Bhubaneswar to Jaipur Vistara Flights

  About Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar is the temple city of India and deservedly so. The City is known for its grand temples and the beautiful architecture and attracts tourists and pilgrims from all over India. In fact, Bhubaneshwar literally translates to 'Lord of the Universe'. The City is an architectural marvel. Though the City is famous for its temples, there are other reasons for you to visit the City, too. Situated in Orissa, Bhubaneswar is also home to a lot of animals like deers and White Tigers. You'll also find Museums in the City that will showcase the arts, crafts and splendid artefacts.

The Lingaraj Temple is one of the most visited temples in the City. It is ancient and has a lot of religious importance. It sees a lot of devotees who come to offer their prayers to Lord Shiva throughout the year. The Parasurameswara temple, which was constructed in 650 AD, is unique because of the one thousand lingas present in the north-west corner of the complex. The Brahmeshwara temple is yet another marvel and a great example of the Oriya architecture, that was built in the 11th century. The Ananta Vasudev temple, built by Queen Chandrika, has Lord Krishna residing in it. The Vaishnavi sculptures will leave you impressed and are a treat to the eyes.

The Museum of Tribal Arts and Artefacts is a must-visit for anyone who stops to appreciate and admire art whenever they get the opportunity. You'll get to see a lot of traditional costumes, jewellery, weapons, gears and farming equipment at the museum. It will leave you in awe of the artists. The Kedar Gauri Temple, which is one of the eight Asthasambhu Temples, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Gauri. The Mahashivratri celebrations across Bhubaneswar. You will feel overwhelmed to see the processions and be a part of the festivities.

Visit the Pathani Samantha Planetarium. It is named after the famous astronomer of the same name. Catch the audiovisual shows put up by the authorities. The City is also known for Khandagiri Caves, a series of artificial caves which dates back to the 2nd century. The caves are of great historical significance.

Don't miss visiting the Ramachandi beach, which is 65 km away from the City. It's a beautiful beach that sees the Bay of Bengal and River Kushabhadra converging. It's a sight to behold and one of the best places to take pictures at, too. The beach is accessible quite easily and is a popular location for young couples, tourists and students residing in the City.

Bhubaneswar experiences extreme summers but also intense rainfalls during monsoon. However, that does not stop people from venturing out, and the rains only add to the beauty of the City. October to February is the ideal time to visit the City since the city experiences winter during these months. While you are in Bhubaneswar, make sure you try the Machha Jholo, fish curry that is a speciality here. You must also try the Cuttack chaat, Badi Choora, Rasagola and the Abadha. The vegetarian food served in temples is also a treat to your taste buds. The list of things to do and places to see in Bhubaneswar is endless. Since Bhubaneswar is the capital of Orissa, it is well-connected to all the major cities. Biju Patnaik Airport is 5 km away from the City and is the nearest airport.

Best Time to Visit Bhubaneswar

The ideal time to visit the City is during winters which are from October to February. This is a peak season for tourists and is also ideal for sightseeing. The City experiences monsoon from June to September. Bhubaneswar experiences heavy rainfall, and it is not the most favourable time to visit the City. It will definitely put a damper on all of your outdoor plans. The summer starts from March and lasts till May. The scorching heat and the high humidity make it quite unbearable for you to venture out. This is also why you shouldn't visit Bhubaneswar during summer. The afternoons can get pretty harsh during summer.

Places to Visit in Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar is known for its temples. The Lingaraj Temple is one of the most popularly visited temples, and devotees of Lord Shiva come to offer their prayers throughout the year. You can also visit the Parasurameswara and the Brahmeshwara temple. Not only will you feel at peace by offering your prayers, but you will also be in awe of the expert Oriya architecture. You can also visit the Ananta Vasudev temple that was built by Queen Chandrika to offer her prayers to her deity, Lord Krishna. The City has a religious significance and is also considered holy. Devotees always leave with a smile and a sense of relief on their faces after visiting the temples.

The City also plays host to a lot of museums like the Museum of Tribal Arts and Artefacts and the Orissa State Museum. You will know more about the City, its culture and ancient art. You will also come across a lot of untold stories during the construction of these marvels. The Nandankanan Zoological Park, established in 1960, is another place you must visit in the City. You will spot different species of tigers and other animals in the zoo. There are also a lot of wildlife sanctuaries that will appease the wildlife photographer in you. Take home all the memories of spotting exotic wildlife in these sanctuaries.

Don't miss visiting the Ramachandi Beach. The beach is quite unique since it sees the convergence of the Bay of Bengal and River Kushabhadra. It's only 7 km away from Konark and a top-rated destination among tourists, too. The City also has a lot of parks for you to visit with your family. Another location for you to take great pictures.

