Best Credit Card for Lounge Access in India 2025 | Free Airport Lounge Entry
Access to airport lounges can significantly enhance your travel experience, offering comfort, complimentary meals, and a serene environment away from the bustling terminals. Several credit cards in India provide complimentary lounge access, catering to domestic and international travellers.
After doing 1 week of research, I am going to tell you the best credit cards for lounge access in 2025, addressing common queries and helping you make an informed choice.
Top Credit Cards for Lounge Access in India (2025)
1. HDFC Bank Diners Club Black Credit Card
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Lounge Access: Unlimited domestic and international lounge visits for primary and add-on cardholders.
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Annual Fee: ₹10,000 + taxes.
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Additional Benefits: High reward points, golf privileges, and concierge services.
2. Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card
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Lounge Access: Unlimited access to international lounges via Priority Pass for primary and add-on cardholders.
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Annual Fee: ₹30,000 + taxes.
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Additional Benefits: 12 complimentary guest visits annually, luxury hotel memberships, and concierge services.
3. SBI Card ELITE
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Lounge Access: 8 complimentary domestic lounge visits per year.
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Annual Fee: ₹4,999 + taxes.
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Additional Benefits: Club Vistara Silver membership, Trident Privilege Red Tier membership, and milestone rewards.(Paisabazaar)
4. HDFC Bank Regalia Gold Credit Card
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Lounge Access: 12 complimentary domestic lounge visits and 6 international lounge visits per year.
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Annual Fee: ₹2,500 + taxes.
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Additional Benefits: Travel insurance, dining privileges, and reward points on spending.(Paisabazaar)
5. ICICI Bank Coral Credit Card
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Lounge Access: 1 complimentary domestic lounge visit per quarter.
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Annual Fee: ₹500 + taxes.
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Additional Benefits: Reward points on spends, movie ticket discounts, and dining offers.
Comparison Table For Best Credit Card for Lounge Access in India 2025
| Credit Card | Lounge Access | Annual Fee | Additional Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| HDFC Bank Diners Club Black | Unlimited domestic & international lounges | ₹10,000 + taxes | High reward points, golf privileges, concierge |
| Axis Bank Reserve | Unlimited international lounges via Priority Pass | ₹30,000 + taxes | 12 guest visits, luxury hotel perks, concierge |
| SBI Card ELITE | 8 domestic lounge visits | ₹4,999 + taxes | Club Vistara, Trident Privilege, milestone rewards |
| HDFC Bank Regalia Gold | 12 domestic, 6 international lounge visits | ₹2,500 + taxes | Travel insurance, dining privileges, rewards |
| ICICI Bank Coral | 1 domestic lounge visit per quarter | ₹500 + taxes | Reward points, movie discounts, dining offers |
Understanding Lounge Access: Key Questions Answered
Which credit card offers the most extensive lounge access?
The HDFC Bank Diners Club Black Credit Card and Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card stand out by offering unlimited lounge access both domestically and internationally. These cards cater to frequent travellers seeking premium experiences.
Are there credit cards without spend criteria for lounge access?
Yes, certain cards provide lounge access without mandatory spending thresholds:
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HDFC Bank Tata Neu Infinity Credit Card: 8 domestic and 4 international lounge visits annually without spend criteria.
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ixigo AU Credit Card: 8 domestic airport and 8 railway lounge accesses per year without spend requirements.
Can two people access a lounge with one credit card?
Typically, lounge access is granted to the cardholder. However, some lounges may allow guests for an additional fee. To ensure access for companions, consider applying for add-on cards for family members.
Is lounge access free for family members?
Family members with add-on cards that include lounge access benefits can enjoy complimentary entry. It's advisable to check the specific terms associated with each credit card regarding add-on cardholder privileges.
Can I use my father's credit card for lounge access?
Lounge access is generally restricted to the cardholder. Using someone else's card may lead to denial of entry. For family members, obtaining an add-on card is the recommended approach.
Is lounge access available for economy class travellers?
Yes, lounge access is independent of your travel class. Holding an eligible credit card grants you lounge access regardless of whether you're flying economy or business class.
Which SBI debit card offers lounge access?
The SBI Platinum International Debit Card provides complimentary lounge access at select domestic airports. Availability and terms are subject to the card network (Visa, MasterCard, or RuPay) and may change periodically.
How many hours can I stay in an airport lounge?
Most lounges permit stays of up to 2-3 hours per visit. Extended stays may incur additional charges. It's best to check with the specific lounge for their policies.
Is food free in airport lounges?
Yes, lounges typically offer complimentary food and beverages. However, premium items or alcoholic beverages may be chargeable.
Which Indian credit card is best for lounge access?
The HDFC Bank Diners Club Black Credit Card is highly regarded for its unlimited lounge access and comprehensive travel benefits, making it a top choice for frequent travellers.
Which credit card is best for travel lounges?
For extensive travel lounge benefits, the Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card offers unlimited international lounge access and additional travel perks, catering to global travellers.
Conclusion
Selecting the right credit card for lounge access depends on your travel frequency, destinations, and spending habits. Premium cards like the HDFC Bank Diners Club Black and Axis Bank Reserve offer unparalleled lounge access but come with higher fees. For occasional travellers, cards like the HDFC Bank Regalia Gold or ICICI Bank Coral provide lounge benefits at a lower cost. Always assess the card's annual fees, additional benefits, and lounge access terms to ensure it aligns with your travel needs.
FAQs
Q: Are there any credit cards offering unlimited lounge access?
Yes, the HDFC Bank Diners Club Black and Axis Bank Reserve Credit Cards offer unlimited lounge access, both domestically and internationally.
Q: Do all credit cards require a minimum spend for lounge access?
Not all. Cards like the HDFC Bank Tata Neu Infinity and ixigo AU Credit Card provide lounge access without any spend criteria.(Reddit)
Q: Can I access international lounges with my credit card?
Yes, many premium credit cards offer international lounge access, often through programs like Priority Pass.
Q: Is lounge access available at all airports?
Lounge access depends on the partnerships your card issuer has with specific lounges. It's advisable to check the list of eligible lounges provided by your card issuer.
Q: How can I maximize my lounge access benefits?
To maximize benefits, understand your card's lounge access terms, utilize add-on cards for family members, and stay informed about any changes in lounge partnerships or access policies.
By choosing the right credit card, you can transform your travel experience, enjoying the comfort and amenities of airport lounges without incurring additional costs. Assess your travel patterns and select a card that offers the best value for your lifestyle.
