Bagdogra Airport

Bagdogra Airport (IXB) is not merely an air hub, but a true gateway to the mesmerizing world of the Eastern Himalayas. Located near the city of Siliguri, it serves as a starting point for thousands of travellers seeking to witness the tea plantations of Darjeeling, the mysterious Sikkim, and even neighbouring Bhutan and Nepal. This airport, which is a civil enclave within an Air Force base, combines strategic importance with a growing role in the tourism industry of India. Every year, it welcomes an increasing number of flights, opening the road to adventure in one of the country's most picturesque regions.

Despite its relatively small size, Bagdogra Airport effectively handles a constantly growing flow of tourists. Its main advantage is its strategic location, making it a key transport hub for travel throughout the region. The airport offers all basic amenities necessary for a comfortable wait, including waiting lounges, several cafes, and shops. Thanks to its role as the "door" to the Himalayas, you can obtain a permit to visit the state of Sikkim here, which significantly simplifies further itinerary planning.

For your convenience, we have compiled the essential contact information for Bagdogra Airport (IXB). If you have questions regarding your flight, schedule, or airport services, you can use the following details.

• Official Website: On the official portal of the Airports Authority of India (AAI), you will find the current flight schedule, information about services, and airport news. www.aai.aero
• Helpline Number: For immediate information, you can call: +91 353 269 8431 (Airport Director).
• Airport Address: Bagdogra Airport, Siliguri, District Darjeeling, West Bengal - 734014, India.
• Email: For written enquiries, you can use the e-mail: apd.bagdogra@aai.aero
• Social Media: Follow updates on the airport's official social media pages: X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook.
• Lost Luggage Information: Issues related to lost or damaged luggage should be addressed directly to your airline representatives. Airline counters are located in the arrival hall.
• Passenger Support Service: For general questions regarding your stay at the airport, you can contact the main helpline number.

Bagdogra Airport (IXB) is located approximately 12 kilometres from the city centre of Siliguri and is the main transport hub for travellers heading to the mountainous regions of India, such as Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and the state of Sikkim. You can get to or from the airport in several ways, the choice of which depends on your budget, time, and comfort preferences.

The most budget-friendly way to reach the centre of Siliguri is by public buses. They run regularly between the airport and the Tenzing Norgay bus station. The journey may not be the most comfortable due to the high number of passengers, but it allows for significant savings. There is no direct rail or metro connection to the airport; the nearest major railway station, New Jalpaiguri (NJP), is a few kilometres away and requires an additional trip by taxi or auto-rickshaw.

The most popular and convenient option is a taxi. Right at the exit of the arrival terminal, there is a pre-paid taxi counter where you can book a car at a fixed price, eliminating the need to haggle. Additionally, mobile apps such as Uber and Ola operate in the region. The trip to the centre of Siliguri takes on average 30-45 minutes depending on traffic conditions. The cost of a taxi ride is usually between 400-600 Indian Rupees. A cheaper alternative could be an auto-rickshaw, but it is less convenient if you have large luggage.

Car rental is available at Bagdogra Airport, however, most international tourists are not advised to drive themselves due to chaotic traffic and specific road rules. A much more common and convenient service is renting a car with a driver. This option is ideal for those planning to head straight to Darjeeling or Gangtok, as it allows you to travel in comfort and without unnecessary stress.

For those arriving at the airport in their own or rented vehicles, paid parking is provided. Both short-term and long-term parking options are available. We recommend allowing extra time for the journey to the airport, especially during peak hours. To avoid inflated prices, use official taxi counters or trusted mobile apps. For trips to the mountain regions, it is most convenient to pre-book a transfer or take a taxi directly at the airport.

Bagdogra Airport (IXB) is a compact and functional transport hub. Unlike large metropolitan airports, you will not find multiple terminals here — the airport consists of one integrated terminal that serves both domestic and international flights. This significantly simplifies navigation and reduces the time spent moving within the building.

The terminal structure is intuitive. The building is divided into two main zones: departure and arrival. Upon entering the terminal, you immediately find yourself in the common area with several check-in counters. After receiving a boarding pass and checking in luggage, passengers proceed to the security check zone, and then to the common waiting lounge with boarding gates. The arrival zone is located separately and includes baggage claim belts and customs control for international flights. Since everything is in one building, there are no transfers between terminals, which eliminates the need for shuttles or long walks.

Despite its modest size, the airport can be quite busy, especially during the tourist season, as it serves as the main gateway for travellers heading to Darjeeling, Sikkim, and other Himalayan regions. It is recommended to arrive at the airport well in advance: approximately 2 hours before departure for domestic flights and 3 hours before for international flights. This time is usually sufficient for a calm passage through all formalities, including check-in and security screening.

To navigate the terminal, simply follow standard signs in English and Hindi. All key areas — check-in counters, security zones, boarding gates, and baggage claim — are clearly marked. Thanks to the airport's compactness, getting lost here is practically impossible, making it convenient even for first-time travellers.

The history of Bagdogra Airport, located near the city of Siliguri, is closely tied to the strategic importance of this region of India. Initially, it was established as an Indian Air Force base and was not intended for civil transport. Its creation in the 1960s was dictated by the need to strengthen air connectivity in the foothills of the Himalayas.

A turning point in the airport's history was its opening for commercial flights. Realising the region's growing tourism potential — its proximity to Darjeeling, Sikkim, and even Bhutan — authorities decided to allow civil aircraft to use the runway. At first, these were only sporadic flights, but over time their number grew steadily, transforming the military airfield into an important transport hub for travellers.