Things to do in the City in Bhubaneswar

Visit all the temples in the City, starting with the Lingaraj temple. Don't just offer your prayers and admire the striking architecture of the temples but also try to discover the stories inception of the temple and the religious importance of it. Find a priest or a knowledgeable person and get them to tell you the stories about the temple. You'll surely leave with a lot of information, things that you never knew before. While the rulers made some of the temples out of respect and devotion to their deities, some have mythological stories and incidents attached.

The City has a lot of historical importance and artistic significance, too. There are a lot of human-made marvels in this City. Visit the Museum of Tribal Arts and Artefacts that showcases the exquisite collections of 62 tribes of Odisha. Explore the culture of all of these tribes and the history of Orissa, too. You can also visit the Nandankanan Zoological Park, the Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary, the Ekamra Kanan and more sanctuaries to treat the animal lover in you.

Since it's the capital city, it's easier to find and book a hotel as per your budget and convenience. Make sure you find something closer to the tourist attractions so you won't have to spend more time travelling. While you visit the Ramachandi beach, you can sit there and admire the waves or read your favourite book. It's the perfect place to chill and embrace solitude. You won't regret visiting and holidaying in Bhubaneswar for sure.

Foods and Restaurants in Bhubaneswar

Apart from the local speciality, you will also find restaurants that serve other cuisines that you might crave for. Even though it is a city with a lot of temples, you will find certain places that serve non-vegetarian food. Do try the Machha Jholo if you are a fan of seafood. Do not leave without taking back home a pot of rasagolas. Since the City is usually always budding with tourists, finding a decent restaurant is not a tedious task. If you are craving for some South-Indian food, do stop by at Truptee Restaurant. It is famous for its variety of dosas and other South Indian snacks.

Tangerine 9 is yet another restaurant that serves mouth-watering food at reasonable prices. You can also give the Hare Krishna restaurant a try. It's a delight for vegetarians and worth every penny spent. Not just their food but even the special ghee that they serve will leave you impressed.

How to reach Bhubaneswar

By Air

The nearest airport is the Biju Patnaik International Airport and is also the only international airport in Orissa. It connects the City to all of the domestic routes and international routes as well. You can get fair flight deals online and cheap flight tickets, if you are lucky.

By Rail

The Bhubaneswar railway station is well-connected to all the major cities in the country. You will also find a taxi or a bus easily from outside the station to your hotel.

By Road

A lot of deluxe buses with AC coaches and government buses will be available from major cities and the nearby ones, too. You can also take a private cab or drive to Bhubaneswar.

  About Jaipur

The Pink City of India, Jaipur is one of the jewels of Rajasthan. It's India's first-ever planned city, and it will surely take your breath away. There's grandeur in every wall, every person and everything that you find in Jaipur. Its rich culture and heritage is what attracts people to the city and makes them fall in love with it all over again. Jaipur is a major tourist attraction not just among Indians but also among international travellers who visit the country. You will find a lot of old Havelis, forts, palaces and buildings that were built even before the Mughals ruled India. Jaipur is a extraordinarily famous and one of the most visited tourist destination in India. You'll have no trouble booking hotels in Jaipur, especially the ones that meet your requirement.

You cannot help but be amazed by the royal palaces, the majestic forts and delicious Rajasthani food that makes your vacation worth every penny spent. Apart from the palaces, forts and the culture, Jaipur is also quite famous for the quilts, clothes, clothing accessories and jewelries. Among the list of impressive royal palaces is Hawa Mahal. Made with red and pink sandstone, the Hawa Mahal was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh. The five-storey palace is one of the main attractions of the city. You will be mesmerised by the sheer simplicity yet complex beauty of the palace.

What makes Jaipur special is that though it is home to a lot of majestic palaces and forts, the people who reside in the city lead a very simple lifestyle. In fact, even the royals of Jaipur led a very simple lifestyle. The City Palace of Jaipur is yet another palace that will leave you in awe of it. Not just with your families but you can visit Jaipur with your friends, too. Not just hotels but there are a lot of hostels in Jaipur, too, for youngsters from all over the world. The city plays host to people from across the globe, and you'll not need to worry about hospitality as it is excellent.

Best Time to Visit Jaipur

The best time to visit the city is in winter from November to February. The temperature drops to 5 degrees Celsius at night and the city experiences a warm, pleasant climate during the winters. This is also a peak season for the city with lots of tourists buzzing around. Don't forget to carry your cosy, warm clothes if you are visiting the city during winter. Since the city is situated in an arid desert, it experiences the hottest summers. If you are planning a trip during summer despite the weather, ensure that you book a hotel room that has air conditioner facilities and drink lots of water during the day to avoid sunstrokes or dehydration. The summer starts from March through July, and the temperature can shoot up to 45 degrees Celsius. The monsoon season is brief but can get quite intense.

