Cheap Flights from Pune to Delhi: The Ultimate Guide to Saving Big on Airfare (2025)

Vanshika Mahtre
Apr 22
12 min read

Looking to score cheap flights from Pune to Delhi? Whether you’re flying for business, catching up with family, or heading for a spontaneous weekend getaway, you’re in luck!

✈️ Quick Glance: Pune to Delhi Flight Details

Detail	Information
Route	Pune (PNQ) ➡️ Delhi (DEL)
Flight Duration	~2 hours 10 minutes (non-stop)
Distance	~1,150 km
Cheapest Fare	From ₹1,999 (during sales)
Average Fare	₹2,800 – ₹4,500
Airlines	IndiGo, Vistara, Akasa, SpiceJet, Air India
Best Time to Book	3–6 weeks in advance
Best Booking Platforms	Google Flights, Skyscanner, MakeMyTrip
Airport Codes	PNQ (Pune), DEL (Delhi)
Popular Travel Days	Weekends (More expensive)
Best Deals On	Tuesdays & Wednesdays

The Pune to Delhi route is one of the busiest in India, which means there are plenty of options—and with the right tips, tools, and timing, you can easily save a lot of money on your next trip.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

Best time to book cheap flights
Airlines offering the lowest fares
Flight comparison tools
Airport info
Money-saving travel hacks
FAQs for Pune to Delhi flights

✈️ Quick Overview: Pune to Delhi Flights

Average Duration: 2 hours 10 minutes (non-stop)
Distance: ~1,150 km
Airlines: IndiGo, Air India, Vistara, Akasa Air, SpiceJet
Airports:
- Departure: Pune Airport (PNQ)
- Arrival: Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL)

📅 When to Book Cheap Flights from Pune to Delhi

Booking flights in advance is key. Here’s what the data shows:

Best time to book: 3–6 weeks before departure
Cheapest months: July, August, and mid-January
Expensive months: December (holiday season) and May (summer vacations)

👉 Pro Tip: Use Google Flights to compare fares across weeks and see when prices drop. Look for "Date Grid" and "Price Graph" options.

🛫 Budget Airlines on the Route

IndiGo: Most frequent and often the cheapest.
Akasa Air: New budget airline with great introductory fares.
SpiceJet: Offers regular discounts and combo offers.
Air India Express: Budget wing of Air India with occasional deals.
Vistara: Not the cheapest, but excellent service and occasional flash sales.

🧭 Tools to Find the Best Deals

Here are a few websites that help you find and compare flight prices:

Skyscanner – Shows flexible date options
MakeMyTrip – Good for offers and bank discounts
Cleartrip – Clean UI and cashback offers
Ixigo – Predicts price trends for booking
Yatra – Offers combo hotel + flight deals

👉 Combine these tools with private browsing mode to avoid cookie-based price hikes.

💰 7 Quick Travel Hacks to Save More

Book on a Tuesday or Wednesday: Midweek bookings are generally cheaper.
Avoid weekend travel: Flights on Fridays and Sundays are priced higher.
Use airline apps: Many offer exclusive discounts for app users.
Check student/senior discounts: Airlines like Air India offer these directly.
Use rewards points and miles: Use credit card points or travel miles from services like InterMiles.
Try incognito mode while searching: Prices can increase when you repeatedly search the same route.
Subscribe to fare alerts: Platforms like FareCompare or Hopper notify you when prices drop.

💰 Top 5 Tips to Score the Cheapest Pune to Delhi Flights

Book Early: The sweet spot is 3-6 weeks in advance.
Browse in Incognito Mode: Prevent price surges from cookies.
Use Fare Alerts: Tools like Google Flights and Skyscanner notify you of drops.
Cashback Sites: Book via CashKaro or GoPaisa for additional savings.
Try Alternate Dates: Mid-week flights are often cheapest.

🛋 Comparison of Major Airlines on Pune-Delhi Route

Airline	Pros	Cons
IndiGo	Most frequent flights, punctual	Charges for extras like seat & meals
Vistara	Free meals, more legroom	Slightly higher fares
SpiceJet	Budget-friendly, seasonal sales	Delays sometimes reported
Akasa Air	New fleet, great in-flight experience	Limited frequency
Air India	Baggage-friendly fares	Older aircraft (but improving)

🛬 Step-by-Step Guide to Booking Your Flight

Search routes on Google Flights, MakeMyTrip, and ixigo.
Compare timings, prices, and refund policies.
Visit airline website for final booking if cheaper.
Apply promo codes like ICICIFLY, MMTDEAL.
Use credit cards that offer travel rewards.

🏢 Getting to and from Airports

Delhi (DEL): Use Airport Metro Express to reach central Delhi in 20 mins. Cabs and Uber/Ola also available.
Pune (PNQ): Airport is 10 km from the city center. Uber/Ola or local auto are popular options.

