Punjab And Haryana, India
Chandigarh International Airport (IXC) is the only major airport directly serving Chandigarh. It handles domestic and a limited number of international flights.
International flight options from Chandigarh are limited. Direct flights mainly connect to destinations in the Middle East. Air India Express flies to Sharjah, IndiGo to Dubai. For other international destinations, travelers typically fly into major Indian hubs like Delhi (DEL) or Mumbai (BOM).
Chandigarh International Airport has a single, modern terminal. It has duty-free shops, currency exchange, ATMs, restaurants, lounges, car rental, and Wi-Fi. Affiliate resource: Dollar Flight Club.
Pre-paid taxis, ride-sharing apps (Uber/Ola), local buses (CTU), and hotel shuttles are transfer options. Pre-paid taxis have fixed fares. Buses are cost-effective.
Most international visitors connect via Delhi or Mumbai. Affiliate resource: Skyscanner for flight comparisons.
Chandigarh has two main bus terminals: ISBT Sector 17 (central hub) and ISBT Sector 43 (more routes to Delhi, Rajasthan). State-run (HRTC, PRTC) and private operators (Volvo, AC buses) connect to Delhi, Shimla, Manali, Amritsar.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) and home country license are needed. Major highways to Chandigarh are in good condition. City roads are well-maintained. Indian traffic is chaotic. Defensive driving is important. For many tourists, a chauffeur-driven rental is less stressful. Affiliate Resource: DiscoverCars.com.
Drive on the left. Seatbelts are for drivers/front passengers. Helmets for motorcyclists. Horn usage is common. Be aware of speeding, erratic driving. Exercise caution as a pedestrian.
Chandigarh is a landlocked city. It does not have access to sea or navigable rivers for ferry or cruise services. Sukhna Lake offers recreational boating, but not transport. No boat taxis or other water transportation means.
Chandigarh does not feature cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport systems like those in hill stations or older, geographically challenging cities.
No separate exit fees for international flights departing from Chandigarh International Airport beyond the airline ticket price. All taxes and surcharges are usually in the fare.
Domestic Flights: Arrive 90 minutes before. International Flights: Arrive 3 hours before. Trains: Arrive 30 minutes before. Buses: Arrive 15-30 minutes before.
Standard security checks are in place for flights and trains. Be ready to remove electronics and liquids for screening. This includes luggage for inspection.
The airport has lounges for comfortable waiting. Clean restroom facilities are throughout the terminal. Various restaurants, cafes, and snack bars offer dining options.
Chandigarh Railway Station (CDG) has basic amenities. ISBT Bus Terminals offer basic facilities.
Duty-free shops (for international departures).
Souvenirs, books, and other items.
Car rental desks and pre-paid taxi counters for ground transport.
Be ready for queues, especially during peak travel times. Have all your documents ready for inspection.