Places to Visit in Jaipur

The Hawa Mahal is one of the top attractions of Jaipur and is considered as a prominent piece of history. The palace looks enchanting at night, and you will surely be overwhelmed by how the palaces look from outside at night in the city. Jantar Mantar is yet another palace that is worth visiting. In fact, it even made its way to the World Heritage List. It was constructed in the Mughal era and showcases astronomical skills. While you're at it, add Amber Fort to your list of places to visit, too. You would not want to miss the sound and light show that is put up by the locals at the Amber Fort at evenings. You'll hear the beautiful folk songs and stories being narrated. Chokhi Dhani is yet another place worth visiting. Experience the simple lifestyle, the authentic cuisines, attire and charm of Rajasthan's villages. No trip is ever complete without a fun shopping spree, and Johari Bazaar is one of the most popular and best places to fulfil all your shopping needs. From traditional bandhinis, mojaris to jewellery and artefacts, the market has everything that will make you want to empty your pockets. Not to mention, you'll also find a lot of lakes in the city that is worth visiting. The Sambhar lake, Ramgarh lake, Man Sagar lake and Chandlai lake are some that you must visit. It will be a well-deserved break from visiting the dreamy palaces and forts in the city.

Things to do in Jaipur

The list of things to do in Jaipur is quite long and very satisfying, too. From ticking off the palaces and forts in your list to experiencing the rich culture and indulging in the traditional delicacies of the state, there are myriad things you can do in the city. Be assured that you won't be tired of it. You will take back some beautiful memories back home. The Jaipur Literature Festival is one of the most popular events that has writers and thinkers from all over the world in attendance. You can also attend the Kite Festival in January during Makar Sankranti. It's definitely a festival you would love to celebrate in the city.

Since you are already indulging in all things majestic and royal, why not opt for an elephant ride outside the Amber Fort. Elephants have added to the grandeur of the Rajputs and continue to do so. They are a very important part of the culture and tradition of the city. Treat yourself to some delicious Daal Baati, Laal maas, different types of Lassi and Ghewar, when you're in the city. If you love collecting postcards, you will find a lot of options, and honestly, it's going to be challenging to choose from. You can pick a postcard from every destination that you prefer.

As the place has a rich history and culture, you will get to hear some intriguing stories from the people you meet during your trip. You will also find classes where you will be taught how to make certain crafts that have been mastered by the artists. People in Jaipur are quite friendly, and you will not leave the city without making any new friends. If you are a social butterfly, then this is the best place for you to do so. You will even learn more about their lifestyle and culture. If you want to spend a quiet evening, we suggest you visit one of the many lakes in the city and spend time admiring the beautiful city.

Food and Restaurants in Jaipur

Apart from the rich culture, traditions and royalty, Rajasthan is known for its food, and it is irresistible. Daal Baati is one of the most popular delicacies in Rajasthan and quite easy to find, too. Santosh Bhojanalya is one of the most popular places to enjoy a scrumptious meal of Daal Baati Churma. Gopi Mishtan Bhandaar and Rawat Mishtan Bhandaar are some of the most popular places to try out Ghewar, a sweet dish that is popular in the city.

Gatte Ki Sabzi is also a dish that is popular in Rajasthan, and you can indulge in this savoury dish during your shopping spree at the Johari Bazaar. Do stop at Lakshmi Mishtan Bhandaar. You must try out the traditional Rajasthani thali during your trip. You can get back to your diet regime and strict workout schedule once you are back from the trip. The staff at every hotel or Bhojanalya that you visit will be hospitable and very welcoming.

Do not hesitate to try out the street food in Jaipur. You'll find a lot of chaat corners that will add a Rajasthani touch to traditional chaat dishes. Jaipur is also like paradise for all you tea lovers out there.

How to reach Jaipur

By Air

Since Jaipur is also the capital of Rajasthan, the flight connectivity from all the metropolitan cities is topnotch. The nearest domestic airport to Jaipur is Sanganer airport. Since the city also hosts guests and travellers from other countries, they can take connecting flights from Jaipur International Airport. You will find excellent flight deals online for Jaipur. In fact, the right season, you might even get lucky and get cheap flight tickets to Jaipur.

By Rail

The Jaipur junction is well-connected within the city and to all the major cities as well. To take things up on a luxurious level, you can also opt for Palace On Wheels, the world's 4th most luxurious train that leaves from Delhi and you will definitely feel like a King or a Queen. Though it is quite expensive, it is an experience of a lifetime and worth every penny spent.

