How to Reach Guwahati Airport – Travel Guide
Learn how to reach Guwahati Airport with detailed options including train, bus, car, and taxi. Get practical tips for a smooth journey to Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi Airport.
Guwahati Airport, officially known as Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, is located in Borjhar, about 20 km west of Guwahati city center in Assam. It is the main gateway to Northeast India and serves both domestic and limited international flights.
This guide helps you understand the best ways to reach Guwahati Airport from the city and nearby areas. You will learn about train, bus, car, and taxi options, along with practical travel tips for a hassle-free journey.
Getting from Guwahati City to Guwahati Airport – Main Options
Train
Train travel is not a direct option to reach Guwahati Airport since the airport does not have a railway station. However, trains connect Guwahati city to other parts of Assam and India, making it useful for travelers arriving by train to the city before heading to the airport.
Guwahati Railway Station is the main rail hub, located about 20 km from the airport, with frequent trains connecting major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai.
From the station, you need to take a taxi or bus to the airport; this last leg takes around 40 to 50 minutes depending on traffic.
Train arrivals can be delayed during monsoon season due to track maintenance and fog in winter mornings, so plan extra time before your flight.
IRCTC booking is recommended for train tickets, especially during festivals like Bihu and Durga Puja when trains are crowded.
Local autorickshaws and prepaid taxis are available outside Guwahati station for onward travel to the airport.
Bus
Buses are a popular and economical way to reach Guwahati Airport from the city and nearby towns. Several government and private operators run services connecting key points.
Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) and private buses operate from Paltan Bazaar and Fancy Bazaar bus stands to Borjhar area near the airport.
Travel time by bus is around 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic and time of day, with fares typically between ₹30 and ₹70.
Bus frequency is good during daytime but reduces significantly after 8 pm, so plan accordingly if you have late-night flights.
Monsoon rains can cause road delays on NH27, the main highway to the airport, so check weather updates before traveling.
Some buses stop at Kamakhya Temple area, from where you can take a short taxi ride to the airport if needed.
Car / Self-Drive
Driving to Guwahati Airport is convenient for those who prefer flexibility and comfort. The airport is well connected by road and has ample parking facilities.
The airport is accessible via National Highway 27 (NH27), which connects Guwahati to the western parts of Assam and other Northeast states.
Distance from Guwahati city center to the airport is about 20 km, with typical drive time of 35 to 50 minutes depending on traffic.
Toll plazas on NH27 may add minor delays and costs; toll fees vary but are generally under ₹50 for passenger vehicles.
Self-drive car rentals are available in Guwahati, with popular providers offering GPS navigation and roadside assistance.
Parking at the airport includes short-term and long-term options, with charges starting around ₹50 per hour.
Taxi / Ride-Sharing
Taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are the most popular and hassle-free way to reach Guwahati Airport, especially for first-time visitors or those with luggage.
Prepaid taxi counters are available at major city points like Paltan Bazaar and Guwahati Railway Station for fixed fares to the airport, avoiding meter disputes.
Ola and Uber cabs can be booked via mobile apps, with fares typically ranging from ₹400 to ₹700 depending on vehicle type and traffic.
Travel time by taxi is usually 35 to 50 minutes, but can increase during peak hours like morning and evening rush.
Airport drop-off points are well marked, and drivers are familiar with the terminal entrances and parking zones.
During festivals and holidays, demand for taxis rises sharply, so book in advance or allow extra travel time.
Step-by-Step Travel Plan
This step-by-step plan is designed for travelers reaching Guwahati Airport for the first time. It covers key actions to ensure a smooth journey.
Book your train or bus ticket in advance through IRCTC or ASTC websites to avoid last-minute rush, especially during peak travel seasons.
Check your flight timing and allow at least 3 hours from Guwahati city to the airport to accommodate traffic and security checks.
If arriving by train, pre-book a taxi or use prepaid counters at Guwahati Railway Station for a safe and fixed-fare ride to the airport.
If using bus services, confirm the latest schedules and routes from Paltan Bazaar or Fancy Bazaar bus stands to avoid waiting times.
For self-drive, ensure your vehicle is in good condition, carry a physical map or GPS device, and plan your route via NH27 to avoid detours.
Use mobile apps like Ola or Uber for last-mile connectivity, and keep your phone charged and with a local SIM for easy communication.
Practical Travel Tips
Carry bottled water and light snacks, especially if traveling by bus or train, as food options en route may be limited or unhygienic.
Always use prepaid taxi services or app-based cabs to avoid overcharging and ensure driver accountability.
Keep your luggage secure and avoid leaving valuables unattended, particularly at crowded bus stands and railway stations.
During monsoon, roads can be slippery and prone to flooding near the airport; check weather forecasts and leave early to avoid delays.
Use official airport parking or authorized taxi stands rather than informal operators to ensure safety and fair pricing.
Download offline maps of Guwahati and the airport area, as mobile network coverage can be patchy in some parts of the city outskirts.
Best Time & Travel Conditions
The best time to travel to Guwahati Airport depends on weather and traffic conditions. Avoiding peak hours and seasons can make your journey smoother.
Monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rains that may cause road flooding and slow traffic. Winter mornings can have fog, delaying trains and flights.
Avoid traveling during major festivals like Bihu and Durga Puja when roads and public transport are crowded and fares surge.
Early morning departures before 7 am or late evening after 8 pm usually have less traffic on NH27, reducing travel time.
During monsoon, allocate extra travel time as NH27 can have waterlogging and occasional landslides near Borjhar.
Winter fog in December and January can delay flights and trains, so plan to arrive at the airport well in advance.
Arrival at Guwahati Airport & What to Expect
When you arrive at Guwahati Airport, you will find a modern terminal with clear signage and helpful staff. The airport has separate arrival and departure areas for domestic and international flights.
For local commute, prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are available outside the terminal. Auto-rickshaws are rare near the airport, so taxis are the best option. Nearby hotels are mostly located in the city center, so plan your onward travel accordingly.
Conclusion
The most efficient way to reach Guwahati Airport is by taxi or app-based cab from the city center, offering comfort, convenience, and reliable timing. Buses and trains serve as budget options but require additional planning for last-mile connectivity.
Plan your journey considering seasonal weather, traffic patterns, and booking your tickets or cabs in advance. With these practical tips and options, you can confidently reach Guwahati Airport and start your trip smoothly.