Srinagar, the land covered in white clouds of snow, is also known as heaven on earth and is a major attraction for visitors, connected to nature by the sparkling Dal Lake, spiritual places, and vibrant Kashmiri culture. A primary gateway, Sheikh ul-alam International Airport, is also popularly known as Srinagar International Airport (SXR) and is located approximately 10 km from the city centre It is owned by the Airport Authority of India and the Indian Airport.
Mainly, Srinagar offers major connectivity to several Indian cities, including New Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai, Kolkata, Amritsar, and Chandigarh. New Delhi to Srinagar is the busiest route operated by focused airlines, including Air India, IndiGo and SpiceJet.
Spiritual journeys to international destinations like Jeddah and Medina in Saudi Arabia.
Srinagar airport has a single integrated terminal that operates both domestic and seasonal international operations. Although it is small in area as compared to India’s other airports, the airport offers all the necessities for travellers’ comfort.
Check-in and Security: Security at the Airport is usually strict due to critical concerns. Travellers must experience multiple layers of screening, often beginning even before entering the terminal building. Travellers are advised to arrive at least three hours before the scheduled departure to avoid a messy boarding process.
Waiting Areas and Lounge: The airport has clean and orderly waiting lounges with seating arrangements for travellers. Premium lounges are also available for passengers seeking additional comfort.
Food and Shopping: Limited food courts, snack kiosks, and beverage stalls operate at the terminal. Some souvenir and handicraft shops highlight Kashmiri artistry, offering travellers a chance to take a piece of Kashmir home.
Transport Facilities: Prepaid taxis are the most convenient way to reach Srinagar city. Ride-hailing apps and buses are less common, but taxis and private rentals provide a more reliable means of transportation.
Radisson Collection Hotel and Spa: Located near Lal Chowk, Srinagar, within 2.4 km of the airport.
Ramada Encore by Wyndham: 0.8 km away in Rajbagh, Srinagar.
Hayat Group of Houseboats: Luxury houseboat in Dal Lake, around 4.9 km away.
Lemon Tree Hotel: Located in Srinagar.
Even with being a critical gateway, Srinagar Airport faces some challenges. Make sure to check all the possibilities before booking flight tickets to Srinagar.
Weather Issues: Frequent flight cancellations and delays are expected. Because winters in Kashmir are beautiful but harsh, heavy snowfall, fog, and poor visibility are impacting travel plans.
Limited International Connectivity: While the airport has international status, its global operations are limited. Tourists and traders often have to rely on connections through Delhi or Mumbai.
High Security Protocols: Though necessary, the multiple layers of security can sometimes slow down passenger movement.
1. What is the official name of Srinagar Airport?
The official name of Srinagar Airport is Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, Srinagar, named after the revered Kashmiri saint. It operates as a civil enclave at an Indian Air Force base.
2. Where is Srinagar Airport located?
Srinagar Airport is located in Badgam district, approximately 10 km from Srinagar city centre in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It serves as the region’s main air gateway.
3. Is Srinagar Airport a domestic or international airport?
Srinagar Airport is officially an international airport, named Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport. However, it primarily handles domestic flights, with limited international services operating on a seasonal or charter basis.
4. Are lounges available at Srinagar Airport?
Yes, lounges are available at Srinagar Airport for passengers. These lounges offer comfortable seating, refreshments, Wi-Fi, and other basic amenities for travellers waiting for their flights, especially in domestic terminals.
5. Are food and beverage outlets available at the airport?
Yes, food and beverage outlets are available at Srinagar Airport. Passengers can find snacks, tea, coffee, and light meals at various kiosks and cafes in the terminal area.
6. Is there a lost and found counter at Srinagar Airport?
Yes, Srinagar Airport has a Lost and Found counter located within the terminal. Passengers can contact airport authorities or the airline staff to report or recover lost belongings.
7. Which airlines operate from Srinagar Airport?
Airlines operating from Srinagar Airport include IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet. Limited international flights are occasionally operated by Air India Express to Gulf destinations.
8. Which southern cities are connected to Srinagar?
Srinagar is connected to southern Indian cities, such as Bangalore and Hyderabad, through direct flights, thereby enhancing travel options between Kashmir and the southern regions of India.
9. How early should I arrive at Srinagar Airport for a flight?
It is recommended to arrive at Srinagar Airport at least 2 to 3 hours before your domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight to ensure a smooth completion of security and check-in procedures.
10. Are there restrictions on carrying electronic devices?
Yes, Srinagar Airport follows standard regulations on electronic devices. Laptops, tablets, and phones must be screened separately during security checks, and usage may be restricted during takeoff and landing.
11. Is Srinagar Airport open at night?
Srinagar Airport primarily operates during daylight hours. Night operations are limited due to weather and security constraints, with only occasional night flights permitted under special permission or in emergencies.
12. How many passengers does Srinagar Airport handle yearly?
Srinagar Airport manage around 1.5 to 2 million passengers yearly, with numbers increasing during peak tourist seasons, reflecting its importance as a key gateway to the Kashmir Valley.
13. Does Srinagar Airport handle international cargo?
Srinagar Airport primarily handles domestic cargo. International cargo operations are limited due to infrastructure constraints and security regulations, with most international freight routed through larger airports nearby.
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