Rajasthan has always been a place full of magic for me. In my previous trips, I was enchanted by the hospitality and mouthwatering food, as well as the vibrant clothing and majestic forts and palaces. This trip, however, was dfferent as I wanted to focus on something travelers seldom consider—the airports in Rajasthan. They are, after all, the first and final impressions one gets when entering or exiting this regal land.
I started off my journey in Jaipur, flying over to Udaipur, and finally ending my trip off in Jodhpur. What stood out to me the most while flying through these airports was the fact that they were far from mere stopovers. There was so much character packed into each one of them and they had so much to say about the cities themselves. Allow me to share my perspective as a wanderer and the curious traveler that I am so that if you are planning to travel around Rajasthan, either for a short holiday or an extended stay, I’m sure for you it will be equally illuminating.
Travel Adventure Description: Land at Jaipur International Airport (JAI)
To begin my exploration, I booked a flight from Delhi to Jaipur, which is a short hop of around an hour. In this case, both the food and service on the flight matched the standards set by the vibrant Rajasthan hospitality. The moment I took my seat on the plane and it took off, I was greeted with gorgeous green plains in close proximity to the airport. Similar to many other flights, this one had a steep descent as well, which removed the greens I was surrounded with and replaced them with rich ochre shaded Rajasthan’s warm landscape.
My experience at Jaipur International Airport began the moment I walked out—it was strikingly calm and orderly. Although it is not as large as Mumbai or Delhi, it is modern, clean, and well-maintained. As a Jaipur native, the Rajasthani style architecture at the airport’s entrance especially caught my eye—the jharokhas (arched windows), and the camel panels filled with glass piqued my interest as emblems of Jaipur’s artistry. At that point, it felt like Jaipur was already whispering ‘welcome to the land of royals.’
The center is simple. There are two terminals: International flights are at Terminal 1, while domestic flights are at Terminal 2. Since I was taking a domestic flight, I was only able to use Terminal 2. There were many sign boards written in English and Hindi, and immigration and baggage claim were quite efficient.
What I Loved at Jaipur Airport:
Shopping:
There are several small shops selling traditional Rajasthani handicrafts, miniature paintings, and blue pottery. As a memento of my trip, I purchased a handcrafted keychain which I proudly display to this day.
Food Options:
I also enjoyed my light thali meal at the multi-cuisine restaurant which was decent in comparison to the fast food chains such as Cafe Coffee Day and local snack bars.
Transport:
Reading Uber and Ola right outside the arrival gate was a pleasant surprise. Even more astounding was the quick service offered by the prepaid taxi counters.
A local taxi driver surprised me with this fun fact: Jaipur Airport once ranked in the top three airports for customer satisfaction in the entire Asia-Pacific region. Now, I could see why. Right from the security staff to the café workers, everyone interacted with me with a smile and responded to my queries with great patience.
Before leaving the city, I spent a few days visiting Hawa Mahal, Amer Fort, and Johari Bazaar. Each of these places added more colors and stories to my trip. But for now, I will leave those tales for another post.
The flight to Udaipur – The City of Lakes and its Cozy Airport
After soaking in all of Jaipur’s attractions, I booked a short domestic flight to Udaipur. The view from above did not disappoint. You can actually spot the lakes and tiny palaces sprinkled around the region.
Located 22 kilometers from the main city, Maharana Pratap Airport (UDR) is small yet scenic, even situated in a quieter area called Dabok. Cleanliness and the peaceful serenity of the airport – which almost felt like a private retreat – really struck me.
Currently, the airport only accommodates domestic flights, and it is reasonably well connected. I spoke with a couple from Bengaluru who along with many others had a seamless journey here after transiting through Delhi, and they were very impressed with everything.
What I Observed at Udaipur Airport:
Building Design:
The terminal integrates contemporary amenities and facilities alongside remnants of Mewar design. The ward’s stonework is complemented by soft and warm lighting.
Seating Area:
The area is bright, offering ample space, and a large number of charging stations and seats.
Food And Retail Outlets:
While limited, a local stall offered dry snack bhujia mixes, as well as freshly brewed tea. Miniature paintings, Pichwai art, as well as Rajasthani turbans were also available at one of the stores.
Transport:
Pre-paid taxis were also available outside the terminal alongside travel desks that offered hotel booking and city tour reservations. This was highly beneficial for tourists that were visiting for the first time.
While exiting the airport, I spotted the City Palace and Jag Mandir overlooking Lake Pichola. Udaipur is known as the Venice of the East, and the views do live up to the title.
One local shopkeeper located close to Jagdish Temple remarked, “People come here to unwind, not scramble. Even our airport is an oasis where time stands still.” I could not agree more.
Last Stop: Jodhpur Airport – Small but Royal in Feel
I visited Udaipur first and then flew to Jodhpur, the Blue City. Right away, you feel as if you have landed in a more subdued and rustic version of Rajasthan. Jodhpur Airport or JDH is only 5 km from the city center which makes it extremely convenient.
As it is a civil enclave airport, sharing space with an IAF base, you get to see some military aircraft on the tarmac which is always a treat. The terminal consist of 1 arrivals and departures hall which while small, is tidy and functional.
Highlights from Jodhpur Airport:
- Quick Entry and Exit: Less distance to walk, shorter crowds, and speedier check ins.
- Interior Decoration: Although basic, they include photographs of Jodhpur’s royal family, Mehrangarh Fort and the desert festivals on the walls.
- Facilities: Along with a small souvenir store, there is also a singular snack counter. There is sufficient seating for the usual flight crowds. During my layover, I enjoyed a hot samosa paired with a strong tea.
- Connectivity: There are prepaid taxis and autos. Many hotels close to the city also provide pickup, which is conveniently close.
While the airport may be basic, the city it leads into is anything but. I personally went to visit the splendid Mehrangarh fort and the tranquil Jaswant Thada. In the evening, I took a stroll around the market in the Clock Tower. The locals were keen to assist with navigation and were more than willing to converse.
The small cafe owner around the corner from my guest house epitomized the Jodhpur spirit with the words, \u201cHamara sheher chhota hai, par dil se bada hai.\u201d \u201cOur city may be small, but it has a big heart\u201d is undoubtedly true.
Airports as the First and Last Glimpse of a City
The most memorable part of the trip for me was the deep reflection each airport captured of its city. While Jaipur was impressive overall, Udaipur had a more homey feel combined with an artistic touch, and Jodhpur, though small, was packed with charm and personality. Instead of simply serving as a means of boarding and alighting, these airports give an impression of everything else the city holds.
In addition, these airports taught me the importance of paying attention to the finer details while traveling—a warm greeting at security or a locally inspired painting on the wall add to the anticipation and positively impact the mood for a trip.
My Travel Tips for Airport Hoppers in Rajasthan:
- Buffer time is recommended for connections during busy fog periods.
- Terminal information should be checked prior to booking flights in Jaipur, as domestic and international terminals differ.
- Local boutiques within the airport are a must for local handicrafts as they usually carry genuine items at reasonable prices.
- Strategically book arrival time later than 9 PM, as some airports do not have readily available cabs, and advance transport booking is required.
- Travel light if you’re moving from one city to another. This will help make airport transitions faster and smoother.
If you ever find yourself flying through Rajasthan, view the airport beyond a mundane stopover. Look around, soak up the ambience, and feel the spirit of the city you are soon to explore, or bid adieu to.
Until my next travel diary,
Wishing you flights that are peaceful and landings that are enchanting.
