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Srinagar Airport (SXR) or Sheikh Ul Alam International Airport

TeamAckoFeb 26, 2025

Sheikh Ul Alam International Airport, also known as Srinagar Airport, is one of the most important airports in Jammu and Kashmir. It serves as the gateway to the scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage of Kashmir. This airport offers access both to domestic and international flights and is a critical hub for business, tourism and pilgrimage.

So, keep reading this guide to know all the details about Srinagar Airport and plan a trip with your loved ones soon.

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Srinagar Airport Details

Sheikh Ul Alam International Airport is a major contributor to the transport sector of Jammu and Kashmir. The airport is named after Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Noorani, also known as Sheikh-ul-Alam, who was a great Sufi saint and spiritual leader from Kashmir. The airport links the state to other major cities in India and serves a few international destinations. Moreover, this airport has experienced several upgrades over the years, improving its capacity and passenger experience.

Here are some of the important details about Srinagar Airport:

Address: Srinagar Airport, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India
IATA Code: SXR
Type: Public
Governing Authority: Airports Authority of India (AAI) and the Indian Air Force

Ways To Reach Srinagar Airport

Srinagar Air Force Base Airport has smooth accessibility to Srinagar and its surrounding areas. Some of the easy ways to access this airport are as follows:

1. Taxis

Taxis are very frequently used for commencing to and from the Srinagar Airport. Also, different private and pre-paid taxi services are provided in every nook and corner of the city. It takes about 30-45 minutes to reach the airport from the city centre.

2. Bus

Jammu and Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation (JKSRTC) operates bus services connecting the Srinagar Airport to the city and surrounding towns. Moreover, buses are available for lower fares, but they can take longer because of the traffic conditions.

3. Private Car

You may hire private cars or hire a car from local agents. This is convenient for those who wish to move around other parts of the region after arrival.

4. Auto Rickshaw

In some places, auto rickshaws are available from nearby locations to the Srinagar International Airport, but this is not one of the most comfortable modes of long-distance travel.

Srinagar Airport Terminal Information

The Sheikh Ul Alam International Airport has a single terminal for domestic and international flights. Moreover, it handles a huge number of passengers, and many airlines have regular flights from the airport. It is also important to keep in mind that a section of the airport is regulated by the Indian Air Force. The terminal is equipped with modern facilities, including:

Passenger Capacity: Can handle 850 passengers daily (425 outbound and 425 inbound)
Runway: 3568 m x 46 m with an orientation of 13/31
Flight Frequency: About 50 weekly flights between key locations in the rest of India and Srinagar operated by Jet Airways, Go Air, Air India, Spice Jet, and IndiGo
Check-in Counters: Available for both domestic and international flights
Baggage Belts: Baggage claim area where passengers can collect their luggage.

Srinagar Airport Facilities

The facilities at Srinagar International Airport are designed to make travel as smooth as possible for travellers. Among the notable amenities, includes:

Free Wi-Fi: Passengers can stay connected while waiting for their flights by accessing free Wi-Fi at the airport. Also, it is useful for those who want to catch up on emails or browse the internet.
Food and Beverages: The Srinagar Airport provides a range of food stalls, from quick bites to full meals. Moreover, the food courts offer local Kashmiri delicacies along with international options.
Lounges: For a more comfortable waiting experience, the airport features lounges that provide extra comfort with amenities such as charging stations, comfortable seating, and refreshments.
ATM and Currency Exchange: There are ATMs at the airport for those who want to withdraw some cash. Also, there are currency exchange facilities for international passengers arriving at or leaving Srinagar.
Medical Assistance: The airport has medical facilities to handle any emergencies. Furthermore, first aid and basic health care services can be availed of to ensure the safety and well-being of passengers.
Car Parking: The SXR Airport offers short-term and long-term parking. Safe car parks are available at competitive charges.

Things To Do in Srinagar Airport

If you want to know some key things to do in Srinagar Airport, read the pointers discussed below:

1. Enjoy Kashmiri Cuisine

One of the best ways of spending time at Srinagar Airport would be to enjoy some delicious Kashmiri cuisine. There are many food courts that offer a variety of traditional dishes such as Rogan Josh, Kashmiri Pulao, and Kahwa- the traditional Kashmiri tea. Moreover, the flavours and spices of this region will certainly leave you wanting more.

