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Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU), Guwahati

TeamAckoFeb 17, 2025

Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, commonly known as Guwahati Airport, is the main entry point to the North-east region of India. The airport is named after the great freedom fighter and the first Chief Minister of Assam, Gopinath Bordoloi. It is located about 26 kilometres from the heart of Guwahati city. Being the only international airport in the region, it is a lifeline for connecting Assam and its neighbouring states to the rest of India and the world. So, keep reading this article to learn more about this airport.

Contents

Guwahati International Airport Details
Guwahati International Airport Terminal Information
Guwahati Airport Facilities
Guwahati International Airport Lounge Information
Things to Do at the Guwahati International Airport
Places to Visit Near Guwahati International Airport
Transportation Options from Guwahati International Airport to the City
Final Words
FAQs about Guwahati International Airport

Guwahati International Airport Details

The Guwahati Airport was established in 1958. It is operated under the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and has recently been expanded and upgraded. Here are some crucial details about the Guwahati International Airport:

Official Guwahati Airport Name: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport
Address: Borjhar, Guwahati, Assam, India
Guwahati IATA Code: GAU
Infrastructure: Single terminal divided into domestic and international sections.
Runways: Two operational runways to handle passengers and cargo traffic.
Airlines: Airlines that operate in the GAU Airport include Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, GoAir, and so on.

Apart from the above facilities, the Guwahati Airport plans to expand its operations for cargo flights. Moreover, a new integrated terminal building and an enhanced infrastructure to handle the growing passenger numbers. The advanced baggage handling system ensures minimal waiting time for passengers.

Guwahati International Airport Terminal Information

The Guwahati International Airport has two terminals for domestic and international flights. However, it has separate sections for easy passenger operation with minimum congestion. Combining both the sections there are 64 check-in counters, 16 self-baggage drop counters, 6 arrival carousels, 8 customer desks, 8 immigration counters, and 20 self-check-in kiosks. Most of the air traffic passes through the domestic section. So, the baggage handling systems are designed with modern features and proper signage to guide passengers smoothly.

The international terminal has immigration counters, customs facilities, and security checkpoints. Therefore, it ensures hassle-free travel for passengers flying to destinations outside India. Apart from these facilities, Blue Dart Aviation provides cargo services from Kolkata International Airport to Guwahati Airport using this integrated terminal.

Guwahati Airport Facilities

The Guwahati International Airport provides many facilities to ensure passengers have a smooth and hassle-free journey. Here are the facilities which are available at the GAU Airport:

Wi-Fi Connectivity: Wi-Fi is free at all places within this airport, so travellers can stay in touch with others while travelling.
Food and Beverages: There are plenty of food outlets and cafes that provide a range of options, from local Assamese dishes to international fare.
Shopping: Duty-free shops and retail outlets can be found selling everything from local handicrafts to branded products.
Medical Aid: There are first-aid centres and pharmacies on board where one can get immediate medical help.
Child Care Centre: It has baby-care zones, diaper-changing places, and play areas to entertain small children.
ATM and Currency Exchange: There are quite a few ATMs and currency exchange counters for the money exchange needs of passengers.
Special Assistance: Wheelchairs and reserved seating areas cater to elderly and disabled people.
Car Rental Services: The Guwahati Airport has car rental counters from where you can rent a car to your desired destination.

Guwahati International Airport Lounge Information

An airport lounge offers additional facilities and comfort to selected passengers. The Guwahati Airport has one lounge in the domestic section of this integrated terminal called ‘The Lounge’. It is a relaxing area with beautiful art installations and scenic views of team plantations. In addition, this lounge depicts eco-friendliness and elegance, which you can relax and enjoy before catching a flight to your destination. There are separate smoking areas and refreshment areas for passengers in this lounge.

This lounge is available to all passengers for a fee. However, children under the age of 5 years are allowed free of cost in this lounge. It is a perfect place for business travellers or those with long layovers. Apart from these facilities, there is free Wi-Fi for you to catch up on pending work emails or chat with a loved one.

