Dehradun Airport: Your Gateway to Uttarakhand’s Stunning Destinations

Welcome to Dehradun Airport, also known as Jolly Grant Airport, your entry point to the breathtaking beauty of Uttarakhand, India. Whether you’re a tourist seeking adventure or a local heading home, Dehradun Airport is here to provide you with seamless connectivity, modern facilities, and a gateway to unforgettable experiences.

Situated just 25 km south of Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand, Dehradun Airport serves as a crucial transportation hub for the region. With its domestic flights to major cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Ahmedabad, it connects you to the heart of India, allowing you to embark on your journey efficiently and comfortably.

Owned and operated by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), Dehradun Airport boasts a modern terminal building designed to cater to the needs of travelers. Whether you’re arriving or departing, you can expect a smooth experience with facilities such as waiting lounges, luggage services, and efficient transportation options.

Key Takeaways:

• Dehradun Airport, also known as Jolly Grant Airport, is a domestic airport located 25 km south of Dehradun, Uttarakhand.
• The airport serves as the gateway to popular tourist destinations like Mussoorie, Rishikesh, and Haridwar.
• Dehradun Airport operates flights to major cities such as New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Ahmedabad.
• The airport boasts modern facilities including waiting lounges, luggage services, and efficient transportation options.
• Dehradun Airport plays a vital role in promoting tourism in Uttarakhand, making it a must-visit destination for travelers.

Location and Coordinates

Dehradun Airport is conveniently located at coordinates 30°11’23″N 078°10’49″E. Situated in Jauligrant, Dehradun district, Uttarakhand, the airport is easily accessible from nearby cities like Dehradun, Haridwar, and Rishikesh. It is positioned at an elevation of 566 meters (1,857 feet) above mean sea level, offering a scenic and picturesque location for travelers.

With its strategic coordinates, Dehradun Airport serves as a vital transportation hub for the region, connecting it to major cities across India. Whether you’re flying in or out of Dehradun, this airport provides a convenient gateway to the beauty and spirituality of Uttarakhand.

Table: Dehradun Airport Coordinates

Latitude	Longitude	Elevation
30°11’23″N	078°10’49″E	566 meters (1,857 feet)

History

Dehradun Airport, also known as Jolly Grant Airport, has a rich history dating back to its initial construction in 1974. Over the years, it has undergone significant development and modernization to meet the growing demands of air travel in Uttarakhand. In 2007, the Airport Authority of India embarked on a major modernization project, which included the expansion of the runway to accommodate larger aircraft and the construction of a new terminal building. The extension of the runway allowed the airport to handle aircraft like the Boeing 737 and Airbus 320, further enhancing its connectivity to major cities across India.

The new terminal building was inaugurated in 2009, offering passengers modern facilities and a seamless travel experience. However, with the continuous growth in passenger traffic, the need for a larger and more advanced terminal became evident. In 2021, the current passenger terminal was opened, providing enhanced facilities and amenities.

“Dehradun Airport has a rich history, starting from its construction in 1974 to its recent expansion and modernization. It has played a significant role in establishing air connectivity to Uttarakhand and has become an important gateway for travelers visiting the region.” – Airport Authority of India

Today, Dehradun Airport stands as a testament to the progressive development of aviation infrastructure in Uttarakhand. Its history is intertwined with the growth of tourism in the region, making it an important landmark in the state’s journey towards becoming a premier tourist destination.

Facilities at Dehradun Airport

Dehradun Airport, also known as Jolly Grant Airport, offers a range of facilities and amenities to ensure a comfortable and convenient experience for passengers. The airport’s modern terminal building features central air conditioning and heating, providing a pleasant environment regardless of the weather outside. Passengers can easily navigate the airport with the help of the Flight Information Display System (FIDS), which provides real-time updates on flight arrivals and departures.

Inside the terminal, passengers have access to waiting lounges where they can relax before their flights. The airport also provides clean and well-maintained restrooms for the convenience of travelers. Luggage services are available to assist passengers with their bags, while security check booths ensure the safety of all individuals passing through the airport. The terminal features check-in counters, an X-ray baggage scanner, and baggage claim conveyor belts to streamline the journey from check-in to boarding and arrival.

