Total travel time depends on routing. Direct flights usually take 13–15 hours, while one-stop flights typically range between 18–22 hours, including layovers. Longer routes are common when choosing lower fares.
Most affordable flights have one stop. Two-stop routes exist but are generally avoided unless pricing is significantly lower, as they increase fatigue and travel risk.
The fastest option is a direct flight from major hubs like Toronto. While these flights reduce travel time by several hours, they usually come at a higher price compared to one-stop alternatives.
For planning purposes:
The better option depends on schedule flexibility and tolerance for layovers.
Evening and late-night departures are common on long-haul routes. These flights often align better with arrival times in India and can sometimes be priced lower than daytime departures.
Night flights can be slightly cheaper, especially mid-week. They are also preferred by travelers aiming to sleep during long segments, which can reduce overall travel fatigue.
The ideal booking window is typically 6-10 weeks before departure. Booking too early or too close to travel dates often leads to higher prices, particularly during peak seasons.
For peak periods such as December, summer months, and major festivals, booking 10-14 weeks in advance is recommended. Off-season travel allows more flexibility with shorter booking windows.
Flights are generally more expensive during festivals and school holidays. The most affordable fares are found during off-season months when travel demand is lower and seat availability is higher.
To reduce surge pricing:
Planning ahead is the most reliable way to control costs.