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Dharamshala Airport (DHM)

TeamAckoFeb 13, 2025

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Dharamshala is one of the most popular cities in Himachal Pradesh. It is located in the lap of nature at the foothills of the Himalayas. Considering how majestic this place is, it attracts hundreds of tourists every year. Likewise, Dharamshala Airport, also known as Kangra-Gaggal Airport, plays a significant role in controlling the air traffic congestion in the city.

So, if you plan to explore this heavenly city during your trip to Himachal Pradesh, it is ideal to travel via this airport. Read this blog till the end to learn about the related details

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Contents

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Basic Details of Dharamshala Airport 

Dharamshala Airport, also known as Kangra-Gaggal Airport, is the largest and closest airport to Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh. It is about 8 km from the city centre of Kangra. Besides, this airport is close to National Highway 154, making it easier for travellers who wish to visit it by car.

Kangra-Gaggal Airport also features good connectivity to various major locations of the state, picturesque surroundings, and efficient infrastructure. Besides, this airport has only one terminal building, which can accommodate up to 100 passengers at a time during rush hours.

  • Address: NH154, Gaggal, Himachal Pradesh 176209

  • IATA Code: DHM

  • Type: Domestic airport with departure and arrival of local services.

  • Operational Authority: Airport Authority of India (AAI).

Ways to Reach Dharamshala Airport

Kangra Airport is in a prime location in Himachal Pradesh, which has good connectivity to other parts of the state. Thus, you can have several options to reach the airport, which include the following:

1. Bus

You can get several buses that leave or pass through Kangra and travel towards Dharamshala at regular intervals. You can get on a bus to the airport at your convenience.

2. Cab

If you wish to have a comfortable ride to the airport, you can hire a taxi or book a cab through apps. Several taxis run from Kangra to Dharamsala Airport.

Dharamshala Airport Terminal Information

Dharamshala Airport currently has only one terminal building that manages both domestic flight arrivals and departures. The terminal building has the capacity to hold about 100 passengers during rush hours, while the arrival and departure areas can accommodate 50 passengers each.

Nevertheless, the Airport Authority of India (AAI) is currently planning an expansion of the airport, after which it will have two terminal buildings. The runway length is expected to increase, which would help prevent load penalties for air carriers.

Dharamshala Airport Facilities

The airport in Dharamshala features several services and facilities for passengers to make their time enjoyable and worthwhile during their waiting hours. So go through the following points that mention some of the primary services you can get at the Dharamshala Airport:

1. Dining Options

After checking in, passengers can satisfy their appetites with the several dining options offered at the airport. Whether you want to have some tea at a cafe or try out some wholesome food to fill you up, you can have it all in one place while you wait for your flights to arrive.

2. Internet Access

All passengers inside the Airport in Dharamshala can access the internet without any fees or charges. Thus, you can watch your favourite shows online or catch up with your loved ones on a video call while waiting for your flight.

3. Transport Services

Dharamshala Airport also features several transport services, including buses, taxis, and car rentals. You can rent a car to explore the nearby surroundings or look for buses that travel to different routes in Himachal Pradesh. You can even book a taxi from the airport.

4. ATMs

Dharamshala Airport also features ATM counters where you can withdraw cash whenever you need it. After checking in, you just need to have your debit card with you.

5. Emergency Facility

Dharamshala Airport also provides services in case of an emergency for passengers. Whether you require a wheelchair or some medicine, you can always contact ground staff for help.

6. Lost and Found at Terminal Manager’s Office

Passengers are also allowed to contact the ground staff members in case they lose an item or wish to report an item they find. There are dedicated counters to assist passengers with such issues.

Things to Do at Dharamshala Airport

In case you have some time to spare waiting for your flight, you can consider engaging yourself in some of the interesting things to do at Dharamshala airport, which include the following:

1. Shopping for Souvenirs

At the Dharamshala airport, you have a wide range of options for shopping for your favourite souvenirs, from accessories and clothes to sweets and footwear, etc. Thus, it can be quite interesting to spend your time at the shops and purchase a few things of your interest or take them home as souvenirs for your loved ones.