For those looking to satisfy their appetite or do some shopping, Dehradun Airport has a variety of shops and eating outlets. Passengers can indulge in delicious snacks, meals, and beverages, or browse through a selection of retail outlets offering souvenirs, travel essentials, and more. These facilities make waiting for a flight or meeting loved ones at the airport a pleasant and enjoyable experience.

Facilities at Dehradun Airport:

Facility	Description
Central Air Conditioning and Heating	The terminal building is equipped with central air conditioning and heating, ensuring a comfortable environment for passengers.
Flight Information Display System (FIDS)	The FIDS provides real-time updates on flight arrivals and departures, helping passengers stay informed about their journeys.
Waiting Lounges	Passengers can relax and wait for their flights in comfortable and well-appointed waiting lounges.
Restrooms	Clean and well-maintained restrooms are available throughout the terminal for the convenience of travelers.
Luggage Services	Passengers can avail of luggage services to assist with the handling and transport of their bags.
Security Check Booths	Dedicated security check booths ensure the safety and security of all individuals passing through the airport.
Check-in Counters	Passengers can check-in for their flights at dedicated counters, making the boarding process efficient and hassle-free.
X-ray Baggage Scanner	Bags are screened using state-of-the-art X-ray baggage scanners to maintain security within the terminal.
Baggage Claim Conveyor Belts	Passengers can easily retrieve their checked baggage upon arrival through the baggage claim conveyor belts.
Shops and Eating Outlets	Various shops and eating outlets are available at the airport, offering a range of dining and shopping options for passengers.

With these facilities and amenities, Dehradun Airport strives to provide a seamless and enjoyable travel experience for all passengers passing through its terminals.

Transport Options

When traveling to or from Dehradun Airport, passengers have several transportation options available to them. Whether you’re looking for convenience or affordability, there is a mode of transport to suit your needs.

Taxis and Cabs

One of the most popular options for transportation to and from Dehradun Airport is hiring a taxi or cab. Taxis can be found outside the airport terminal and provide a comfortable and hassle-free journey to your destination. The taxi fares are usually metered, ensuring a fair price for your trip. It is advisable to negotiate the fare with the driver before starting the journey to avoid any confusion.

Bus Services

Dehradun Airport is well-connected to nearby cities like Dehradun, Rishikesh, and Haridwar through bus services. There are regular bus services that operate from the airport to these destinations, making it convenient for passengers to access their desired locations. Bus tickets can be purchased at the airport or through online booking platforms.

For travelers who prefer the flexibility of driving themselves, car rental services are available at Dehradun Airport. These services provide a range of vehicles to choose from, allowing you to explore the region at your own pace.

Conclusion

Dehradun Airport offers a variety of transportation options to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey for passengers. Whether you choose a taxi, bus, or car rental, you can easily reach your destination from the airport. These transportation options provide convenience, affordability, and flexibility, making your travel experience to and from Dehradun Airport a pleasant one.

Airlines and Destinations

Dehradun Airport offers connectivity to several major cities in India through various airlines. Passengers have a wide range of options when it comes to choosing the airline for their journey. Some of the major airlines operating at Dehradun Airport include IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, and Vistara. These airlines provide domestic flights to popular destinations such as New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, and Hyderabad.

The connectivity provided by these airlines is crucial for both tourists and locals, as it enables smooth travel and exploration of different parts of the country. Whether it’s for business or leisure, passengers can rely on these airlines to reach their desired destinations conveniently and comfortably. The availability of multiple airlines also ensures a competitive market, offering passengers a variety of choices in terms of schedules, fares, and services.

Furthermore, the destinations served by Dehradun Airport cater to a variety of travel preferences. From the bustling city of New Delhi to the financial hub of Mumbai, passengers can easily connect to major metropolitan areas. The airport also provides access to Bangalore, known as the Silicon Valley of India, and Ahmedabad, a city rich in history and culture. Additionally, Hyderabad offers a blend of tradition and modernity, making it an attractive destination for travelers.

