New Delhi to Manila Flights and Traveling Guide

The route from New Delhi, India, to Manila, Philippines, connects two major Asian capitals with distinct cultures, histories, and economic interests. As international travel resumes stronger post-pandemic, this route is gaining popularity among tourists, students, professionals, and expatriates.

Flights between these two cities serve multiple purposes—from leisure travel and family visits to business trips and educational pursuits. With Manila serving as the capital and main gateway to the Philippines and New Delhi being a central hub of India, direct and connecting flights play a vital role in enabling people-to-people ties and regional connectivity in Southeast and South Asia.

Why this travel route matters today

This travel route has become increasingly important due to several reasons:

  • Rising tourism and leisure travel: More Indians are exploring Southeast Asia, and the Philippines has emerged as a beach and nature destination.

  • Educational opportunities: Filipino universities are attracting Indian students in fields like medicine and dentistry.

  • Business and trade: Companies across IT, BPO, and finance sectors in both countries are collaborating more.

  • Filipino diaspora: Many Filipino nationals live and work in India, and vice versa, requiring travel for family and personal reasons.

Who it affects:

  • Indian and Filipino citizens

  • Students, tourists, and professionals

  • Families with cross-border connections

  • Travel planners, tour operators, and embassy staff

Problems this information helps solve:

  • Uncertainty about flight options or restrictions

  • Confusion regarding visa rules and entry policies

  • Lack of updated travel information or tools

Recent updates in New Delhi–Manila travel (2024–2025)

Several developments in the past year have impacted the travel landscape on this route:

DateUpdate
January 2024Philippine Airlines resumed direct flights between Manila and major Indian cities after pandemic suspensions. However, most flights still operate via connecting hubs like Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore.
March 2024Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) upgraded Terminal 1 and immigration processes to speed up entry for international travelers.
July 2024India and ASEAN agreed to strengthen air travel under their connectivity roadmap, potentially improving regional routes including Delhi–Manila.
Ongoing (2025)Increased demand has led to more competitive fares and new service offerings by carriers like Singapore Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Thai Airways, and Scoot.

Travel duration:
  • With stopovers: Approx. 10–14 hours depending on airline and layover location

  • No direct flight: Currently, no daily non-stop service. Most routes include 1 or 2 layovers.

Visa policies and travel regulations for both countries

Entry Requirements for Indian Citizens traveling to the Philippines:

  • Tourist visa required: Indian passport holders must obtain a visa before arrival unless they have valid visas for the US, UK, Schengen, Japan, Canada, or Australia (in which case, visa-free entry for up to 14 days may apply).

  • Documents needed: Passport (valid for at least 6 months), return ticket, proof of accommodation, financial proof.

  • Visa processing time: 5–10 working days on average

Entry Requirements for Filipino Citizens traveling to India:

  • E-Visa availability: Filipino nationals can apply for an Indian e-visa (tourism, medical, or business) online before travel.

  • Documents needed: Passport, travel itinerary, hotel bookings, financial proof

  • Visa duration: Tourist e-visa usually valid for up to 60 days per visit

Health and Safety Guidelines (as of 2025):

  • COVID-19 vaccination proof is generally no longer required but may be requested in specific layover countries.

  • Travelers are advised to check transit country requirements, especially for PCR tests or travel insurance.

Helpful tools and travel resources

Here are useful tools and platforms to help travelers manage flights, documents, and stay informed:

Flight Search Engines:

  • Google Flights

  • Skyscanner

  • Kayak

  • Expedia

  • MakeMyTrip

  • Cleartrip

Airlines Operating the Route (with stopovers):

  • Singapore Airlines

  • Thai Airways

  • Malaysia Airlines

  • Scoot

  • IndiGo (connecting via Southeast Asia)

  • Philippine Airlines (occasional charters or codeshares)

Visa Application Platforms:

Travel Planning Apps:

  • Google Maps (for navigating Manila)

  • Rome2Rio (for multi-leg transport planning)

  • TripIt (for itinerary organization)

  • XE Currency (for real-time exchange rates)

  • MyGate or Aarogya Setu (India-specific apps for travelers)

Weather Monitoring:

CityBest Travel MonthsClimate Notes
New DelhiOctober – MarchAvoid summer (April–June) due to high heat
ManilaDecember – MarchAvoid rainy season (June–September)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are there direct flights from New Delhi to Manila?
As of 2025, there are no daily direct flights between New Delhi and Manila. Most flights involve at least one layover in Southeast Asian hubs like Bangkok, Singapore, or Kuala Lumpur.

2. What is the average cost of a round-trip ticket?
Prices vary by season and airline. Economy class round-trip fares range from ₹28,000 to ₹55,000 (USD 330–660) depending on advance booking and travel dates.

3. Is a visa required for Indian citizens to visit the Philippines?
Yes, Indian passport holders generally require a visa unless they hold valid visas for select third countries (e.g., US, UK). Visa-free entry is allowed for up to 14 days under certain conditions.

4. What is the baggage policy on these routes?
Baggage allowance depends on the airline. Most full-service carriers allow 20–30 kg checked baggage and 7–10 kg cabin baggage. Low-cost airlines may charge extra for checked luggage.

5. What is the travel time between New Delhi and Manila?
Typical travel time ranges between 10 to 14 hours, depending on the number and duration of stopovers. Some faster routes include layovers in Bangkok or Singapore.

Summary Table: Key Information for Delhi–Manila Travel

ItemDetails
DistanceApprox. 4,750 km
Flight time10–14 hours (connecting flights)
Visa needed? (India to PH)Yes, with some exceptions
Peak travel timeDecember – March
Transit citiesSingapore, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong
Fare range (round trip)₹28,000 to ₹55,000

Final thoughts

Traveling between New Delhi and Manila has become more accessible thanks to increased regional air connectivity, better visa processes, and growing mutual interest between India and the Philippines. While there are no daily direct flights yet, travelers have many options via regional hubs.

Whether you're planning a vacation, business trip, or family visit, staying informed on visa requirements, airline policies, and available tools can make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. Always check updated travel advisories and plan ahead for layovers, baggage limits, and documentation.