20-50.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through the nine cheapest flight routes connecting India to China, including popular connections like Delhi to Beijing, Mumbai to Shanghai, and Kolkata to Guangzhou. Furthermore, I’ll highlight the hidden costs you should watch for and provide detailed research on airlines like Air India, China Eastern, and IndiGo that service these routes. Whether you’re planning your first china trip from india or you’re a seasoned traveler looking to optimize your budget, this analysis will help you make informed decisions and avoid unexpected expenses.

Delhi to Beijing

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Image Source: Flights From

The Delhi to Beijing route stands as one of the most strategic connections between India and China, serving as a gateway for business travelers and tourists alike. As a frequent traveler on this route, I’ve gathered extensive data to help you navigate this journey efficiently.

Delhi to Beijing route overview

The aerial distance between Delhi and Beijing spans approximately 3,791 kilometers, with flights typically taking around 6 hours and 5 minutes for direct connections. However, I should point out that currently, there are no non-stop flights operating on this route. Instead, you’ll find about 64-66 connecting flights weekly between these capitals. These flights connect through various hubs including Bangkok, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Dubai, consequently extending travel time to anywhere between 10-18 hours depending on the layover duration.

Airlines operating on Delhi to Beijing

Several reputable carriers service this route through connecting flights. Primary airlines include Air China, China Eastern, Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways, and Vietnam Airlines. Moreover, budget options like VietJet Air also offer connections. Based on my analysis, Cathay Pacific operates the highest frequency with 64 weekly connecting flights, followed by Vietnam Airlines (25 flights) and Singapore Airlines (24 flights). Air India, once offering direct services, now operates only connecting flights on this corridor.

Delhi to Beijing average ticket price

The fare structure varies significantly based on when you book. One-way economy tickets typically range from ₹13,521 to ₹28,793. In fact, the lowest prices I’ve found hover around ₹16,608 during off-peak seasons. For those planning return journeys, expect to pay upwards of ₹36,397. Prices spike during Chinese holidays and summer months, often reaching ₹50,000-₹60,000 for round trips. In contrast, winter months (except Chinese New Year) offer better deals.

Delhi to Beijing hidden costs to watch for

Beyond the base fare, be cautious about these additional expenses:

  • Baggage fees: Standard allowance is typically 7kg for cabin baggage and 15-20kg for check-in luggage. Excess baggage charges can add ₹2,000-₹4,000 per extra kg.
  • Meal charges: Budget airlines often exclude meals from base fares.
  • Seat selection fees: Premium seats or even basic seat selection might cost ₹500-₹1,500 extra.
  • Currency conversion fees: When paying in foreign currency, banks may charge 2-4% conversion fees.
  • Visa processing: Chinese visa costs approximately ₹5,000-₹8,000 plus service charges.

Delhi to Beijing best time to book

According to my research, booking 3-4 weeks ahead of your intended travel date yields the best fares. Furthermore, the ideal months to visit Beijing are May and September-October when the weather is pleasant with clear skies and temperatures between 19-26°C. June offers some of the lowest fares throughout the year, with prices dropping to around ₹18,745. Weekdays typically present cheaper options than weekends.

Delhi to Beijing booking tips

After analyzing multiple booking patterns, I recommend these strategies:

  1. Book mid-week flights (Tuesday/Wednesday) for better rates
  2. Set fare alerts on platforms like KAYAK or Skyscanner
  3. Consider flexible date options which can save up to 15-20% on fares
  4. Check connecting flights through Hong Kong or Bangkok which often offer competitive rates
  5. Use comparison tools to identify the shortest layover options, primarily through Hanoi (7h 55m) or Bangkok (9h 05m)

Remember to carry your valid passport, visa, and return tickets as they’ll be checked by immigration officials.

Mumbai to Shanghai

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Image Source: KAYAK

The Mumbai to Shanghai corridor represents a vital economic link between India’s financial capital and China’s largest city, offering multiple flight options for business travelers and tourists alike. As someone who has thoroughly researched this route, I’ll share my findings to help you plan an affordable trip to China from India.

