Yes, Indore Airport (IDR) has a designated indoor smoking zone at the left end of the domestic terminal, accessible after security. Outdoor smoking areas are also available near the main terminal entrance and parking lot.
Indore is the commercial powerhouse of Madhya Pradesh and has earned the title of India’s cleanest city under the Swachh Bharat survey multiple years running. Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport handles fast-growing domestic traffic along with a handful of international routes, and the city’s pride in cleanliness extends to the airport grounds. Smokers will be glad to know that IDR does have a confirmed indoor smoking zone in the domestic terminal — a real advantage at a mid-sized Indian airport.
Inside Terminals
The domestic terminal at Indore Airport has a designated smoking zone at the left end of the building, available after you clear security. Once you pass through screening, instead of heading toward the main boarding gates, walk to the far left of the terminal. The smoking zone is located at the end of the corridor. It is not heavily signposted, so if you cannot find it immediately, ask any CISF staff or airline ground crew nearby and they will direct you.
For the international terminal, there is no confirmed indoor smoking facility as of early 2026. International operations at IDR are still limited, and the terminal does not yet appear to have a dedicated smoking enclosure. If you are departing on an international flight, plan to smoke outside before entering the terminal.
Outside Terminals
Outdoor smoking is permitted in designated areas near the main terminal entrance and around the parking lot. Given Indore’s reputation as India’s cleanest city, the airport enforces its litter rules more strictly than most — ashtrays and bins are provided, and you should absolutely use them. The parking area provides a relaxed spot if you arrive early, and there are benches in the vicinity. Just stay within the marked zones to avoid fines.
Tips for Smokers at Indore Airport
- Head straight to the left end of the domestic terminal after clearing security to find the smoking zone. Do not wander toward the gates first or you will have to double back.
- If you are flying internationally from IDR, smoke in the outdoor parking area before you enter the terminal — there is no confirmed airside smoking option on the international side.
- Indore takes its “cleanest city” status seriously. Dispose of cigarette butts in the bins provided. Littering in the smoking area will draw attention from airport staff.
- Buy cigarettes before arriving at the airport. The shops inside IDR are limited, and you may not find your preferred brand once you are past security.
- Leave all vaping devices at home. India’s e-cigarette ban is enforced at airports, and Indore is no exception.
India Smoking Regulations
India’s COTPA legislation from 2003 governs smoking at all airports, including Indore. Smoking outside designated zones carries a fine of Rs 200, payable on the spot to authorized officers. Designated areas must maintain a buffer of at least 10 feet from entrances and exits. The 2019 Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act makes it illegal to possess, use, or sell e-cigarettes anywhere in India — travelers caught with vaping devices at any airport face confiscation and potential prosecution.