Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS)

Traveling through Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) in Varanasi, smokers will find that the airport accommodates their needs with designated smoking areas both before and after security checkpoints. This policy offers a degree of convenience for passengers, ensuring they have options regardless of their stage in the travel process. Before passing through security, passengers are permitted to smoke in clearly marked designated areas located outside the main terminal buildings. These outdoor zones are accessible to all visitors and departing passengers, providing a final opportunity to smoke before entering the secure areas of the airport. It is crucial for travelers to adhere to these designated spots, as smoking in non-permitted areas within the airport premises can lead to penalties. Once you have cleared security and are awaiting your flight, VNS Airport also provides an indoor smoking facility. According to traveler feedback from 2018, there is a specific "smoking hub" situated on the first floor inside the terminal. This indoor amenity is a significant advantage for smokers, as many airports, especially in India, have become increasingly restrictive. Finding this hub should be relatively straightforward by following airport signage once you are airside. This allows passengers to relax and smoke without needing to exit the secure area and then re-enter, which can often be a time-consuming and inconvenient process. However, it is extremely important for all travelers to be aware of India's nationwide ban on vaping products. The information explicitly states "Read about India's Vaping Ban," indicating that electronic cigarettes and similar devices are strictly prohibited. Passengers found using or possessing vaping products within the airport or anywhere in India could face significant legal consequences, including fines and potential detention. Therefore, while traditional smoking is accommodated in specific areas, vaping is not an allowed alternative at VNS or anywhere else in the country. Always look for updated signage and information within the airport, as policies can change. For smokers, the key advice is to always seek out the designated areas. Before security, these will be outside the terminal. After security, head to the first floor for the indoor smoking hub. Respecting these rules ensures a smooth journey and avoids any potential issues with airport authorities. Given the 2018 feedback, the information about the indoor hub might be subject to minor changes in exact location, but the presence of such a facility is generally reliable. Always plan your smoking breaks to allow ample time to reach your gate, especially after security.