Global recognition for Guwahati Airport reflects Assam's rising architectural identity: CM Sarma
Guwahati, June 15
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday hailed the inclusion of Guwahati's Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport among the World's Most Beautiful Airports 2026, saying the recognition reflects the growing global appreciation of Assam's architectural identity and cultural heritage.
Sharing the achievement on social media platform X, the Chief Minister said the new terminal of Guwahati Airport has been featured in the prestigious Prix Versailles World's Most Beautiful Airports List 2026, earning global recognition for a design that seamlessly blends indigenous art, local craftsmanship and nature-inspired narratives.
Calling it a proud moment for the state, Sarma said the Gateway to the Northeast has joined an exclusive list celebrating some of the finest airports across the world.
The airport's new Terminal 2 was selected by Prix Versailles, a globally acclaimed architecture and design award presented annually at UNESCO headquarters in Paris.
According to officials, the terminal's design is inspired by the "Bamboo Orchid" concept, reflecting the biodiversity, ecology and cultural richness of Northeast India. The structure combines sustainability, functionality and aesthetics while showcasing indigenous traditions and local craftsmanship.
The international recognition places Guwahati alongside a select group of airports from countries including China, Germany, Cambodia and the United States that have been recognised this year for architectural excellence, innovation and passenger experience.
Officials said the award underscores Guwahati's growing prominence as a major aviation hub in eastern India and highlights its strategic role in connecting the Northeast with the rest of the country and neighbouring regions in South and Southeast Asia.
The recognition comes at a time when Assam is witnessing rapid infrastructure expansion, with Guwahati emerging as a key centre for connectivity, commerce and tourism in the Northeast.
Prix Versailles honours airports and terminals that demonstrate excellence in architecture, environmental consciousness and cultural expression. Three airports from the 2026 shortlist will be selected later this year for special global titles.
— IANS
Reader Comments
It's great to see Assam getting international recognition. But I hope this isn't just a one-off achievement - we need more such investments in infrastructure that actually benefit the common people, not just make the state look good on paper. The airport experience is nice, but what about the roads leading to it? Still full of potholes! 😅
As someone who frequently flies in and out of Guwahati, I can vouch for the transformation. The bamboo-themed interiors, the local art displays, and the efficient design - it's a far cry from the cramped old terminal. This is what happens when we combine modern infrastructure with our own identity. Kudos to the architects and the state government 👏
I visited Guwahati last year and was blown away by the airport. The bamboo orchid concept is genius - it captures the essence of the Northeast so beautifully. Coming from someone who has travelled through many airports globally, this one genuinely stands out. Well done, Assam! 🌸
It's a proud moment indeed, but let's not forget the challenges. The airport still struggles with parking space during peak hours, and the approach road gets flooded every monsoon. Awards are nice, but the real test is how well it serves the people day in and day out. Hope the administration fixes these ground-level issues too.
This is what development should look like - honouring our roots while embracing modernity. The bamboo orchid design isn't just beautiful, it's sustainable and locally inspired. Makes me want to book a flight to Guwahati just to experience the terminal! 🌿
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