Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (IATA: Vाराणसी, ICAO: VIBN), also known as Varanasi Airport, is the primary airport serving Varanasi, a city steeped in ancient history and spirituality in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. As a major pilgrimage destination and a hub for tourism, trade, and education, Varanasi attracts millions of travelers each year, making its airport a vital gateway to this vibrant city on the banks of the holy Ganges River.
History and Development
Named after the second Prime Minister of India, Lal Bahadur Shastri, the airport has a rich history dating back to 1954 when it began as a domestic airfield. Over the years, it has undergone several expansions and upgrades to accommodate the growing passenger traffic. In 2005, it was granted international status, opening up Varanasi to the world. The latest expansion, completed in 2019, saw the inauguration of a new, state-of-the-art terminal building that can handle up to 2.5 million passengers annually.
Terminal and Facilities
The new terminal building at Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport is a testament to modern Indian architecture, with its elegant design and world-class amenities. It boasts spacious check-in counters, efficient baggage handling systems, and a wide array of shops, restaurants, and duty-free outlets. Passengers can enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the terminal and avail themselves of comfortable lounges for a relaxing experience.
Connectivity
Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport is well-connected to major cities in India and abroad. Domestic airlines such as Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Vistara operate regular flights to destinations like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad. International connectivity is provided by airlines like Air India Express, Flydubai, Scoot, and Thai Smile, with direct flights to destinations like Dubai, Bangkok, Sharjah, and Colombo.
Getting to and from the Airport
The airport is located approximately 26 km from Varanasi city center in the town of Babatpur. Travelers have a variety of transportation options to choose from:
- Taxi: Pre-paid taxis are available outside the terminal building and are a convenient option for reaching your destination.
- Auto-rickshaw: Auto-rickshaws are another popular mode of transportation, particularly for shorter distances.
- Bus: The Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) operates buses that connect the airport to different parts of Varanasi.
- Car rental: Several car rental companies have counters at the airport, offering a convenient option for those who prefer to drive themselves.
You can find the nearest airport to Allahabad on our website.
Exploring Varanasi
Varanasi, also known as Banaras or Kashi, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Its spiritual significance, vibrant culture, and historical landmarks attract visitors from far and wide.
Some of the must-visit places in Varanasi include:
- Ghats: The series of steps leading down to the Ganges River, known as ghats, are the soul of Varanasi. Witness the mesmerizing sunrise at Assi Ghat, the evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, and the cremation rituals at Manikarnika Ghat.
- Temples: Varanasi is home to over 2,000 temples, each with its unique history and significance. Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, and the Durga Temple.
- Sarnath: Located just 10 km from Varanasi, Sarnath is a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site where Buddha delivered his first sermon.
- Ramnagar Fort: This 18th-century fort, located across the Ganges River, offers stunning views of the city and the river.
For the latest updates on flights and travel information, you can check out the Varanasi airport news.
Conclusion
Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport serves as the gateway to the ancient and spiritual city of Varanasi. With its modern facilities, excellent connectivity, and efficient services, the airport ensures a seamless travel experience for both domestic and international passengers. Whether you are a pilgrim seeking spiritual enlightenment, a traveler exploring India’s rich heritage, or a businessperson visiting the city, Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport is your starting point for an unforgettable journey.
FAQs
1. What is the airport code for Varanasi?
The airport code for Varanasi is Vाराणसी (IATA) and VIBN (ICAO).
2. What are the transportation options available from the airport to the city center?
You can choose from pre-paid taxis, auto-rickshaws, buses, and car rentals to reach the city center from the airport.
3. Are there any currency exchange facilities at the airport?
Yes, there are currency exchange counters and ATMs available at the airport.
4. Is there Wi-Fi available at the airport?
Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal building.
5. What are some of the hotels near the airport?
Several hotels are located near the airport, offering a range of accommodations to suit different budgets. Some popular options include the Radisson Hotel, the Taj Ganges, and the Clarks Varanasi.
6. What is the best time to visit Varanasi?
The best time to visit Varanasi is between October and March when the weather is pleasant.
7. What should I wear in Varanasi?
It is advisable to dress modestly in Varanasi, especially when visiting temples and ghats.
For information on the airport banaras or the babatpur airport pin code, please visit the respective pages on our website.
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