Biju Patnaik Airport

Biju Patnaik Airport Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide: Bhubaneswar Historical Sites

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction: Biju Patnaik Airport’s Role in Odisha

Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) in Bhubaneswar is Odisha’s principal aviation hub, connecting the region to major domestic and international destinations. Named after aviator and statesman Biju Patnaik, the airport is both a crucial infrastructure asset and a symbol of the state’s progress. From its origins as a modest airstrip, BPIA has evolved into a modern international airport, serving nearly five million passengers annually and linking Bhubaneswar directly to cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Dubai, Singapore, Bangkok, and Abu Dhabi (Prameya News, Tathya).

BPIA’s importance extends beyond transportation. The airport features local architectural motifs, art installations, and exhibitions, reflecting Odisha’s rich culture. Its ongoing expansion—supported by government policies such as the Odisha New Destination Policy—aims to enhance connectivity and support local economic growth, including agricultural exports via cargo services (Financial Express).

This guide provides detailed information on visiting hours, ticketing, amenities, travel tips, and nearby historical attractions, making it an essential resource for anyone traveling to or through Bhubaneswar.

Introduction
Historical Evolution of Biju Patnaik Airport
Modern Facilities and Accessibility
Visiting Hours & Ticketing
Terminal Services and Technology
Ground Transportation
Bhubaneswar’s Top Historical Sites
Visiting Konark Sun Temple
Dhauli Peace Pagoda Guide
Travel Tips and FAQs
Conclusion
Sources

Historical Evolution of Biju Patnaik Airport

Origins and Naming

BPIA honors Biju Patnaik—a celebrated freedom fighter, pilot, and former Chief Minister of Odisha—whose vision and legacy continue to inspire the state. Initially a small airstrip during the pre-independence era, the airport expanded alongside Bhubaneswar’s development as a planned capital.

Key Milestones

Late 20th Century: Infrastructure upgrades enabled larger aircraft and direct routes to major Indian cities.
2013: International status granted, with customs and immigration facilities added.
2023–2025: Significant growth in passenger numbers and international routes, including direct flights to Dubai, Singapore, Bangkok, and Abu Dhabi.

Recent Growth

In 2024, BPIA experienced a surge in passenger traffic (26.9% increase), driven by new domestic and international connections. Policy initiatives support further expansion, targeting new destinations and facilitating trade through improved cargo operations (Financial Express, Tathya).

Modern Facilities and Accessibility

BPIA is designed to be accessible and user-friendly for all travelers. The airport incorporates:

Ramps and wheelchairs for differently-abled passengers
Multilingual assistance and clear signage
Free Wi-Fi, lounges, and duty-free shops
Food courts and retail outlets with local and international offerings
Child-friendly areas and accessible restrooms

The terminal buildings are adorned with local art, temple-inspired motifs, and rotating exhibitions, introducing travelers to Odisha’s artistic heritage.

Visiting Hours & Ticketing

Operating Hours

Airport: 24/7 for flights
Passenger Services (e.g., ticket counters, check-in): Typically 4:00 AM–11:00 PM (verify with your airline for specifics)

Ticket Booking

Book online via airline websites or trusted travel portals
Purchase at airport ticket counters (limited hours; early booking recommended during peak periods)

Terminal Services and Technology

Terminal Overview

Terminal 1 (Domestic): Operates from 4:00 AM–11:00 PM; includes 18 check-in counters, 4 aerobridges, and multiple lounges.
Terminal 2 (International): Generally open 3:00 AM–11:59 PM; includes 6 check-in counters, 10 immigration counters, and dedicated seating.

Terminal 3 is under construction, set to further increase capacity.

Passenger Services

DigiYatra: Launched July 2024, offering paperless, facial recognition-based check-in and boarding.
Traditional check-in counters for passengers who prefer manual processing.
ATMs, currency exchange, pharmacy, Lost & Found, and information desks.

