Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL)

Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi, India, maintains a policy of allowing smoking only in designated areas, both before and after security checkpoints. This approach aims to balance the needs of smokers with the comfort of non-smoking passengers, ensuring that the main terminal areas remain smoke-free. Travelers should be aware that while smoking is permitted in these specific zones, vaping is strictly prohibited throughout India, including at all airports, due to a nationwide ban. This means that e-cigarettes, vapes, and similar devices cannot be used or even carried in many public spaces, and travelers should avoid bringing them into the country or attempting to use them at the airport to prevent potential legal issues. Before passing through security, passengers can find designated smoking zones located outside the terminal buildings. These outdoor areas provide a space for a final cigarette before entering the secure areas of the airport. Once inside and past security, DEL offers numerous smoking facilities across its terminals, particularly in Terminal 3, which handles a significant volume of both international and domestic flights. These facilities are typically enclosed smoking rooms or lounges, often found near gates, food courts, or other passenger amenities. Signs are generally available to guide travelers to these areas, but it's always advisable to consult airport staff or information desks if you're having trouble locating one. For those departing internationally from Terminal 3, smoking areas are available after immigration and security. One notable location is as you enter the T3 gates area, specifically after the duty-free shops, heading towards gates 1-26. Another is found a few meters to the right across from restrooms when turning towards the wing for gates 1-14, specifically across from Gate 6. There's also a smoking hall in the main departures area and another on the same floor as the food court, opposite the children's play area. Additional spots are reported across from Gate 17 and again opposite Gate 6. For domestic departures in Terminal 3, smoking zones are located on the first floor between eateries and lounges, one just before the ramp to the gates at the end of food stalls, and another behind the flight display screens between the left and right concourses. Terminals 1, 1A, and 2 also officially state the availability of smoking zones within exclusive lounges in designated areas. While official information for Terminal 1 previously suggested no smoking areas, traveler feedback from 2018 indicated an upstairs location. It's always recommended to look for clear signage or inquire at information desks upon arrival in these terminals. The airport also provides small kiosks outside some smoking lounges where cigarettes can be purchased, offering convenience for travelers. Given the dynamic nature of airport policies and facilities, staying alert for signage and asking for directions will ensure a smooth experience for smokers at DEL.