Nashik International Airport

Nashik International Airport, also known as Ojhar Airport, lies about 20 kilometres northeast of Nashik city in Maharashtra, India. Originally a military airbase, it was converted to civilian use and now handles domestic flights to major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Hyderabad. The airport serves as a key entry point for travellers heading to Nashik’s wine country, pilgrimage sites, and industrial zones. While not a large hub, its compact terminal offers essential services and a straightforward experience.

Getting There

From Nashik city centre, the airport is a 30- to 45-minute drive via National Highway 160 or the Nashik-Ojhar Road. Taxis are the most convenient option, with prepaid taxi counters available at the airport and in the city. Auto-rickshaws also ply the route, though they can be slower and less comfortable. Public buses are limited; a few state transport buses stop near the airport entrance, but schedules are infrequent. Passengers with private vehicles can use the paid parking lot or the multi-storey car park, both of which have wheelchair-accessible spaces. The parking rates are modest and posted at the entry. For those relying on ridesharing apps, Uber and Ola operate in Nashik but may have limited availability near the airport. It is advisable to book a taxi in advance, especially during peak hours or late evenings.

Inside the Terminal

The terminal at Nashik International Airport is a single-story building that handles both arrivals and departures. It is compact but well-organised, with clear signage in English and Marathi. The entrance is wheelchair-accessible, and inside, the layout is straightforward: check-in counters on one side, security screening in the middle, and a waiting area with seating. Toilets are available, including wheelchair-accessible ones and a changing table for families. Baggage storage is offered for a fee, useful for those planning a short trip to the city before flying out. On-site services include a small café and a retail kiosk selling snacks, beverages, and newspapers. The atmosphere is calm and efficient, with security checks taking around 10–15 minutes during normal hours. The busiest times, according to airport data, are Monday through Thursday at 2 pm, with an additional peak at 9 am on Thursdays. During these times, queues may be longer, and passengers are advised to arrive at least two hours before departure. The terminal is clean and air-conditioned, but seating in the departure area can fill up quickly during peak hours. For passengers with reduced mobility, wheelchairs are available upon request at the information desk.

Nashik International Airport and Ojhar, Nashik

Ojhar, the village where the airport is situated, is a small settlement on the fringes of Nashik district. Its proximity to Nashik city makes it an ideal gateway for travellers exploring one of Maharashtra’s most culturally and economically diverse regions. Nashik itself is known as the wine capital of India, with over 20 vineyards and wineries such as Sula, York, and Vallonné offering tours and tastings. The city’s wine tourism has grown significantly in recent years, and the airport’s regular flights from Mumbai and Delhi have made it accessible to domestic and international visitors alike.

Beyond wine, Nashik holds deep religious significance. It is one of the four sites of the Kumbh Mela, a major Hindu pilgrimage that attracts millions every 12 years. The city is also home to the Trimbakeshwar Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, and the Pandavleni Caves, a group of 24 ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves dating back to the 1st century BCE. The Godavari River flows through Nashik, and the ghats along its banks are popular for rituals and evening aarti ceremonies.

Economically, Nashik is a hub for manufacturing, automotive, and pharmaceutical industries. The Nashik Industrial Area and the Satpur MIDC host major companies including Mahindra & Mahindra, Bosch, and GlaxoSmithKline. Business travellers frequently use the airport to access these industrial zones.

Ojhar itself offers little for tourists, but its rural setting provides a glimpse of village life in the region. The airport’s location on the Nashik-Ojhar Road makes it easy to reach the city’s attractions within an hour. For those with extended layovers, a quick trip to the wineries or the Sula Vineyards (about 30 minutes from the airport) is feasible. The combination of pilgrimage, wine tourism, and business makes Nashik International Airport a strategic point of entry for a diverse range of travellers.

Practical Information

Nashik International Airport is not open 24 hours; it operates according to flight schedules, typically from around 6 am to 10 pm. Passengers should check their airline’s schedule for exact opening times. The airport’s official website, maintained by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), provides flight status, parking rates, and contact information. The phone number for inquiries is +91-253-XXX-XXXX (confirm locally). For taxi bookings, consider using Mahindra Travels or local operators recommended by the airport information desk.

Accessibility is well catered for: the terminal, parking, and toilets are wheelchair-friendly, and assistance can be arranged by contacting the airline in advance. Baggage storage is available at a nominal fee, ideal for those transiting or exploring Nashik for a few hours. One concrete tip: If you are flying out during the busy afternoon window (2 pm on weekdays), arrive at least two and a half hours early to account for potential queues at check-in and security. Even during quiet periods, arriving 90 minutes before departure is sufficient. For the smoothest experience, book a prepaid taxi from the city to the airport to avoid last-minute haggling.