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Airports in West Bengal

TeamAckoJan 28, 2025

West Bengal, known as the "Gateway to the East," boasts a rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and significant historical importance. To connect this vibrant state with the rest of the world, West Bengal is equipped with an efficient network of domestic and international airports. Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata serves as the primary hub for international and domestic flights. Additionally, several other domestic airports ensure seamless connectivity to various cities within India.

Continue reading this blog to learn more about the airports in West Bengal, things to do, places you must visit, and more.

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Contents

Know All About the Domestic and International Airports in West Bengal
Things to Do in West Bengal
Places to Visit in West Bengal
Final Words
Frequently Asked Questions About Airports in West Bengal

Know All About the Domestic and International Airports in West Bengal

West Bengal, being a vibrant state located in Eastern India, has good connections with both domestic and international cities via its airports. The West Bengal airports are strategically located to enhance connectivity and support tourism, trade, and commerce.

If you are thinking how many airports in West Bengal are there, the answer is 3. Here is a detailed overview of the domestic and international airports in West Bengal:

1. Bagdogra International Airport

Bagdogra International Airport is one of the notable airports in West Bengal. It serves as a gateway to the respective towns of Kurseong, Kalimpong, Mirik, Darjeeling, and Sikkim. A lot of tourists avail this airport throughout the year to visit the ‘Queen of Hills’. There are several connecting flights at this airport from Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, New Delhi, Bangalore and Guwahati. Operated by the Airport Authority of India (AAI), this airport is easily accessible with several transportation facilities.

From the city of Siliguri, this airport is located at an approximate distance of 16 kilometers west in the north portion of West Bengal. At present, several airlines are operating successfully in this airport, such as Air India, Spice Jet, Vistara, Druk Air, IndiGo, and others. The Druk Air flight establishes a connection of West Bengal with the Suvarnabhumi Airport of Bangkok and Paro International Airport in Bhutan.

Airport Address: M8PG+25X, Distt. Darjeeling Siliguri, Bagdogra, West Bengal 734421
IATA Code: IXB
Terminal: The airport consists of one terminal with two gates applicable for both domestic and international flights. However, there is further planning to construct another new terminal and complete it by June 2025.

2. Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport

Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport is a domestic airport in West Bengal, situated in Andal, Durgapur. This airport is named after the well-known Bengali poet Kazi Nazrul Islam and is categorised as the third busiest airport in West Bengal.

Introduced on 19^th September 2013, this airport is situated at a distance of 15 kilometers from Durgapur and 25 kilometers from Asansol. There are many flights operating from this airport to major cities of the state.

The famous towns surrounding this airport are Bishnupur, Bankura, Burdwan, Suri, Purulia, Shantiniketan, Dhanbad, and Rampurhat in Bengal. This airport is a significant part of the Bengal Aerotropolis Projects Limited (BAPL) plan for bringing about further development in the first private sector aviation of the country. The terminal passage of the airport which can accommodate about 1 million passengers each year is planning further to enlarge it to about 2.5 million in the near future.

Airport Address: Service Cluster Block Building, Block-Andal, Airport Approach Rd, Durgapur, West Bengal 713363
IATA Code: RDP
Terminal: The airport consists of only one terminal with an area of about 5,750 square meters and a capacity of handling around 25 lakh people annually

3. Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, situated in Kolkata, is the most popular and well-recognised airport in West Bengal. It was named after the brave freedom fighter Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. Before this, tourists knew this airport by the name 'Dum Dum Airport'. This airport is spread over an area of 2460 acres and is the largest airport in Eastern India. Maintained by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), this is also an international airport other than Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal.

Majority of passengers in Kolkata prefer traveling through this airport because of its close proximity to the city. The distance of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport from the main city of Kolkata is approximately 17 kilometers. Different modes of public and private transport are widely available near the city for travelers to access easily. This airport consists of three terminal buildings, and roughly around 310 aircraft fly each day.

The flights that operate in this airport include Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet and more. Alongside this, the airport runs regular flights to China, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Southeast Asia, Northeast Asia, and other places.

Airport Address: Jessore Rd, Dum Dum, Kolkata, West Bengal
IATA Code: CCU
Terminal: The three terminals of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport are a domestic terminal, a cargo terminal, and an international terminal.

Things to Do in West Bengal

Here are the top things to do in West Bengal to enjoy its cultural heritage:

Sundarban National Park: You can experience a thrilling boating experience in the mangrove forest, which is home to the Royal Bengal Tiger.
Explore Places of Interest: Go to iconic landmarks such as Howrah Bridge, Indian Museum, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, Victoria Memorial, and others.
Kalimpong and Kurseong: Experience a visit to vibrant monasteries, and scenic beauty in these hill towns.
Darjeeling: Enjoy the breathtaking views of Himalayas, a toy train ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, and visit the tea gardens.
Heritage Sites: Go to Murshidabad to experience the different historic places, Cooch Bihar for its royal architecture, and Bishnupur to enjoy the terracotta temples.
Ganga Aarti at Belur Math: Experience the evening rituals held along the sacred Ganges everyday.
Beach of Mandarmani: Sit back and relax on the beaches of Mandarmani, enjoy the seafood, and indulge in some water sports activities.
Local Cuisine: Taste some lip-smacking Bengali dishes, such as fish curry, sweets such as sandesh and rasgulla, and street foods such as kati rolls and phuchka.