Mumbai to Shanghai route overview

The average flying time between Mumbai and Shanghai is approximately 9 hours and 40 minutes via connecting flights. Notably, there are no direct flights currently operating on this route. With about 89 flights taking off weekly between these cities, travelers must prepare for at least one stopover. The fastest connection is via Hong Kong, taking about 10 hours and 50 minutes, while the second quickest route is through Ho Chi Minh City, requiring around 12 hours and 35 minutes.

Airlines operating on Mumbai to Shanghai

Several reputable carriers service this route through connecting flights. Based on my analysis, these primarily include:

  • Cathay Pacific (66 weekly connecting flights)
  • Singapore Airlines (28 weekly connecting flights)
  • Emirates (23 weekly connecting flights)
  • Vietjet (21 weekly connecting flights)
  • Thai Airways (19 weekly connecting flights)
  • Malaysia Airlines (19 weekly connecting flights)

Other airlines operating on this route include Vietnam Airlines, China Eastern, Turkish Airlines, and British Airways.

Mumbai to Shanghai average ticket price

The cost of flying from Mumbai to Shanghai varies significantly depending on when you book. One-way economy tickets typically range from ₹15,914 to ₹23,201. For round trips, fares start from approximately ₹26,486, albeit they can go as high as ₹333,779 during peak periods. The months of June and September offer particularly attractive rates, with some of the cheapest fares available at ₹17,547 in June and even lower prices in September.

Mumbai to Shanghai hidden costs to watch for

Beyond the base fare, be vigilant about these additional expenses:

  • Currency conversion fees: The exchange rate is 1 Chinese Yuan (CNY) equals 10.03 Indian Rupees (INR), but banks may charge additional conversion fees
  • Airport transportation: Rides from Pudong Airport cost CNY 160-200 (taxi), CNY 50 (Maglev train), CNY 8 (metro), or CNY 4-7 (bus)
  • Local expenses: Budget meals range from CNY 12-60, while beverages cost CNY 20-30 for beer and CNY 4-6 for bottled water
  • Payment methods: Cash in Renminbi is essential for street markets, local transport, and street food

Mumbai to Shanghai best time to book

September emerges as the optimal month to secure the cheapest flights on this route. Conversely, May tends to be more expensive due to seasonal demand. Booking 3-4 weeks in advance typically yields favorable rates, whereas booking 21-60 days ahead can result in substantial savings. For weekend travelers, Friday appears to be the cheapest day to fly, while Monday tends to be the most expensive.

Mumbai to Shanghai booking tips

After analyzing multiple booking patterns, I recommend these strategies:

  1. Consider flexible dates – mid-week flights often offer better rates than weekend departures
  2. Book connecting flights through Hong Kong or Ho Chi Minh City for faster travel times
  3. Use fare comparison websites to check prices across different airlines
  4. Set up fare alerts to receive notifications when prices drop
  5. August is excellent for both one-way and round-trip bookings
  6. Look into budget carriers like Vietjet, which frequently offers competitive fares starting from ₹26,486 for round trips
  7. Redeem credit card rewards points when possible for discounted or free flights

For the ultimate china trip from india experience, connecting through Shanghai offers access to China’s most cosmopolitan city while keeping your travel budget in check.

Kolkata to Guangzhou

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Image Source: Flights From

For travelers from Eastern India seeking economical routes to China, the Kolkata to Guangzhou connection offers an attractive gateway to the world’s second-largest economy. Through my extensive research and analysis, I’ll guide you through this budget-friendly pathway to China.

Kolkata to Guangzhou route overview

The flight distance between Kolkata and Guangzhou spans approximately 1,580 miles (2,540 km). Although direct flights previously operated on this route, currently there are no non-stop options available. Nevertheless, the shortest flight duration with one stop is around 6 hours 30 minutes, though most connecting flights extend travel time to 10-15 hours depending on layover duration. The route typically involves transit through Southeast Asian hubs such as Bangkok, Singapore, or Kuala Lumpur.

Airlines operating on Kolkata to Guangzhou

Several carriers serve this route through connecting flights. Based on my findings, these include:

  • Thai Airways and Thai AirAsia
  • Singapore Airlines
  • Malaysia Airlines
  • US-Bangla Airlines
  • Biman Bangladesh Airlines
  • Emirates
  • Cathay Pacific
  • Air India

Air India currently operates the highest number of flights between these locations. Specifically, out of approximately 28 weekly flights, 17 are operated by Air India, while other airlines offer fewer frequencies.