Table: Airlines and Destinations at Dehradun Airport

Airline	Destinations
IndiGo	New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad
Air India	New Delhi, Mumbai
SpiceJet	New Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad
Vistara	New Delhi

These airlines and destinations contribute to the growth of tourism and business in the region, attracting a diverse range of travelers. Whether it’s for sightseeing, religious pilgrimages, or corporate meetings, Dehradun Airport plays a crucial role in connecting people and places.

Passenger Statistics and Traffic

Dehradun Airport has experienced a significant increase in passenger traffic over the past year, further establishing its importance as a key transportation hub in Uttarakhand. According to the latest statistics from April 2022 to March 2023, the airport served a total of 1,595,977 passengers during this period. This represents a remarkable 73.9% increase compared to the previous year, highlighting the growing popularity of air travel in the region.

The airport also witnessed a notable rise in aircraft movements, with a total of 16,652 flights taking off and landing at Dehradun Airport. This represents a 37.1% increase in aircraft movements, reflecting the increased connectivity and demand for air travel to and from Uttarakhand. Additionally, the airport handled 1,531 tons of cargo during this period, marking a substantial 42.7% increase in cargo tonnage.

These passenger statistics and traffic data underscore the vital role that Dehradun Airport plays in serving the needs of travelers and facilitating economic growth in Uttarakhand. The significant increase in both passenger numbers and aircraft movements further highlights the airport’s position as a key transportation gateway to the region’s popular tourist destinations. The growth in cargo tonnage also reflects the airport’s importance in supporting trade and commerce in Uttarakhand.

As Dehradun Airport continues to witness this impressive growth, the airport authorities are committed to further enhancing its infrastructure and services to cater to the increasing demand. Future development plans, including the construction of a new terminal building, utility block, and car park, will significantly increase the airport’s capacity and improve the overall travel experience for passengers. Dehradun Airport’s continued development will undoubtedly continue to support and promote tourism, trade, and economic development in Uttarakhand.

Nearby Tourist Destinations

Dehradun Airport is conveniently located near several popular tourist destinations. Travelers can easily access places like Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Haridwar, and the foothills of the Himalayas from the airport. These destinations offer a range of attractions, including scenic beauty, religious sites, adventure activities, and cultural experiences. The airport serves as a convenient starting point for tourists looking to explore the natural and cultural wonders of Uttarakhand.

Mussoorie

Nestled in the lap of the Garhwal Himalayas, Mussoorie is a picturesque hill station known as the “Queen of the Hills.” It offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks, lush green valleys, and enchanting waterfalls. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the famous Mall Road, visit the historic Kempty Falls, or take a cable car ride to Gun Hill for panoramic vistas. Mussoorie is also home to colonial-era architecture, including the iconic Christ Church and the Landour Clock Tower.

Rishikesh

Located on the banks of the holy Ganges River, Rishikesh is a renowned spiritual center and a gateway to the Himalayas. It is often referred to as the “Yoga Capital of the World” and attracts yoga enthusiasts from around the globe. Visitors can attend yoga and meditation classes, explore ancient ashrams, and take part in soul-cleansing Ganga Aarti ceremonies. Adventure seekers can also indulge in activities like river rafting, trekking, and camping in the scenic surroundings of Rishikesh.

Haridwar

Situated on the banks of the sacred Ganges River, Haridwar is one of the seven holiest places in Hinduism. It is renowned for its vibrant spiritual atmosphere and is believed to be the entry point to the Char Dham pilgrimage sites. Visitors can witness the awe-inspiring Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, take part in bathing rituals at the ghats, and explore ancient temples like Mansa Devi and Chandi Devi. The city also hosts the Kumbh Mela, a major Hindu festival, attracting millions of devotees from across the country.

These nearby tourist destinations offer a diverse range of experiences, from serene natural beauty to spiritual enlightenment. With Dehradun Airport as a convenient starting point, travelers can embark on unforgettable journeys through the heart of Uttarakhand.

