IndiGo to launch daily direct flights between Kangra and Noida from July 1
Shashi Bhushan Purohit
Kangra (Himachal Pradesh), June 30: Air connectivity between Himachal Pradesh's Kangra Valley and the National Capital Region (NCR) is set to improve with the launch of IndiGo's daily direct flights between Gaggal Airport and Noida International Airport (Jewar) from July 1.
The new service is expected to provide a faster and more convenient travel option for passengers by reducing dependence on Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport. The flight will operate seven days a week.
According to the airline's schedule, the flight will depart from Noida International Airport at 9:55 am and arrive at Gaggal Airport at 11:40 am. The return flight will leave Gaggal at 12:00 pm and land in Noida at 1:40 pm, with a total travel time of approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.
The direct air link is expected to benefit both tourists and pilgrims travelling to popular destinations in Himachal Pradesh, including Dharamshala, McLeodganj, Kangra, Chamunda, Jwalaji and the Kangra Devi Temple. Officials believe the new route will also encourage weekend tourism and support the local economy.
Airfares on the new route are expected to vary depending on demand. According to available fare estimates, a one-way ticket between Dharamshala and Noida may cost around ₹7,938 on regular days, while weekend fares could rise significantly, reaching approximately ₹23,688 on Saturdays and ₹18,333 on Sundays.
Gaggal Airport Director Amit Saklani said the airport would be formally connected to Noida International Airport from July 1 and noted that the airline has already published the flight schedule and fares. He expressed confidence that the new route would strengthen Himachal Pradesh's air connectivity and provide a boost to the state's tourism sector.
The daily service is expected to improve accessibility for both business and leisure travellers while enhancing connectivity between Himachal Pradesh and the NCR.