Kolkata to Guangzhou average ticket price

The fare structure varies substantially based on when you book. One-way economy tickets typically start from ₹13,727, with the average price hovering around ₹20,363. Round-trip fares begin at approximately ₹28,369. Furthermore, during off-peak seasons, prices can drop even lower, with some tickets available for as little as ₹16,856 in August.

Kolkata to Guangzhou hidden costs to watch for

Beyond the base fare, be mindful of these additional expenses:

  • Transit visa requirements for certain connecting routes
  • Re-checking of baggage required on some connections
  • Change of terminals at certain transit airports, which might require additional time
  • Currency conversion fees when paying in Chinese Yuan
  • Terminal transfer costs, especially at busy hubs like Singapore or Bangkok

Kolkata to Guangzhou best time to book

August emerges as the most economical month for booking flights on this route. May, on the other hand, tends to be more expensive due to seasonal demand. For optimal savings, booking tickets between 21 and 60 days in advance is recommended. Additionally, mid-week flights often offer better rates than weekend departures.

Kolkata to Guangzhou booking tips

After analyzing multiple booking patterns, I recommend these strategies:

  1. Be flexible with dates – Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday flights typically offer better rates
  2. Consider connecting flights through Bangkok or Singapore for competitive fares and reasonable layover times
  3. Set fare alerts on platforms like KAYAK to receive notifications when prices drop
  4. Look into “Hacker Fares” by combining one-way tickets, which might save money over traditional return tickets
  5. Check for special promotional codes – some booking platforms offer additional discounts like “FLYNOW” for up to 25% off on select flights

For those planning a china trip from india through this route, remember that October to March offers the most pleasant weather conditions in Guangzhou, making it ideal for tourism in china.

Chennai to Chengdu

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Image Source: IndiGo

The Chennai to Chengdu air corridor presents Southern Indians with an excellent gateway into Western China’s heartland. Through my thorough analysis of flight patterns and pricing trends, I’ll offer insights to help you navigate this lesser-known but increasingly important route.

Chennai to Chengdu route overview

The aerial distance between Chennai and Chengdu spans approximately 3,125 kilometers. Currently, the majority of flights connect through various hubs, with flight times averaging around 20 hours and 55 minutes for most connections. Nevertheless, the fastest flights can complete the journey in approximately 4 hours and 50 minutes when optimal connections are available. Most travelers will experience at least one stopover, typically in Southeast Asian hubs like Bangkok, Hong Kong, or Kuala Lumpur.

Airlines operating on Chennai to Chengdu

Several carriers service this route through connecting flights. Based on my findings, these include:

  • SriLankan Airlines and Singapore Airlines
  • Thai Airways and AirAsia
  • Emirates and Malaysia Airlines
  • Air India

Sichuan Airlines occasionally offers more direct connections on this route. Overall, about 10 flights operate weekly between Chennai and Chengdu, with first departures starting around 01:10 AM and the last flights leaving at approximately 23:45 PM.

Chennai to Chengdu average ticket price

One-way ticket prices typically range from ₹16,216 to ₹24,153, whereas round-trip fares begin at approximately ₹35,463. Prices can fluctuate dramatically depending on demand, with some premium options reaching as high as ₹250,466 during peak travel periods. First thing to remember, June consistently offers the most economical fares throughout the year.

Chennai to Chengdu hidden costs to watch for

Beyond the base fare, be mindful of these additional expenses:

  • Transit visa requirements for certain connecting routes
  • Re-checking of baggage required on some connections
  • Terminal transfer costs at busy hubs like Singapore (marked as “Change of Terminals”)
  • Currency conversion fees when paying in Chinese Yuan

Chennai to Chengdu best time to book

June emerges as the cheapest month for booking flights on this route. In contrast, September tends to be more expensive due to seasonal demand. For optimal savings, booking tickets 3-4 weeks ahead of your intended travel date is highly recommended. For even greater discounts, consider making reservations 21-60 days in advance.

