Taxi Fares in Delhi: What You'll Pay in 2026

Planning a taxi ride in Delhi? Fares start at ₹25 and a 10 km trip costs around ₹175. Here's everything you need to know before you travel.

Delhi is a massive, fast-moving city where getting around by taxi is both common and affordable — but only if you know what to expect. Fares are metered and generally reasonable, starting at just ₹25, yet first-time visitors are often targeted by touts and overcharging drivers. This guide gives you the exact numbers and the street-smart knowledge to ride with confidence.

Taxi Fare Overview

How Fares Are Calculated

Delhi taxis operate on a metered system. The meter starts at ₹25 the moment you set off, and ₹15 is added for every kilometre travelled. So a straightforward 10 km ride — say, from Connaught Place to Hauz Khas — should cost you around ₹175 before any additional charges. Keep in mind that some drivers may add a small luggage surcharge for large bags, and late-night rides (typically after midnight) can attract a night-time premium of up to 25%. Always confirm whether the meter is running at the start of your trip, and ask for a receipt when you arrive.

Airport Transfer

Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) sits roughly 16–20 km from central Delhi depending on your destination. Based on the standard meter rate, expect to pay approximately ₹265–₹325 for a metered taxi into the city centre. The single safest and most hassle-free option for arrivals is the official airport prepaid taxi counter, located inside the arrivals hall. You pay a fixed fare upfront, receive a receipt, and hand it to your assigned driver — no meter disputes, no surprises.

• •Use the official prepaid taxi counter inside arrivals — it is staffed, regulated, and fixes your fare before you step outside.
• •The Delhi Metro Airport Express Line runs from Terminal 3 directly to New Delhi Railway Station in around 20 minutes for a fraction of the taxi fare — ideal if you're travelling light.
• •AC bus services operated by DTC connect the airport to major hubs like Dhaula Kuan and Kashmere Gate at very low cost.
• •Uber and Ola both operate airport pickups from designated zones outside arrivals — follow in-app instructions to locate your driver.
• •Avoid any driver who approaches you inside the terminal offering a 'special rate' — always arrange your ride from official or app-based points only.

Scams to Watch Out For

Delhi has a well-documented history of taxi scams targeting tourists, particularly around the airport, railway stations, and major tourist sites. Being aware of the most common tactics will save you money and stress.

Ride-Hailing Apps

• •Uber — fully operational in Delhi, transparent pricing, in-app payment, and GPS tracking make it one of the safest choices for visitors.
• •Ola — India's home-grown ride-hailing giant and equally reliable in Delhi; often has more drivers available during peak hours than Uber.
• •Rapido — popular for bike taxis and autos, useful for short hops through congested areas where a car would crawl.
• •Meru Cabs — a longer-established Delhi cab company with an app; professional fleet but fewer drivers than Uber or Ola.
• •Recommendation: Uber or Ola are the strongest choices for first-time visitors. Both show you the fare estimate before you book, accept in-app card and UPI payments, and provide driver details so you know exactly who is picking you up.

Is It Safe to Take Taxis in Delhi?

Taking a taxi in Delhi is generally safe when you stick to verified options. Uber and Ola rides are logged, tracked, and linked to your account — making them the lowest-risk choice, particularly for solo travellers and for journeys after dark. Official prepaid taxis from the airport are equally well-regulated. The risks rise sharply if you accept rides from unregistered drivers or negotiate informally on the street without fixing terms in advance. Women travelling alone are advised to use app-based cabs rather than hailing on the street, share trip details with someone they trust, and sit in the back seat. As with any major city, basic awareness goes a long way — and Delhi's formal taxi infrastructure, when used correctly, works well.