By Road

Buses run from all major cities to Jaipur, and though it might take longer, it is worth it. Not just normal government-run buses but a lot of AC buses also leave from and stop at Jaipur. However, if you want to cut down on the travel time, travelling by trains or flights will be the best option. Hiring a taxi or taking your car out to reach Jaipur is a popular way to reach the city from Delhi.

  About Vistara Airlines

Vistara is a fairly new airline that is a joint venture between Tata Sons and Singapore Airlines. Tata Sons owns 51% stake in the airline, and Singapore Airlines has 49% stake. This was Tata Sons' reentry in the world of Airlines since Air India was nationalised. Tata's still has minority stakes in AirAsia India. However, getting Vistara started was no less of a struggle for both parties involved. The companies had made a bid in the 1990s to launch the full-service carrier in India, but it was not successful and was denied approval by the Indian government. The airline was founded finally in 2013 after India opened up its airline for 49% foreign direct investment. Vistara airlines commenced operations in 2015 with its main hub at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi. It serves up to 36 destinations domestically and internationally. It operates approximately 200 flights daily and has flown over 20 million passengers already. It has grown quite popular and is slowly becoming one of the most preferred airlines by passengers. While low-cost carriers mostly dominate other airlines, Vistara caters to the high-end business travellers in the country. It also aims to make sure that the passengers have a luxurious and comfortable journey.

Vistara is a Sanskrit word that translates to the limitless expanse, and the airline sure does live up to its name. Vistara carried about half a million passengers in just seven months of commencing operations. It is also one of the few airlines that has the International Air Transport Association (IATA) membership. It flew its first international flight to Singapore in 2019 from Mumbai and Delhi. The airline used its Boeing 737-800NG. Vistara codeshares with British Airways, SilkAir, United Airlines, Singapore Airlines Japan Airlines and Lufthansa. It also has interline agreements with a couple of airlines that include Aeroflot, Air France, Air Mauritius, All Nippon Airways, British Airways, Asiana Airlines, Gulf Air, Emirates, Ethiopian Airlines, flydubai, Finnair, Kenya Airways, Japan Airlines and KLM. The airline currently has 40 aircraft in service and is awaiting 52 more that it has ordered. The aircraft has business class, premium economy and economy class for its passengers. Fun fact: Vistara was the first airline to introduce the Premium Economy class.

Not only do the Business Class and Premium Economy Class passengers get special treatment, but so do the economy class passengers. The premium economy class allows you to choose seats that have extra legroom and far more comfortable as compared to the economy class ones. It has eight business class seats that are the most comfortable ones in the aircraft. You can also use Vistara's frequent-flyer program called Club Vistara. You can look up more offers on the website like the Vistara Womanflyer, Vistara Corporate Flyer, Vistara Student Discount, Vistara Senior Citizen Discount, Vistara Affordable Luxury and so on.

Fleet Size of Vistara

Vistara picked up pace and popularity quite quickly. It flew half a million passengers in only seven months of commencing operations, which is quite impressive. Though the airline does not have a fleet as large as the other airlines, it is slowly getting there. Vistara has 13 Airbus A320-200 aircraft which have eight business class seats, 24 premium economy class seats and 126 economy class seats. It also has 20 Airbus A320neo aircraft with the same number of passenger accommodations. It has 6 Boeing 737-800 aircraft that can accommodate 168 passengers, 12 business class and 156 economy class. The Boeing 787-9 can accommodate 30 business class passengers, 21 premium economy class and 248 economy class, passengers. While the airline currently only owns one of these aircraft, it has placed an order of five more of those. It is, without a doubt, one of the biggest Vistara aircraft that can seat more passengers as compared to the other flights.

Vistara acquired its first aircraft in 2014 and commenced flights from 2015. The airline also has quite a few aircraft that it is planning to get on long term leases soon. Vistara is one of the only Indian airlines that have business class seats and also has a lot of offers to provide luxurious services to its customers. Vistara might not exactly have low fares, but it does make sure you get your money's worth.

Baggage Allowance

Make sure you go through Vistara's baggage allowance rules and regulations while you book your Vistara flight tickets. The airline allows 7 kg cabin luggage for economy class passengers, 10 kg for premium economy and 12 kg for business class passengers. Your cabin luggage cannot exceed this limit unless you are carrying items like a handbag, overcoat, camera, infant's feeding aids, medicines, laptops and so on. Baggage allowance rules differ depending on your ticket plan. You can choose between Value, Standard and Flexi plans for whichever travel class you choose. For passengers travelling within India, the maximum limit for check-in luggage for economy class is 15 to 20 kg, premium economy is 20 to 30 kg and business class is 30 to 40 kg. If you are travelling to international destinations like Bangkok, Dubai, Singapore and Colombo, the maximum limit ranges from 30 to 45 kg. For travellers heading to Kathmandu, the limit ranges from 20 to 40 kg. You can either check out the baggage allowance limit on your ticket or find it on the website.