2. Relax in the Lounges

All passengers who have checked in at the airport can access the lounge services. Hence, it is always better to spend some time relaxing in the lounges, catching up with loved ones, or attending to work calls before you get onto your flight.

3. Watch Your Favourite Show

Considering you get free access to the internet inside Dharamshala Airport, it is a good idea to use this internet service to do a quick video call with your friends and family or watch your preferred movies and web series online.

4. Try Out Some Food

Passengers can also enjoy some of Dharamsala Airport's best food and snacks. Whether you are craving some traditional Himachali food or just munching over a snack, you can have it all there at your convenience.

Places to Visit Near Dharamshala Airport

Dharamshala Airport is situated in one of the most prominent locations in the state and is well-connected to other parts of Himachal Pradesh. Thus, some of the popular places to visit near Dharamshala Airport include the following:

1. Kangra

The main city where Dharamshala Airport is located is Kangra City, where the city centre is about 9.7 km away from the airport. Considering how majestic the city looks with snow-capped mountains, it is one of the first locations tourists explore after reaching Dharamshala.

2. Fatehpur Road

Fatehpur Road is about 13 km from the Dharamshala Airport. Exploring this place while travelling towards your accommodation is the best way to witness some of the most beautiful houses and landscapes.

3. Dharamkot

Dharamkot is a residential locality about 19.5 km from the airport. Famous for offering lands and plots at competitive prices, it also features beautiful houses designed specifically for mountainous regions.

4. McLeodganj

McLeodganj is yet another wonderful residential locality about 21.9 km from the airport. You can explore the place while driving to another destination and experience some of the best mountainous regions of all time.

Transportation Options from Dharamshala Airport

Kangra Airport is the nearest airport to Dharamshala, where you can get several transportation options. Passengers can use these facilities to reach the airport or any other destination from the airport. These include the following:

1. Bus

Bus services are available when travelling to different routes in the state. Both public and private intercity buses are available from the Gaggal bus stop, around 1.9 km from Dharamshala airport.

2. Train

You can also travel by train by visiting the nearest railway station, Kangra Railway Station, which is about 13.3 km away from the airport. Multiple local trains travel via different routes and connect to varied regions of the state.

3. Taxi/Auto

Outside the airport, taxis are plentiful. You can hire a taxi to explore multiple locations or just to reach your hotel. However, taxi drivers determine the prices, so learning about the local rates can be helpful in such scenarios.

The Bottom Line

Henceforth, you can execute your trip to Himachal Pradesh without hassle when you arrange everything beforehand. However, if you are planning to travel via Kangra Airport, you need to be aware of the details related to the same. This not only helps you make suitable arrangements but also enables you to stay prepared while you travel with your loved ones. Nevertheless, Dharamshala Airport is the largest airport in Himachal Pradesh, which will be expanded further in the year to come.

FAQs About Dharamshala Airport

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions regarding the details of Kangra Airport:

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Does Dharamshala have an airport?

Yes, Dharamshala has an airport, the Dharamshala Airport or Kangra Airport, that serves domestic flights.

Is Dharamshala Airport very crowded?

Dharamshala Airport usually does not get very crowded. However, during the winter season, it receives more tourists than usual.

Are there any tourist attractions near Dharamshala Airport?

Yes, there are some tourist attractions near Dharamshala Airport, including the Dalai Lama Temple Complex, Triund Trek, Bhagsunag, etc.

Can we get accommodation near Kangra Airport?

You can find several accommodation options near Kangra Airport catering to your budget and preferences.

Which is the nearest city to Kangra Airport?

Gaggal is the nearest city to Kangra Airport.

What is the check-in time at Dharamshala Airport?

The check-in time at Dharamshala Airport usually remains 2 hours before the flight departure.

What is the nearest airport to Dharamshala?

Dharamshala’s nearest airport is Kangra Airport.

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