Jeypore Airport

Jeypore Airport Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide: Odisha Historical Sites

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Jeypore Airport, located in the Koraput district of Odisha, India, is a vital regional gateway to the scenic and culturally diverse southwestern part of the state. Since its establishment in 1962 alongside Hindustan Aeronautics Limited at Sunabeda, the airport has evolved from a modest airstrip into a key hub managed by the Airports Authority of India. Its strategic growth, especially following the resumption of regular commercial flights under the UDAN scheme in 2022, has boosted connectivity for both local communities and tourists. Jeypore Airport now serves as the main entry point to a region filled with natural wonders, historic palaces, and vibrant tribal traditions. This guide offers a comprehensive look at airport operations, ticketing, accessibility, and the top historical and cultural attractions in and around Jeypore (India Airport, OdishaTV, Jeypore Tourism Guide).

Contents Overview

Introduction
Jeypore Airport: History and Modern Role
Airport Operations: Visiting Hours & Ticketing
Accessibility & Travel Tips
Airport Facilities & Infrastructure
Top Historical Sites Near Jeypore
Jeypore Palace: Visitor Guide
Jeypore & Koraput Tourism: Attractions & Local Experiences
Summary & Visitor Recommendations
Sources and Further Reading

Jeypore Airport: History and Modern Role

Origins and Evolution

Established in 1962, Jeypore Airport was initially developed to serve the needs of the nearby Hindustan Aeronautics Limited plant. The original 3,000-foot runway and basic infrastructure supported both industrial and regional air traffic (India Airport). Through the 1980s, the airport facilitated commercial flights, connecting Jeypore to Bhubaneswar and Visakhapatnam via Vayudoot Airlines. Although commercial operations paused in the 1990s due to low demand, the airport remained critical for government, medical, and emergency use.

Recent Developments

Recognizing the region’s economic and tourism potential, the state government and the Airports Authority of India initiated major upgrades, including runway extension and terminal improvements. In 2022, commercial flights resumed under the UDAN regional connectivity scheme, with IndiaOne Air launching direct services to Bhubaneswar. This revival has made Jeypore Airport a linchpin for local development and a catalyst for tourism in southern Odisha (India Airport, OdishaTV).

Airport Operations: Visiting Hours & Ticketing

Operating Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Open all days, including public holidays.
Ticket Booking:
- Book online via airline websites (e.g., IndiaOne Air), travel portals, or authorized agents.
- Advance booking is recommended due to limited daily flights.
- On-site ticket counters are available, but online booking ensures seat availability.
Flight Routes:
- Direct connections to 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, varying with season and demand.

Accessibility & Travel Tips

Location: About 3 km northwest of Jeypore town center; a 10–15 minute drive from the city.
Transport Options:
- Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available between the airport, town, and local hotels.
- Jeypore Railway Station is a 15-minute drive, offering rail access from major Odisha cities.
Parking: Limited on-site parking.
Travel Tips:
- Arrive at least 60 minutes before departure due to security procedures.
- Weather can be variable, especially during monsoon (June–September).
- Carry cash as digital payments at the airport may be limited.

Airport Facilities & Infrastructure

Runway & Upgrades

Single 2B-category runway, with ongoing expansion to 3C status to accommodate larger aircraft.
Upgrade projects include land acquisition, runway extension, and improved taxiways and aprons (OdishaTV).

Terminal Amenities

Basic but functional terminal: check-in counters, waiting lounge, restrooms, security screening.
Local vendors offer refreshments with regional flavors (Airpaz).
Planned improvements: expanded seating, enhanced baggage handling, retail kiosks showcasing local crafts.

Passenger Services

Information desk for ticketing and flight queries.
Accessibility features for passengers with reduced mobility; further upgrades planned.
Reliable mobile network coverage (Airtel, Vodafone, Jio); public Wi-Fi under consideration.
No in-terminal ATMs; cash recommended for airport purchases.

Safety & Sustainability

Compliant with DGCA and AAI safety standards.
Security screening for all passengers and baggage.
Upgrades include better runway lighting, navigation aids, and emergency response (OdishaTV).
Sustainability is prioritized in ongoing development, including energy-efficient facilities (IATA).

