Bhubaneswar05 Sep 24 1 Traveller Economy
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About Gwalior
Gwalior is known to be one of the major cities in Madhya Pradesh with pivotal cultural and political significance. The city is illustrious concerning the history, culture and royal appeal. The city has seen rulers from the 13th-century Tomars to the Mughal Empire to the Marathas to the 18th-century Scindias. Although the Scindias do not rule the city of Gwalior anymore, the descendants of the royal family continue to stay in the palace built by their ancestors. Gwalior easily becomes one of the most important as well as developed cities in India.
Best time to visit Gwalior
Gwalior sees cool winters as the temperatures range around 25 degrees Celsius but can even go to subzero levels. Thanks to such temperatures, the air is cool, and the vibe is quite pleasant. This makes it one of the best seasons to visit the city. Pick any months from October to March, and you'll have a good time in Gwalior. Between November and December, there is a lovely Tandem Music Festival that takes place to celebrate classical music. If you are a music enthusiast who would enjoy some classical tunes, then you should opt for these months.
Gwalior has a reputation for enjoying a subtropical climate. This means the atmosphere is hot and mildly humid as well. It does increase during monsoon, though. As the heavy rains take over the streets of Gwalior, the humidity in the air also escalates to an unbearable level. The temperatures too see an erratic change as it ranges between 25 degrees Celsius and 32 degrees Celsius. If you can handle the humidity then going to Gwalior would be fun.
Summers are the worst in Gwalior as the temperatures skyrocket to 48 degrees Celsius, which is pretty bad. People have often succumbed to heat strokes and other such health hazards. Even though the flight tickets are cheap as it is off-season, avoid going to Gwalior during this time unless you have some professional commitment that needs to be addressed. For tourism, summers aren't the best.
Places to visit in Gwalior
Gwalior Fort
One of the most impressive attractions in Gwalior is the Gwalior Fort. The structure is visible from all corners of the city, much like the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Perched over a high cliff, the impenetrable fortress stares down at the beautiful city of Gwalior. It'll take you an entire day to complete a tour of the fort but the time will undoubtedly be worth it.
Jai Vilas Palace
Built by Jayaji Rao Scindia, the Maharaja of Gwalior, the Jai Vilas Palace came into existence to flaunt the opulent culture and heritage of Madhya Pradesh. While the descendants of the royal family continue to live in the majestic palace, there is a segment that is open for tourism. The state has also installed a museum within the palace premise which sheds light on the history and British influence as well.
Man Mandir Palace
Man Mandir Palace is built within the vicinity of Jai Vilas Palace, by Man Singh Tomar. Although, some segments of the palace have turned into ruins, nevertheless, there are some relics of the royal Tomars, who lived in the palace. The structure should definitely be explored as it offers a glimpse at some fun history.
Teli Ka Mandir
Teli Ka Mandir is another important tourist attraction that should be visited in Gwalior. The Hindu temple has some illustrious architecture with an amalgam of inspirations from North as well as South. The temple is built for Lord Vishnu. It is said that the temple grounds were used to process oil, which is how the temple got its name.
Sun Temple
The famed Sun Temple is located in the city of Gwalior. The temple was constructed by industrialist GD Birla in 1988 and has since been a tourist place that attracts many devotees. Be it the architectural bliss and the tranquil environment that the temple possesses, it manages to see a lot of ardent followers of Sun God, who visit the place to seek blessings.
Tomb of Mohammad Ghaus
Mohammad Ghaus was a 26th-century Sufi saint who played an advisor to King Babur as well as helped train Tansen, who went ahead to become a music prodigy. The tomb has been built in honour of the Saint who played a pivotal role during King Babur's rule. Hence, the architectural style of the tomb is very Mughal-inspired and continues to see tremendous visitors.
Things to do in Gwalior
Explore the Scindia Museum
Take a tour through the quaint European-style Scindia Museum to learn more about the Gwalior history. There are glass furniture's, model trains and exhibitions of intriguing artefacts from the Scindia Dynasty that you'll find in the museum. Take this time to delve into the history and learn and the cultural heritage of the royal family.
Langar at the Gurdwara Bandi Chor Sahib
Aside from being a spiritual expedition, the biggest highlight of gurdwaras is the lovely langars that the authorities host to ensure that no person leaves the premise hungry. While you learn about the sixth guru of the Sikhs at the Gurdwara, you can further enjoy the delicious Langar food too.
