Bhuntar Airport

Bhuntar Airport, also known as Kullu-Manali Airport, serves as the main aerial gateway to the picturesque Kullu Valley in the state of Himachal Pradesh. Located on the banks of the Beas River and surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, it offers passengers breathtaking views right from the moment of landing. This airport acts as the starting point for travellers heading to the popular mountain resorts of Kullu and Manali. Due to its location in a deep valley and its single runway, the airport is considered one of the most challenging for pilots, adding an element of thrill to the journey.

Airport Features

Despite its modest size, Bhuntar Airport plays a key role in the region's transport accessibility. In 2008, a new modern terminal was opened here, and the apron was expanded to park two aircraft simultaneously. The main and, as of 2024, the only scheduled carrier is Alliance Air, operating flights to Delhi, Jaipur, and other cities in India. The airport's location in close proximity to national parks and ski resorts makes it an ideal choice for tourists wishing to save travel time and immerse themselves in the atmosphere of Himalayan adventures as soon as possible.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Bhuntar Airport (KUU), serving the city of Kullu and the surrounding regions.

• Official Website: You can find up-to-date information on flights and services on the official page of the Airports Authority of India (AAI). Visit website.
• Helpline Number: For general enquiries, you can contact the number: +91-1902-265052.
• Airport Address: Bhuntar, Kullu, Himachal Pradesh 175125, India.
• Email: For official requests, you can use the Airport Director's email: apd_kullu@aai.aero.
• Lost Baggage Information: In case of loss or damage to luggage, it is recommended to first contact your airline's representative directly at the airport.
• Social Media: Bhuntar Airport does not have its own social media pages. News can be tracked on the general resources of the Airports Authority of India (AAI).

There are several ways to get to Bhuntar Airport, which serves the Kullu valley in India. The choice of transport depends on your budget, amount of luggage, and comfort preferences. The airport is located approximately 10 kilometres from the centre of Kullu city, making the journey there quick and convenient.

Public Transport: The most budget-friendly way to reach the airport is by local and state buses. Buses run regularly between Kullu, Manali, and other nearby settlements, passing through Bhuntar. From the bus stop in Bhuntar to the airport terminal, you can walk or take a local auto-rickshaw. This option is ideal for budget-conscious travellers with light luggage. Please note that schedules may not be precise, and buses are often crowded.

Taxi and Transfer: The most convenient and popular option is a taxi. You can use pre-paid taxi services directly at the airport or book a car in advance through your hotel or a travel agency. The trip from the centre of Kullu to the airport takes about 20-30 minutes. This is a reliable way to arrive on time, especially if you have an early flight or a lot of luggage. The cost of a taxi is significantly higher compared to a bus, but it ensures comfort and speed.

Car Rental: You can rent a car in Kullu, but a more common practice for tourists is renting a car with a driver. This eliminates the need to navigate unfamiliar and sometimes difficult mountain roads. Such an option provides maximum flexibility, allowing you to stop along the way and plan your route independently.

Airport Parking: If you are travelling in your own or a rented vehicle, there is parking available within the Bhuntar Airport premises. It is suitable for both short-term and long-term parking. It is recommended to arrive with extra time to calmly find a spot and walk to the terminal.

Bhuntar Airport (KUU), serving the Kullu Valley, is a small and compact aviation hub. It consists of one terminal, which is used for all domestic flights—both for departing and arriving passengers. Thanks to its simplicity, navigation through the airport is intuitive and does not cause difficulties even for first-time visitors.

The airport layout is extremely simple. The terminal is a single-storey building where all key zones are within walking distance of each other. Immediately after entering, you find yourself in the general hall where the check-in counters are located. After completing check-in, passengers proceed to the pre-flight security check, followed by a small waiting hall with a boarding gate. The arrival zone is equally compact and includes a baggage claim belt and an exit to the city.

Since there is only one terminal at the airport, there is no need for transfers between terminals. All procedures, from check-in to boarding, take place in one building. This makes moving around the airport extremely quick and convenient. The departure and arrival zones are essentially different parts of the same small hall, separated functionally.

Completing all formalities at Bhuntar Airport usually takes minimal time. Due to the low passenger traffic and small number of flights, queues for check-in and security are generally short. It is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before departure. This time is more than sufficient to calmly check in luggage, pass security control, and wait for boarding. The main advice for navigation is not to worry: getting lost here is practically impossible. Primary attention should be paid to tracking your flight status, as the weather in the mountainous area can be unpredictable and affect flight schedules.

The history of Bhuntar Airport, located in the picturesque valley of Kullu city, is inextricably linked with the development of tourism in the state of Himachal Pradesh. Its construction began in the early 1980s with the ambitious goal of providing air connectivity to this remote yet incredibly beautiful region of the Himalayas. Since its opening, the airport has become a key gateway for travellers striving to reach Kullu, Manali, and other mountain resorts.

Initially, the airport had a very short runway, which allowed it to accommodate only small propeller aircraft. Its location in a narrow valley, surrounded by peaks up to 3000 metres high, and its proximity to the Beas River made it one of the most challenging for piloting in the world. Flights here have always required the highest level of skill and special training from pilots. Every take-off and landing at Bhuntar is a true test and demonstration of professionalism.