✨ Flight Hacks for Couples, Families, Business Travelers

Couples: Look for couple fares or combo travel deals.
Families: Choose airlines with generous infant baggage policies.
Business Travelers: Vistara offers lounge access and priority check-ins.

🎉 Festival Time & Price Trends

During Diwali, Holi, and Republic Day, fares can increase by up to 70%. Book at least 6–8 weeks early. Avoid flying 1–2 days before major festivals if you're on a budget.

🚍 Alternative Travel Options

Train: Pune–Delhi Rajdhani Express (~20 hours)
Bus: Luxury sleepers take ~24–30 hours
Road Trip: NH48 route via Mumbai, Vadodara, Jaipur (~25 hrs by car)

☀️ Weather: What to Expect Upon Arrival

Month	Delhi Weather	Pune Weather
Jan	Cold (5–15°C)	Mild (12–28°C)
May	Hot (35–45°C)	Warm (24–38°C)
July	Humid, Rainy	Monsoon season
Dec	Cold (8–20°C)	Pleasant (15–30°C)

📱 Top Travel Apps for Pune-Delhi Flyers

Ixigo: All-in-one travel booking
Skyscanner: Great for comparing fares
Cleartrip: Clean interface
Airline-specific apps (IndiGo, Akasa, Vistara)

💳 Reward Cards & Wallets to Save More

Credit Cards: HDFC Regalia, Axis Vistara, SBI Prime
Wallets: Amazon Pay, Paytm, PhonePe – often offer flight coupons

↺ Round Trip vs One-Way: What’s Cheaper?

Round-trip fares can offer 10–20% discount compared to two one-way tickets. But mix-and-match bookings on different airlines may be cheaper. Use Google Flights' multi-city search to compare.

🧳 What You Should Know About Pune and Delhi Airports

Pune Airport (PNQ)

Located in Lohegaon, ~10 km from city center
Small but efficient; peak hours can be crowded
Very limited food court; eat before arriving
Prepaid cabs and Ola/Uber are easily available

Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL)

One of India’s busiest airports
Terminal 3 handles most domestic flights from Pune
Metro connectivity straight to the city (Airport Express Line)
24/7 food courts, lounges, and duty-free shopping

🏨 Budget Accommodation Near Delhi Airport

Need to stay near the airport after you land? Here are a few value-for-money options:

Hotel Smart Plaza – Just 2 km from Terminal 3
Hotel Aerocity Purple Orchid – Cozy and clean for budget travelers
Holiday Inn Express New Delhi Airport Terminal 3 – Walkable from the terminal

You can book directly or use platforms like Booking.com or Agoda for last-minute deals.

🙋‍♂️ Quick Questions?

Category	Question
General Information	• How long is the flight from Pune to Delhi? • Which airlines operate flights between Pune and Delhi? • What is the distance between Pune and Delhi?
Finding the Best Deals	• What is the cheapest time to book flights from Pune to Delhi? • Which day of the week is cheapest to fly? • What is the typical price range? • Are there budget airlines offering particularly cheap flights?
Seasonal Variations	• Which is the cheapest month to fly? • How do prices change during Indian festivals and holidays?
Booking Strategies	• Is it better to book directly or via third-party sites? • How far in advance should I book? • What are the best flight comparison websites?
Flight Timing Considerations	• Are early morning or late night flights cheaper? • Does the day of the week affect prices?
Practical Considerations	• Which airports serve this route? • What are the baggage policies for different airlines? • Are there direct bus or train alternatives?
Saving on Flight Expenses	• What credit cards give good flight booking rewards? • Are there any frequent flyer programs worth joining? • How can I save on airport transfers?
Maximizing Comfort	• Which budget airline is the most comfortable? • Is it worth upgrading to premium economy or business class?

1. What is the lowest airfare from Pune to Delhi?

The lowest one-way fare can drop to ₹1,999 during flash sales or off-season periods. On average, expect ₹2,800–₹4,500.

2. How early should I reach Pune Airport?

Reach at least 2 hours before departure. Check-in and security can take time, especially during morning and evening rush hours.

3. Are there direct flights every day?

Yes, multiple direct flights operate daily between Pune and Delhi across all major airlines.

4. Which airline offers baggage allowance on a budget?

Vistara offers 15kg free check-in baggage, even on economy fares. Akasa and IndiGo often charge for extras—check your ticket details carefully.

5. Can I get a refund on cheap tickets?

Only if your ticket is refundable or you're booking via a travel insurance policy. Always check cancellation fees before confirming.

Finding the Best Deals

What is the cheapest time to book flights from Pune to Delhi?

