Greetings Local Guides around the Globe,
This post is a narrative woven from my numerous visits at India’s airports. While my adventures have largely been confined within the country’s borders, as international travel has not yet graced my itinerary, I remain hopeful that such opportunities are just on the horizon.
Accompanying this write-up is a visual treat - a screenshot from my Google Map Timeline, showcasing the breadth of my airport visits.
To date, my footsteps have echoed through the halls of approximately 18 airports across India, a blend of both international and domestic terminals. Below, you’ll find a curated list of these airports, categorized first by international and then by domestic.
1. Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi (DEL)
2. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai (BOM)
3. Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata, West Bengal (CCU)
4. Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru, Karnataka (BLR)
5. Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad, Telangana (HYD)
6. Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati (GAU)
7. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad (AMD)
8. Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (VNS)
9. Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh (LKO)
10. Sheikh Ul Alam International Airport, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir (SXJ)
11. Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (BBI)
(Domestic Airports)
12. Birsa Munda Airport, Ranchi (IXR)
13. Aurangabad Airport (IXU)
14. Jay Prakash Narayan Airport, Patna (PAT)
15. Raja Bhoj Airport, Bhopal (BHO)
16. Prayagraj Airport, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh (IXD)
17. Gorakhpur Airport, Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh (GOP)
18. Jammu Airport, Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir (IXJ)
In most of these airports, I would like highlight majorly about the implementation of the ‘DigiYatra’ initiative. This cutting-edge technology, introduced by India’s Ministry of Aviation, offers a seamless, paperless experience through facial and retina scanning at checkpoints, simplifying the travel process remarkably.
While each airport presents its own charm, steeped in local art and scenic beauty, two stand out as the epitome of architectural and cultural splendor: Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) and Terminal 2 of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai (BOM). BLR, often referred to as a tropical sanctuary, features a “Terminal in a Garden” concept. Its lotus-inspired design and lush greenery provide a tranquil respite from the hustle of travel. The airport also excels in sustainability with natural lighting, rainwater harvesting, and energy-efficient technology.
Mumbai’s Terminal 2 is a canvas of Indian artistry, adorned with an extensive collection of native artwork. Its unique roof design bathes the interior in natural light, creating an inviting, open space. Both airports offer world-class lounges, diverse dining options, and vibrant entertainment zones.
Notably, BLR has been honored with the “World Special Prize for an Interior 2023” at the UNESCO Prix Versailles, a testament to its exceptional design and ambiance. A visit to these airports is not just about travel; it’s an immersive experience that lingers in one’s memory, a true reflection of India’s progress and cultural richness. Unfortunately, currently I don’t have the photographs of indoor garden inside BLR.
Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA), Delhi: I’ve had the pleasure of visiting this bustling hub more than 15 times. As India’s busiest airport, it boasts three terminals, with Terminal 3 being one of the largest in the world. This architectural marvel blends Indian cultural motifs with modern design, offering an array of state-of-the-art facilities. From an extensive range of shopping and dining options to its convenient location serving the National Capital Region – encompassing Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Faridabad, and Meerut – IGIA stands as a testament to India’s growing global presence and urban development.
Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad: This airport is a beacon of sustainability and green initiatives. Its elegant design and commitment to environmental stewardship have earned it accolades for both efficiency and high service standards. It’s a shining example of how airports can operate sustainably without compromising on quality and passenger comfort.
Kolkata Airport: A testament to Bengali artistry, this airport beautifully integrates elements of local culture. Its spacious and efficient layout ensures a smooth transition for travelers, making it a delightful entry point to Eastern India.
Ahmedabad Airport : Echoing the vibrant spirit of Gujarat, this airport impresses with its navigational ease and swift services. It’s adorned with local artwork and cultural motifs, providing a colorful glimpse into the region’s heritage.
Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati: As the primary airport for India’s northeastern states, this facility stands amidst Assam’s verdant landscape and near the majestic Brahmaputra river. It’s not just an airport; it’s a window to the rich cultural tapestry of the Northeast.
Srinagar International Airport, Srinagar: Nestled in the Kashmir Valley and framed by the Himalayas, this airport offers breathtaking views and a peek into local traditions. Its heightened security measures reflect the area’s sensitive nature, ensuring safe passage in a stunning setting.
Bhubaneswar Airport: This airport is a celebration of Odisha’s cultural heritage, showcasing local art and architectural motifs. It serves as a beautiful prelude to the state’s rich history, including the famed Puri pilgrimage and other tourist attractions.
Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, Varanasi: Situated in one of the world’s oldest cities, this airport is the gateway to Varanasi’s spiritual and historical wonders. It perfectly blends modern facilities with traditional design, mirroring the city’s profound legacy.
Aurangabad Airport: Serving as the entry point to the historic city of Aurangabad, this airport offers convenient access to the renowned Ajanta and Ellora caves.
Birsa Munda Airport, Ranchi: Its in my hometown, named after the legendary tribal leader Birsa Munda, this bustling airport is a vital hub in Jharkhand, reflecting the region’s growth and prominence.
Jay Prakash Narayan Airport, Patna: In Bihar’s capital, this compact airport navigates urban constraints to efficiently manage a high passenger volume. I personally has experienced that its runway strip is shorter in comparison with others, making the rough landing always, specially during odd weathers.
Prayagraj Airport: Located near the sacred confluence of three rivers in Prayagraj, this airport is a key stop for pilgrims and tourists visiting this ancient city, offering both convenience and a touch of spiritual ambiance.
Chaudhary Charan Singh Airport, Lucknow: Blending Lucknow’s traditional elegance with modern amenities, this airport, named after a former Prime Minister, stands out for its efficient service and strategic location in Uttar Pradesh’s capital.
Mahayogi Gorakhnath Airport, Gorakhpur: This compact yet significant airport in Uttar Pradesh balances civil and defense operations, ensuring tight security and smooth functioning for its travelers.
Jammu Airport: This one is also a high-security airport, it serves as an essential transit point for pilgrims to the Vaishno Devi Temple and tourists venturing into the Himalayas, offering both safety and scenic beauty.
Raja Bhoj Airport, Bhopal: Reflecting Bhopal’s unique blend of history and modernity, this airport, named after the famed King Bhoj, stands as a symbol of the city’s rich cultural and historical heritage.