Shopping spree at Sarafa Bazaar
Gwalior's famous market place, Sarafa Bazaar, beckons all shopaholics to come over and peruse through the authentic collection of souvenirs, collectibles, clothes and other such commodities. What makes the shopping experience engaging is how you can also indulge in some street food while you're purchasing beautiful things from the marketplace.
Stroll around Phool Bagh
The garden was originally built by Madho Rao Scindia and later inaugurated by the Prince of Wales during his visit in 1922, the vicinity has a sacred space dedicated to prayers. While the premise of the Phool Bagh is beautiful owing to the plants and flowers, it will also put you in a state of happy trance as it also boasts tranquillity.
Food and Restaurants in Gwalior
Gwalior's restaurants have managed to find fame in some of the big metropolitan cities. For an exquisite thali venerating the cuisine of MP, visit Panchvati Gaurav. They only serve thalis with unlimited refills. You will ask for more as the thali has some of the finest dishes from the laps of Madhya Pradesh. Moti Mahal Deluxe is another famous restaurant in Gwalior that offers some of the best delicacies in the city. Similar to Panchvati Gaurav is the Rajasthani Bhojanalaya, where you will get the authentic cuisine of the desert state of India.
Stuff yourself with the lip-smacking daal bhati churma, various flavours of daal, jalebi with rabdi and many such flavourful dishes. Other venerated restaurants with a strong legacy in Gwalior include The Mansingh, Alfanzo and Volga Restaurant that had consistently kept customers happy.
How to reach Gwalior
By Air
Rajamata Vijaya Raje Scindia Airport, or better known as Gwalior Airport, is actually an Indian Air Force Base which was later converted into a commercial airport. Intending to enhance the connectivity of the state of Madhya Pradesh, the state government transformed the essential Air Force Base station into an airport. This has actually helped better the flight connectivity to and from Gwalior. Although an Air Force Base stationing Mirage fighters is also prevalent in the area, the bigger expanse has been given to the airport.
Various domestic airlines fly via domestic routes connect Gwalior to big cities in India. While Air India has flights to and from Delhi, Mumbai and Indore, SpiceJet has dedicated flights flying to and from Bangalore, Jammu, Hyderabad and Kolkata. Overall, exceptional flight connectivity makes it easier to travel to Gwalior. One can book flight tickets to Gwalior for a cheap and affordable rate. Peruse a little more, and you will be able to snag some online flight deals for your flight tickets to Gwalior.
By Rail
Just like the flight connectivity, Gwalior' railway is also well-connected across the country. There are dedicated direct trains from Mumbai, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Jammu Amritsar, Kanyakumari, Patna, Kolkata, Visakhapatnam, Nagpur, Dehradun, Chennai, Thiruvananthapuram and more major cities. The Gwalior Railway station falls under the jurisdiction of Jhansi Rail Division and is one of the major railway stations in Madhya Pradesh.
Getting ticket reservations is a little tough as the line is busy and always on demand. Nevertheless, trains are an easy way to reach Gwalior, and they are comfortable as well. From the railway station, you can easily venture into the city as there are auto-rickshaws, auto tempos, prepaid taxi cabs and more available. The city is entirely developed with fancy hotels to book. Make your hotel bookings ahead of the travel though.
By Road
The big city of Gwalior has impeccable roadway network too. The National Express Highway as well as the National Highway 3 (famously known as the Agra-Mumbai road) help connect Gwalior to cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, Indore and Agra. There are many bus services, both state-owned and private, that run within the city. However, the roadway could get time-consuming and hence isn't always the first option.
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 Indigo Airlines
Indigo is the largest passenger airline in India and the oldest one, too, in terms of passengers that it carries and its fleet size. It operates about 1500 flights every day to 87 destinations, of which 63 are domestic, and 24 are international destinations. Its primary hub is at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi. Indigo commenced operations in 2006 and went on to become the largest India carrier by passenger market share in 2012. It connects to all major Indian cities and small cities like Aizawl, Agra and so on. Internationally, it connects to Athens, Brussels, Budapest, Tel Aviv, Malta, Paris, Dublin, Copenhagen, Zurich, Prague, Amsterdam, London, London Heathrow and Gatwick among others. Not only is it a low-cost operator in India, but it is also a low-cost airline globally. Indigo is also India's most preferred airline and for the right reasons. It offers great service at low fares and does not disappoint its passengers. It has grown to become one of the most trusted airlines in the country.
