Khajuraho Airport

Khajuraho Airport (HJR) is the air gateway to one of India's most mesmerizing treasures, the famous temples listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Despite its compact size, this airport plays a key role in the region's tourism infrastructure, welcoming travellers from all over the world. Opened in 1978 and significantly modernized with the launch of a new terminal in 2016, it offers a comfortable start for exploring the country's rich history and culture. Located just a few kilometres from the legendary temple complexes, the airport ensures quick and convenient access to the main attractions.

Airport Features and Advantages

The main advantage of Khajuraho Airport is its strategic location. Its proximity to the city and temple complexes makes it an ideal starting point for tourists, saving time on long transfers. The airport has one runway and a modern passenger terminal equipped with two aerobridges, capable of handling medium-sized aircraft such as the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737. Although the infrastructure is not vast, it is functional and meets all basic passenger needs: there are check-in counters, waiting areas, and baggage claim zones. The cosy and peaceful atmosphere of this small airport allows you to avoid the hustle and bustle of major transport hubs, which is especially valuable after a long flight.

Below is the contact information for Khajuraho Airport (HJR), which may be useful when planning your journey.

• Official Website: Up-to-date information on flights, services, and airport regulations can be found on the airport's page on the Airports Authority of India (AAI) website: www.aai.aero.
• Helpline Phone: +91 7686 272 826. You can call this number to clarify information about flight schedules and airport services.
• Airport Address: Khajuraho Airport, Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh 471606, India.
• Email: For official enquiries, you can use the email of the Airport Director: apdkhajuraho@aai.aero.
• Social Media: Khajuraho Airport does not have separate verified pages on social networks. News and updates can be tracked on the official accounts of the Airports Authority of India.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you should first contact your airline's representative. For items left behind in the terminal building, please contact the airport helpline.
• Passenger Support Service: For assistance and advice regarding your stay at the airport, please use the helpline number.

Getting to Khajuraho Airport (HJR) from the centre of the city is effortless, as it is located just 3-4 kilometres from the main tourist zone. A trip by car or auto-rickshaw usually takes no more than 10–15 minutes. The main modes of transport for tourists travelling around India in this small but world-famous city are taxis and their local variety — the auto-rickshaw.

The most common and convenient way to get to the airport is by taxi or auto-rickshaw (also known as a tuk-tuk). They can be found everywhere in the tourist areas of Khajuraho. A ride in an auto-rickshaw will be cheaper, costing approximately 150–300 Indian rupees, and offers an authentic local experience. A taxi will cost slightly more — around 400–600 rupees. Key tip: always negotiate the price with the driver before starting the trip, as meters are rarely used. Another reliable option is to book a transfer through your hotel, which guarantees a fixed price and comfort.

Public transport options, such as city buses, are poorly developed in Khajuraho and are not geared towards tourists heading to the airport. Although it is theoretically possible to use a local bus, it would be extremely inconvenient with luggage and requires knowledge of the routes. Car rental for self-driving is not common among tourists here. However, you can hire a car with a driver for the whole day or for a specific trip, which is convenient if you plan to visit several places before your flight.

For those who are travelling by private or rented transport, parking is available at Khajuraho Airport. It is small, but there are usually enough spaces given the modest passenger traffic. In general, it is recommended to allow about 30 minutes for the trip to the airport to avoid rushing, and to carry cash in small denominations to pay for the fare.

Khajuraho Airport (HJR) is a small and convenient aviation hub that serves as the main air gateway to the famous UNESCO World Heritage temples. The airport consists of just one passenger terminal, which handles all domestic flights connecting this corner of India with major cities. Thanks to its compactness and simple structure, navigating through it presents no difficulty whatsoever.

The terminal is a single building combining departure and arrival zones. The airport layout is extremely simple: upon entering, you immediately find yourself in the common hall. Check-in counters are located on one side, and the exit for arriving passengers is on the other. Since everything is in one building, there are no transfers between terminals, making movement as fast and convenient as possible.

The Departure Zone includes several check-in counters, a security checkpoint, and a small waiting lounge with sufficient seating. The Arrival Zone is even more concise: it consists of a baggage claim belt and an exit to the city, where passengers are met by taxis and hotel representatives. The terminal's architecture may feature elements of traditional Indian style, creating an atmosphere of anticipation for exploring the local culture.

Check-in and security procedures at Khajuraho Airport usually proceed quite quickly due to the low passenger volume. On average, all formalities take no more than 20-30 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before departure, especially during the peak tourist season (from October to March), when flights can be fully booked. To navigate, simply follow the few signs available — it is practically impossible to get lost here.

Khajuraho Airport (HJR) serves as the key air gateway to the world-renowned temples included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. Its history is inextricably linked with the development of tourism in this region of India. The airport was opened in 1978 with the main goal of making these unique architectural monuments more accessible to travellers from all over the world, significantly reducing travel time compared to ground transport.

Initially, it was a small airfield capable of receiving only small aircraft and serving a limited number of flights. The main stage of development, which radically changed its appearance and capabilities, was the construction and opening of a new modern terminal in 2016. This large-scale project, implemented by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), was aimed at meeting the growing flow of tourists.

