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How to Get to Bhilai

How to Get to Bhilai

Bhilai Chhattisgarh, India Travel Guide

Air Travel

Major Airport & Airlines

Air travel to India typically involves flying into a large international hub, then taking a domestic flight to Swami Vivekananda Airport (RPR) in Raipur.

Raipur Connectivity

  • Swami Vivekananda Airport (RPR), Raipur: Main airport, 50-60 km from Bhilai.
  • Airlines: IndiGo, Air India, Vistara, Akasa Air, Alliance Air operate flights.
  • Routes: Direct domestic flights from major Indian cities (Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, etc.).

International Connections & Pricing

Raipur airport does not handle direct international flights. International travelers fly into major Indian hubs.

Connecting Flights & Booking

  • Connecting Flights: From Delhi (DEL), Mumbai (BOM), Bengaluru (BLR), Hyderabad (HYD).
  • Seasonal Prices: Flight prices to Raipur might be higher during peak winter (Nov-Feb) and main Indian festivals.
  • Advance Booking: Book domestic flights to Raipur several weeks or months in advance for better fares.

Airport Facilities RPR

Swami Vivekananda Airport is a contemporary domestic airport with good facilities for travelers.

Ground Transportation

Pre-paid taxi counters and car rental desks are available at the airport exit.

Smooth Arrival

Pre-booking a taxi or arranging a lodging pick-up saves you time and stress upon arrival.

Transfer Options from Raipur Airport

Convenient Choices

  • Pre-paid Taxis: Counters in terminal. Reliable, fixed fare (₹1,000-₹1,500).
  • Ride-sharing Apps: Ola Cabs available; download before arrival for competitive pricing.
  • Private Car Hire: Arrange through hotel or local agent for comfort and pre-arranged travel.
  • Buses: Less convenient. Requires transfer to Raipur's central bus stop, then bus to Bhilai/Durg.

Travel Time & Distance

  • Distance: Raipur Airport is approximately 50-60 km (31-37 miles) from Bhilai.
  • Driving Time: Around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.
  • Late Arrivals: Pre-booking a taxi is especially good if you arrive late at night.
  • Affiliate Suggestion: Consider DiscoverCars.com for car rental options if a driver is preferred.

Flight Search & Deals

Dollar Flight Club

Find great flight deals by subscribing to Dollar Flight Club.

Skyscanner

Compare flight prices from various airlines using Skyscanner for the best options.

Booking Platforms

Use platforms like Booking.com or MakeMyTrip for accommodation and flight bookings.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

The Indian Railways network offers excellent connectivity to Bhilai, a major railway junction.

Stations & Booking

  • Durg Junction (DUR): Main station for Bhilai, 10-15 km from city center.
  • Services: Numerous express trains connect Durg/Bhilai to major cities across India.
  • Booking: Book train tickets far in advance via official IRCTC website or authorized agents.

Bus Options

Long-distance buses offer another travel method, popular for domestic visitors.

State & Private Services

  • CSRTC: Chhattisgarh State Road Transport Corporation connects Bhilai within the state and to neighbors.
  • Private Operators: Offer more comfortable options (AC sleeper/semi-sleeper) to various destinations.
  • Bus Stands: Buses operate from the heart of bus stands in Bhilai and Durg.

Self-Driving Considerations

Self-driving is not generally recommended for international tourists due to unfamiliar traffic conditions.

Requirements & Advice

  • Not Recommended: Traffic can be chaotic, driving aggressive.
  • Requirements: International Driving Permit (IDP) with valid home license, passport, visa.
  • Car with Driver: A more practical, safer, and stress-free option.

Road Conditions & Safety

Awareness of street conditions and local traffic is important for safety.

What to Expect

  • Highways: Main national highways are generally in good condition.
  • Traffic: Can be heavy and disorganized, with pedestrians, cyclists, livestock.
  • Safety: Road safety standards may be lower than in Western countries.

Sea/River Arrivals: Not Applicable

  • Bhilai is an inland city in Central India.
  • No access to the sea or navigable rivers.
  • Commercial ferry or cruise services are irrelevant for reaching Bhilai.
  • Geographical location precludes water travel.
  • Focus on air and land travel for access.
  • No relevant information for this category.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

Plan your departure to ensure a smooth change from Bhilai.

Timing & Taxes

  • Exit Fees/Taxes: Typically included in your air ticket price. No separate airport payments.
  • Domestic Flights (RPR): Arrive at Raipur at the airport A minimum of 2 hours before departure.
  • Travel to The airport: Allow 1.5 to 2 hours from Bhilai, plus buffer for traffic.

International Connections & Facilities

If connecting to an international flight, ensure sufficient layover time.

Connecting & Station Amenities

  • International Flights: Allow 3-4 hours layover for connections in major Indian hubs.
  • Raipur Airport Facilities: Offers basic waiting areas, food stalls, restrooms.
  • Durg Junction Facilities: Waiting rooms, food vendors, ticketing services.

Reconfirm Flights

Always reconfirm your flight schedule 24-48 hours before departure. Indian Railways schedules can sometimes change.

Contact Hotel

Inquire at your hotel to arrange a taxi for your departure, ensuring a timely and stress-free journey to the airport or station.

Use Travel Apps

Utilize ride-sharing apps like Ola Cabs or check train statuses with IRCTC Rail Connect for current information.

Car Rental Resource

DiscoverCars.com

For those who prefer to arrange their own ground transportation, DiscoverCars.com offers a choice of rental options.

Book Your Vehicle

  • DiscoverCars.com for car rental worldwide.
  • Consider renting a car with a driver for a stress-free experience in India.
  • Explore options for transfers from Raipur Airport to Bhilai.

Train Travel Experience

Trains provide a comfortable and scenic method to experience India, especially for inter-city travel.

Comfort on Rails

  • Book AC classes for peak comfort, especially on overnight journeys.
  • Tickets often fill quickly, so early booking is always recommended.
  • Enjoy the diverse landscapes of The republic of india unfold outside your window.

Air Travel Resources

Dollar Flight Club

Find exclusive cheap flight deals.

Skyscanner

Compare flights from hundreds of providers.

Airalo eSIMs

Maintain contact with global eSIMs. Airalo.com

Inter-city Travel Tip

For comfortable inter-city travel, trains offer a scenic way to experience India. Book AC classes, especially for overnight journeys.

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