Indigo has a fleet size of more than 260 and has also been getting the 'Great Place to Work for in India' title for eight years in a row now. It was also given Aon's Best Employer in 2016 and 2017. It has been running profitable operations for ten consecutive years. It is considered as the most valuable and strongest airline brand in the country. In 2010, Indigo had replaced Air India as the third largest airline in India. In 2013, it became the second fastest-growing low-cost carrier in Asia after Lion Air, an Indonesian airline.
One of the specialities of Indigo is that it is customer-oriented, efficient and offers great services. It also offers low fares, which makes it one of the preferred airlines in the country. It is also one of the only airlines that connect to so many cities across the country. It operates to cities like Agartala, Aizawl, Ahmedabad, Bagdogra, Belagavi, Aurangabad, Amritsar, Chennai, Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar, Bhopal, Chandigarh, Coimbatore, Delhi, Hyderabad, Goa, Dimapur and the list goes on. Since Indigo is a low-cost carrier, it only offers economy class seating. However, you get to choose a seat of your preference in advance if you pay a little extra. There is no in-flight entertainment or pre-booked meals. You can buy your in-flight meals after the take-off, and you will be dependent on your own electronics and headsets to keep yourself entertained during the flight.
Fleet Size of Indigo
Indigo has one of the largest fleets of aircraft in the country, which enables it to run 1500 flights daily. It has 123 Airbus A320-200 in service that can accommodate 180 passengers. It also has 100 Airbus A320neo in service and ordered for 232 more, making it the largest operator. In addition to this, it has 15 Airbus A321neo aircraft in service that can accommodate 222 passengers each and has placed an order for 135 more aircraft of the same category. It also has 25 ATR 72-600 which can seat 74 passengers per flight.
In 2005, Indigo had placed an order for 100 Airbus A320-200 aircraft and commenced operations in 2006. In 2011, it placed an order for 180 Airbus A320 aircraft. It was a great year for the airline since it also got the permission to launch international flights that year. In 2015, it placed an order for 250 Airbus A320neo, which was the largest single order in Airbus' history. It made headlines quickly. In 2019, it placed another order for 300 Airbus A320neo aircraft and broke its own record. Later that year, it became the first Indian airline to operate 1500 flights daily. It also became the first airline to have a fleet size of 250+ aircraft. The Airbus A320neo and Airbus A320-200 have non-reclining seats, but there are a few seats that give you extra legroom. The ATR 72-600 has a twin-seat setting which not only gives you extra space but also gives you a lot of privacy. You won't have to sit next to a third stranger or sit uncomfortably.
Baggage Allowance
Indigo has certain baggage allowance restrictions that every passenger is expected to follow. You can carry cabin baggage that weighs up to 7 kg and check-in luggage up to 20 kg. However, for certain international destinations like Abu Dhabi, Istanbul, Colombo, Kuwait and so on, the maximum limit on check-in luggage is 30 kg. If your luggage exceeds the maximum limit, you will have to pay a certain fee depending on the weight. You will also need to inform the airline staff a couple of hours before boarding the flight about the excess luggage so they can make the necessary arrangements. You can do so through the website or get in touch with the call centre. An executive will help you complete the process without any hindrance or complications. It is advisable to get your web check-in done in advance so you can sail through all the formalities at the airport smoothly.
If you are carrying bigger bags with you that have golf clubs or surfboard bags, you will have to pay approximately Rs. 1200 /- for domestic and Rs. 2500/- for international trips to accommodate it in the check-in luggage. Please ensure that you carry important things like medicines, electronics or perishable items in your cabin luggage. Portable chargers and power banks go in your hand luggage and not the check-in luggage. You will not have to check-in again to collect your bags if you have to board a connecting flight. The airline makes sure that you receive your baggage at your final destination. Please ensure that you are not carrying anything that has been prohibited by the airline like explosives, hazardous or flammable objects, sharp objects and electronics. You will also have to reach the airport a couple of hours before your flight so you can get through the security formalities well in advance.
