About Jeypore Airport

Jeypore Airport is in Koraput district, Odisha, India, and serves the scenic, culturally diverse southwestern part of the state. Managed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), it is a regional gateway to the area’s natural attractions, historic sites and tribal traditions. The airport is about 3 km northwest of Jeypore town centre and is around a 10–15 minute drive from the city (India Airport, OdishaTV, Jeypore Tourism Guide).

History and development

Jeypore Airport was established in 1962 alongside the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited plant at Sunabeda. It began as an airstrip with a 3,000-foot runway and basic infrastructure, serving the plant and regional air traffic (India Airport).

During the 1980s, Vayudoot Airlines operated commercial flights connecting Jeypore with Bhubaneswar and Visakhapatnam. Commercial operations paused in the 1990s because of low demand, but the airport continued to support government, medical and emergency use.

The state government and AAI later began upgrades, including runway extension and terminal improvements. Commercial flights resumed in 2022 under the UDAN regional connectivity scheme, with IndiaOne Air launching direct services to Bhubaneswar. The airport’s revival has supported regional connectivity and tourism in southern Odisha (India Airport, OdishaTV).

What to see

Jeypore Palace

The 17th-century Jeypore Palace was the seat of the Jeypore royal family. Its architecture blends indigenous Odisha styles with colonial influences, and its intricate woodwork, grand courtyards and regal halls reflect the region’s history.

Jeypore and Koraput’s cultural heritage

Jeypore was once the capital of a princely state and is an anchor of Koraput district, known for its tribal heritage, lush valleys and historic sites (odishatour.in). The Paraja, Bonda and Gadaba tribes maintain traditional customs through weekly markets, festivals and crafts (goxpedia.com).

Local festivals include Jagannath Rath Yatra and the Shivaratri celebration at Gupteshwar Caves. Regional dishes include Dahi Baigana, bamboo shoot curries and tribal sweets (goxpedia.com).

Practical visiting information

Airport hours, flights and tickets

Operating hours Daily, 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM, including public holidays.
Booking Tickets can be booked online through airline websites such as IndiaOne Air, travel portals or authorized agents. On-site ticket counters are also available; online booking helps secure a seat.
Flight routes Direct flights connect Jeypore with Bhubaneswar. Planned expansion may add routes to Visakhapatnam and other cities.
Fares One-way fares to Bhubaneswar typically range from ₹1,500 to ₹3,000, depending on season and demand.
Flight frequency Daily flights are limited.

Getting to the airport

Taxis and auto-rickshaws are available between the airport, town and local hotels. Jeypore Railway Station is about a 15-minute drive away and provides rail access from major Odisha cities. On-site parking is limited.

Airport facilities and infrastructure

The airport has a single 2B-category runway, with expansion to 3C status under way to accommodate larger aircraft. Upgrade projects include land acquisition, runway extension, and improvements to taxiways and aprons (OdishaTV).

The basic but functional terminal has check-in counters, a waiting lounge, restrooms and security screening. Local vendors sell refreshments with regional flavours (Airpaz). Planned improvements include expanded seating, enhanced baggage handling and retail kiosks showcasing local crafts.

Passenger services and infrastructure include:

An information desk for ticketing and flight queries.
Accessibility features for passengers with reduced mobility, with further upgrades planned.
Mobile network coverage from Airtel, Vodafone and Jio; public Wi-Fi is under consideration.
No in-terminal ATMs; cash is recommended for airport purchases.
Security screening for all passengers and baggage.
Compliance with DGCA and AAI safety standards.
Upgrades to runway lighting, navigation aids and emergency response (OdishaTV).
Energy-efficient facilities as part of the airport’s sustainability measures (IATA).

Jeypore Palace visiting details

Hours 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM daily.
Tickets ₹50 for Indian nationals and ₹200 for foreign nationals; free for children under 12.
Guided tours Available on-site and recommended for historical insight.
Location and access The palace is 3 km from Jeypore Airport and a 15-minute drive from Jeypore Railway Station. Local taxis and auto-rickshaws can reach it.

Tips

Arrive at the airport at least 60 minutes before departure for security procedures.
Weather can be variable, especially during the monsoon from June to September.
Carry cash, as digital payments at the airport may be limited.
The best time to visit the region is October–February.
Palace photography is permitted, though flash is not allowed in certain areas. Palace amenities are limited, so bring water and snacks. Accessibility for disabled visitors is limited; request assistance if needed.
Transport around the region includes auto-rickshaws, taxis, rental bikes and guided tours. Budget and mid-range hotels are available; advance booking is recommended during festivals.
Respect tribal customs, dress modestly at religious sites and carry cash.

Nearby places

The following attractions are accessible by road; local taxis and guided tours are available (Jeypore Tourism Guide).

Duduma Waterfalls 85 km away; a place for trekking and photography. Open 6:00 AM–6:00 PM; free entry.
Gupteshwar Caves 40–55 km away, with a sacred ancient Shiva lingam. Open 6:00 AM–8:00 PM; free entry.
Jagannath Sagar 12 km away; a lake suited to sunrise and sunset visits. Open 24/7; free entry.
Kolab Botanical Garden 30 km away and showcasing regional flora.
Kolab Reservoir and Botanical Garden Open 9:00 AM–6:00 PM; entry costs ₹10–₹20. Boating is available at the reservoir.
Deomali Hills Odisha’s highest peak, popular for trekking and adventure. Open 6:00 AM–6:00 PM; trekking and paragliding are available.
Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary 50 km away, with rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes. Open from sunrise to sunset; nominal tour fees apply.
Patraput Bridge Open 24 hours; free entry.

Other local experiences include visiting tribal markets and shopping for handicrafts.