Yes, Goa Mopa Airport (MGI) has designated smoking areas for passengers. Travelers have confirmed smoking zones are available, though specific indoor locations are still being documented as this new terminal matures. Outdoor smoking is available near the terminal entrance and parking facilities.
Manohar International Airport (MGI) is Goa’s brand-new gateway, opened in January 2023 and named after the late Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar. Located in Pernem in North Goa — about 35 km from Panaji — this greenfield airport was built to handle Goa’s exploding tourist traffic alongside the older Dabolim airport. If you’re a smoker flying into India’s party capital, here’s what you need to know.
Inside Terminals
Travelers have confirmed that smoking areas are available at Mopa Airport. However, because the terminal is still relatively new, specific indoor locations have not been widely documented yet. The modern terminal design suggests that any indoor smoking zones would follow the typical Indian airport model of enclosed, ventilated rooms near boarding areas. Your best bet is to ask at one of the information desks or check with CISF personnel inside the terminal for directions to the nearest designated zone.
Outside Terminals
Outdoor smoking is available in designated areas near the terminal entrance and the parking facilities. Mopa’s campus is spacious and modern with wide open-air approaches to the building, so finding an outdoor spot before entering is straightforward. Look for signposted smoking zones along the curbside drop-off area. The Goan climate is warm and humid year-round, but the covered walkways near the entrance provide some shade.
Tips for Smokers at Goa Mopa Airport
- Mopa is still a young airport — smoking zone locations may shift as the terminal expands, so ask staff for the latest directions
- If you are connecting from Dabolim (GOI), note that Mopa is 60+ km away; these are two completely separate airports
- The terminal is designed for future expansion to 33 million passengers, so expect ongoing construction and changes
- Carry your own lighter and supplies; retail options inside the terminal are still limited compared to older Indian airports
- Budget airlines like IndiGo and SpiceJet dominate here, so flights can be packed during peak Goa season (November to February)
India Smoking Regulations
Under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), smoking is prohibited in all public places in India except for designated smoking areas. If you are caught smoking outside these zones at Goa Mopa Airport, the fine is Rs. 200. India also enforces a complete ban on e-cigarettes and vaping devices — bringing them into the country is illegal, and they will be seized at security. Always use only the officially marked smoking zones inside or outside the terminal.