In-flight Services
Indigo's in-flight services are quite limited. In fact, the airline does not have any in-flight entertainment services. Since it operates on low fares, it does not provide complimentary meals on any of its flights. However, you can buy meals on board. The airline does offer premium services like pre-booking seats, priority check-in and multiple cancellations at a higher price. You can also get your hands on Indigo's magazine called Hello 6E. With the increasing competition and passenger's will to pay extra for comfort and convenience, the airline is also bringing in new offers and services for its passengers. The airline had also announced its tie-up with SonyLiv in 2019 that it will provide to its passengers as in-flight entertainment. You can also check out their website to find out more services that are offered by the airline.
Popular Routes and Top Cities for Indigo
Indigo connects to various domestic and international routes regularly. Indigo connects to 63 domestic destinations and 24 international ones. It got the permission to expand its operations internationally in 2011. The domestic cities that Indigo is connected to are Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Amritsar, Chandigarh, Agra, Aizawl, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Dehradun, Coimbatore and so on. The international destinations include Abu Dhabi, Amsterdam, Athens, Brussels, Budapest, Colombo, Bangkok, Dubai, Dublin, Dhaka, Hanoi, Istanbul, London and so on. The airline is quite particular about punctuality, and there are rarely any delays in flights unless there is an emergency or bad climatic conditions. You can also lookup offers and services on their website to make sure you make the most of your trip. Since the airline has already ordered more aircraft, there are high chances that they will add more cities to the list. Indigo will definitely go on to breaking more records and even making some in the next few years.
Why Travel by Indigo?
Indigo is one of the most prestigious and low fare airlines in the country. It made its way to the top airlines in the country quite quickly and made sure that passengers experienced the best services at a minimal price. It is also one of the largest airlines in the country that operates 1500 flights to domestic and international routes daily. It connects 24 international and 63 domestic destinations. It has its major hubs at Chennai International Airport, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai, Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru, Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad. You can check the Indigo flight schedule and your flight status on their website. The airline also makes web check-in quite easy for its passengers. The airline has also won several awards and accolades for its service over the years. Customers rarely have a disappointing experience flying with Indigo. If you are a frequent flyer, you might even get discounts and other offers while booking your next flight. Make sure you go through the offers on the airline's website. You can also get in touch with an executive at the call centre to know more about the offers.
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 Gwalior
Gwalior is known to be one of the major cities in Madhya Pradesh with pivotal cultural and political significance. The city is illustrious concerning the history, culture and royal appeal. The city has seen rulers from the 13th-century Tomars to the Mughal Empire to the Marathas to the 18th-century Scindias. Although the Scindias do not rule the city of Gwalior anymore, the descendants of the royal family continue to stay in the palace built by their ancestors. Gwalior easily becomes one of the most important as well as developed cities in India.
Best time to visit Gwalior
Gwalior sees cool winters as the temperatures range around 25 degrees Celsius but can even go to subzero levels. Thanks to such temperatures, the air is cool, and the vibe is quite pleasant. This makes it one of the best seasons to visit the city. Pick any months from October to March, and you'll have a good time in Gwalior. Between November and December, there is a lovely Tandem Music Festival that takes place to celebrate classical music. If you are a music enthusiast who would enjoy some classical tunes, then you should opt for these months.
Gwalior has a reputation for enjoying a subtropical climate. This means the atmosphere is hot and mildly humid as well. It does increase during monsoon, though. As the heavy rains take over the streets of Gwalior, the humidity in the air also escalates to an unbearable level. The temperatures too see an erratic change as it ranges between 25 degrees Celsius and 32 degrees Celsius. If you can handle the humidity then going to Gwalior would be fun.
Summers are the worst in Gwalior as the temperatures skyrocket to 48 degrees Celsius, which is pretty bad. People have often succumbed to heat strokes and other such health hazards. Even though the flight tickets are cheap as it is off-season, avoid going to Gwalior during this time unless you have some professional commitment that needs to be addressed. For tourism, summers aren't the best.
Places to visit in Gwalior
Gwalior Fort
One of the most impressive attractions in Gwalior is the Gwalior Fort. The structure is visible from all corners of the city, much like the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Perched over a high cliff, the impenetrable fortress stares down at the beautiful city of Gwalior. It'll take you an entire day to complete a tour of the fort but the time will undoubtedly be worth it.
