Srinagar International Airport, formally Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, is the airborne entry to one of India’s most romantic and touristic places—Kashmir. Situated in the center of the Kashmir Valley, this strategically located but picturesque airport is not only crucial to civilian and military air transport but also a critical connection for Kashmir tourism.
Whatever be the reason you book Srinagar flights for – adventure, spiritual retreat, or leisure, knowing the infrastructure, facilities, and inside information of this airport can really make your travel an experience. In this comprehensive guide here, we will take you through all that you need to know about Srinagar Airport, from its history, present infrastructure, connectivity, travel tips during seasonal periods, to plans on the drawing board.
A Brief History of Srinagar International Airport
Srinagar International Airport’s history begins way back in the early 1940s. The airport began as a military base and began accepting civilian flights in the 1970s. However, since it was near the Indo-Pak border, it was always a sensitive airbase for decades with severe security and limited global operations.
It was formally declared an international airport in 2005, with the intention of boosting international usage and encouraging tourism to Kashmir. Although there are still only a limited number of international flights, the airport receives a great deal of domestic air traffic, particularly in season.
Dedicated to the holy Kashmiri saint Sheikh Noor-ud-din Noorani, also referred to as Sheikh ul-Alam, the airport is culturally and religiously important to the locals.
Location and Accessibility
Srinagar International Airport (SXR) is about 12 kilometers from the city center of Srinagar. The airport is in Jammu and Kashmir’s Budgam district and is accessible by taxi, ride-sharing, and public transport with ease.
For visitors, Lal Chowk—the city center—to the airport road is highly motorable and scenic, offering a glimpse of the scenery for which Kashmir is famous.
Key Points:
- Airport Code: SXR
- Distance from City Center: 12 km
- Type: Military and Civil Enclave
- Elevation: 5,429 ft (1,655 m) above sea level
Domestic and International Connectivity
Though the airport is declared an international airport, Srinagar Airport runs mainly domestic flights. There are convenient domestic flights available from major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata. Regular airlines such as IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, Go First, and Vistara operate daily flights to and from Srinagar.
Most Popular Domestic Routes:
Delhi to Srinagar flights (maximum passenger movement and highest frequency)
- Mumbai to Srinagar flights
- Bangalore to Srinagar
- Leh to Srinagar (domestic route)
International Flights:
Although regular international commercial flights are rare, occasional chartered flights do occur during religious pilgrimages and Hajj seasons. Customs and immigration facilities exist at the airport too, setting it up for future growth into regular international traffic.
Terminal Facilities and Services
The Srinagar International Airport terminal is located small in terms of metro airport terminals but well-fitted according to the requirements of the region. The airport has one integrated terminal for arrival and departure.
Amenities:
- Check-in Counters: Smooth, but tends to get crowded at peak times
- Security: Multi-checkpoint security at high levels due to location
- Waiting Lounges: Basic but clean, with VIP and executive lounge amenities
- Food & Beverage: Cafés, snack bars, and Kashmiri traditional food counters
- Retail Outlets: Small handicraft shops, dry fruits, saffron, and souvenir shops
- Free Wi-Fi: Free but slow
- Restrooms & Baby Care Rooms: Clean and well-kept
- Medical Facilities: On-call doctor and emergency services
Smooth operation in spite of the small size with special care for passenger comfort and safety.
Travel Tips for First-Time Flyers to Srinagar
If you’re flying into Srinagar for the first time, there are some essential tips to ensure a hassle-free journey:
- Arrive Early: Due to tight security, check-in and clearance can take longer than at other airports.
- ID Verification: Carry valid government-issued ID. Foreign nationals need to register upon arrival.
- Weather-Related Delays: Srinagar is prone to fog, snow, and weather delays—especially from November to February.
- Wear in Layers: Even though there was a summer visit, early morning and evening hours might be chilly.
- Prepaid Taxi Booth: Take the official booth to prevent overpriced rides.
- Cash is King: Even though most sellers accept cards or UPI, have some cash for small purchases.
Best Time to Travel Through Srinagar Airport
Spring (March to May):
Nature lovers’ best time. The iconic Tulip Garden is in bloom and air travel to Srinagar is at peak demand.
Summer (June to August):
Ideal to overcome Indian plains’ heat. Airfares will be higher and terminals will be crowded.
Autumn (September to November):
Photographers’ haven—Chinars become golden-red. Pleasant weather, lesser tourist throngs.
Winter (December to February):
Snowfall covers Kashmir in white blanket of beauty. Weather conditions could impact flight timetables. Schedule buffer time.
Role in the Development of Kashmir Tourism
There has been a resurgence of tourism in Kashmir in the past decade, and Srinagar International Airport is the gateway to opening the state. The airport links millions of tourists every year with the stunning valleys, ski resorts, trekking trails, and historical sites of Jammu and Kashmir.
The facility to book online flights to Srinagar has resulted in a tourism boom with Srinagar serving as the gateway for the tourists to come and explore:
Environmental and Strategic Importance
Aside from tourism, Srinagar Airport is of strategic importance. Jointly owned by the Indian Air Force and Airports Authority of India, it is used for defense purposes at the local level and in disaster management.
Aside from these, since the airport is situated in an ecologically sensitive zone, efforts are always made to make the airport as eco-friendly as possible. These include:
- Solar-powered lights
- Waste segregation units
- Planting of trees around the airport perimeter
Future development also entails runway upgradation and additional green-building techniques in terminal development.
