Varanasi International Airport or Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS)

About Varanasi International Airport (VNS)

Varanasi International Airport, officially known as Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, is the primary aviation gateway to one of the oldest and most spiritually significant cities in the world. Located in Babatpur, the airport serves millions of pilgrims, tourists, and business travellers every year who visit Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh. Named after India's second Prime Minister, Lal Bahadur Shastri, the airport has steadily grown into a well-connected hub linking Varanasi to major Indian cities and select international destinations. If you are planning a trip to the land of ghats, temples, and the holy Ganga, this airport will most likely be your first point of arrival.

Varanasi Airport History

The history of Varanasi Airport goes back several decades, with its origins tied to the early development of civil aviation infrastructure across India. The airport was initially a domestic facility and was later upgraded to handle international flights given the city's massive religious and cultural significance. It was named after Lal Bahadur Shastri, who was born in Mughalsarai near Varanasi. Over the years, the Airports Authority of India has invested substantially in expanding the terminal capacity, modernising the runway, and improving passenger amenities to keep pace with rising footfall, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons.

Varanasi Airport Details - IATA, Address and Pin Code

• Official Name: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport
• IATA Code: VNS
• Address: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport Babatpur Varanasi Uttar Pradesh India
• Airport Pin Code: 221006
• Distance from Varanasi City Centre: Approximately 26 km
• Phone Number: +91-542-2622155
• Old Name: Varanasi Airport / Babatpur Airport

How Many Airports in Varanasi?

Varanasi has one operational commercial airport, which is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport located in Babatpur. There is no other commercial airport serving the city. All domestic and international passenger flights to and from Varanasi are handled exclusively through this airport. The Airports Authority of India manages its operations, and the airport continues to expand its capacity to meet the growing demand from religious tourism and general air travel in the region.

How Many Terminals in Varanasi Airport?

Varanasi Airport has one integrated terminals to manage the flow of domestic and international passengers separately and efficiently.

• Domestic Terminal: The domestic section handles all flights operating within India. It is equipped with multiple check-in counters, baggage claim belts, security screening zones, and essential passenger services including food stalls and retail outlets.
• International Terminal: The international section is designed to handle overseas flights and includes immigration counters, customs clearance, duty-free shopping, and dedicated lounges for international passengers.

Distance Between Varanasi Airport Terminals

The domestic and international sections at Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport are situated within the same airport premises. The distance between them is short, allowing passengers to move between them with relative ease. Internal airport signage is available to guide passengers, and assistance is provided for those who require mobility support when navigating between the two terminals.

How Many Runways in Varanasi Airport?

Varanasi Airport has one main operational runway that supports both domestic and international flight operations. The runway has been developed to accommodate a wide range of aircraft types, including narrow-body and wide-body jets. The Airports Authority of India regularly maintains the runway to ensure it meets the safety and performance standards set by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation. Expansion and upgrade plans have been discussed to further strengthen the airport's capacity.

Varanasi Airport Lounges and Facilities

Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport offers a solid range of passenger facilities to make your time at the airport comfortable. Lounge access is available for business class travellers and passengers holding eligible credit cards with lounge benefits. The airport also features multiple food and beverage counters serving local and pan-Indian cuisine, retail shops, bookstores, ATMs, and currency exchange counters. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. Facilities for differently-abled passengers including ramps and assistance services are also in place. Prayer rooms, medical aid, and prepaid taxi booking counters add to the convenience for all types of travellers.

How to Reach Varanasi Airport from City Center

By Metro

As of now, Varanasi does not have a metro line connecting the city centre to the airport. However, urban transport development projects are underway in the city, and travellers should monitor updates from local authorities for future connectivity options.

By Bus

Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) buses and other local bus services operate between Varanasi city and Babatpur. This is one of the most economical ways to travel to and from the airport, though journey times can vary based on road and traffic conditions on the approximately 26 km route.

By Taxi or Cab

App-based cab services such as Ola and Uber are available in Varanasi and provide reliable connectivity to the airport. Prepaid taxi counters inside the arrival hall offer a safe and fixed-fare option for passengers landing at Varanasi Airport. Auto-rickshaws are also available but are more suitable for shorter stretches within the city.

By Private Car

Varanasi Airport is accessible via NH-19, which connects the airport to the city centre. The drive typically takes around 45 to 60 minutes depending on traffic. Paid parking is available at the airport for those arriving by private vehicle, with short-term and long-term parking options on offer.

Things to Do in Varanasi Airport

While waiting for your flight at Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, you can enjoy a meal at one of the food outlets offering both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Retail shops in the terminal sell local handicrafts, Banarasi silk products, and other souvenirs unique to Varanasi, making it a great spot for last-minute shopping. Free Wi-Fi allows you to stay connected, and the lounge area offers a quieter space to relax before boarding. The airport also has a clean and well-maintained seating area with adequate facilities for families and elderly travellers.

Places to Visit Near Varanasi Airport

Varanasi is packed with cultural and spiritual landmarks within easy reach of the airport. Dashashwamedh Ghat, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Sarnath, Assi Ghat, and Manikarnika Ghat are among the most visited places in the city. Ramnagar Fort, located across the Ganga, and the Banaras Hindu University campus are also popular destinations. The narrow lanes of the old city, known as galis, offer an immersive experience of Banarasi culture, food, and tradition. Most of these attractions are between 25 and 35 km from the airport.

FAQs About Varanasi Airport - Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport

What is the Official Name of Varanasi Airport?

The official name of Varanasi Airport is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, named after India's second Prime Minister.

What is the IATA Code for Varanasi Airport?

The IATA code for Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport is VNS.

Which Terminals Serve Domestic and International Flights at Varanasi Airport?

Varanasi Airport has a dedicated domestic terminal for flights operating within India and a separate international terminal for overseas routes, both located within the same airport complex.

Which Railway Station is Near to Varanasi Airport?

Varanasi Junction, also known as Varanasi Cantt Railway Station, is one of the nearest major railway stations to Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, located approximately 24 to 26 km away.

Where is Varanasi Airport Located?

Varanasi Airport is located in Babatpur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, approximately 26 km from the city centre.

When Was Varanasi Airport Built?

Varanasi Airport has been operational for several decades and has undergone multiple rounds of upgradation to achieve its current international airport status under the Airports Authority of India.

Is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport Open 24 Hours?

Yes, Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport operates around the clock to accommodate early morning departures and late-night arrivals across domestic and international routes.

How Far is Varanasi Airport from Varanasi City Center?

Varanasi Airport is approximately 26 km from the city centre. The drive usually takes between 45 minutes and an hour depending on traffic conditions.

What Airlines Operate from Varanasi Airport?

Several prominent airlines operate from Varanasi Airport including IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, and Vistara, offering connections to major Indian cities as well as international destinations including flights to the Middle East and Southeast Asia.

Are There Lounges at Varanasi Airport?

Yes, lounge facilities are available at Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport for eligible passengers, including those flying in business class or holding credit cards that offer complimentary lounge access benefits.