If you have a Club Vistara Gold or Platinum membership, there are chances you might get a few extra kilos of baggage that you can carry without having to pay extra. Make sure you are not carrying any item that has been prohibited by the airline. You cannot carry explosives, flammable or combustible items, sharp objects, chemical or illegal drugs in your luggage or otherwise. You must also make sure that you carry your power bank and portable chargers with your cabin baggage instead of the check-in luggage. It would be advisable to get your web check-in done in advance to avoid any hindrance. You will also have to inform the airline staff hours before boarding the flight in case your baggage exceeds the weight limit.

In-flight Services

Vistara's in-flight services are not only luxurious, but they are completely worth all the money spent. The business class seats are reclined, have an extendable leg rest, footrest, and you can also adjust the height of the headrest. You also get personal storage space at the side of your seat for smaller items. If you are travelling by the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, you also get seat ambient lighting, USB outlet, and an 18" HD personal entertainment screen with a video handset. Vistara also offers the most delicious meals as a part of its in-flight dining experience. You can enjoy a range of food options and can also sip on some refreshing coffee from Starbucks. You can enjoy over 70 hours of Hollywood and Bollywood content that are a part of Vistara's in-flight entertainment services. Whether you want to watch a romantic, comedy or action film, or just listen to various genres of music, you will find everything that you are looking for as a part of the in-flight entertainment services. You can look up their website to get a glimpse of all the royal treatment and luxury that you will experience onboard.

Popular Routes and Top Cities for Vistara

Vistara connects to various destinations through domestic and international routes daily. It connects to 34 destinations including Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Amritsar, Bangkok, Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar, Colombo, Chennai, Dehradun, Dubai, Goa, Guwahati, Delhi, Indore, Kathmandu, Leh, Lucknow, Port Blair, Srinagar and so on. You can check Vistara's flight schedule and your flight status on the website. Vistara makes it a point to operate punctually and not give passengers a chance to complain about anything. The staff is also quite friendly and helpful in case you need help with anything at all.

Why Travel by Vistara?

Vistara has evolved as one of the most favourite airlines among passengers and deservedly so. It offers luxury and convenience at the best price. The fares might not be as cheap as other Indian Airlines, but it does live up to its promise of delivering luxurious services to its passengers. You can book a Vistara flight ticket through the website or get a travel agent to do the same. If you are not able to go through the web check-in process for any reason, you can always get in touch with the call centre. The executives will definitely help you through the process. Vistara also makes sure that it keeps you updated on your flight status and any upcoming or ongoing offers that it comes up with. You can also sign up to become a Club Vistara member to enjoy the benefits. It is also one of the only few Indian airlines that gives luxury a tad more importance as compared to low fares. It leaves its customers satisfied, which is one of the reasons that it flew over half a million customers in only seven months. It is also slowly becoming one of the most preferred airlines among passengers. Its services only keep improving with time.

  About Bhubneshwar Airport

Biju Patnaik International Airport also referred to as Bhubaneswar Airport, is the primary international airport that serves the city of Bhubaneswar which is the capital of the state Odisha. The airport is located about 4 km south-west of the Bhubaneswar Railway Station and 6 km away from the main city. The city's main airport has been named after the former chief minister of the state of Odisha, Biju Patnaik. He is a famed aviator as well as a freedom fighter. Biju Patnaik International Airport is the 15th busiest airport in the country. As for the Airports Authority of India's list of airports, Biju Patnaik International Airport falls on the 11th busiest which a registered 27.9 per cent growth in the passenger and air traffic.

The airport came into existence in 1962 and was dedicated to catering to the travel needs of the citizens of Odisha. It is the first commercial airport to be installed in the state. The airport caters to domestic and international carriers, activities of which are divided into two terminals. In 2013, the former minister of civil aviation, Ajit Singh, inaugurated the newly refurbished Terminal 1 to enhance the travelling experience of the domestic passengers. Terminal 2 was also upgraded to handle better international operations. It received international stature in 2013 and commenced operations to international destinations.

About Bhubaneswar Airport Terminal

Along with Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, Biju Patnaik International Airport is also recognised as a major civil aviation hub for Eastern India.