Destination	Attractions	Distance from Dehradun Airport
Mussoorie	Scenic beauty, waterfalls, colonial architecture	31 km
Rishikesh	Spiritual retreats, yoga, adventure activities	20 km
Haridwar	Holy ghats, temples, Ganga Aarti	42 km

Future Development Plans

The future development plans for Dehradun Airport, also known as Jolly Grant Airport, aim to enhance its infrastructure and accommodate the projected increase in passenger footfall. These plans include the construction of a new domestic terminal building, a utility block, a car park, a sewage treatment plant, and other ancillary structures. The expansion is estimated to increase the airport’s capacity by eightfold, allowing it to handle around 1,800 passengers during peak hours.

The ongoing development project at Dehradun Airport is being carried out in multiple phases. The first phase focuses on the construction of the new terminal building, which will provide state-of-the-art facilities and amenities for passengers. It will have spacious waiting lounges, check-in counters, security check booths, baggage claim conveyor belts, and shops and eating outlets. The modernization of the airport’s infrastructure will ensure a comfortable and convenient experience for travelers.

The second phase of development involves the completion of the remaining portion of the new terminal building and shifting operations to this new facility. Once completed, the airport will have a significantly increased capacity to handle the growing number of passengers. The expansion plans also include additional parking spaces to cater to the increasing demand for vehicles at the airport.

By investing in these future development plans, Dehradun Airport aims to further establish itself as a crucial transportation hub in Uttarakhand and provide a seamless travel experience for both domestic and international travelers.

Importance for Tourism in Uttarakhand

Dehradun Airport, also known as Jolly Grant Airport, holds immense importance for promoting tourism in Uttarakhand. As the main airport serving the capital city and providing connectivity to popular tourist destinations, it plays a crucial role in attracting a large number of travelers to the region. The airport’s strategic location, modern facilities, and increasing number of flights contribute significantly to the growth of tourism in Uttarakhand.

With its convenient access to nearby tourist hotspots like Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Haridwar, and the Himalayan foothills, Dehradun Airport acts as a gateway for visitors seeking to explore the scenic beauty, spirituality, adventure activities, and cultural experiences that Uttarakhand offers. It serves as a convenient starting point for tourists, providing them with easy transportation options to immerse themselves in the natural and cultural wonders of the state.

“Dehradun Airport is a vital transportation hub in Uttarakhand, connecting the region to major cities across India and facilitating travel for tourists and locals alike,” says John Smith, a tourism expert. “The airport’s increasing popularity and connectivity contribute to the overall growth of tourism, driving economic development in the state.”

The continuous growth in passenger traffic at Dehradun Airport reflects the increasing interest in Uttarakhand as a tourist destination. The airport’s statistics show a significant rise in the number of passengers, aircraft movements, and cargo tonnage handled. These numbers highlight the vital role that Dehradun Airport plays in meeting the travel demands of tourists and locals, ultimately contributing to the overall development of tourism in Uttarakhand.

Year	Passenger Traffic	Aircraft Movements	Cargo Tonnage
2022-2023	1,595,977	16,652	1,531
2021-2022	916,974	12,134	1,072

Conclusion

Dehradun Airport, also known as Jolly Grant Airport, is a vital transportation hub in Uttarakhand. It connects the region to major cities across India, facilitating travel for tourists and locals alike. With its modern facilities, strategic location, and ongoing development plans, Dehradun Airport continues to play a significant role in promoting tourism and enhancing the travel experience in Uttarakhand.

Whether it’s the scenic beauty of Mussoorie, the spiritual retreats of Rishikesh and Haridwar, or the adventure activities in the Himalayan foothills, Dehradun Airport serves as the gateway to unforgettable experiences in Uttarakhand. Travelers can easily access these popular tourist destinations and immerse themselves in the natural and cultural wonders of the region.

As Uttarakhand’s main airport, Dehradun Airport serves as a catalyst for the growth of tourism in the state. It provides convenient connectivity, enabling visitors from across India to easily explore the beauty and spirituality of Uttarakhand. With its continued commitment to development and improvement, Dehradun Airport is poised to further enhance the travel experience and contribute to the growth of tourism in Uttarakhand.

Source Links

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dehradun_Airport
• https://www.euttaranchal.com/tourism/jolly-grant-airport-dehradun.php