Pilgrimage travel often involves long journeys, tight schedules, and coordination among family members. Direct air connectivity has transformed how people reach major spiritual destinations, reducing travel time and physical strain. Several well-known pilgrimage centres now have dedicated airports or strong airport access within city limits. This makes planning smoother, especially for elderly travellers and large groups. Below are eight prominent pilgrimage cities that offer convenient airport connectivity and efficient onward transport options.
Varanasi – Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport
One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Varanasi is served by Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport. The airport operates domestic flights from major metropolitan hubs and also handles select international routes.
Located around 20–25 kilometres from the city centre, the airport offers taxis, app-based cabs, and prepaid transport counters. Road connectivity from the airport to key parts of the city is well developed, allowing travellers to reach their destination without multiple transfers. The availability of direct flights significantly reduces travel fatigue for visitors coming from distant regions.
Tirupati – Tirupati International Airport
The city of Tirupati is connected through Tirupati International Airport, located approximately 15 kilometres from the main urban area. The airport handles flights from major cities across the country and select international sectors.
Efficient terminal facilities and short transfer distances make arrivals convenient. Public buses, taxis, and private transport services operate frequently between the airport and central areas. This accessibility supports high passenger movement throughout the year and helps reduce congestion on road and rail routes.
Amritsar – Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport
Amritsar is served by Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport, one of the busiest airports in the northern regions. The airport supports both domestic and international flights, making it a major entry point for travellers.
Situated roughly 11 kilometres from the city centre, the airport offers strong road connectivity. Travellers can access taxis, ride-sharing services, and car rentals directly from the terminal. Its proximity to the city ensures shorter commutes than destinations that require additional rail or road transfers after landing.
Madurai – Madurai Airport
In southern Tamil Nadu, Madurai is connected via Madurai Airport. The airport operates domestic flights to major hubs and limited international services.
Located about 12 kilometres from the city, the airport provides convenient surface transport options. Well-maintained roads allow quick access to central districts. For travellers who prefer shorter itineraries, flying directly into the city helps avoid extended train journeys across the state.
Ayodhya – Maharishi Valmiki International Airport
The city of Ayodhya is served by Maharishi Valmiki International Airport. Built to accommodate growing passenger demand, the airport features modern passenger amenities and streamlined arrival processes.
Positioned close to the urban core, the facility reduces dependence on nearby city airports. Dedicated parking, taxi services, and improved road networks make transfers efficient. Direct connectivity has improved access for travellers who earlier relied heavily on rail routes.
Shirdi – Shirdi Airport
Shirdi has its own airport, Shirdi Airport, located roughly 14 kilometres from the main town. The airport handles domestic flights linking major metropolitan cities.
Ground transportation from the terminal includes taxis, buses, and rental vehicles. Availability of a nearby airport significantly shortens total travel time, especially for visitors arriving from western and southern regions. This has helped streamline group travel planning.
Dehradun – Jolly Grant Airport (Gateway to Haridwar)
While Haridwar does not have its own airport within city limits, it is conveniently accessed via Jolly Grant Airport near Dehradun. The airport is approximately 35 kilometres from Haridwar.
Regular flights connect this airport to major cities across the country. Taxi services and buses provide direct connectivity to Haridwar, making air travel a practical option. For travellers heading to multiple nearby destinations, this airport acts as a regional gateway.
Gaya – Gaya International Airport
Located in Bihar, Gaya is served by Gaya International Airport. The airport accommodates both domestic and select international flights.
Positioned about 12 kilometres from the city centre, the airport offers easy road access. Taxis and local transport services operate regularly. Having an airport in close proximity reduces reliance on neighbouring cities for air travel and simplifies logistics for visitors.
Why Airport Connectivity Matters for Pilgrimage Travel
Airports located within or near pilgrimage cities offer several practical advantages. Reduced travel time is the most obvious benefit, particularly for elderly passengers and families travelling with children. Direct flights also help avoid multiple transfers between trains and buses, lowering the risk of delays.
Improved connectivity supports better crowd management, especially during peak travel seasons. Modern airport infrastructure typically includes clear signage, security systems, and organised transport counters, which make arrivals smoother. For travellers planning short trips, air access allows more efficient use of time.