India has unveiled its first nature-themed airport terminal with the inauguration of the new terminal at Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (LGBI) in Guwahati. Opened by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the ₹5,000 crore terminal blends modern aviation infrastructure with Assam’s ecological and cultural identity, offering travelers an experience inspired by nature rather than conventional transit spaces.
Named “The Bamboo Orchids,” the terminal is designed as a tribute to Northeast India’s biodiversity and craftsmanship. The architecture prominently features a massive “Bamboo Vault” ceiling constructed using over 140 metric tonnes of locally sourced bamboo, setting a new benchmark for sustainable construction in large public infrastructure.
Inside the terminal, 57 columns shaped like the Kopou Phool (Foxtail Orchid)—Assam’s state flower—define the departure and arrival halls. Passengers arriving at the airport are welcomed into a “Sky Forest” housing nearly 100,000 indigenous plants representing 100 local species, creating a seamless transition from air travel to the region’s lush natural environment.
Cultural and wildlife elements are woven throughout the terminal design, including one-horned rhinoceros motifs, traditional Japi patterns, and landscaping inspired by Kaziranga National Park, reinforcing Assam’s commitment to conservation and heritage.
While nature dominates the aesthetic, the terminal is equipped with advanced technology. The new facility increases the airport’s passenger handling capacity from 3.4 million to 13.1 million passengers annually. It features DigiYatra-enabled biometric entry, full-body scanners, automated tray retrieval systems, pre-terminal check-in kiosks, and a dedicated ₹1,000 crore aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) hub. Developed by Guwahati International Airport Limited (GIAL) and operated by Adani Airport Holdings, the terminal also includes an Airport Village showcasing Assamese handicrafts, regional cuisine, and local brands.
Domestic flight operations are scheduled to shift to the new terminal by February 2026, with full domestic and international operations expected by March 2026. The existing terminal will be repurposed into a regional cargo hub. The project reflects the government’s vision of “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi” — development alongside cultural preservation — positioning Guwahati as a key aviation gateway to Northeast India and Southeast Asia.