Terminal 1 - Terminal 1 was refurbished and inaugurated in 2013 to accommodate a passenger capacity of 4 million in a year. Lanco Infratech built it at the cost of INR 1.45 billion. The project upgradation was developed by the Airports Authority of India as part of their scheme to enhance 35 of their non-metro airports in India. Terminal 1 is equipped with two storeys and a total area of 18,240 square metres. The new terminal comprises of four aerobridges, several escalators, four elevators, 18 check-in counters, multiple seating and three arrival baggage conveyors. Terminal 1 also houses some lounges in the departure and arrival sections. There is a total of three VIP lounges also installed at the Biju Patnaik International Airport. The airport has been constructed keeping the green building standards on the check. There are sewage treatment plant and rainwater harvesting facilities located at the terminal. Reflecting the culture and tribal traditions of Odisha, the airport also has tribal paintings, sculptures, motif designs and several such artefacts.

Terminal 2 - Terminal 2 is reserved for international operations and was constructed in the mid-1960s. Originally, the terminal catered to domestic flight activities in the 1960s. However, with the addition of the new airport terminal building, the domestic operations were shifted. Biju Patnaik International Airport's terminal 2 comprises of six check-in counters, four customs counters, ten immigration counters, various facilities and a slew of seating area too.

Terminal 3 - Terminal 3 is a passenger terminal building that has been proposed by the airport's authority to expand its passenger handling to 8 million in a year. The terminal is set to spread across an area of 58,000 square metres for INR 9.3 billion. With this, Biju Patnaik International Airport's capacity would be increased from 3.5 million to 11.5 million. The positioning of the terminal started in 2019 with construction works to be completed in three years, as scheduled. Once completed, the terminal would be handling all domestic passenger activities with the existing 1 and 2 terminals catering to international flight activities.

About airport authority

Biju Patnaik International Airport is owned and operated by the Airports Authority of India. The government body was introduced by the Ministry of Civil Aviation under the Government of India and came into existence to cater to the infrastructural management and maintenance of civil aviation across the country. Overall, the airport's authority handles about 126 airports along with 11 international airports. Biju Patnaik International Airport also falls under the international airport list of the aviation body. The airport authority has brought forth several expansion, and upgradation plans to make Bhubaneswar Airport accessible and ideal for more airline activities. Much recently, they refurbished their terminals and have proposed for a new terminal that would cater to domestic operations. Meanwhile, the old two terminals would take care of international operations.

Following the repercussions of the coronavirus pandemic, Biju Patnaik International Airport's authority has announced that they would be changing their operations. Following the lifting of the lockdown, the airport plans to operate in a single shift that would only take place between 10 am to 6 pm. Overall, 16 flights with two flights per hour would be operated Special guidelines to avoid the abundant footfall of passengers will also be taken care of at the airport. They are handling limited cargo operations too.

Facilities at the Bhubaneswar Airport

ATMs – Biju Patnaik International Airport has installed four ATM kiosks at one spot that range from domestic to international banks. This makes it easier for international tourists to withdraw money without much hassle. It is available at the departure and the arrival sections of the terminal building.

WiFi – The airport also has WiFi facilities available. By using the local mobile number, the passengers can connect to the airport's WiFi network and avail the free services.

Child care rooms – To cater to parents travelling with infants, the airport has installed designed child care rooms. These rooms are well-equipped with baby products as well as comfortable chairs and changing tables. They also have some baby products such as powders and diapers, in case the parent has exhausted these products.

Lounge – An airport lounge is also present in the departure section where passengers with relevant passes can access. You can also make some payments and enter the comfortable lounge area. They provide great hospitality and good services.

Smoking lounge – As smoking is not allowed in public spaces, the airport has reserved special smoking zones for passengers. These spaces can be utilised, and even boxes of cigarettes can be purchased at the airport.

Medical services – With a view to dealing with medical emergencies, the airport has installed relevant services. There is a special team of doctors and medical professionals who are present at the airport to deal with emergency cases. Plus, there are pharmacies also present at the airport.

Baggage – The baggage services offered by Biju Patnaik International Airport are quite good. You can opt for wrapping services, porter services, conduct thorough security checks of bags and even use the trolleys.

Top airlines flying from the Bhubaneswar Airport

Currently, the airport has some of the top domestic airlines functioning from the premise. In fact, airlines that operate from Biju Patnaik International Airport include AirAsia India, Air India, Alliance Air, GoAir, IndiGo and Vistara. These flights from Biju Patnaik International Airport connect to major Indian cities such as Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Pune, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Varanasi, Surat and Ranchi, to name a few. The airport also caters to one international airline, AirAsia, which connects to Kuala Lumpur. The services to the Malaysian capital has been suspended owing to the coronavirus pandemic. However, once things go back to normal, international flight services from the airport will be resumed.