Things to Do at the Guwahati International Airport

While waiting at the Guwahati Airport, you can indulge in interesting activities to pass your time. Here are some things to do at Guwahati International Airport while waiting for your flight:

1. Explore Local Handicrafts

Souvenir shops are a place to look for traditional items of Assam, namely handwoven fabrics, tea, and bamboo products.

2. Assamese Cuisine

Taste local flavours at the food outlets offering dishes such as bamboo shoot pickles and Assamese thali.

3. Relax in the Lounge

You can freshen up before catching a flight in the only lounge in the domestic section of the Guwahati International Airport.

4. Stay Connected

Enjoy free Wi-Fi at this airport to stream, browse, or connect while waiting for your flight. So, next time you are waiting at this airport, use this facility to clear all backlogs at work.

Places to Visit Near Guwahati International Airport

Guwahati is a city full of culture, presenting the authentic Assamese traditions. So, next time you have some time before catching your flight, here are some places to visit near Guwahati International Airport:

1. Kamakhya Temple

Amongst the most important Shakti Peethas in India, this temple is a spiritual and architectural wonder. Dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya and situated on top of the Nilachal Hills, the Kamakhya Temple is considered one of the most holy places for Hindu pilgrims.

2. Umananda Temple

Located on Peacock Island in the middle of the Brahmaputra River, this temple is full of serenity and a sight to behold. Moreover, the Brahmaputra river flows by the side of this temple making it one of the most holy places after Kamakhya in Assam.

3. Assam State Museum

Explore the vibrant cultural and historical life of Assam through its exhibits in the Assam State Museum. There are different sections of interesting exhibits and the visiting hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. So, if you have a few hours in hand before catching your next flight from the Guwahati Airport, visit this tourist attraction.

4. Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra

This tourist attraction was built in the 1990s to showcase Assam’s traditions, art, and performing arts. You can visit this complex to learn about the authentic Assamese culture and tradition.

Transportation Options from Guwahati International Airport to the City

Knowing the transportation options from the Guwahati Airport to anywhere in the city will save you time. So, you can opt for any of the following transportation options from the airport:

Airport Shuttle: Regular shuttle buses connect the GAU Airport to various parts of Guwahati.
Prepaid Taxis: Prepaid taxi services are available at the airport, offering fixed rates to different locations in the city.
Ride-Hailing Services: Ola and Uber operate extensively in Guwahati, providing convenient app-based cab services.
Car Rentals: Car rental services with self-drive or chauffeur options are available for those seeking more flexibility.
Public Transport: Local buses and auto-rickshaws are cheaper to travel to local destinations.

Final Words

Wrapping up, the Guwahati Airport is a vivacious hub that captures all the cultural essence of Assam. It offers all kinds of modern amenities and efficient services to travellers while they are waiting to catch a flight. From its robust infrastructure and passenger-friendly amenities to its commitment to expansion and innovation, the GAU Airport ensures a smooth travel experience. So, whether it is work or leisure, this airport makes sure your travel is not a hassle but a pleasant experience.

FAQs about Guwahati International Airport

Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Guwahati Airport:

What is the Guwahati Airport code?

The Guwahati Airport code is GAU.

How far is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport from Guwahati city?

The Guwahati International Airport is approximately 26 kilometres from the city centre.

Does the Guwahati International Airport offer international flights?

Yes, the Guwahati International Airport provides international flights to destinations like Paro and Bangkok.

Are there any hotels near the Guwahati International Airport?

Yes, several hotels, including budget and luxury options, are located within a short drive of the GAU Airport.

What are the parking charges at the Guwahati Airport?

Parking charges vary depending on the vehicle type and duration of stay at the GAU Airport. Short-term and long-term parking options are available.

Is there a lost and found service at the Guwahati Airport?

Yes, the Guwahati Airport’s lost and found desk helps passengers retrieve misplaced items.

Are there direct buses from the Guwahati International Airport to nearby tourist attractions?

Shuttle services and taxis are readily available from the Guwahati International Airport for those seeking to reach specific attractions, despite limited direct bus options.