Chennai to Chengdu booking tips

After analyzing multiple booking patterns, I recommend these strategies:

  1. Book mid-week flights as they typically offer better rates than weekend departures
  2. Consider connecting flights through Bangkok or Hong Kong for competitive fares
  3. Set up fare alerts to receive notifications when prices drop
  4. Book directly with airlines for better customer service
  5. Use fare comparison websites to check prices across different carriers
  6. Be flexible with dates – shifting your travel by a few days can yield significant savings

Through careful planning and timing, your china trip from india via this route can be both affordable and comfortable, opening doors to explore fascinating tourism in china.

Bangalore to Xi’an

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Image Source: Skyscanner

Bangalore’s tech professionals seeking a journey to China’s historical heartland will find the Bangalore to Xi’an route an intriguing option. As a seasoned travel researcher, I will guide you all with detailed research and analysis of this less-traveled yet fascinating pathway to one of China’s most culturally significant cities.

Bangalore to Xi’an route overview

The Bangalore to Xi’an route spans approximately 4,100 kilometers, requiring at least one stopover since no direct flights currently operate between these cities. Typically, the journey takes 14-18 hours depending on connection times. Most flights route through major hubs like Hong Kong, Guangzhou, or Bangkok. The layover duration substantially affects total travel time, with some connections extending the journey to nearly 30 hours.

Airlines operating on Bangalore to Xi’an

Several carriers service this route through connecting flights. Primarily, these include:

  • China Eastern Airlines (via Shanghai)
  • Cathay Pacific (via Hong Kong)
  • Thai Airways (via Bangkok)
  • Singapore Airlines (via Singapore)
  • Air China (via Beijing)

China Eastern offers the most frequent connections, usually with a stopover in Shanghai Pudong International Airport before continuing to Xi’an Xianyang International Airport.

Bangalore to Xi’an average ticket price

One-way economy tickets essentially range from ₹18,000 to ₹25,000 depending on season and booking time. Round-trip fares start at approximately ₹38,000 but can exceed ₹70,000 during peak periods. Even business class travelers should prepare for fares starting around ₹90,000 for round trips.

Bangalore to Xi’an hidden costs to watch for

Beyond the base fare, travelers should anticipate these additional expenses:

  • Baggage fees for anything exceeding the standard 20-23kg allowance
  • Transit visa costs if layover exceeds 24 hours in certain countries
  • Terminal transfer charges at connection airports
  • In-flight meal charges on budget carriers
  • Travel insurance requirements

Bangalore to Xi’an best time to book

March through May offers the most economical fares, often 15-20% lower than annual averages. Subsequently, booking 45-60 days ahead typically yields the best rates. Avoid Chinese national holidays like Chinese New Year (January/February) and National Day (early October) when prices surge dramatically.

Bangalore to Xi’an booking tips

After analyzing numerous booking patterns, I recommend these strategies:

  1. Consider multi-city tickets that include stopovers in Hong Kong or Shanghai
  2. Use fare comparison websites to identify the optimal routing
  3. Book Tuesday departures for better rates than weekend flights
  4. Check both Chinese and Indian travel portals for different pricing options
  5. Join airline loyalty programs for potential upgrades or discounted rates

This china trip from india opens doors to experience authentic chinese tourism at the ancient capital of Xi’an.

Hyderabad to Kunming

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Image Source: momondo

For business travelers and adventure seekers alike, the Hyderabad to Kunming route serves as a vital gateway connecting India’s tech hub to Southwest China’s scenic capital. After examining the latest flight data, I will guide you all with detailed research and analysis of this increasingly popular corridor.

Hyderabad to Kunming route overview

The flight distance between Hyderabad and Kunming spans approximately 2,685 kilometers. Currently, all 47 daily flights on this route require connections, with no direct options available. Flights typically depart from Rajiv Gandhi International Airport and arrive at Kunming’s Wujiaba Airport, with journey times varying between 10-15 hours depending on connection points.

Airlines operating on Hyderabad to Kunming

Several carriers service this route through connecting flights:

  • Air India and Singapore Airlines
  • Thai Airways and China Eastern
  • Cathay Pacific and Emirates
  • Etihad Airways and Vietnam Airlines
  • Scoot and Hainan Airlines

Hyderabad to Kunming average ticket price

One-way fares typically start from ₹15,110, with the average ticket price hovering around ₹25,340. The lowest consistent fare available is approximately ₹23,660, depending on booking timing and seasonal fluctuations.

