Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport’s Terminal 2 in Guwahati has earned global recognition after being named among the “World’s Most Beautiful Airports” by the prestigious Prix Versailles, an international architecture and design award that honours outstanding contemporary projects worldwide.
The recognition places Guwahati’s newest airport terminal alongside some of the most notable aviation infrastructure projects across the globe, highlighting its distinctive architectural identity, cultural integration and environmentally conscious design.
Serving as a key gateway to Northeast India, Terminal 2 was selected for its innovative approach to reflecting the region’s natural landscapes, cultural heritage and biodiversity within a modern airport environment.
Designed by renowned architect Nuru Karim, the terminal draws inspiration from the bamboo orchid, a plant native to the Northeast and widely regarded as a symbol of the region’s rich ecological diversity. The structure features expansive vaulted ceilings that create open, welcoming spaces while reflecting elements of Assam’s indigenous architectural traditions and sacred landscapes.
One of the terminal’s defining design elements is its fluid ceiling pattern, inspired by the flow of the Brahmaputra River and its tributaries. These architectural features not only enhance the visual appeal of the building but also help guide passengers intuitively through different sections of the terminal.
The airport also showcases Assam’s rich cultural heritage through the incorporation of indigenous artwork, tribal narratives and traditional craftsmanship. These cultural elements have been seamlessly integrated into the building’s architecture, transforming passenger spaces into immersive cultural experiences.
According to Prix Versailles, the cultural features are embedded within the terminal’s overall design philosophy rather than being treated as decorative additions, making local identity a central component of the passenger experience.
Sustainability has also been a major focus of the project. The terminal incorporates bamboo-based design elements, passive daylighting techniques and biophilic design principles aimed at reducing environmental impact while strengthening the connection between the built environment and nature.
The recognition further reinforces Guwahati’s growing prominence as a major transportation and infrastructure hub in Northeast India while showcasing Assam’s culture and natural beauty on a global stage.
Other airports featured in the 2026 Prix Versailles list include Terminal 3 of Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport in China, Terminal 3 of Frankfurt Airport in Germany, Pittsburgh International Airport in the United States, Terminal 1 of Navi Mumbai International Airport in India, Techo International Airport in Cambodia and Terminal 1 of San Diego International Airport in the United States.
The inclusion of Guwahati Airport’s Terminal 2 among the world’s most beautiful airports is being seen as a significant achievement for Assam, highlighting how modern infrastructure can successfully combine functionality, sustainability and regional identity.