How to reach Bhubaneswar Airport

By Bus

The city of Bhubaneswar has excellent bus facilities that are run by the state government. Called the MO Bus, the services have been rolled out by the Capital Region Urban Transport to connect Cuttack, Bhubaneswar and Puri, in the state of Odisha. The service is known to be one of the most reliable ones in the city that has reduced the transportation challenges that one might have had to face earlier. The MO Bus also has a mobile app with provisions of the map of its routes, ticket booking options and schedules of the buses traversing within the city. The ticket fare is also quite cheap and affordable. You can easily pick a bus route from the MO Bus to reach Biju Patnaik International Airport. These buses are available in AC as well as Non-AC to add to the comfort of the passengers.

By Taxi and Ridesharing apps

The city has an abundance of taxi cab services available. You can easily hail a taxi cab from the city to reach Biju Patnaik International Airport. Besides, it is only 3 km away from the city centre, so travelling is usually not an issue. Depending on the traffic of the city and your location, the travel time might differ, but it will not exceed 15 minutes to reach Biju Patnaik International Airport. Besides, ridesharing apps can also be used within the city premise. You can book cabs on Ola and Uber to reach Bhubaneswar Airport. Normal taxi cabs can also be hailed in the city, but you will need to discuss the fare ahead of the journey. Usually, the cabs in the city-run at fixed prices so it is always safe to ask in advance about the fare and whether it is feasible.

  About Jaipur Airport

Jaipur International Airport serves as the primary airport to the state capital Jaipur. Thanks to its excellent infrastructure, the airport was declared by the Airports Council International as the 'World's Best Airport', in the category of 2-5 million passengers in a year. Jaipur International Airport stands at the 11th position as the busiest airport in India. This is with respect to the scheduled flight operations that are conducted on a daily basis. Situated in the southern suburb of Sanganer, the airport is about 13 km away from the city centre of Jaipur. While it started as a domestic airport, Jaipur International Airport received its international stature in 2005. Currently, the airport has the capacity to accommodate up to 1,000 passengers at a time in its new terminal building. Currently, the airport accommodates two runways which are 1,592 metres and 3,500 metres long respectively. The second runway started operations in 2016 and was constructed with a view to catering to bigger aircraft such as Boeing 747. Following the construction of a new runway, the airport's authorities further extended its runway to handle Boeing 777s.

About Jaipur Airport terminals

Terminal 1 - Terminal 1 was dedicated to international flight operations until 2012. The airport authorities shifted the operational activities of international flights to the new Terminal 2, leaving terminal 1 for cargo-related functions. For a brief period of time, the airport conducted all domestic and international flight operations from terminal 2 while reserved terminal 1 for cargo operations. Eventually, in 2017, the authorities brought commercial flight operations to be terminal 1 as the passenger traffic exceeded the capacity of terminal 2. Currently, Hajj pilgrimage and cargo flights are the only ones to operate from terminal 1. The airport authorities have announced expansion plans to accommodate more cargo operations to terminal 1. The plan is to upgrade and expand the terminals to cater to international departures and arrivals only. The design will celebrate the Rajasthani heritage of the city with rich tapestry and other such Rajasthan-inspired layouts.

Terminal 2 - Terminal 2 came into existence in 2009 with a view to handle domestic operations. The terminal is spread across an area of 22,950 square metres and headlines modern facilities ranging from the central heating system to inline x-ray baggage inspection systems along with departure conveyor systems. Further, Jaipur International Airport's Terminal 2 has also installed common-use terminal equipment (CUTE) and a public address system. The airport's terminal is also known to handle a passenger capacity of 500 during peak hours and an annual accommodation capacity of 400,000. Terminal 2's entrance has been made of the famous sandstone that envelops much of Jaipur. The gate is further adorned with Dholpur stones, and Rajasthani paintings hung on the walls.

The terminal is being utilized for both domestic and international flight operations. Terminal 2 also has three VIP lounges to avoid the overcrowding of the terminal to bring inconvenience to important guests and passengers. There are 14 airport check-in counters, four customs counters and six immigration counters at Terminal 2 along with four security-check counters. These counters are perfectly equipped to accommodate passenger traffic that the airport witnesses.