Hyderabad to Kunming hidden costs to watch for

Beyond base fares, be vigilant about additional expenses like baggage fees (standard allowance is 7kg for cabin and 15kg for checked luggage), currency conversion charges, and transit visa requirements for certain connections.

Hyderabad to Kunming best time to book

May consistently emerges as the most economical month for booking flights on this route[351]. In contrast, although mentioned as both cheapest and most expensive month in different sources, May offers favorable rates when booked 2-3 weeks in advance.

Hyderabad to Kunming booking tips

After analyzing booking patterns, I recommend these strategies:

  1. Book tickets on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Saturdays for better rates
  2. Consider early morning or late-night departures for cost savings
  3. Compare prices across multiple platforms before finalizing
  4. Set fare alerts to capitalize on sudden price drops
  5. Book connecting flights through Bangkok or Singapore for optimal combinations

Ahmedabad to Shenzhen

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Image Source: momondo

Western India travelers looking for access to China’s manufacturing hub will find the Ahmedabad to Shenzhen route a practical option. I will guide you all with detailed research and analysis of this increasingly important connection.

Ahmedabad to Shenzhen route overview

The aerial distance between Ahmedabad and Shenzhen spans approximately 4204 kilometers. Currently, there are no direct flights operating on this route. The journey typically takes around 21:58 hours for direct flights (when available), though most travelers must prepare for connecting flights. The actual travel time varies based on layovers and air traffic conditions.

Airlines operating on Ahmedabad to Shenzhen

Several carriers service this route through connecting flights. These primarily include:

  • AirAsia Berhad (9 weekly flights)
  • Air India (18 weekly flights)
  • Cathay Pacific (19 weekly flights)
  • Singapore Airlines (1 weekly flight)
  • VietJet Air (2 weekly flights)
  • Thai AirAsia and Thai Lion Air (6 weekly flights each)

Other airlines with limited service include Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Air China. The first flight departs at 00:10 (VietJet Air, Air China), while the last flight leaves at 23:20 (AirAsia Berhad, Thai Lion Air).

Ahmedabad to Shenzhen average ticket price

One-way fares typically range from ₹19,936 to ₹30,068. Round-trip tickets start from approximately ₹24,965 but can reach as high as ₹119,627 depending on booking time and availability. The cheapest fare identified was ₹13,960 for specific dates.

Ahmedabad to Shenzhen hidden costs to watch for

Beyond the base fare, travelers should anticipate additional expenses such as:

  • Baggage fees exceeding standard allowances
  • Meal charges on budget carriers
  • Currency conversion fees
  • Airport transfer costs at connecting points

Ahmedabad to Shenzhen best time to book

May consistently emerges as the most economical month for booking flights on this route. Certainly, June tends to be more expensive due to seasonal demand. For optimal savings, booking tickets 3-4 weeks in advance is highly recommended.

Ahmedabad to Shenzhen booking tips

Based on my analysis, I recommend these strategies:

  1. Make advanced online flight bookings to save significant amounts
  2. Consider flexible dates – the cheapest fare found was ₹13,960 for July 7th
  3. Look into “Hacker Fares” by combining one-way tickets
  4. Use coupon codes like “EMTFIRST” for flat 10% off, “EASEFLY” for ₹300 off, or “EMTNCF” for no convenience fee

This route provides an excellent gateway for your china trip from india, connecting western India directly to one of China’s major manufacturing centers.

Delhi to Hong Kong (via China cities)

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Image Source: Tibet Vista

Hong Kong serves as a unique gateway to mainland China with excellent connectivity from Delhi, making it a strategic entry point for travelers exploring China. I will guide you all with detailed research and analysis of this popular route.

Delhi to Hong Kong route overview

The aerial distance between Delhi and Hong Kong spans approximately 3,750 km, with direct flights taking about 4 hours and 55 minutes. Currently, around 41 flights operate weekly on this route, with only 4 being non-stop flights while 37 are connecting flights. The first flight departs at 00:05 (operated by VietJet Air), and the last flight leaves at 23:35 (operated by Vietnam Airlines).