Booking your Pune to Delhi flight approximately 4-6 weeks in advance typically yields the best prices. Last-minute bookings are usually more expensive, though occasional flash sales may provide exceptions to this rule. Setting up price alerts through flight comparison websites can help you track fare fluctuations and jump on good deals when they appear.

Which day of the week is cheapest to fly from Pune to Delhi?

Mid-week flights—particularly on Tuesdays and Wednesdays—tend to offer the lowest fares between Pune and Delhi. Weekend flights, especially those departing on Friday evenings or returning on Sunday afternoons, generally command premium prices due to higher demand from business travelers and weekend trippers.

What is the typical price range for Pune to Delhi flights?

Economy class fares between Pune and Delhi typically range from ₹3,000 to ₹8,000 for one-way tickets, depending on:

How far in advance you book
The season and demand
The airline you choose
Whether you're booking during a sale period
Time of day for the flight

During festival seasons and holidays, these prices can increase by 30-50%.

Are there any budget airlines that offer particularly cheap flights on this route?

IndiGo and SpiceJet generally offer the most competitive base fares on the Pune-Delhi route. However, remember that these airlines operate on a low-cost carrier model, meaning you'll pay extra for services like seat selection, meals, and checked baggage that might be included in the base fare of full-service carriers like Air India and Vistara.

Seasonal Variations

Which is the cheapest month to fly from Pune to Delhi?

The monsoon season (June-September) typically offers the lowest fares on the Pune-Delhi route, with September often featuring the best deals. This is considered the off-season for domestic travel in India as many travelers prefer to avoid the rainy weather. Conversely, October through January sees higher prices due to festival season, winter holidays, and better weather conditions.

How do prices vary during Indian festivals and holidays?

Expect significant price increases during major Indian festivals and holidays such as:

Diwali (October/November)
Christmas and New Year (December)
Holi (February/March)
Summer vacation period (May-June)

Flights during these periods can cost 40-60% more than regular fares. If you must travel during these times, booking 2-3 months in advance is strongly recommended.

Booking Strategies

Is it better to book directly with airlines or use third-party websites for Pune-Delhi flights?

Both approaches have advantages:

Airline Direct Booking:

Often includes free seat selection
More flexible change policies
Direct customer service if issues arise
Occasional airline-exclusive deals and promotions
Loyalty program miles/points

Third-Party Websites:

Ability to compare multiple airlines simultaneously
Sometimes offer exclusive discounts
Package deals with hotels and car rentals
Price comparison across dates
Occasional coupon codes and special offers

For the best results, check both options before finalizing your booking.

How far in advance should I book to get the cheapest flights?

For the Pune-Delhi route, the optimal booking window is typically 4-6 weeks before departure for the best balance of availability and price. However, during peak seasons (like Diwali or summer holidays), extending this to 2-3 months in advance is advisable. Last-minute deals occasionally appear 1-2 days before departure but relying on these is risky if your travel dates are fixed.

What are the best flight comparison websites for Pune-Delhi routes?

Several reliable flight comparison platforms for this route include:

MakeMyTrip
Cleartrip
Yatra
Skyscanner
Kayak
Google Flights

Each platform has different strengths in terms of user interface, filter options, and occasional exclusive deals.

Flight Timing Considerations

Are early morning or late night flights from Pune to Delhi cheaper?

"Red-eye" flights (very early morning or late night) typically offer lower fares. Flights departing Pune between 3:00 AM - 6:00 AM or after 9:00 PM often cost 15-25% less than daytime departures. These flights are less convenient for many travelers, which is why airlines offer price incentives.

Does the day of the week affect flight prices on this route?

Yes, significantly. The Pune-Delhi route sees price variations based on the day of travel:

Tuesday and Wednesday flights are typically the cheapest
Monday and Thursday flights fall in the mid-range
Friday through Sunday flights command premium prices, especially during return rushes on Sunday evenings

Business travelers tend to push prices up at the beginning and end of the workweek, while leisure travelers impact weekend pricing.

Practical Considerations

Which airports serve the Pune to Delhi route?

Flights operate between:

Pune Airport (PNQ) - officially known as Pune International Airport or Lohegaon Airport
Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi (DEL)

Pune Airport is approximately 10 km from the city center, while Delhi's IGI Airport is about 16 km from central Delhi.

What are the baggage allowance policies for different airlines on this route?

Baggage allowances vary by airline:

IndiGo: 15 kg checked baggage (purchasable in advance), 7 kg cabin baggage
Air India: 25 kg checked baggage, 8 kg cabin baggage
SpiceJet: 15 kg checked baggage (purchasable in advance), 7 kg cabin baggage
Vistara: 15-25 kg checked baggage (depending on fare type), 7 kg cabin baggage
Go First: 15 kg checked baggage (purchasable in advance), 7 kg cabin baggage
AirAsia India: 15 kg checked baggage (purchasable in advance), 7 kg cabin baggage

Budget airlines typically charge extra for checked baggage if not purchased in advance, while full-service carriers include more generous allowances in their base fares.

