Shimla to Srinagar Flights

Srinagar Airport, officially Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport (IATA Code: SXR), is situated at an altitude of 5429 ft. It is located in Humhama, approximately 9.3 km from the city centre. The airport has connectivity to many domestic places like Jammu, Mumbai, Amritsar, and Bengaluru, offered by carriers like Air India, IndiGo and SpiceJet. In 2005, the airport was granted international status. Hence, it also operates international flights to destinations like Dubai. The airport underwent a comprehensive redesign in 2009, which included a runway expansion, new terminals and air bridges, and the installation of airport operations facilities. Today, the Srinagar airport has one state-of-the-art terminal. For the convenience of passengers, wheelchairs are provided for the physically disabled and the aged. Because the town and its surrounding territories come within the nation's critical zone classification, tight security inspections and many security agents are in place throughout the airport. Other amenities at the airport include a snack kiosk, a visitor centre desk, and a gift shop with leather products. Several food stalls and retail outlets selling stationery, jewellery, and traditional apparel are also located in the terminal.

Srinagar, situated in the Kashmir valley at an elevation of 5,200 ft, is famous for its unspoilt natural beauty. It is also the summer capital of Kashmir and serves as the gateway to the Himalayan highlands, including places like Kargil, Leh, and Ladakh. Nestled along the Jhelum river, the city is known to enthral visitors with dazzling lakes, a stunning Himalayan backdrop, and magnificent Mughal-era architecture. It first came under the Mughals after the 14th century, when Akbar established his rule in Srinagar. By the early 18th century, it was consolidated into the reign of the Durrani Empire. Later, the Sikhs established a stronghold in 1814, with Maharaja Ranjit Singh acting as the ruler of Kashmir. Today, Srinagar has grown into a major manufacturing hub. Many intricate carpets, silks, silverware, leather, and wooden objects are produced here by locals. During the festive season, communities are known to make Srinagar come alive, celebrating Eid, Shivratri, and Navroz with great pomp and enthusiasm. Srinagar is famous for its many beautiful canals and waterways dotted with colourful shikara boats. Other attractions include Aru Valley, Pari Mahal, and Dal Lake. If you find yourself in the city, the traditional kahva is a must-try. Other heritage dishes, such as Kashmiri dum aloo, rogan josh, lamb yakhni, and goshtaba, can also be found in local street shops. Whether you are looking for a vibrant city or a tranquil getaway, Srinagar is worth adding to your bucket list. For pleasant weather, visit Srinagar from April to June, when tulips can be seen in full bloom at the Tulip Garden, offering a magical experience to tourists.

Shimla Airport (IATA Code: SLV) is located in Jabarhatti, approximately 16.6 km from the city centre. During its construction, a mountaintop was cut and levelled to establish the runway seen here. Initially, the airport was used by private jets. However, the airport now runs domestic flights to cities like New Delhi. Many training modules for young pilots are also held here by government institutes. Currently, the airport has one terminal. This building can handle a capacity of 50 passengers for arrivals and 40 for departures. For the convenience of passengers, it has many modern facilities. Baggage trolleys are readily available at the airport. Many restaurants are also located within the terminal. In addition, shops and retail outlets can also be found within the premises for travellers to shop from and purchase souvenirs. Shimla airport is well-connected to the city. You can easily avail a taxi or a cab to reach the city from the airport. While this is the fastest mode of transport, a bus stand and railway station are also located nearby and can be used to travel from the airport.

Shimla, lying at the foothills of the Himalayas, is a popular hill station and the capital city of Himachal Pradesh. Its name is believed to come from Goddess Shyamala Devi, an avatar of Goddess Kali. Located at an altitude of 2200 m, this breathtaking hill town is surrounded by lush green hills, snow-capped summits, and dense oak and pine forests. With lively marketplaces, British-era buildings, and rich cultural heritage, Shimla is a popular destination for tourists across India. Historically, Shimla was a dense forest in the early 19th century when it was part of the Nepalese Kingdom. During this time, it was dotted with one old temple atop Jakhoo hill and a few scattered homes. When the viceroy of India, Lord William Bentinck, took over Shimla in 1830, the city developed into a vibrant summer resort owing to its cool climate. From 1865 to 1939, the city continued to serve as the summer capital of India. After Independence, Shimla became the capital of Punjab and later a part of Himachal Pradesh. Remnants of its British heritage can still be seen in the streets of Shimla, through old-world buildings, Anglo-Saxon town names, and even in its iron lamp posts. Shimla has many small-scale industries today, including food, paper, glass, leather, and chemicals. Two major events held here are the Winter Carnival and Summer Carnival. If you visit Shimla, look for embroidered shawls, local leather apparel, wood-carved trinkets, jewellery boxes, and handmade rugs that are famous here. Be sure to also try Thukpa, a Tibetan noodle soup renowned in the city.