2. Shop for Souvenirs

Duty-free shops at Srinagar International Airport sell everything from cosmetics and electronics to traditional handicrafts of Kashmir. So, do not forget to pick up souvenirs like Pashmina shawls, Kashmiri carpets, and Kangris (traditional fire pots) as perfect mementoes for your visit.

3. Relax in the Lounge

In case you have a layover for a while, consider visiting one of the lounges at the SXR Airport. These lounges offer the most serene and quiet environments to relax and rejuvenate. Thus, you can enjoy comfortable seating, refreshments, and a more personalised experience while waiting for your flight.

4. Catch Up on Work

Free Wi-Fi in the Srinagar Airport keeps you connected. Also, you can use this time to send some emails, catch up on work, or simply browse the internet before your flight takes off.

Places To Visit Near Srinagar Airport

Prominent places in Srinagar can be visited from the Sheikh Ul Alam International Airport. Some of the popular places to visit near Srinagar Airport include:

1. Dal Lake

Located just a short drive from the Srinagar Airport, Dal Lake is one of Srinagar's most prominent attractions. It is one of the most beautiful water bodies in the region known for its tranquil waters, houseboats, and floating gardens. Therefore, anyone visiting the region should never miss this wonderful experience of Dal Lake.

2. Mughal Gardens

Several beautiful Mughal gardens exist in Srinagar, such as Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh and also Chashme Shahi. Built by Mughal emperors, the gardens offer panoramic views, lush greenery, and historical architecture of the place. For photography enthusiasts, these gardens are great for capturing the city.

3. Shankaracharya Temple

This temple is located on a hilltop and provides an excellent view of Srinagar and Dal Lake. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the most sacred Hindu temples of Kashmir. You can reach this temple from the Srinagar Airport within an hour.

4. Jama Masjid

This 14th-century mosque is an excellent example of Kashmiri Islamic architecture. With its wooden structure and intricately carved interiors, it is a peaceful place to visit. This tourist attraction is just a half-hour drive from the Srinagar International Airport.

5. Nigeen Lake

One of the beautiful lakes in Srinagar, Nigeen Lake is less crowded than Dal Lake and is more serene. It is a good place for a peaceful boat ride or lakeside picnic. Moreover, you can easily reach this tourist attraction within 45 minutes from the Srinagar Airport.

Final Words

Overall, Srinagar Airport is more than an entrance; it is where your journey to the hearts of Kashmir begins. As business, tourism, and religion attract visitors to its borders, the airport provides perfect facilities for travel experience and comfort. Moreover, its favourable location, modern amenities, and access to some of the region's most beautiful scenery have made Srinagar Airport an essential hub to travel to for any visitor to Kashmir.

FAQs About Srinagar Airport

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

How early should I arrive at Srinagar Airport for a domestic flight?

For a domestic flight, you are advised to reach the Srinagar International Airport at least 2 hours before your flight so that there is enough time for checking in, security checks, and boarding.

Do I have direct flights from Srinagar Airport to international destinations?

Yes, international flights are available from SXR Airport, mainly to the Middle East, to destinations such as Dubai and Sharjah.

Can I rent a car at Srinagar International Airport?

You can pre-book a taxi to get there from Srinagar International Airport. Prepaid taxi services are available at the airport.

Are there medical facilities at SXR Airport?

Yes, SXR Airport ramps and accessible toilets provide convenient passage for passengers needing special facilities. Also, you could also make arrangements at the airport help desk.

Is there a VIP lounge at Srinagar Airport?

Yes, there are VIP lounges available for premium passengers offering enhanced comfort and amenities like snacks, Wi-Fi, and seating at the Srinagar Air Force Base Airport.

What are the baggage allowance rules at Srinagar Airport?

Baggage allowance varies by airline, but generally, domestic flights allow 15-20 kg for checked baggage and 7 kg for carry-on baggage at the Srinagar Airport.

Can I get currency exchange services at Srinagar Airport?

Yes, currency exchange services are available at the Srinagar International Airport for international travellers to convert foreign currency into Indian Rupees.