Are there any direct bus or train alternatives to flights?

Yes, alternatives include:

Trains:

Several trains connect Pune and Delhi, including the Pune-Delhi Duronto Express
Journey time: 19-24 hours depending on the train
Fares: ₹1,000-₹3,500 depending on class

Buses:

Limited direct bus services are available
Journey time: Approximately 24-30 hours
Fares: ₹1,800-₹2,500

While these options are cheaper than flights, the significant time difference makes air travel the preferred choice for most travelers unless working with very tight budgets.

Saving on Flight Expenses

What credit cards offer good benefits for booking flights in India?

Several credit cards offer travel benefits applicable to the Pune-Delhi route:

HDFC Bank Regalia/Diners Club cards (airport lounge access, reward points)
SBI Card Elite/Prime (accelerated rewards on travel bookings)
Axis Bank Privilege Credit Card (travel concierge, lounge access)
ICICI Bank Sapphiro Card (air accident insurance, lounge access)
Citi PremierMiles Credit Card (no foreign transaction fees, mile accumulation)

These cards often provide additional benefits like complimentary travel insurance, accelerated reward points on travel bookings, and airport lounge access.

Are there any loyalty programs worth joining for frequent Pune-Delhi travelers?

If you fly this route regularly, consider:

Air India's Flying Returns: India's oldest frequent flyer program
Vistara's Club Vistara: Offers faster tier progression than many international programs
IndiGo's 6E Rewards: Points can be used for flights, excess baggage, and seat selection
SpiceJet's SpiceClub: Offers complimentary meals, priority check-in, and discounted add-ons

For those flying multiple airlines, joining a program like InterMiles (formerly JetPrivilege) allows earning across several carriers.

How can I save on additional costs like airport transfers in Pune and Delhi?

Both cities offer various transportation options to/from airports:

Pune Airport:

Prepaid taxi services (₹300-500 to city center)
Ola/Uber (often ₹250-400)
Public bus service (most economical at ₹25-50)

Delhi Airport:

Delhi Metro Airport Express Line (₹60 to central Delhi, fastest option)
Prepaid taxis (₹400-600 to central areas)
Ola/Uber (₹350-500 depending on destination)
Public buses (economical but less convenient with luggage)

Booking airport transfers in advance often secures better rates, especially during peak hours.

Maximizing Comfort on Budget Flights

Which budget airlines offer the most comfortable experience on the Pune-Delhi route?

Among budget carriers:

Vistara generally offers more legroom and complimentary meals even on economy fares
IndiGo is known for timely performance and clean aircraft
SpiceJet offers "SpiceMax" seating with extra legroom for an additional fee

The comfort difference between airlines is most noticeable on factors like seat pitch (legroom), complimentary services, and on-time performance rather than flight duration since all carriers use similar aircraft types on this route.

Is it worth paying extra for premium economy or business class on this short route?

Given the short 2-hour flight duration, premium economy upgrades offer limited value unless:

You need the extra baggage allowance
You value priority boarding and check-in
You specifically need more legroom for comfort

Business class, while providing significant comfort upgrades, typically costs 2.5-4 times the economy fare for this short route, making it difficult to justify purely on value terms unless expense isn't a concern.

More ideas

Finding cheap flights from Pune to Delhi requires balancing timing, advance planning, and flexibility. By booking during off-peak periods, remaining flexible with your travel dates, and utilizing comparison tools, you can secure significant savings on this popular domestic route. Remember that the cheapest option isn't always the best value—consider your specific needs regarding baggage, timing, and comfort when making your final decision.

For travelers who fly this route regularly, joining airline loyalty programs and using travel-focused credit cards can provide additional long-term savings. Whether you're traveling for business, visiting family, or exploring Delhi as a tourist, these strategies will help you find the best possible deals on your Pune to Delhi flights.

🧳 Final Thoughts: Fly Smart, Not Expensive

Flying from Pune to Delhi doesn't have to burn a hole in your pocket. With multiple airlines, frequent flights, and the right strategy, you can snag amazing deals and keep your travel budget-friendly.

✅ Use flight comparison sites

✅ Set fare alerts

✅ Avoid peak travel days

✅ Look out for cashback or coupon codes

And hey, once you land in Delhi, don’t forget to try the street food at Chandni Chowk or catch a sunset at India Gate!

💌 Bonus Tip: Get Free Travel Hacks in Your Inbox

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Plan smart. Travel more. Fall in love with the journey. ❤️