Jai Vilas Palace
Built by Jayaji Rao Scindia, the Maharaja of Gwalior, the Jai Vilas Palace came into existence to flaunt the opulent culture and heritage of Madhya Pradesh. While the descendants of the royal family continue to live in the majestic palace, there is a segment that is open for tourism. The state has also installed a museum within the palace premise which sheds light on the history and British influence as well.
Man Mandir Palace
Man Mandir Palace is built within the vicinity of Jai Vilas Palace, by Man Singh Tomar. Although, some segments of the palace have turned into ruins, nevertheless, there are some relics of the royal Tomars, who lived in the palace. The structure should definitely be explored as it offers a glimpse at some fun history.
Teli Ka Mandir
Teli Ka Mandir is another important tourist attraction that should be visited in Gwalior. The Hindu temple has some illustrious architecture with an amalgam of inspirations from North as well as South. The temple is built for Lord Vishnu. It is said that the temple grounds were used to process oil, which is how the temple got its name.
Sun Temple
The famed Sun Temple is located in the city of Gwalior. The temple was constructed by industrialist GD Birla in 1988 and has since been a tourist place that attracts many devotees. Be it the architectural bliss and the tranquil environment that the temple possesses, it manages to see a lot of ardent followers of Sun God, who visit the place to seek blessings.
Tomb of Mohammad Ghaus
Mohammad Ghaus was a 26th-century Sufi saint who played an advisor to King Babur as well as helped train Tansen, who went ahead to become a music prodigy. The tomb has been built in honour of the Saint who played a pivotal role during King Babur's rule. Hence, the architectural style of the tomb is very Mughal-inspired and continues to see tremendous visitors.
Things to do in Gwalior
Explore the Scindia Museum
Take a tour through the quaint European-style Scindia Museum to learn more about the Gwalior history. There are glass furniture's, model trains and exhibitions of intriguing artefacts from the Scindia Dynasty that you'll find in the museum. Take this time to delve into the history and learn and the cultural heritage of the royal family.
Langar at the Gurdwara Bandi Chor Sahib
Aside from being a spiritual expedition, the biggest highlight of gurdwaras is the lovely langars that the authorities host to ensure that no person leaves the premise hungry. While you learn about the sixth guru of the Sikhs at the Gurdwara, you can further enjoy the delicious Langar food too.
Shopping spree at Sarafa Bazaar
Gwalior's famous market place, Sarafa Bazaar, beckons all shopaholics to come over and peruse through the authentic collection of souvenirs, collectibles, clothes and other such commodities. What makes the shopping experience engaging is how you can also indulge in some street food while you're purchasing beautiful things from the marketplace.
Stroll around Phool Bagh
The garden was originally built by Madho Rao Scindia and later inaugurated by the Prince of Wales during his visit in 1922, the vicinity has a sacred space dedicated to prayers. While the premise of the Phool Bagh is beautiful owing to the plants and flowers, it will also put you in a state of happy trance as it also boasts tranquillity.
Food and Restaurants in Gwalior
Gwalior's restaurants have managed to find fame in some of the big metropolitan cities. For an exquisite thali venerating the cuisine of MP, visit Panchvati Gaurav. They only serve thalis with unlimited refills. You will ask for more as the thali has some of the finest dishes from the laps of Madhya Pradesh. Moti Mahal Deluxe is another famous restaurant in Gwalior that offers some of the best delicacies in the city. Similar to Panchvati Gaurav is the Rajasthani Bhojanalaya, where you will get the authentic cuisine of the desert state of India.
Stuff yourself with the lip-smacking daal bhati churma, various flavours of daal, jalebi with rabdi and many such flavourful dishes. Other venerated restaurants with a strong legacy in Gwalior include The Mansingh, Alfanzo and Volga Restaurant that had consistently kept customers happy.
How to reach Gwalior
By Air
Rajamata Vijaya Raje Scindia Airport, or better known as Gwalior Airport, is actually an Indian Air Force Base which was later converted into a commercial airport. Intending to enhance the connectivity of the state of Madhya Pradesh, the state government transformed the essential Air Force Base station into an airport. This has actually helped better the flight connectivity to and from Gwalior. Although an Air Force Base stationing Mirage fighters is also prevalent in the area, the bigger expanse has been given to the airport.