Future Developments and Expansion Plans
Due to rising air traffic and an increasing number of domestic flights to Kashmir, the Government of India has floated a few expansion plans:
- Runway Extension: For handling wide-body aircraft for direct international flights.
- New Terminal Construction: A larger terminal with contemporary architecture, additional lounges, and improved retail outlets.
- Cargo Terminal: Enabling export of domestic products like apples, saffron, and Kashmiri handicrafts.
- Night Landing Facilities: Under development to facilitate 24/7 operations.
These developments are meant to bring the airport up to international standards and achieve the area’s full potential as an international tourist hub.
Why Srinagar Airport Is More Than Just an Airport
Srinagar International Airport is not merely an air transit airport—it’s a lifeline to the valley and a testament to modern connectivity in the face of old-world beauty. As Kashmir becomes one of the most popular destinations for both domestic and international travellers, the importance of this airport cannot but grow.
It is not only the entry point to Srinagar but to an experience—of sipping kahwa on a houseboat, trekking through alpine meadows, and soaking up the mystique of the Himalayas. For most, their journey into the heart of Kashmir starts with their arrival here.
Conclusion
Whether you are going for a short distance trip, honeymoon tour, or a trekking tour, Srinagar International Airport makes your traveling experience smooth and relaxing. Its constantly changing infrastructure combined with the natural beauty of the area makes air travel to Srinagar not just a mode but an experience.
With greater domestic and even international links, Srinagar is all set to become a major aviation hub of Northern India. So book your travel plans the next time you travel to Srinagar so that your air journey to Srinagar gets properly planned out and your click is ready—the heaven awaits, and it begins at Srinagar International Airport.
How to book Kashmir tour online?
Contact Brown Chinar at +91 6005039532/+91 9906188874 or Email us at brownchinartourtravels@gmail.com
People Also Ask
What is the IATA code for Srinagar International Airport?
The IATA code is SXR, and the ICAO code is VISR.
Where is Srinagar International Airport located?
SXR is located in Budgam district, about 12 km southwest of Srinagar city, Jammu & Kashmir.
How many terminals does Srinagar Airport have?
The airport has a single integrated terminal serving both domestic and international flights.
Which airlines operate flights to Srinagar?
Carriers include IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, Go First, and Vistara, with regular connections to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Kolkata.
Are there direct international flights from Srinagar?
Not at present. The airport handles occasional chartered services like Hajj flights, but no regular international routes are scheduled yet.
What ground transport options are available from SXR?
Options include:
Prepaid taxis
App-based cabs (e.g., Uber, local operators)
Shared jeeps
Hotel pick-up services
Is there public bus service to Srinagar city?
Yes, the JKSRTC operates shuttle buses from the airport to Lal Chowk during peak times.
What are the peak seasons at Srinagar Airport?
Spring (March–May) and summer (June–August) are the busiest due to Kashmir’s tourist high season.
Does SXR have night landing facilities?
Night landing is under phased implementation. Most flights currently operate during daylight hours, though night ops may occur with special clearance.
How early should I arrive before my flight?
Domestic: Arrive 2–3 hours early
International (charter): Arrive 3–4 hours early
Expect multiple security layers.
What unique security procedures are followed?
Multiple ID checks
Extra baggage scans
Manual screening
Due to the airport’s civil-military enclave setup, security is tighter than average.
Are there airport lounges at Srinagar?
Yes, VIP and executive lounges offer:
Refreshments
Charging points
Wi-Fi
Comfortable seating
What dining options are in the terminal?
A mix of:
Quick bites and cafés
Kashmiri food stalls
Try Kahwa, Kashmiri pulao, and Rogan Josh wraps.
Is there free Wi-Fi at Srinagar Airport?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available but may be slow during busy hours.
Can I purchase local souvenirs at the airport?
Yes—look for:
Saffron and dry fruits
Kashmiri handicrafts
Pashmina apparel
Papier-mâché art
Does the airport offer medical services?
Yes—on-site:
Doctor on call
First-aid station
Emergency response team (24/7)
How does weather affect flights to Srinagar?
Winter fog and snow (Dec–Feb) can delay flights.
Always check your flight status before heading to the airport.
What is the baggage allowance?
Most airlines allow:
15–20 kg check-in
7–8 kg cabin
Confirm directly with your airline for latest policy.
Is parking available at Srinagar Airport?
Yes—there are both:
Short-term lots
Long-term parking areas
Charges apply based on duration.
How do I check flight status at SXR?
Use:
Your airline’s app
Flight tracking apps
Enter “SXR” as the airport code.
Are there expansion plans for the airport?
Yes—ongoing projects include:
Runway extension
New cargo terminal
Larger passenger terminal
These aim to support future international connectivity.
Does SXR handle cargo operations?
Limited currently, but dedicated cargo facilities are in progress to handle:
Apples
Saffron
Handicrafts
Can foreign tourists land at SXR?
Yes—foreigners can arrive via charter flights, subject to valid Indian visas and standard immigration checks.
What apps are best for booking flights to Srinagar?
Top options:
MakeMyTrip
Cleartrip
Yatra
Direct airline apps
Where to get official airport updates?
Visit:
Airports Authority of India (AAI): aai.aero
Srinagar Airport’s social media handles for real-time updates