About Airport Authority

Jaipur International Airport is owned and operated by the Airports Authority of India. The government body is responsible for the management and infrastructural development of the airport. The authority body has been working towards enhancing the efficiency of Jaipur International Airport and making it accessible and comfortable for passengers. Simultaneously, they are also working on expansion plans to accommodate more flight operations. The airport authority has announced to expand the current terminal 2 by a width of 20 metres on either side. They also plan to install a new hall in the departure section to add three conveyor baggage claim belts in the arrivals section. Further, on the same, they also have plans to add two new aerobridges to enable smooth passenger movement. The expansion work is slated to be completed by 2020. There are plans to construct a third terminal to accommodate world-class facilities and amenities that the airport too that have been announced. It is said that terminal 3 would be at least seven times larger than terminal 2. Expansion plans are yet to be announced.

Facilities at the Jaipur Airport

Lounge – Jaipur Airport has lounge facilities in the international terminal. The lounge caters to several facilities that help the passengers feel at ease.

WiFi – There are WiFi services available at the airport. However, the WiFi network is only available for 30 minutes. Post the stated time, the airport will charge you to utilize the WiFi network.

Baggage – The airport has free trolleys that are up for grabs at the entrance of the departure gate as well as the arrivals section. You can use these trolleys to take your luggage within the airport premises. Further, there are storage spaces also available where you can leave your baggage. Porter services are also available at the airport vicinity. Plus, you can get your luggage wrapped and processed for safety.

Restaurants and cafe – The airport has a food court and exquisite restaurants also available at the terminals. While the departure section has many restaurants and cafes, the arrivals mostly have food joints. Tea, coffee and other beverages can be found at the domestic as well as arrivals sections of the airport terminals.

Child care room – Designated child care rooms have been put up in the airport terminals. Passengers who are travelling with infants can avail the rooms for feeding, changing of diapers and other such necessary activities. These rooms have been sanitized properly and are maintained by the airport staff. The seating is also quite comfortable and the perfect for mothers to tend to their babies.

Smoking zones – Smoking zones have also been introduced in the airport terminal at both domestic and international terminals. As the passengers are prohibited from smoking in public lounge spaces, specific smoking zones can be utilized. You can also make cigarette purchases outside the smoking lounges.

ATMs and forex counters – As an international airport, Jaipur Airport has installed foreign exchange counters in the arrivals section. You can make currency exchanges as well as transfer money. Along with the foreign exchange counters, the airport is well-equipped with ATM kiosks as well. Cash withdrawals can be made at the airport premise without any hassle.

Medical facilities – The airport has medical facilities available to cater to any emergencies that might take place in the premise. On-call medical professionals are present at the airport at all times to ensure that all medical cases are immediately handled without any stress. Pharmacies are also installed in the airport. You can purchase medication and toiletries from the pharmacies that are present in the departure sections.

Top airlines flying from Jaipur Airport

As the capital city of Rajasthan, Jaipur Airport witnesses good passenger traffic. As the 11th busiest airport in the country, Jaipur International Airport is well-connected with several Indian cities. Some of the domestic airlines that operate from Jaipur International Airport include Air India, AirAsia India, Alliance Air, GoAir, IndiGo and SpiceJet. These airlines connect to Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, Agra, Bhopal, Lucknow, Raipur, Udaipur, Ahmedabad, Chandigarh, Goa, Guwahati, Indore, Kolkata, Surat, Varanasi, Jaisalmer, Patna, Chennai and Amritsar, to name a few. Simultaneously, Jaipur Airport also caters to international flight activities. Although the international airline operations are limited with a handful functioning from Jaipur International Airport, they do connect to some big international destinations. Air Arabia, Air India Express, AirAsia X, Oman Air, Thai AirAsia and Thai Smile are some of the airlines operating from Jaipur International Airport. They serve cities such as Sharjah, Dubai, Kuala Lumpur, Muscat and Bangkok. With its terminal building expansions, the airport will be able to accommodate more flights and enhance the passenger carrier activities soon.

How to reach Jaipur Airport

By Bus

Jaipur International Airport is located about 11 km from the main city bus stand. Travellers who are exploring all the top cities in Rajasthan, often take buses to reach the Pink City and take public transport such as cabs and prepaid taxis to reach Jaipur International Airport. There are rickshaw services also available, and since the distance is quite decent, the fares are also accommodating to one's budget. It is recommended that the traveller fix a price for travelling to the airport as they might charge more at the destination. The airport also has provisions of taxis and rickshaws that would reach the bus stand and the main city.

By Rail

The main railway station of Jaipur is also located only 13 km away from Jaipur International Airport. As a hub for transport, the railway station has a plethora of transportation options to reach Jaipur International Airport. One can hail taxi cabs or rickshaws from the railway station to reach Jaipur International Airport. Not to mention how there are provisions of apps such as Ola and Uber that enable booking vehicles and travelling within the city and to the airport.