Indian airports are becoming more than just transport hubs. Across the country, several terminals showcase local culture, traditional art, regional ar…
1/101. Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru: Kempegowda International Airport has gained global recognition for Terminal 2, designed around the ‘Terminal in a Garden’ concept. Filled with indoor greenery, hanging gardens, bamboo finishes, water features and natural light, it reflects Bengaluru’s identity as the Garden City. Art inspired by Karnataka’s culture and sustainable design add to its appeal. (Image: Shutterstock)
2/102. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport is known for Terminal 2, which combines architecture with one of India’s largest public art displays. The ‘Jaya He’ art programme features thousands of artworks showcasing tribal, folk, traditional and contemporary Indian art. Its distinctive peacock-inspired ceiling has also become an architectural landmark. (Image: Reuters)
3/103. Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi: Indira Gandhi International Airport is home to the iconic Mudra Wall at Terminal 3, featuring large hand sculptures inspired by Indian classical dance and ancient temple art. The airport also displays paintings, sculptures and installations representing India’s artistic and cultural diversity. (Image: Shutterstock)
4/104. Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport reflects the culture of Assam and the Northeast through its newly developed Terminal 2. The design draws inspiration from the region’s rivers, landscapes and traditional craftsmanship, with motifs based on Assamese textiles, bamboo and cane work, local music and indigenous culture. Terminal 2 was recognised in the Prix Versailles 2026 World Selection among the World’s Most Beautiful Airports, highlighting its blend of regional heritage and contemporary architecture. (Image: Himanta Biswa Sarma/X)
5/105. Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, Ayodhya: Maharishi Valmiki International Airport reflects the city’s connection with the Ramayana through temple-inspired architecture, carved pillars and traditional decorative elements. The design highlights Ayodhya’s religious and cultural importance. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
6/106. Jodhpur Airport, Rajasthan: Jodhpur Airport features a terminal inspired by Rajasthan’s forts and palaces. Sandstone-style façades, jharokha-inspired details, lattice patterns and interiors influenced by Marwar’s royal heritage give travellers a glimpse of the state’s architectural traditions. (Image: Narendra Modi/Instagram)
7/107. Navi Mumbai International Airport, Maharashtra: Navi Mumbai International Airport is set to feature a modern terminal inspired by India’s natural landscapes and cultural identity. Its sweeping lotus-inspired design, spacious interiors, extensive use of natural light and sustainable features aim to create a world-class travel experience. Terminal 1 was recognised in the Prix Versailles 2026 World Selection among the World’s Most Beautiful Airports, highlighting its architectural excellence even before commercial operations begin. (Image: PTI)
8/108. Kushinagar International Airport, Uttar Pradesh: Kushinagar International Airport draws inspiration from the city’s importance as a Buddhist pilgrimage destination. Buddhist motifs and architectural elements honour the site’s historical and spiritual significance. (Image: PTI)
9/109. Veer Savarkar International Airport, Port Blair: Veer Savarkar International Airport has a terminal inspired by the sea, islands and indigenous heritage of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Local design elements and artwork reflect the region’s unique natural and cultural character. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
10/1010. Chennai International Airport, Tamil Nadu: Chennai International Airport incorporates design inspired by Tamil architecture and local traditions. Murals, decorative features and cultural displays celebrate the state’s artistic heritage while giving the terminal a distinct regional identity. (Image: Shutterstock)