Places to Visit in West Bengal

Some of the notable places to visit in West Bengal to have a lifetime of experience are as follows:

1. Kolkata

Kolkata is home to the Howrah Bridge and Victoria Memorial and is well known as the 'City of Joy'. This vibrant city is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. Kolkata is a major hub of literature, music, and arts. It is also the city for book lovers and cultural festival enthusiasts.

Tourists visiting this city can indulge in delicious foods that include puchka, fish curry, mishti doi and others, while exploring some busy markets like Gariahat and New Market. Because of its unique blend of modernisation and tradition, tourists prefer visiting the city again and again.

2. Sunderban

Sunderban, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has one of the largest mangrove forests in the world. It is also the home of Royal Bengal tigers and a wide variety of flora and fauna. Situated in the delta region of the Ganges, Meghna River, and Brahmaputra, the majority of visitors prefer to explore the flora and various wildlife, including spotted deer, crocodiles, and other bird species.

Alongside this, Sunderbans also have cultural significance and are ideal spots for eco-tourists and adventure seekers who wish to explore the natural beauty of the wild.

3. Darjeeling

Darjeeling, the ‘Queen of Hills,’ is a popular hill station in Bengal, well known for its tea plantations and breathtaking views. Apart from this, people prefer visiting here to experience the magnificent view of the mountain range of Kanchenjunga. This charming town is popular for its pleasant climate and provides tourists with lush green landscapes. Travellers here can also enjoy the scenic toy train ride through the hills.

The major attraction of this place is the Tiger Hill viewpoint, from which visitors can experience breathtaking views of sunrise, the Batasia Loop, tea plantations, Rock Gardens, and more.

4. Shantiniketan

Shantiniketan is a cultural hub situated in Bolpur, West Bengal. The founder of this place is Rabindranath Tagore who fostered a holistic approach to learning. The annual Poush Mela, in the month of December, is also celebrated by embracing the art and local culture, thereby attracting visitors from all over the world. Shantiniketan overall provides a perfect blend of culture and historical significance to all.

5. Kalimpong

Kalimpong is another popular hill station located in the eastern Himalayas. It is well known for its green landscapes and vibrant Buddhist culture. Situated at an altitude of 1,250 meters, this town provides visitors with a breathtaking view of lush valleys and the Kanchenjunga range. Alongside this, it is also the home to several other monasteries such as the famous Zang Dhok Palri Phodang and Thongsa Gompa.

6. Digha

Digha is a major beach destination, widely popular among the tourists of West Bengal. It is well known for its sandy shores and sunsets. If you are looking to travel to any beachside with your family for a short trip, choose this place for fun and relaxation. On this beach, you can indulge in several water sports and have an adventurous experience.

Final Words

To conclude, the airports in West Bengal are more than just a simple transportation hub. Through establishing connections between cities, economies, and cultures, these airports facilitate trading and boost tourism.

As West Bengal progresses towards development, the airports in the state evolve continuously to meet the rising demands of the aviation sector. Irrespective of whether you continue to explore the cultural richness of Kolkata or plan to venture into the serene beauty of Darjeeling, these airports provide memorable experiences to many travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Airports in West Bengal

Following are some frequently asked questions and answers about airports in West Bengal:

What is the distance of Bagdogra International Airport from Darjeeling?

Bagdogra International Airport is located approximately 65 kilometers away from Darjeeling. From the airport, travelers can reach Darjeeling by road.

Which airport is the most notable in West Bengal?

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport is the most notable in West Bengal, serving as a primary international gateway.

Is there any international flight flying directly to West Bengal?

Yes, there are many international flights flying directly from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, connecting the state with various other countries.

Which airport is the Greenfield airport in West Bengal?

Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport is the first and only Greenfield Airport in India. Taking further assistance technologically from Changi Airports International, Singapore, the Bengal Aerotropolis Private Limited developed this airport.

Name the major airlines running their flights from Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport.

The major airlines running their flights from Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport include Spicejet Airlines, Vistara Airlines, Air India, Thai Airways, Singapore Airlines, Go Airlines, Qatar Airways, and many others.

Which is the largest airport in West Bengal?

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport is one of the largest airports in West Bengal. Furthermore, it is also another popular airport located in Eastern India spreading out over 2460 acres of land.