Kangra: Air connectivity between Himachal Pradesh’s Kangra Valley and the National Capital Region is set to improve significantly with the launch of IndiGo’s daily direct flights between Gaggal Airport and Noida International Airport in Jewar starting July 1. This highly anticipated service is expected to provide a faster and more convenient travel alternative for passengers by reducing heavy dependence on Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport. The new route comes as part of a major flight expansion at the newly opened Noida International Airport, which successfully commenced commercial operations earlier this month on June 15.
Operating seven days a week, the flight schedule provides efficient transit times for commuters and tourists alike. According to the airline’s published schedule, the morning flight will depart from Noida International Airport at 9:55 am, arriving at Gaggal Airport by 11:40 am. The return flight will leave the Kangra Valley at 12:00 pm and touch down in Noida at 1:40 pm, bringing the total travel time to approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.
The introduction of a direct air link is predicted to majorly benefit both spiritual and leisure tourism, creating smoother access to popular Himalayan destinations such as Dharamshala, McLeodganj, Chamunda, Jwalaji, and the historic Kangra Devi Temple. Regional officials believe that the ease of a direct flight will heavily encourage weekend tourism from the National Capital Region, ultimately stimulating the local hospitality sector and supporting the state’s economy.
Estimated airfares on the new route will vary based on seasonal demand and booking windows. Standard weekday tickets for a one-way journey between Dharamshala and Noida are expected to hover around ₹7,938. However, weekend travellers should anticipate a notable price surge, with fares projected to reach approximately ₹23,688 on Saturdays and ₹18,333 on Sundays.
Gaggal Airport Director Amit Saklani confirmed that the formal network connection to Noida International Airport would take effect on July 1. Saklani noted that IndiGo has already integrated the route, timings, and fare structures into its booking systems. He expressed immense confidence that the service would strengthen the aviation landscape of Himachal Pradesh, offering seamless accessibility for business and leisure travellers while fostering stronger economic ties with Noida and the broader capital region.
