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How to Get to Gorakhpur

How to Get to Gorakhpur

Gorakhpur Uttar Pradesh, India Travel Guide

Air Travel to Gorakhpur

Major Airports & Airlines

Gorakhpur Airport (GOP), aka Mahayogi Gorakhnath Airport, is the city's main domestic airport.

Flights to GOP

  • Airlines like IndiGo, SpiceJet, Alliance Air, and Vistara operate from GOP.
  • Routes connect Gorakhpur to key Indian cities: Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Lucknow.
  • No direct international flights operate to Gorakhpur Airport.

International Connections & Tips

International travelers typically fly into main Indian international airports and then connect domestically.

Connecting to Gorakhpur

  • Fly into Delhi (DEL), Mumbai (BOM), or Kolkata (CCU).
  • From these hubs, take a domestic connecting flight to Gorakhpur (GOP).
  • Flight prices usually increase during peak tourist season (October-March) and main Indian festivals.

Price Fluctuations

Monsoon season (July-September) sometimes sees a bit lower demand, potentially offering better fares. Booking in advance, especially at the busiest hours, is recommended. Explore Dollar Flight Club for offers or compare on Skyscanner.

Airport Facilities

Gorakhpur Airport is a relatively small domestic airport. It gives basic facilities including check-in counters, baggage claim, and a limited selection of food stalls. Do not expect extensive duty-free shops or luxury lounges.

Airport Transfers

Pre-paid taxi counters are available at the airport exit, offering fixed fares. App-based ride-sharing (Ola and Uber) sometimes has limited presence. Auto-rickshaws are found outside the airport perimeter; negotiate fares.

Transfer Options from Gorakhpur Airport

Convenient Choices

  • Pre-paid Taxis: Counters are available at the airport exit. These give fixed fares to various parts of the city.
  • App-based Ride-sharing: Ola and Uber could have a limited presence or designated pick-up points at Gorakhpur Airport. Check app availability.
  • Auto-rickshaws: You can find auto-rickshaws outside the airport perimeter. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
  • Vehicle Rental Desks: Available at the airport for continuing your journey.

General Advice

  • Gorakhpur Airport provides basic facilities.
  • Book flights in advance during peak season.
  • Baggage claim is straightforward.
  • The personnel are available for assistance.

Domestic Flight Considerations

Flight Booking

For best prices, book domestic flights well in advance, especially during Indian holidays or peak travel periods.

Online Check-in

Most domestic airlines allow online check-in 24-48 hours before departure, saving time at the airport.

Baggage Limits

Domestic flight baggage allowances can vary from international ones; confirm with your airline to avoid extra fees.

Ground Connections

Border Crossing to Nepal

Gorakhpur sits close to the Nepal border, making it a common transit point.

Sonauli Crossing

  • The Sonauli border crossing is the most common point for travelers entering or exiting Nepal.
  • It rests approximately 90 km (56 miles) from Gorakhpur.
  • Requirements: Valid passport, Indian visa (for re-entry), and Nepali visa (available on arrival for many nationalities, or pre-arranged).

Train Connections & Services

Gorakhpur Junction (GKP) is a major railhead and one of the busiest railway stations in North India.

Rail Network

  • Gorakhpur connects to all major cities across India: Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, Lucknow, Varanasi.
  • Indian Railways offers various classes of travel, from air-conditioned to sleeper class and general coaches.
  • Gorakhpur is the headquarters in the North Eastern Railway (NER) zone.

Long-Distance Bus Options

Bus services from Gorakhpur extend to cities within Uttar Pradesh and adjoining states.

Bus Operators

  • Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) operates extensive bus services.
  • Popular routes include Lucknow, Varanasi, Kushinagar, Ayodhya, and Patna.
  • Private companies also offer more comfortable AC or Volvo buses going to distant destinations.

Self-Driving Considerations

Driving in India

  • An International Driving Permit (IDP) along with a valid national driving license is required.
  • Driving occurs on the left side of the road. Road conditions vary significantly.
  • Indian traffic can be chaotic and unpredictable. Navigation apps like Google Maps are essential.

Road Conditions and Safety Concerns

  • Highways leading to Gorakhpur are generally in good condition.
  • Within the city, roads can be congested and it's possible that some areas have rough surfaces.
  • Night driving on highways carries risks due to poor lighting, unmarked vehicles, and stray animals. Drive defensively.
  • Consider hiring a chauffeured car for a calmer and safer travel experience. Use DiscoverCars.com to reserve.
  • This is especially true if you are not accustomed to Indian road conditions.
  • Remain alert and observe local driving practices.

Waterways

Sea/River Arrivals

Gorakhpur is a landlocked city, therefore sea or major river arrivals are not applicable for intercity or international travel.

Ferry & Cruise

  • Ferry services and cruise ports are not applicable for Gorakhpur.
  • Intercity water transportation is not a feature of Gorakhpur travel.
  • Immigration procedures at seaports are not relevant for Gorakhpur.

River Transportation

Though the Rapti River flows through Gorakhpur, and Ramgarh Tal Lake offers recreational boating, these aren't used for intercity transportation.

Local Water Activities

  • Recreational boating at Ramgarh Tal The lake is itself a popular leisure activity.
  • The Rapti River supports area fishing and small-scale activities.
  • No formal river transit routes exist for travelers.

No Exit Fees

No specific exit fees or taxes are typically levied for international departures from Indian airports beyond what is already included in your flight ticket price.

Departure Timing

For domestic flights, arrive at Gorakhpur Airport at least 1.5 to 2 hours before departure. For trains, 30-45 minutes. For buses, 15-30 minutes before departure.

Departure Facilities

Gorakhpur The airport provides basic waiting areas and check-in. Gorakhpur Junction Railway Station gives waiting rooms, food stalls, and general amenities for travelers.

Smooth Departures

Pre-Departure Checklist

Ensure all your luggage complies with airline or railway size and weight restrictions to avoid last-minute issues.

Final Checks

  • Confirm suitcase weight and dimensions.
  • Have all boarding permits or tickets ready.
  • Keep passport and visa accessible.

Train Travel Tips

Train travel from Gorakhpur provides comprehensive connectivity across India.

Booking & Boarding

  • Book train tickets well in advance, especially for popular routes and higher classes.
  • Arrive at the station 30-45 minutes before departure to locate your platform and coach.
  • Carry only necessary luggage onto the coach.

Bus Departure Advice

Bus Stand Location

Gorakhpur has a major bus depot conveniently located near the train terminal.

Ticket Purchase

Tickets for UPSRTC buses can be bought at the counter or sometimes directly from the conductor. Private bus tickets can be bought online.

Arrival Time

Arrive at the bus stop at least 15-30 minutes before your scheduled departure to find your bus.

Final Departure Check

Double-check all travel documents and timings before heading to the airport or transportation hub.

How to Get to Gorakhpur. Flights, Transportation, Airlines