Throughout its history, Bagdogra Airport has undergone several stages of modernisation. With the increase in passenger traffic, the old terminal could no longer cope with the load, leading to its expansion and reconstruction. Passenger conditions were improved, and the number of check-in counters and boarding gates increased. Of particular importance was the upgrade of navigation equipment, which allowed flights to be accepted in the more complex weather conditions characteristic of this region.

One interesting fact about Bagdogra Airport is its dual purpose. To this day, it remains an active Indian Air Force base, sharing its infrastructure with civil aviation. This imposes certain restrictions but at the same time highlights its strategic importance. Today, the airport continues to develop, serving hundreds of thousands of tourists annually and acting as a key access point to the breathtaking beauty of the Eastern Himalayas.

Bagdogra Airport (IXB) offers passengers a set of essential services to make waiting for a flight comfortable. Despite its compact size, the terminal is equipped with everything necessary for travellers heading to Siliguri, Darjeeling, or Sikkim.

Inside the terminal, you will find several cafes and eateries where you can have a snack before departure, as well as enjoy tea or coffee. The selection mainly includes dishes of local and Indian cuisine. Additionally, there are small shops offering souvenirs, books, newspapers, and travel essentials.

For a more comfortable wait, the airport has a premium lounge, where passengers can relax in a quiet atmosphere and enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and charging stations for electronic devices are installed in the departure halls.

Financial services are represented by ATMs and several currency exchange counters, which is particularly convenient for international tourists. If necessary, passengers can seek medical assistance at the medical centre operating within the airport premises.

For travellers with small children, special mother and child rooms are provided. Passengers with reduced mobility are offered assistance in moving around the terminal, including wheelchairs, and special restrooms are equipped for their use.

There are no hotels within the airport building itself, however, many accommodation options can be found in the immediate vicinity and in the city of Siliguri, which is easily accessible by taxi. Specialised conference rooms or business centres are absent at the airport, so for business meetings, it is better to use the facilities of hotels in the city.

Bagdogra Airport (IXB) offers passengers several options for a snack or a full meal before flying. Although the selection here is not as extensive as in major international hubs, you certainly won't go hungry. The main dining establishments are concentrated in the main terminal building, both in the public zone before security control (landside) and in the departure zone (airside).

At the airport, you will find several cafes and eateries offering both local and Indian cuisine. This is a great opportunity to try something authentic. Look out for popular regional dishes such as momo (steamed dumplings) or Bengali sweets. Of course, more familiar options are also available: sandwiches, pastries, chips, and soft drinks. This is an ideal option for a quick snack.

If you have time for a more substantial lunch, look for establishments offering combo menus or thali — a traditional Indian meal consisting of several dishes served on a single platter. Vegetarians in India can always easily find suitable dishes, and Bagdogra Airport is no exception — most cafes offer a wide selection of vegetable curries, rice, and snacks. It may be more difficult to find specific vegan or gluten-free options, so it is best to check the ingredients on the spot.

Prices in the airport establishments are moderate but generally higher than in the city. Most cafes and restaurants operate according to the flight schedule — from early morning until the last aircraft departs. We strongly recommend not missing the opportunity to enjoy a cup of authentic Darjeeling tea — after all, you are at the gates of one of the world's most famous tea regions.

Travelling through Bagdogra Airport, located near the city of Siliguri, is your first step towards exciting adventures in the foothills of the Himalayas. To ensure your trip starts smoothly, use our tips to help you navigate the airport and avoid unpleasant surprises.

Arrival time at the airport. Bagdogra Airport serves many tourists heading to Darjeeling and Sikkim, so it can be crowded during peak hours. We recommend arriving 2–2.5 hours before a domestic flight and 3–4 hours before an international one. This will give you enough time to check in, drop off luggage, and pass through security control without rushing.

Check-in and Security Control. Keep your passport, ticket, and visa (for international flights) ready. A peculiarity of airports in India is that baggage tags must be attached to all hand luggage; these are issued at the check-in counter or before the security zone. After the security check, these tags will be stamped — without this stamp, you may not be allowed on the plane. Ensure there is a stamp on every bag.

Prohibited and Restricted Items. Standard rules apply here: liquids in hand luggage — only in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Place all sharp objects in checked luggage. Important point: power banks are permitted only in hand luggage; placing them in checked luggage is strictly prohibited.

Choosing a seat on the plane. If you are flying from Bagdogra to Delhi, Mumbai, or Kolkata (or vice versa), try to get a window seat. In good weather, you will be treated to a breathtaking view of the Himalayas, including the majestic Kanchenjunga. Usually, the best views are from the left side when departing from Bagdogra and from the right side when approaching it.

Connecting Passengers and Customs. Bagdogra is primarily a domestic airport. If you have a connection to another flight within India, clarify at check-in whether your luggage will be transferred automatically. For rare international flights, customs control follows standard procedures. If you are not carrying anything subject to declaration, feel free to use the "Green Channel".

Saving Time and Money. To avoid inflated taxi prices, use the pre-paid taxi counter in the arrival hall. You pay a fixed amount at the cashier and take the receipt to the driver. This is a reliable and cost-effective way to get to your destination. You can also pre-book a transfer through your hotel.

In Case of Flight Delays. Weather conditions in the region, especially fog in winter and monsoon rains in summer, can cause delays. Regularly check your flight status online. If the flight is delayed, contact your airline representative — depending on the wait time, you may be provided with vouchers for food or drinks. There are several cafes and shops in the airport where you can pass the time.