Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) is the primary gateway to Varanasi, located in Babatpur about 25 km from the city center. The airport has been significantly upgraded in recent years with a new terminal building, modern amenities, and improved connectivity. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a frequent flyer, this guide covers everything from lounges and dining to transport options and tips for navigating the airport smoothly.
Key Takeaways
- Airport Overview & Terminals
- Lounges, Dining & Shopping
- Transport from Airport to City
Airport Overview & Terminals
The airport has two terminals — a domestic terminal and an international terminal. The new domestic terminal was inaugurated in 2019 and can handle 4 million passengers annually. It features modern architecture with glass walls, automated check-in kiosks, and a spacious departure lounge. The international terminal handles flights to and from Southeast Asian countries.
The airport operates from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM, with most flights arriving in the morning and late evening. Free Wi-Fi for the first 30 minutes. ATMs from SBI, PNB, and HDFC near arrivals. A medical facility with a doctor on duty operates 24/7.
Airport Code
VNS (Lal Bahadur Shastri International)
Distance from City
25 km (40-60 min drive)
Operating Hours
5:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Annual Passengers
4+ million
Lounges, Dining & Shopping
The airport has two lounges — the Air India Lounge and the Go First Lounge. Entry costs Rs 1,000-1,500 at the door. Both offer complimentary snacks, beverages, Wi-Fi, and comfortable seating. The Air India Lounge is on the upper floor of the domestic terminal.
Dining options include a food court with North Indian, South Indian, and Chinese cuisine (Rs 150-400 per meal). Cafe Coffee Day and a juice bar are also available. Shopping includes a duty-free shop at the international terminal and local handicraft stalls selling Banarasi silk miniatures.
Lounge Entry
Rs 1,000-1,500
Meal Cost
Rs 150-400
Wi-Fi
Free 30 min, then Rs 50/hr
Transport from Airport to City
Prepaid taxis charge Rs 500-800 (sedan) and Rs 300-500 (auto). Ola and Uber cost Rs 250-400 to the ghat area. The drive takes 40-60 minutes. The BSRTC bus (Route 1) runs every 30 minutes for Rs 50. Shared cabs cost Rs 200 per person.
Prepaid Taxi
Rs 500-800 (sedan)
Ola/Uber
Rs 250-400 to ghat
BSRTC Bus
Rs 50, every 30 min
Shared Cab
Rs 200 per person
Quick Tips
VNS airport 25 km from city. Prepaid taxi Rs 500-800. Ola/Uber Rs 250-400. BSRTC bus Rs 50. Arrive 2 hrs before domestic flights.
Frequently Asked Questions
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