When you book a business class flight, you expect a certain level of comfort and luxury, but my recent experience at the Encalm Prive Lounge in Delhi Airport truly elevated the entire experience. It all began with an incredible deal I found through Atlys’ Viewpoints tool. I managed to secure a business class flight for just 80,000 LifeMiles. Not having any LifeMiles on hand, I took advantage of a bonus offer to purchase them for $900—a deal that, incredibly, was cheaper than a round-trip economy ticket and a fifth of the cost of buying the business class tickets directly. With the prospect of a luxurious flight and an equally luxurious lounge experience ahead, I was eager to see if the Encalm Prive Lounge would live up to its reputation.

Arrival and Entry: A Seamless Start

The Encalm Prive Lounge is a hidden gem within the bustling environment of Delhi Airport, discreetly located near the Guardian Chemist store in the main terminal area. Unlike most airport lounges, this one is exclusively for business and first-class passengers—Priority Pass holders and even top-tier credit card users won’t gain access here. This exclusivity is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it keeps the lounge serene and uncrowded, offering a much-needed respite from the hectic airport atmosphere. On the other hand, it means you need to be flying in a premium cabin to enjoy it, which can be a bit of a limitation if you're used to accessing lounges via other means.

Finding the lounge was straightforward. After locating the Guardian Chemist, I took the elevator up and was immediately greeted by an ambiance of calm and luxury. The staff at the entrance were incredibly welcoming, and with no lines to navigate, I was checked in quickly and smoothly. This efficient entry was a great first impression, setting the tone for what I hoped would be a relaxing and indulgent experience.

The Space

As soon as I walked into the lounge, I was struck by its spaciousness and elegant design. The décor is modern yet warm, with plenty of seating options ranging from cozy armchairs to more private nooks. The layout is thoughtfully designed to provide travelers with a sense of privacy and comfort, which is often lacking in many airport lounges.The lounge is divided into various sections, each catering to different needs. There’s a dining area, a reading room, a business center, sleeping pods, and even a gaming zone. The first thing that caught my eye was the sheer amount of space. Unlike many airport lounges that can feel cramped during peak times, the Encalm Prive Lounge offers plenty of room to stretch out and relax. The seating arrangements are particularly noteworthy. Whether you’re looking for a quiet corner to catch up on reading or a spot closer to the action, there’s a place for everyone.

However, while the space was undeniably luxurious, I did notice that some areas could benefit from a bit more attention to detail. For instance, the reading room, though beautifully designed with a curated selection of books and tasteful decor, could have used a few more comfortable reading chairs. The seating felt more like it belonged in a conference room than in a space designed for relaxation. Additionally, while the overall design was elegant, some of the signage within the lounge could have been clearer. Finding my way to the different amenities, like the gym or the gaming room, wasn’t always as intuitive as it could have been. A bit more clarity in the directions would have enhanced the overall experience.

Dining

Now, onto the food—arguably one of the most important aspects of any lounge experience. The Encalm Prive Lounge boasts a multi-cuisine buffet with distinct vegetarian and non-vegetarian sections. The variety and quality were impressive, making it more than just a pre-flight meal. It felt like a proper dining experience, worthy of the lounge’s luxurious setting.

One of the highlights for me was the live bread station. There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a piece of freshly baked naan, still warm from the oven. The aroma alone was enough to draw me in, and the taste did not disappoint. Alongside the bread station, there were live dosa and Mexican stations, offering made-to-order dishes that allowed for a personalized touch. Watching the chefs prepare these dishes right in front of you added an interactive element to the meal, making it feel special and tailored to your tastes.

Dessert, on the other hand, was a delight. With three separate sections dedicated to sweets, it was hard not to indulge. Whether you’re in the mood for ice cream, traditional Indian desserts, or international pastries, there was something to satisfy every sweet tooth. The live smoothie station was another highlight, offering refreshing and healthy options made with fresh fruits and vegetables. It’s clear that the lounge takes its culinary offerings seriously, and for the most part, they deliver.

The bar at the Encalm Prive Lounge also deserves special mention. It was well-stocked with a wide variety of beverages, from classic cocktails to fine wines and spirits. Whether you’re looking to celebrate the start of your journey with a glass of champagne or unwind with a refreshing mocktail, the bar had something for everyone. The bartenders were knowledgeable and attentive, making sure that every drink was crafted to perfection.

Amenities: Luxury Beyond the Basics

The Encalm Prive Lounge isn’t just about dining and relaxing—it’s a space designed to meet every need a traveler might have. The lounge offers several sleeping pods, providing a private and comfortable place to catch up on some much-needed rest. These pods were well-designed, offering a quiet retreat away from the main lounge area. The ability to take a nap in a private pod before a long flight is a game-changer, especially if you’re someone who values rest before a long-haul journey.

For business travelers, the lounge’s business center is a valuable resource. With high-speed Wi-Fi, computers, and printing facilities, it’s the perfect place to catch up on work or hold a quick meeting. However, I found the process of logging into the Wi-Fi through the kiosk a bit cumbersome. It would have been more convenient to have the Wi-Fi details readily available without needing to interact with a machine. The business center itself was functional, with all the necessary amenities, but it didn’t feel particularly inspired. It served its purpose, but it didn’t stand out as a luxurious part of the lounge.

One of the more unique features of the lounge is the gaming zone. I was genuinely surprised by this addition, which includes multiple game consoles, a VR setup, and even a virtual golf simulator. It’s a fun way to pass the time, especially if you’re traveling with children or just looking for some light entertainment. The gaming chairs were comfortable, and the equipment was top-notch, making it an ideal spot for anyone who enjoys gaming. The virtual golf simulator was a particular highlight, offering a unique and engaging way to spend your time before a flight. However, it did feel a bit isolated from the rest of the lounge, almost as if it was an afterthought rather than an integral part of the experience.

For those who enjoy a good cigar, the lounge includes a dedicated cigar room, stocked with a selection of upscale cigars. The room is tastefully decorated and provides a comfortable space to enjoy a smoke in peace. The ventilation system was effective, ensuring that the room remained smoke-free and pleasant for all users. It’s a sophisticated space that adds an extra layer of luxury to the lounge.

However, I did notice that the signage leading to the gym and spa could be placed in a more prominent spot in the beginning rather than at the entrace of the hallway, which is not obvious: a bit more clarity in the directions would go a long way in enhancing the overall experience. It’s a small detail, but one that could make the lounge experience even more seamless.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Encalm Prive Lounge at Delhi Airport is a standout experience, especially for business and first-class travelers. It offers a level of luxury and exclusivity that makes your journey feel special from the moment you step through its doors. The lounge excels in many areas—its dining options are top-notch, the space is elegant and comfortable, and the amenities go above and beyond what you’d typically expect from an airport lounge.

Would I return to the Encalm Prive Lounge? Absolutely. Despite the minor shortcomings, it remains one of the best lounges I’ve visited, offering a tranquil and luxurious environment that makes the sometimes stressful experience of air travel feel like a breeze. For those flying out of Delhi in a premium cabin, this lounge is a must-visit, offering a perfect start to any journey.

Oh and one more thing - you can get a cart to drop you to your boarding gate!