Is There Any Airport In Shimla? This is a common question for travelers planning a trip to this beautiful hill station in Himachal Pradesh, India. While Shimla doesn’t have a full-fledged commercial airport within its city limits, the question isn’t as straightforward as a simple “yes” or “no”. Let’s delve into the specifics of air travel to Shimla.
Understanding Air Travel Options to Shimla
While a major airport in Shimla itself remains a work in progress, there are viable air travel options to reach this picturesque destination. This involves utilizing nearby airports and then completing the journey by road. Let’s explore these options in detail.
The Closest Airport: Jubbarhatti Airport
The nearest airport to Shimla is Jubbarhatti Airport, located approximately 22 kilometers from the city center. However, this airport has limited operational capacity due to its tabletop runway and challenging terrain. Flights are often affected by weather conditions, leading to cancellations and delays. Alliance Air currently operates flights to Jubbarhatti from Delhi. Check for flight delays at delhi airport today before making your travel plans.
Chandigarh Airport: A Popular Alternative
A more reliable option is to fly into Chandigarh International Airport, which is roughly 115 kilometers from Shimla. This airport is well-connected to major Indian cities and offers a wider range of flight options. From Chandigarh, you can easily reach Shimla by road, with various bus and taxi services available. You can find more information about bus from chandigarh airport to shimla.
Kullu-Manali Airport: Another Option to Consider
Another alternative is Kullu-Manali Airport, also known as Bhuntar Airport, located approximately 148 kilometers from Shimla. While slightly farther than Chandigarh, Kullu-Manali offers stunning views during the flight and access to the scenic Kullu and Manali valleys. If you’re interested in luxury accommodation options in the area, check out our guide on 5 star hotel near kullu airport.
Planning Your Journey to Shimla: Considering the “Airport” Situation
So, is there an airport in Shimla? Technically, yes, but its limitations mean you need to consider all your options. Planning your trip to Shimla involves carefully weighing the pros and cons of each airport. Jubbarhatti is closest, but its reliability can be an issue. Chandigarh and Kullu-Manali offer more consistent flight schedules but require additional travel time by road. You might also need information on shimla airport code for flight bookings.
Future Developments: Shimla’s Airport Ambitions
Shimla’s aspiration for a larger, more capable airport is an ongoing project. Proposals for a greenfield airport at a more suitable location are under consideration. This future development promises to enhance air connectivity to Shimla significantly, making travel to this hill station even more convenient. More information can be found at is there airport in shimla.
In conclusion, while a fully functional airport within Shimla city limits isn’t currently a reality, options exist for air travel to the region. Weighing factors such as flight availability, travel time, and cost will help you choose the best option for your trip to Shimla.
FAQ
- Is there a direct flight to Shimla? Yes, but only from Delhi to Jubbarhatti, and these are often subject to weather disruptions.
- Which is the best airport to fly to for Shimla? Chandigarh Airport is generally considered the most reliable option, offering more frequent flights and better connectivity.
- How far is Chandigarh airport from Shimla? Approximately 115 kilometers.
- How do I get from Chandigarh Airport to Shimla? Buses and taxis are readily available.
- How far is Jubbarhatti airport from Shimla? Approximately 22 kilometers.
- Is Kullu-Manali airport closer than Chandigarh airport to Shimla? No, Kullu-Manali airport is farther from Shimla than Chandigarh airport.
- What is the future of Shimla airport? Plans are underway for a larger, more functional airport.
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