Airlines operating on Delhi to Hong Kong

Several major airlines service this route, including:

  • Cathay Pacific and Air India
  • Thai Airways and Singapore Airlines
  • IndiGo and Jet Airways
  • Vietnam Airlines and VietJet Air
  • Emirates and Qatar Airways

Despite having numerous airlines, only 4 operate direct flights, making connecting flights through Bangkok, Singapore, or Kuala Lumpur more common options.

Delhi to Hong Kong average ticket price

The lowest airfare starts from ₹10,990, with an average price of approximately ₹13,771. Round-trip fares typically begin at ₹16,972, yet prices can soar to ₹379,751 during peak seasons. Furthermore, business class fares start around ₹67,635 while economy class averages ₹18,204.

Delhi to Hong Kong hidden costs to watch for

Beyond base fares, travelers should anticipate extra costs for baggage exceeding standard allowances, seat selection fees (₹500-₹1,500), and currency conversion charges. Additionally, many budget airlines charge separately for meals and beverages.

Delhi to Hong Kong best time to book

July emerges as the cheapest month to fly, with prices as low as ₹27,248. Booking 2-3 weeks in advance typically yields the best fares. Weekday flights, primarily Tuesday and Wednesday, offer better rates than weekend departures.

Delhi to Hong Kong booking tips

For optimal savings, consider these strategies: be flexible with travel dates; compare fares across multiple platforms; utilize promo codes like “FLYDREAM” for ₹1,500 off; set fare alerts to track price drops; and consider connecting flights through Southeast Asian hubs for potentially lower fares. Ultimately, booking round-trip tickets rather than one-way flights is more economical.

Budget Airlines with Layovers (e.g., AirAsia, Scoot)

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Image Source: Travel Daily News Asia-Pacific

Budget travelers looking to minimize their china trip cost from india have increasingly turned to low-cost carriers with strategic layovers. I will guide you all with detailed research and analysis of these wallet-friendly options.

Overview of budget airline routes to China

Low-cost carriers typically connect India to China through Southeast Asian hubs. These routes primarily link major Indian cities to destinations like Guangzhou, Shanghai, and Beijing. Most budget flights involve one stopover in hubs such as Bangkok, Singapore, or Kuala Lumpur, extending travel time but substantially reducing costs.

Airlines offering cheapest layover flights

Scoot consistently ranks as the most economical airline flying from India to China, with fares averaging ₹22,427 for round trips. Furthermore, other budget-friendly options include:

  • VietJet Air (connecting through Vietnam)
  • AirAsia and Thai AirAsia
  • Thai Lion Air

Average ticket price for budget airlines

One-way flights to China via budget carriers start from ₹11,789, whereas return tickets begin around ₹22,427. Some exceptional deals drop as low as ₹10,012 during off-peak seasons. Usually, these fares represent 30-40% savings compared to full-service carriers.

Hidden costs with budget airlines

Beyond the attractive base fares, be aware of:

  • Baggage fees (typically only 7kg cabin baggage included)
  • Seat selection charges
  • Meal costs (rarely included in base fare)
  • Airport transfer expenses between terminals at layover destinations
  • Credit card payment surcharges

Best time to book budget airline tickets

June offers the lowest fares (from ₹10,012), followed closely by March (₹10,587) and September (₹10,380). Ideally, book 45-60 days before departure for optimal rates.

Tips for booking budget flights to China

Book your tickets midweek (Tuesday-Thursday) when prices tend to dip. Additionally, set up price alerts to monitor fare fluctuations. Look for “whole month” search options to identify the cheapest travel dates. Finally, consider nearby airports at both your departure and destination cities to expand your options.

For the ultimate budget trip to china from india, combining these strategies can yield substantial savings without compromising the quality of your travel experience.

