Ayodhya, the holy city in Uttar Pradesh, is set to become even more accessible with the inauguration of the Maharishi Valmiki International Airport Ayodhyadham. Ayodhya airport, construct in a record time of 20 months, will serve as a significant gateway to the temple town and is expect to boost tourism, business activities, and employment opportunities in the region.
Construction and Development
The Airport Authority of India (AAI) developed Ayodhya Airport with the Government of Uttar Pradesh. The first phase of construction, estimated to cost around Rs 1,450 crore, has been complete, and the airport is now ready for operation.
The airport features a runway with a length of 2200m, making it suitable for A-321-type aircraft. Additionally, two link taxiways and an apron capable of parking eight A321s have been constructed. With an area of 6,500 square meters, the new terminal facility can handle 10 lakh people annually and accommodate 600 passengers during peak hours.
Inaugural Flights and Future Connectivity
IndiGo and Air India Express will operate inaugural flights on December 30 to mark the inauguration of Ayodhya Airport. IndiGo will be running daily flights between Mumbai and Ayodhya starting January 15. The flight schedule includes departures from Mumbai at 12:30 pm and arrivals in Ayodhya at 2:45 pm, with return flights leaving Ayodhya at 3:15 pm and landing in Mumbai at 5:40 pm.
On the other hand, Air India Express will operate inaugural flights between Ayodhya and Delhi on December 30. From January 17, the airline will commence direct flights to Ayodhya from Bengaluru and Kolkata. The Bengaluru-Ayodhya flight will depart at 8:05 am and reach Ayodhya at 10:35 am, while the Kolkata-Ayodhya flight will take off at 1:25 pm and land in Ayodhya at 3:10 pm.
Infrastructure and Facilities
The newly constructed terminal building at Ayodhya Airport has state-of-the-art facilities to ensure a seamless travel experience for passengers. The terminal features nine check-in counters, three conveyor belts, and five X-BIS machines for enhanced aviation security. Moreover, the city side of the terminal building includes car and bus parking facilities with amenities catering to the needs of Divyangjan (differently-abled) individuals.
The design of the terminal building draws inspiration from the architecture of the upcoming Shri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. The interiors of the building are adorn with local artifacts, paintings, and murals depicting the life of Lord Ram, creating an atmosphere of spirituality and cultural significance. Sustainability features, such as an insulate roofing system, LED lighting, rainwater harvesting, and a sewage treatment plant, have been incorporate to promote environmental responsibility.
Tourist Destinations Near Ayodhya Airport
- Religious Sites: Highlight the airport’s proximity to prominent religious sites like the under-construction Shri Ram Mandir, Hanumangarhi, and Kanak Bhawan. Briefly describe these places and their significance to pilgrims.
- Cultural Delights: Discuss other cultural attractions near Ayodhya, such as the Ayodhya Research Institute, the Bharat Milap Bhavan marking Lord Rama’s return from exile, or historical sites like Mani Bhavan.
Natural Beauty: If there are any parks, gardens, or natural wonders near Ayodhya, you could mention them here to give tourists a well-rounded picture of the area.
Future Expansion and Development
The development of Ayodhya Airport continues after the completion of its first phase. Under Phase 2, plans are underway for the construction of a new terminal building spanning 50,000 square meters, which will have the capacity to serve 4,000 passengers during peak hours and 60 lakh passengers annually. Additionally, the runway is set to be extend from 2200m to 3750m, making it suitable for operating a Code E (B-777) type aircraft.
Benefits and Impact
The inauguration of Ayodhya Airport is expect to significantly impact the city’s tourism, business, and overall economy. Pilgrims visiting the Shri Ram Mandir and other famous nearby pilgrimage sites will benefit from improved air connectivity, making their travel experience more convenient and efficient. The airport’s development will also attract businesses and promote pilgrimage tourism throughout the year, further enhancing the region’s economic growth and prosperity.
The inauguration of Ayodhya Airport heralds a new era of infrastructure development in the region, stimulating job creation and investment opportunities. With enhanced accessibility, Ayodhya is poised to become a key hub for domestic and international travelers, fostering cultural exchange and boosting local industries. Moreover, the airport’s modern facilities and services will elevate the overall travel experience, encouraging repeat visits and cementing Ayodhya’s status as a premier destination on the global tourism map.
FAQ’s
1. What is Ayodhya Airport?
Ayodhya Airport is a domestic airport located in the city of Ayodhya in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India. It is a gateway for travelers visiting the holy city of Ayodhya and nearby areas.
2. What is the name of Ayodhya Airport?
The Ayodhya Airport name is Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport. It was previously known as Faizabad Airport.
3. When is Ayodhya Airport opening?
IndiGo has announced the inaugural flight from Delhi to Ayodhya on December 30, 2023 with commercial services commencing on January 6, 2024. Post that, tri-weekly flights from Ahmedabad to Ayodhya will begin from January 11.
4. What are the facilities available at Ayodhya Airport?
Ayodhya Airport offers a range of facilities to ensure a comfortable travel experience for passengers. These include check-in counters, baggage handling services, security procedures, waiting lounges, food and beverage outlets, and parking facilities.
5. Which airlines operate at Ayodhya Airport?
Several airlines operate at Ayodhya Airport, including major domestic carriers like IndiGo, SpiceJet, Air India, and GoAir. These airlines connect Ayodhya to various cities across India.
6. How can I reach Ayodhya Airport?
Ayodhya Airport is easily accessible by vehicle. Transportation options include taxis, cabs, and cars; the location is approximately 7 kilometers from the city center. Buses and auto-rickshaws are part of the public transit system that you can use as well.
7. Is there any public transport available from Ayodhya Airport to the city?
Yes, public transport options are available from Ayodhya Airport to the city. Taxis, cabs, and auto-rickshaws can be hire from the airport to reach different parts of Ayodhya. Local bus services may also operate on specific routes connecting the airport to the city.
As the Maharishi Valmiki International Airport Ayodhyadham prepares to open its doors, it is poise to become an even more accessible destination for travelers and pilgrims. The airport’s construction in a record time of 20 months is a testament to the commitment and efforts of the Airport Authority of India and the Government of Uttar Pradesh. With the new airport’s state-of-the-art facilities and enhance connectivity, Ayodhya is set to witness increase tourism, business activities, and overall development, cementing its position as a prominent destination in India.
The Maharishi Valmiki International Airport Ayodhyadham is an ideal jumping-off point for many adventures, including spiritual quests and explorations of Ayodhya’s rich cultural legacy. Plan your visit, book your tickets, and get ready to experience the magic of Ayodhya like never before.
