Hyderabad is fast emerging as a top destination for global tech companies as well as startups. Within that city lies the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport housing the Encalm Lounge, serving passengers who need a tranquil place far from the overwhelming airport environment. Officially launched in 2023 and replacing the previously known ‘Plaza Premium Lounge,’ the place serves as the only airport lounge for both domestic and international traffic.
The domestic arm of the Encalm Lounge can be found near Gate 21 of the airport, while the international arm can be explored near Gate 23. Each lounge remains open throughout the day and offers plenty of amenities and benefits to keep busy travelers satisfied. With that being said, if you are looking to explore any of the above-mentioned lounges (domestic or international) while catching a flight from the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad, then our extensive guide can help you plan your journey correctly.
What are the List of Cards Accepted
According to information we have gathered, fliers can check in for complimentary access with any debit or credit card – provided that your card has a complimentary airport lounge access facility. Additionally, ‘Priority Pass’ users are also given free rein inside the lounge to enjoy all the facilities that are on offer.
Some of the supported debit cards include HDFC Millennia Debit Card, ICICI Coral Plus Debit Card, Axis Priority Debit Card, Axis Burgundy Debit Card, SBI Platinum International Debit Card, Kotak Privy League Signature Debit Card, IndusInd World Exclusive Debit Card, and IDFC First Bank Visa Signature Debit Card.
On the other hand, the supported credit cards include American Express Platinum Credit Card, HDFC Visa Signature Credit Card, HDFC Diners Club Privilege Credit Card, SBI Platinum Corporate Card, SBI Prime Credit Card, SBI Elite Credit Card, Yes First Preferred Credit Card, and Axis Bank Select Credit Card.
Keep in mind that the above-mentioned debit and credit cards can change at any moment, due to alterations in policies or terms and conditions. So, ensure that you check with the authorities regarding the debit and credit card(s) you have, so that your entry remains unaffected.
How to Pay and Access Without a Card
In addition to the previously mentioned debit and credit cards that provide you with complimentary access to the Encalm Lounge at the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad, you can also pay your way into the lounge as a walk-in customer. To perform that process, follow the steps mentioned below.
- Start by first heading over to the Encalm Lounge of your choice – either for domestic or international departures.
- Once done, head over to the reception area and ask for a walk-in entry.
- You will be required to pay the charges that will cover the costs of food, beverage, and amenities. The total amount will be subjected to taxes as well.
- After that, you will be able to enter the lounge without any restrictions.
What You Should Know of the Lounge
If you are on a trip – be it domestic or international – and are slated to take off from the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad, then the Encalm Lounge can help you seek a relaxing and comfortable respite before you continue your journey. Offering a variety of amenities and services that cater to the requirements of all types of passengers – whether families with children or business professionals – travelers will largely remain content with the end product.
Starting with the interiors, the place features a spacious and well-appointed seating area with ample power outlets to charge your electronic items and keep them juiced up. There are also plenty of workstations and community tables with comfortable chairs where you can sit down and catch up on your professional work or connect with your loved ones over high-speed internet. Additionally, there are cubicle-sized solo workstations for people who want to perform serious work or want to take a power nap without any disturbance.
Passengers also get access to a fully stocked bar serving both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, along with a food menu that includes both Indian and international preparations. Non-alcoholic beverages include coffee, freshly brewed tea, soft drinks, and soda, while the food menu includes both vegetarian and non-vegetarian main courses. Additional snacks, bakery, and dessert options are also available – making the overall eating and dining experience quite enjoyable.
Some of the other highlights of the Encalm Lounge include dedicated information screens for flight arrivals and departures along with ample baggage storage facilities. And those who are avid readers can also explore the lounge’s generous selection of newspapers and magazines to keep their minds occupied until their subsequent flights arrive.
There is room for improvement, however, since there have been major complaints regarding the overall hygienic conditions inside the lounge, inattentive staff, and average food quality. In addition to that, improvements can also be made in terms of traffic management, since the place remains overcrowded most of the time. Having said that, the Encalm Lounge remains one of the best airport lounges in the country and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future.