Various domestic airlines fly via domestic routes connect Gwalior to big cities in India. While Air India has flights to and from Delhi, Mumbai and Indore, SpiceJet has dedicated flights flying to and from Bangalore, Jammu, Hyderabad and Kolkata. Overall, exceptional flight connectivity makes it easier to travel to Gwalior. One can book flight tickets to Gwalior for a cheap and affordable rate. Peruse a little more, and you will be able to snag some online flight deals for your flight tickets to Gwalior.
By Rail
Just like the flight connectivity, Gwalior' railway is also well-connected across the country. There are dedicated direct trains from Mumbai, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Jammu Amritsar, Kanyakumari, Patna, Kolkata, Visakhapatnam, Nagpur, Dehradun, Chennai, Thiruvananthapuram and more major cities. The Gwalior Railway station falls under the jurisdiction of Jhansi Rail Division and is one of the major railway stations in Madhya Pradesh.
Getting ticket reservations is a little tough as the line is busy and always on demand. Nevertheless, trains are an easy way to reach Gwalior, and they are comfortable as well. From the railway station, you can easily venture into the city as there are auto-rickshaws, auto tempos, prepaid taxi cabs and more available. The city is entirely developed with fancy hotels to book. Make your hotel bookings ahead of the travel though.
By Road
The big city of Gwalior has impeccable roadway network too. The National Express Highway as well as the National Highway 3 (famously known as the Agra-Mumbai road) help connect Gwalior to cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, Indore and Agra. There are many bus services, both state-owned and private, that run within the city. However, the roadway could get time-consuming and hence isn't always the first option.
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 Indigo Airlines
Indigo is the largest passenger airline in India and the oldest one, too, in terms of passengers that it carries and its fleet size. It operates about 1500 flights every day to 87 destinations, of which 63 are domestic, and 24 are international destinations. Its primary hub is at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi. Indigo commenced operations in 2006 and went on to become the largest India carrier by passenger market share in 2012. It connects to all major Indian cities and small cities like Aizawl, Agra and so on. Internationally, it connects to Athens, Brussels, Budapest, Tel Aviv, Malta, Paris, Dublin, Copenhagen, Zurich, Prague, Amsterdam, London, London Heathrow and Gatwick among others. Not only is it a low-cost operator in India, but it is also a low-cost airline globally. Indigo is also India's most preferred airline and for the right reasons. It offers great service at low fares and does not disappoint its passengers. It has grown to become one of the most trusted airlines in the country.
Indigo has a fleet size of more than 260 and has also been getting the 'Great Place to Work for in India' title for eight years in a row now. It was also given Aon's Best Employer in 2016 and 2017. It has been running profitable operations for ten consecutive years. It is considered as the most valuable and strongest airline brand in the country. In 2010, Indigo had replaced Air India as the third largest airline in India. In 2013, it became the second fastest-growing low-cost carrier in Asia after Lion Air, an Indonesian airline.
One of the specialities of Indigo is that it is customer-oriented, efficient and offers great services. It also offers low fares, which makes it one of the preferred airlines in the country. It is also one of the only airlines that connect to so many cities across the country. It operates to cities like Agartala, Aizawl, Ahmedabad, Bagdogra, Belagavi, Aurangabad, Amritsar, Chennai, Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar, Bhopal, Chandigarh, Coimbatore, Delhi, Hyderabad, Goa, Dimapur and the list goes on. Since Indigo is a low-cost carrier, it only offers economy class seating. However, you get to choose a seat of your preference in advance if you pay a little extra. There is no in-flight entertainment or pre-booked meals. You can buy your in-flight meals after the take-off, and you will be dependent on your own electronics and headsets to keep yourself entertained during the flight.
Fleet Size of Indigo
Indigo has one of the largest fleets of aircraft in the country, which enables it to run 1500 flights daily. It has 123 Airbus A320-200 in service that can accommodate 180 passengers. It also has 100 Airbus A320neo in service and ordered for 232 more, making it the largest operator. In addition to this, it has 15 Airbus A321neo aircraft in service that can accommodate 222 passengers each and has placed an order for 135 more aircraft of the same category. It also has 25 ATR 72-600 which can seat 74 passengers per flight.
