Traveling within India has become easier than ever, with growing connectivity to Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. However, airport experiences, especially during peak hours, can often be tiring. This is where credit card lounge access comes in—allowing travelers to relax, refresh, and enjoy premium services before boarding their flights.
In 2025, many Indian credit cards offer complimentary lounge access at both domestic and international airports. This guide explores the top credit cards for lounge access, their features, perks, and tips to maximize benefits.
Why Lounge Access Matters for Travelers
Airport lounges provide a quiet and comfortable space away from crowded terminals. Here’s why having lounge access is important:
- Comfort and Convenience
Lounges provide comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, charging points, and refreshments, making waiting times more pleasant.
- Complimentary Services
Many lounges offer snacks, beverages, newspapers, magazines, and sometimes shower facilities.
- Business Travelers’ Advantage
Lounges often have private meeting areas and Wi-Fi, helping professionals work while waiting for flights.
- Priority Services
Some premium lounges offer expedited check-ins or concierge assistance for frequent travelers.
- Family Benefits
Many credit cards allow guests, making it easier for families to enjoy lounge access together.
How Lounge Access Works with Credit Cards
Credit card lounge access can be either:
- Domestic Lounge Access: At major airports in metro and Tier-2 cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Jaipur, and Kochi.
- International Lounge Access: Worldwide lounges through networks like Priority Pass, LoungeKey, or specific airline lounges.
Common Features:
- Complimentary visits: Usually 2–12 visits per year for mid-tier cards; unlimited for premium cards.
- Guest access: Many cards allow 1–2 accompanying guests.
- Network of lounges: Partnered lounges across airports in India and abroad.
- Refreshments: Snacks, drinks, coffee, and sometimes full meals.
- Wi-Fi and charging points: Essential for business and personal work.
- Shower and resting facilities: Especially in international lounges.
Top Credit Cards for Lounge Access in India (2025)
Here’s a detailed look at the best credit cards for lounge access, including domestic and international options.
1. HDFC Regalia Credit Card
Overview:
HDFC Regalia is a premium travel card known for its domestic and international lounge access.
Key Features:
- Annual Fee: ₹2,500 plus taxes
- Domestic Lounge Access: 12 complimentary visits per year
- International Lounge Access: Via Priority Pass (subject to limits)
- Additional Perks: Reward points on flights and hotels, travel insurance, concierge service
Pros:
- Wide domestic coverage, including Tier-2 airports
- Bonus reward points on travel bookings
- Travel insurance included
Cons:
- Limited international lounge visits for non-Priority Pass users
- Requires planning to maximize domestic visits
Best For: Frequent domestic travelers who occasionally travel internationally
2. Axis Bank Magnus Credit Card
Overview:
Axis Magnus is a high-end card offering unlimited lounge access both in India and abroad.
Key Features:
- Annual Fee: ₹10,000 plus taxes
- Domestic Lounge Access: Unlimited
- International Lounge Access: Unlimited via Priority Pass
- Travel Insurance: Covers medical emergencies, lost baggage, and flight delays
- Additional Perks: Concierge services, dining privileges, hotel discounts
Pros:
- Unlimited lounge visits for frequent flyers
- Premium lifestyle and travel benefits
- Concierge assistance for seamless travel
Cons:
- High annual fee
- Best suited for high-spending travelers
Best For: Frequent flyers who want unlimited lounge access and luxury travel perks
3. ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card
Overview:
ICICI Sapphiro is a mid-tier card offering domestic lounge access and travel rewards.
Key Features:
- Annual Fee: ₹3,000 plus taxes
- Domestic Lounge Access: Up to 8 visits annually
- International Lounge Access: Limited, with Priority Pass add-on
- Additional Benefits: Reward points on travel and dining, travel insurance
Pros:
- Affordable option for moderate travelers
- Good mix of lounge access and rewards
- Travel insurance included
Cons:
- Limited international lounge coverage
- Fewer premium lifestyle perks
Best For: Travelers who want value without high annual fees
4. SBI Card Elite
Overview:
SBI Elite is a premium card offering multiple domestic and international lounge visits.
Key Features:
- Annual Fee: ₹4,999 plus taxes
- Domestic Lounge Access: Multiple complimentary visits per year
- International Lounge Access: Select lounges through Priority Pass
- Additional Benefits: Concierge services, travel insurance, hotel discounts
Pros:
- Multiple domestic lounge visits
- Points redeemable for flights, hotels, and vouchers
- Concierge services for hassle-free travel
Cons:
- High annual fee
- Reward points on non-travel spending are limited
Best For: Frequent domestic travelers who want premium perks and concierge support
5. Kotak Mahindra Solitaire Credit Card
Overview:
Kotak Solitaire is an affordable travel card with basic lounge access suitable for budget-conscious travelers.
Key Features:
- Annual Fee: ₹999 plus taxes
- Domestic Lounge Access: Select lounges at major airports
- International Lounge Access: Limited or unavailable
- Additional Benefits: Reward points on travel and online spending, basic travel insurance
Pros:
- Low annual fee
- Basic lounge access for occasional travelers
- Points can be redeemed for travel or hotels
Cons:
- Limited coverage for international lounges
- Fewer premium benefits
Best For: Budget travelers who want occasional lounge access and basic travel perks
Tips to Maximize Lounge Access Benefits
- Know the Network
- Check which lounges are included in your card’s network, including Tier-2 city airports.
- Plan Your Visits
- Some cards have limited complimentary visits per year. Strategically use them for long layovers or delays.
- Bring Guests Wisely
- Many cards allow 1–2 guests per visit. Plan to include family or friends when traveling together.
- Check Operating Hours
- Lounges may not be open 24/7. Verify hours before planning a visit.
- Combine with Reward Points
- Use reward points for other travel expenses while enjoying complimentary lounge access.
- Monitor Offers
- Some banks run promotions offering extra visits or seasonal access benefits.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Using Lounge Access
Travelers often forget to claim lounge visits; always carry your credit card and boarding pass.
- Ignoring Tier-2 Airports
Some cards include lounges at Tier-2 city airports—check before traveling.
- Exceeding Complimentary Visits
Some cards charge for extra visits beyond the annual limit; keep track.
- Not Checking Guest Rules
Some lounges allow only 1 guest, so plan accordingly if traveling with family.
- Missing Additional Perks
Concierge services, discounts, and insurance are often overlooked.
Conclusion
Lounge access enhances the travel experience, offering comfort, convenience, and premium services. Choosing the right credit card depends on your travel frequency, budget, and lifestyle needs.
- HDFC Regalia offers excellent domestic coverage and Priority Pass benefits for occasional international travel.
- Axis Magnus is perfect for frequent flyers who want unlimited access and luxury perks.
- ICICI Sapphiro balances affordability with decent domestic lounge visits and rewards.
- SBI Elite is ideal for travelers who value multiple domestic and international lounge visits with concierge support.
- Kotak Mahindra Solitaire is suitable for budget-conscious travelers seeking basic lounge access.
By understanding your travel habits and planning lounge visits strategically, you can maximize comfort and savings during domestic and international trips in 2025.