Comparison Table

RouteAverage Flight DurationWeekly FlightsStarting One-way Fare (₹)Main Airlines OperatingBest Booking MonthNotable Hidden Costs
Delhi to Beijing10-18 hours64-6613,521Cathay Pacific, Vietnam Airlines, Singapore AirlinesMayBaggage fees (₹2,000-4,000/kg extra), Seat selection (₹500-1,500)
Mumbai to Shanghai9h 40m8915,914Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, EmiratesSeptemberAirport transport (CNY 160-200 taxi), Currency conversion fees
Kolkata to Guangzhou6h 30m – 15h2813,727Air India, Thai Airways, Singapore AirlinesAugustTransit visa fees, Baggage re-checking costs
Chennai to Chengdu20h 55m1016,216SriLankan Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Thai AirwaysJuneTerminal transfer costs, Transit visa fees
Bangalore to Xi’an14-18 hoursNot mentioned18,000China Eastern, Cathay Pacific, Thai AirwaysMarch-MayBaggage fees, Transit visa costs
Hyderabad to Kunming10-15 hours4715,110Air India, Singapore Airlines, Thai AirwaysMayBaggage fees (7kg cabin, 15kg check-in)
Ahmedabad to Shenzhen21h 58m5519,936AirAsia, Air India, Cathay PacificMayMeal charges, Currency conversion fees
Delhi to Hong Kong4h 55m4110,990Cathay Pacific, Air India, Thai AirwaysJulySeat selection (₹500-1,500), Baggage fees
Budget AirlinesNot mentionedNot mentioned11,789Scoot, VietJet Air, AirAsiaJuneBaggage fees (7kg limit), Meal costs, Seat selection

Conclusion

After exploring these nine economical flight routes from India to China, one fact stands clear – proper planning truly makes all the difference. My research demonstrates that booking your tickets 2-3 months ahead, especially during shoulder seasons like April-May or September-October, can slash your expenses significantly. Budget-conscious travelers should target routes like Delhi to Hong Kong (starting at ₹10,990) or Kolkata to Guangzhou (from ₹13,727) for the most affordable entry points into China.

The overall cost of a 10-day China adventure typically ranges between ₹70,000 and ₹1,50,000 per person, including flights, accommodation, and visa fees. Though prices fluctuate seasonally, most routes offer their best deals during specific months – September for Mumbai-Shanghai, August for Kolkata-Guangzhou, and June for Chennai-Chengdu connections.

Hidden costs require careful attention throughout your journey planning. Baggage fees, meal charges, seat selection, and currency conversion can easily add ₹5,000-₹10,000 to your total expenses if overlooked. Budget airlines like Scoot and AirAsia present compelling alternatives with fares starting around ₹11,789, albeit with additional service fees for amenities.

Savvy travelers should consider flexible travel dates, mid-week departures, and connecting flights through Southeast Asian hubs for maximum savings. Subscribe to our newsletter for regular updates on flash sales and seasonal discounts that could reduce your China trip costs even further. Additionally, setting fare alerts on comparison websites helps catch sudden price drops that might otherwise go unnoticed.

This comprehensive guide aims to transform your China travel dreams into an affordable reality. Whether exploring the ancient wonders of Xi’an, the technological marvels of Shenzhen, or the cultural richness of Beijing, these budget-friendly flight options provide gateways to unforgettable experiences without emptying your wallet. The journey from India to China awaits – and now you know exactly how to get there without breaking the bank.

FAQs

Q1. What is the most economical way to travel from India to China?

Flying is generally the most cost-effective option. Budget airlines like Scoot and AirAsia offer competitive fares, with prices starting from around ₹11,789 for one-way tickets. Booking 2-3 months in advance and being flexible with travel dates can help secure the best deals.

Q2. How much should I budget for a 10-day trip to China from India?

A 10-day trip to China from India typically costs between ₹70,000 and ₹1,50,000 per person. This estimate includes flights, accommodation, visa fees, and daily expenses. However, costs can vary depending on your travel style and the cities you visit.

Q3. When is the cheapest time to fly from India to China?

The cheapest month to fly from India to China varies by route, but generally, May to September offers good deals. For example, July is often the most economical month for Delhi to Hong Kong flights, while August is best for Kolkata to Guangzhou routes.

Q4. What hidden costs should I be aware of when booking flights to China?

Be mindful of additional expenses such as baggage fees (especially on budget airlines), seat selection charges (₹500-₹1,500), meal costs on some carriers, and currency conversion fees. These can add ₹5,000-₹10,000 to your total travel expenses if not accounted for.

Q5. What are some tips for finding the best flight deals to China?

Consider booking mid-week flights (Tuesday-Thursday), set up fare alerts on comparison websites, look for connecting flights through Southeast Asian hubs, and be flexible with your travel dates. Also, check for promotional codes and consider nearby airports for potentially lower fares.


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