The new terminal was designed with modern standards in mind and is capable of handling up to 600 passengers during peak hours. A crucial part of the modernization was the expansion of the runway and apron, which allowed the airport to receive larger medium-haul aircraft, such as the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737. This opened up opportunities for launching direct flights from major Indian cities, making travel to Khajuraho even more convenient.

Among interesting facts, it is worth noting that the design of the new terminal is partially inspired by local culture and architecture, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the region's atmosphere immediately upon arrival. Although Khajuraho Airport does not set records for passenger traffic on a national scale, its history is a vivid example of how infrastructure develops to preserve and popularize unique cultural heritage.

Khajuraho Airport (HJR) is a compact domestic airport serving mainly tourists coming to see the famous temples. Despite its modest size, it provides travellers with all the basic amenities necessary for a comfortable wait for a flight to one of the most interesting corners of India.

Inside the terminal building, there are several small cafes and snack bars where you can order drinks, sandwiches, and light meals. There are also souvenir shops where you can buy items made by local craftsmen, books, and travel essentials as keepsakes. The selection is limited but quite sufficient for a small airport.

A general waiting lounge is equipped for passengers. There are no separate business lounges or VIP lounges here, but the environment in the terminal is quite peaceful. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, usually provided for a limited time. In the departure hall, there are power outlets for charging mobile phones and other gadgets.

At Khajuraho Airport, you will find ATMs and a currency exchange point. A medical room is available for first aid. Passengers with small children can use the mother and child room. For travellers with reduced mobility, ramps and special toilets are provided, as well as an escort service and wheelchair provision, which is recommended to be booked in advance through your airline.

There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds. All accommodation options — from budget guesthouses to comfortable hotels — are located in the city of Khajuraho, a few minutes' drive away. Specialized conference halls or business centres are absent at the airport.

When planning a departure from Khajuraho Airport (HJR), it is worth considering that this is a small regional airport, and the choice of dining establishments here is quite limited. Opportunities for a full lunch or dinner are practically non-existent; however, basic options are available for passengers to have a snack and a drink before their flight. The airport mainly serves tourists coming to see the famous temples of Khajuraho, so the infrastructure is designed for short stays.

The main dining point at the airport is a small snack bar or cafe located in the general hall before the security zone (landside). Here you can order tea, coffee, bottled water, and soft drinks. Food offerings usually consist of packaged snacks such as chips, biscuits, and chocolate, as well as simple freshly prepared items. Most often, these are sandwiches or popular snacks in India, for example, samosas, which are excellent for a quick bite.

After passing security control (airside), in the departure zone, the selection is even more modest. Sometimes a small kiosk operates here with drinks and packaged snacks. It is important to note that the opening hours of establishments at Khajuraho Airport are strictly tied to the flight schedule. They open a few hours before departure and may close immediately after the aircraft leaves, so do not rely on them at other times.

Regarding dietary preferences, travellers should be prepared. As a rule, you can find vegetarian options (for example, vegetable samosas), which is the norm for India. However, finding certified vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes will be extremely difficult. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is strongly recommended to bring food with you. For a full meal, it is better to visit one of the restaurants in the city of Khajuraho before travelling to the airport.

Prices at the airport are expectedly higher than in the city but remain at a moderate level. Overall, Khajuraho Airport offers basic service for a comfortable wait for a flight but is not a place for gastronomic discoveries. It is a convenient option for buying a drink or a light snack at the last minute.

Planning a trip through the airport of Khajuraho city will be easier if you take into account a few useful tips. This small airport mainly serves domestic flights, making it quite convenient to navigate.

Arrival Time and Check-in. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight's departure. This will give enough time to complete all formalities without rushing. To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides this option. Check-in counters usually close 45-60 minutes before departure.

Security Screening. Security services at airports in India work thoroughly. Be prepared to remove laptops, tablets, and other large electronic devices from your hand luggage in advance, as well as liquids in containers up to 100 ml packed in a transparent bag. This will speed up the screening process.

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage. If you want to enjoy the views during takeoff or landing, choose a window seat. For those who value freedom of movement, an aisle seat is better. Remember that power banks can be carried only in hand luggage. Sharp objects and flammable substances are prohibited.

Transfers and Customs. Khajuraho Airport is rarely used for connecting flights. If you have a transfer planned, check with the airline in advance whether you will need to collect your luggage and check in for the next flight again. Customs control is only undergone by passengers of rare international charters. This procedure is absent on domestic flights.

Saving Time and Money. Pre-booked transfers to the hotel often work out cheaper than a taxi taken on the spot. Inside the airport, there is a limited selection of cafes, so you can bring a light snack with you. Also, take an empty water bottle, which can be filled after passing security.

If the Flight is Delayed. In case of a flight delay, contact your airline representative to find out the reasons and your rights (provision of drinks, food, or accommodation). Ensure that you have all essentials in your hand luggage: chargers, medicines, and hygiene items. Keep an eye on the departure boards for updates.