Planning a trip from India to London?? Whether you're dreaming of the iconic red buses, the majestic Buckingham Palace, or the rich tapestry of history and culture, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate everything - from securing a UK visa to exploring London's top attractions, with detailed costs and tips.
UK Visa for Indian passport holder
Yes, Indian citizens require a visa to visit the UK. There's no visa-on-arrival facility, so you must apply in advance. The most common visa for tourists is the Standard Visitor Visa, valid for up to 6 months.
Application Process
A. Online Application
Complete the application form on the UK Government website.
B. Documents Required
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity & 2 blank pages.
- Recent Passport - sized photographs.
- Proof of accommodation in the UK.
- Travel itinerary.
- Bank statements or payslips for the last 6 months.
- Visa fee Payment receipt.
C. Biometric Appointment
Schedule and attend a Biometric appointment at a Visa Application Centre.
D. Processing Time
Typically 15 working days.
Visa Fees 2025
Short - term up to 6 months - ₹15,724
Longer - term up to 2 years - ₹58,809
Longer - term up to 5 years - ₹1,04,989
Longer - term up to 10 years - ₹1,31,113
Flights from India to London
Airlines Operating on This Route
Direct Flights
Air India, British Airways, & Vistara offer direct flights from Major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, & Bengaluru to London Heathrow.
Estimated Costs
Economy Class - ₹50,000 to ₹80,000 Round - trip
Premium Economy - ₹80,000 to ₹1,20,000
Business Class - ₹1,20,000 to ₹2,00,000+
Accommodation in London
Budget Options
Hostels - Starting from ₹2,000 per night.
Budget Hotels - ₹5,000 to ₹8,000 per night.
Mid - Range Hotels
3 Star Hotels - ₹10,000 to ₹15,000 per night.
4 Star Hotels - ₹15,000 to ₹25,000 per night.
Luxury Hotels
5 Star Hotels - ₹25,000 to ₹50,000+ per night.
Food & Dining
Budget Meals
Street Food - ₹500 to ₹800 per meal.
Fast Food Chains - ₹800 to ₹1,200 per meal.
Mid Range Restaurants
Casual Dining - ₹1,500 to ₹2,500 per meal.
Cafés and Bistros - ₹2,000 to ₹3,000 per meal.
Fine Dining
Upscale Restaurants - ₹3,500 to ₹6,000 per meal.
Top Tourist Attractions in London
Entry Fee - Free
Highlights - Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies, Parthenon sculptures.
Entry Fee - ₹5,500 for adults.
Highlights - Crown Jewels, Yeoman Warders ,medieval history.
Entry Fee - ₹3,000 for adults.
Experience - 360 - degree views of London from a Giant Ferris wheel.
Entry Fee - ₹1,900 For the State Rooms.
Experience - Changing of the Guard ceremony, Royal history.
Entry Fee - ₹2,600 for Adults.
Highlights - Coronation church, burial site of monarchs, stunning architecture.
Entry Fee - Free
Highlights - Dinosaur skeletons, blue whale model, interactive exhibits.
Tip - Purchase a London Pass to save up to 49% on entry fees and skip lines at major attractions.
Getting Around London
Public Transport
Oyster Card - Prepaid card offering discounted fares on buses, trains, and the Underground.
Contactless Payment - Use debit/credit cards or mobile payment apps for pay - as - you - go travel.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing
Black Cabs - Iconic London taxis fares start at ₹380
Uber - Available throughout London; fares vary based on distance and demand.
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to October offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Currency - The local currency is the British Pound (£).
Language - English is the primary language spoken.
Emergency Numbers
Police - 999
Ambulance - 999
Fire - 999