Sustainability & Technology

The airport is fully powered by a 4 MWp solar plant and uses advanced Air Traffic Control automation, ensuring safety and environmental responsibility.

Ground Transportation

Bus Services: OSRTC and private operators connect the airport to Bhubaneswar and nearby cities.
Taxis & App-Based Cabs: Readily available at the terminal.
Car Rentals: Multiple agencies offer self-drive and chauffeur options.
Parking: Ample short- and long-term parking with designated areas.

Bhubaneswar’s Top Historical Sites

Bhubaneswar is renowned for its ancient temples and archaeological marvels, many within easy reach of BPIA:

Lingaraj Temple: An 11th-century landmark dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Udayagiri & Khandagiri Caves: Ancient Jain monastic complexes with intricate carvings.
Mukteshwar Temple: Celebrated for its ornate stone architecture.
Odisha State Museum: Showcases regional artifacts and history.
Dhauli Peace Pagoda: Site of Ashoka’s transformation, now a symbol of peace.

Visiting the Konark Sun Temple: Hours, Tickets, and Travel Tips from BPIA

Overview

The Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a 13th-century masterpiece known for its chariot-shaped design and elaborate carvings (UNESCO). Located about 65 km from Bhubaneswar, it is a highlight of any trip to Odisha.

Visiting Hours & Tickets

Hours: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM daily
Tickets: INR 40 (Indian adults), INR 600 (foreign adults), concessions for students, free for children under 15
Booking: At the gate or online via Odisha Tourism

Getting There

Taxi/Car: 1.5–2 hours, INR 1,200–1,500
Bus: OSRTC services from Bhubaneswar city center (accessible from the airport by taxi/shuttle)

Nearby Attractions

Chandrabhaga Beach: 3 km from the temple
Puri Jagannath Temple: 35 km away
Ekamra Kanan Botanical Gardens: In Bhubaneswar

Travel Tips

Best season: October–March
Guides available on-site
Wheelchair-accessible at key points

Dhauli Peace Pagoda: Monument of Peace and History

Introduction

Visiting Hours & Entry

Hours: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM daily
Entry: Free

Facilities

Guided tours available
Parking, clean restrooms, refreshment stalls, and seating areas

Nearby Sites

Lingaraj Temple
Udayagiri & Khandagiri Caves
Mukteshwar Temple
Odisha State Museum

Travel Tips

8 km from city center; taxis, autos, and buses available
Visit early or late for best light and cooler weather
Photography is permitted outdoors; check for restrictions inside

Travel Tips and Frequently Asked Questions

General Tips

Arrive 2 hours before domestic, 3 hours before international flights
DigiYatra enables contactless check-in
Check official websites for latest flight schedules and visiting hours
Use official transport for safety and convenience
Explore Bhubaneswar’s cultural sites during your stay

FAQs

Q: Are airport terminals open 24/7?
A: The airport operates round-the-clock; passenger services generally run 4:00 AM–11:00 PM.

Q: How do I book tickets?
A: Online via airlines/travel agencies, or at select airport counters.

Q: Is BPIA accessible for differently-abled travelers?
A: Yes; ramps, wheelchairs, and accessible restrooms provided.

Q: What are transport options to Bhubaneswar city?
A: Buses, taxis, app-based cabs, and car rentals.

Q: Are guided tours available at historical sites?
A: Yes, at major sites like Konark and Dhauli.

Conclusion

Biju Patnaik Airport is much more than a transit point; it is a gateway to Odisha’s vibrant culture and history. With modern amenities, digital innovations, and sustainable operations, BPIA ensures a comfortable travel experience. Its proximity to some of India’s most significant historical sites—like Lingaraj Temple, Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, Dhauli Peace Pagoda, and the Konark Sun Temple—makes it the ideal starting point for exploring Odisha’s heritage.

Ongoing expansions and privatization efforts are set to further enhance service quality and capacity (Sansad). For the latest updates, download the Audiala app and consult official sources before your journey.