Varanasi Airport

Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS)

The Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport is located approximately 26 kilometers to the north-west of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh. Varanasi, also known as Benaras or Kashi, is among the oldest of the world’s continually habited cities. According to folklore, the land between Varuna and Assi rivers is Varanasi, which is the holiest of all pilgrimages. For most visitors to this sacred city, the journey is deeply spiritual and is an experience of self-discovery and a union of the soul and body. A city of traditional culture, sanctified by religion, it is frequently visited by pilgrims and worshippers. With a population of over one million, Varanasi is in close proximity to several worship locations like Vishwanath Temple, 100 Ghats of Ganges, New Vishwanath Temple, and many more.

The Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport connects this holy city to other parts of the country. Formerly, it was known as the Varanasi Airport and was officially renamed in October 2005. The airport received international status on October 4, 2012 through the Union Cabinet.

Flight Information

Several international and domestic airlines operate from the airport. Some of the carriers that frequent this destination include Jet Konnect, JetLite, and Air India. The most flown sectors at the Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport are Varanasi to Kolkatta and Varanasi to New Delhi. Respective flights between these destinations are 14 and 17 per week. In addition, international flights are also operated by Thai Airways and SriLankan Airlines.

Terminals

The Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport has an international terminal spread across 1000 square meters with 2 counters for check-in, 3 each for immigration and customs, and 1 for security. The domestic terminal at the airport is spread over 2,000 square meters offering 1 security counter and 7 for check-ins.

Terminal capacity for international flights is 150 for arrivals and departures each. The domestic terminal has a capacity of 250 for departures and arrivals each.

Traveling Around

Passengers may travel on the city bus service or pre-paid taxi services that are available from the airport. The Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport also provides car rental services and inter-state car or taxi services. Some hotels provide pick-up services for passengers.

Services and Facilities

The Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport offers all the necessary services for the comfort of passengers. The airport has separate lounges for arrivals and departures for easier access. Travelers may access postal services at the domestic departures, which also have a telephone booth, snack bar, restaurant, and licensed T R Stall. The departure lounge at the international terminal has a telephone booth for passengers.

While both domestic and international arrivals have a tourist info counter, the arrival lounge at the domestic terminal also provides car rental services. Pre-paid taxi services, which are managed by the local police, are available just outside the airport.

For the convenience of travelers, the airport provides wheelchairs, trolleys, and a childcare room. Free first-aid services and assistance for infants, seniors, and physically challenged travelers is also available at the airport.

Things to Do

Passengers may ensure their wait for the flight is not boring. The T R Stall available at the domestic terminal provides several magazines and books for reading. In addition, travelers may shop for unique handicrafts and traditional artifact items to take as mementoes.

Hotels

Varanasi is a popular destination primarily because of the various religious sites and temples in the vicinity. Tourists will easily find accommodation close the airport no matter what their budget might be.

Travelers seeking luxury stay may opt for the Ramada Plaza, Radisson, Hotel Clarks, or The Taj Nadesar Palace. Budget staying options available in the city include OYO Rooms, ZO Rooms, Hotel Varuna, and Central Residency. The city also provides guest houses, bed and breakfast stays, homestays, and boutique hotels for tourists.

Tips for Fliers

Known as a religious destination, Varanasi offers a peaceful atmosphere to travelers. However, tourists need to be cautious of falling prey to unscrupulous boatmen and conmen on the Ghats of the holy Ganges.

Nearby Attractions

Tourists may visit several temples, museums, universities, and forts in close vicinity of the airport. Visitors can also shop for those famous traditional saris, carpets, clay and wooden toys, and other artifacts in the primary shopping areas like Thatheri Bazar, Godowlia, and Vishwanath Lane, which are around 20 to 30 kilometers from the airport.