Top Historical Sites Near Jeypore

Jeypore Airport is conveniently located for exploring some of Odisha’s most remarkable cultural and natural attractions. Highlights include:

Duduma Waterfalls: 85 km away; ideal for trekking and photography.
Gupteshwar Caves: 40–55 km; sacred site with ancient Shiva lingam.
Jagannath Sagar: 12 km; serene lake, perfect for sunrise/sunset.
Kolab Botanical Garden: 30 km; showcases regional flora.
Deomali Hills: Odisha’s highest peak, popular for trekking and adventure.
Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary: 50 km; rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes.

These sites are accessible by road, with local taxis and guided tours available (Jeypore Tourism Guide).

Jeypore Palace: Visitor Guide

Historical Overview

The 17th-century Jeypore Palace reflects the blend of indigenous Odisha architecture and colonial influences, having served as the seat of the Jeypore royal family. Its intricate woodwork, grand courtyards, and regal halls offer a window into the region’s storied past.

Visiting Details

Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM daily.
Tickets: ₹50 (Indian nationals), ₹200 (foreign nationals), free for children under 12.
Guided Tours: Available on-site; highly recommended for historical insight.

Accessibility

By Air: 3 km from Jeypore Airport.
By Rail: 15-minute drive from Jeypore Railway Station.
By Road: Easily reached by local taxis or auto-rickshaws.

Nearby Points of Interest

Gupteshwar Caves, Deomali Hills, Duduma Waterfalls, Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary, Kolab Botanical Garden.

Visitor Tips

Photography permitted (no flash in certain areas).
Best visited October–February for pleasant weather.
Limited amenities; bring water and snacks.
Accessibility for disabled visitors is limited; request assistance if necessary.

Jeypore & Koraput Tourism: Attractions & Local Experiences

Geographic & Cultural Context

Jeypore, once the capital of a princely state, anchors the Koraput district—renowned for its rich tribal heritage, lush valleys, and historic sites (odishatour.in). The Paraja, Bonda, and Gadaba tribes keep traditional customs alive through weekly markets, festivals, and crafts (goxpedia.com).

Top Attractions

Jagannath Sagar: 24/7; free entry.
Duduma Waterfalls: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM; free entry.
Deomali Hills: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM; trekking/paragliding available.
Kolab Reservoir & Botanical Garden: 9:00 AM–6:00 PM; ₹10–₹20 entry.
Patraput Bridge: open 24 hours; free.
Gupteshwar Caves: 6:00 AM–8:00 PM; free entry.
Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary: sunrise to sunset; nominal tour fees.

Festivals & Cuisine

Jagannath Rath Yatra: Major local festival.
Shivaratri at Gupteshwar Caves: Notable religious celebration.
Local dishes: Dahi Baigana, bamboo shoot curries, tribal sweets (goxpedia.com).

Practical Tips

Best time to visit: October–February.
Getting there: Flights to Jeypore Airport, trains, and good road access.
Transport: Auto-rickshaws, taxis, rental bikes, and guided tours.
Accommodation: Budget and mid-range hotels; advance booking recommended during festivals.
Etiquette: Respect tribal customs, dress modestly at religious sites, and carry cash.

Unique Experiences

Adventure: Trekking and paragliding at Deomali, boating at Kolab Reservoir.
Cultural: Tribal market visits, handicraft shopping.

Summary & Visitor Recommendations

Jeypore Airport has emerged as a crucial link for travelers seeking the cultural, historical, and natural riches of southern Odisha. Its improved connectivity, ongoing infrastructure upgrades, and proximity to major attractions like Jeypore Palace and Duduma Waterfalls make it the ideal starting point for exploring Koraput’s unique blend of heritage and nature.

Travelers are encouraged to immerse themselves in the region’s tribal traditions, explore off-the-beaten-path sites, and savor local cuisine. With clear visitor information on airport operations, transportation, ticketing, and top destinations, your journey to Jeypore promises to be both seamless and rewarding.

Stay informed about travel updates, flight schedules, and local events by visiting official resources and utilizing the Audiala mobile app. Experience the hidden gems of Odisha’s Eastern Ghats and create lasting memories in this enchanting region (India Airport, OdishaTV, Jeypore Tourism Guide).

Sources and Further Reading

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