In 2005, Indigo had placed an order for 100 Airbus A320-200 aircraft and commenced operations in 2006. In 2011, it placed an order for 180 Airbus A320 aircraft. It was a great year for the airline since it also got the permission to launch international flights that year. In 2015, it placed an order for 250 Airbus A320neo, which was the largest single order in Airbus' history. It made headlines quickly. In 2019, it placed another order for 300 Airbus A320neo aircraft and broke its own record. Later that year, it became the first Indian airline to operate 1500 flights daily. It also became the first airline to have a fleet size of 250+ aircraft. The Airbus A320neo and Airbus A320-200 have non-reclining seats, but there are a few seats that give you extra legroom. The ATR 72-600 has a twin-seat setting which not only gives you extra space but also gives you a lot of privacy. You won't have to sit next to a third stranger or sit uncomfortably.
Baggage Allowance
Indigo has certain baggage allowance restrictions that every passenger is expected to follow. You can carry cabin baggage that weighs up to 7 kg and check-in luggage up to 20 kg. However, for certain international destinations like Abu Dhabi, Istanbul, Colombo, Kuwait and so on, the maximum limit on check-in luggage is 30 kg. If your luggage exceeds the maximum limit, you will have to pay a certain fee depending on the weight. You will also need to inform the airline staff a couple of hours before boarding the flight about the excess luggage so they can make the necessary arrangements. You can do so through the website or get in touch with the call centre. An executive will help you complete the process without any hindrance or complications. It is advisable to get your web check-in done in advance so you can sail through all the formalities at the airport smoothly.
If you are carrying bigger bags with you that have golf clubs or surfboard bags, you will have to pay approximately Rs. 1200 /- for domestic and Rs. 2500/- for international trips to accommodate it in the check-in luggage. Please ensure that you carry important things like medicines, electronics or perishable items in your cabin luggage. Portable chargers and power banks go in your hand luggage and not the check-in luggage. You will not have to check-in again to collect your bags if you have to board a connecting flight. The airline makes sure that you receive your baggage at your final destination. Please ensure that you are not carrying anything that has been prohibited by the airline like explosives, hazardous or flammable objects, sharp objects and electronics. You will also have to reach the airport a couple of hours before your flight so you can get through the security formalities well in advance.
In-flight Services
Indigo's in-flight services are quite limited. In fact, the airline does not have any in-flight entertainment services. Since it operates on low fares, it does not provide complimentary meals on any of its flights. However, you can buy meals on board. The airline does offer premium services like pre-booking seats, priority check-in and multiple cancellations at a higher price. You can also get your hands on Indigo's magazine called Hello 6E. With the increasing competition and passenger's will to pay extra for comfort and convenience, the airline is also bringing in new offers and services for its passengers. The airline had also announced its tie-up with SonyLiv in 2019 that it will provide to its passengers as in-flight entertainment. You can also check out their website to find out more services that are offered by the airline.
Popular Routes and Top Cities for Indigo
Indigo connects to various domestic and international routes regularly. Indigo connects to 63 domestic destinations and 24 international ones. It got the permission to expand its operations internationally in 2011. The domestic cities that Indigo is connected to are Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Amritsar, Chandigarh, Agra, Aizawl, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Dehradun, Coimbatore and so on. The international destinations include Abu Dhabi, Amsterdam, Athens, Brussels, Budapest, Colombo, Bangkok, Dubai, Dublin, Dhaka, Hanoi, Istanbul, London and so on. The airline is quite particular about punctuality, and there are rarely any delays in flights unless there is an emergency or bad climatic conditions. You can also lookup offers and services on their website to make sure you make the most of your trip. Since the airline has already ordered more aircraft, there are high chances that they will add more cities to the list. Indigo will definitely go on to breaking more records and even making some in the next few years.
Why Travel by Indigo?
Indigo is one of the most prestigious and low fare airlines in the country. It made its way to the top airlines in the country quite quickly and made sure that passengers experienced the best services at a minimal price. It is also one of the largest airlines in the country that operates 1500 flights to domestic and international routes daily. It connects 24 international and 63 domestic destinations. It has its major hubs at Chennai International Airport, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai, Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru, Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad. You can check the Indigo flight schedule and your flight status on their website. The airline also makes web check-in quite easy for its passengers. The airline has also won several awards and accolades for its service over the years. Customers rarely have a disappointing experience flying with Indigo. If you are a frequent flyer, you might even get discounts and other offers while booking your next flight. Make sure you go through the offers on the airline's website. You can also get in touch with an executive at the call centre to know more about the offers.
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.
