Srinagar Airport (SXR), officially Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, sits in the Kashmir Valley and serves as the region’s primary air link to the rest of India. The airport recently inaugurated a designated indoor smoking area near Gate 7.
Inside Terminals
The smoking area is near Gate 7 in the departures zone, accessible after clearing security. The enclosed room was added following traveler demand and sits alongside the row of boarding gates.
Srinagar Airport Smoking Area, near Gate no. 7 - Credit: @SrinagarAirport
This is the only indoor smoking option after security at SXR. During peak winter travel season and holiday periods, the area can get crowded — try visiting during quieter moments between boarding calls.
Outside Terminals
Outdoor smoking areas are available at designated spots near the terminal entrance. The parking area outside departures also offers open space. Be aware of the heavy security presence around the terminal exterior — stay in clearly designated areas and keep your documents accessible.
Tips for Smokers at SXR
- SXR operates under heightened security. Always carry your boarding pass and ID when moving to and from the smoking area
- The Gate 7 smoking room is the only indoor option after security — plan your timing around boarding announcements
- Kashmir winters can be harsh with sub-zero temperatures and heavy snowfall. The indoor smoking room is far more practical than stepping outside between November and March
- E-cigarettes and vaping are banned across India
- Flight delays are common during winter fog season (December-February). The smoking area near Gate 7 is a convenient spot during extended waits
- If connecting through Delhi to reach Srinagar, note that Delhi’s IGI Airport has extensive indoor smoking rooms across all three terminals