A key stage in the airport's development was its modernisation in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The runway was extended, allowing it to accommodate larger turboprop aircraft, such as the ATR 42. Later, a new, more modern terminal was built to improve service for the growing flow of passengers. These improvements significantly increased the transport accessibility of the region and made travel more comfortable.

One interesting fact from the airport's history is that its operations are limited by strict time and weather constraints. Flights are operated only during daylight hours and in clear weather, as pilots require visual contact with the runway during the approach. Despite all the difficulties, Bhuntar Airport is not just a transport hub, but a real attraction, offering passengers breathtaking views even before landing. It has repeatedly played an important role during rescue operations in the mountains, confirming its strategic importance for the entire region.

Bhuntar Airport (KUU), serving the Kullu Valley, is a small regional airport, so the range of services here is basic and corresponds to its size. In the terminal building, you will find several small eateries and cafes where you can drink tea, coffee, and have a snack before departure. There are also souvenir shops selling products by local artisans, shawls, and other memorabilia from the Himalayas.

Passengers have access to free Wi-Fi, although its speed and stability may be limited. There are power outlets in the waiting hall for charging electronic devices, but their number is small. Regarding financial services, there are ATMs at the airport, but it is recommended to carry sufficient cash, as there are no full-service bank branches or currency exchange points here. It is best to exchange money in major cities beforehand.

The airport lacks business lounges or VIP lounges. The waiting area is common for all passengers. There is a basic medical unit on the premises for first aid. Simple amenities are provided for passengers with children, and travellers with special needs are provided with necessary assistance during boarding and disembarking. It is recommended to notify the airline in advance about the need for special assistance.

There are no hotels within the airport territory itself, however, many accommodation options can be found in the nearby towns—Bhuntar and Kullu, located a few minutes' drive away. Specialised conference halls or business centres are absent at Bhuntar Airport, as it is focused exclusively on serving passenger flights.

Bhuntar Airport (KUU), serving the Kullu Valley, is a small regional airport, so the choice of dining establishments here is quite modest. Do not expect a large variety of restaurants as in major international hubs; however, finding a place to have a snack before departure is quite possible. Dining options are mainly concentrated in the single airport terminal.

The majority of establishments are located in the public zone (landside), before passing security control. Here you will find several small cafes and kiosks offering simple snacks and beverages. After check-in and security, in the departure zone (airside), the choice is usually even more limited and may be reduced to a single small counter with drinks and packaged snacks.

For a quick snack, classic Indian treats such as samosas (pastries with vegetable filling) or pakoras (battered vegetables), as well as sandwiches and crisps, are perfect. Be sure to try the aromatic masala chai—a warming spiced tea that is ideal for the mountain climate. For a more substantial meal, some cafes may offer simple but filling dishes of Northern India, for example, dal with rice (lentil soup with rice) or a simple vegetable curry.

Regarding special dietary needs, vegetarian dishes are widely available as they form the basis of local cuisine. However, finding certified vegan, gluten-free, or specifically Halal meat options here is practically impossible. Travellers with strict dietary restrictions are advised to bring food with them. Prices at the airport are moderate but slightly higher than in the city. The opening hours of establishments are fully tied to the flight schedule: they open shortly before the first departure and close after the last aircraft departs.

Bhuntar Airport, serving the picturesque Kullu valley in India, has its own peculiarities due to its location in the Himalayas. To ensure your journey goes smoothly, use these tips. Arrival time at the airport: despite the small size of the terminal, it is recommended to arrive 2–2.5 hours before departure. Weather in the mountains is unpredictable and can affect the schedule, and queues may arise during the tourist season. Check-in and security here are quite standard, but be prepared for a thorough security check, which is characteristic of all Indian airports.

Seat selection on the plane: this is one of the most important tips for flying to Kullu! Be sure to book a window seat. The views of the Himalayas during take-off and landing are simply breathtaking. It is considered that when flying into Kullu, the best views open up from the left side, and when flying out of Kullu—from the right. Hand luggage: standard international rules apply. Liquids—in containers up to 100 ml, all sharp objects must be checked in. It is important to remember that power banks are allowed only in hand luggage. Please note that small aircraft often fly on this route, so space for hand luggage may be limited.

Passengers with connections should be especially careful. Bhuntar Airport is not a major transfer hub. If you are flying in transit through Delhi or Chandigarh, allow as much time as possible for the transfer (ideally several hours), as flights from Kullu are often delayed due to weather. Customs control at Bhuntar Airport is practically non-existent, as it serves mainly domestic flights. You will pass customs and immigration procedures at your first international airport of arrival in India.

A few tips on how to save time and money. Complete online check-in to avoid standing in line at the counter. Travel light with just hand luggage to save on baggage fees and leave the airport faster upon arrival. It is better to book a taxi from the airport in advance through a hotel or a trusted service to avoid inflated prices on the spot. There are few food options in the airport itself, so it is better to have a snack before arriving.

In case of flight delay: this is the most likely inconvenience at Kullu Airport. The airport's operation depends heavily on weather conditions in the valley, so delays and cancellations are not uncommon. Always have a backup plan (for example, the option to go by bus or taxi, although this is long). Keep in touch with your airline representatives, carry a portable charger, water, and snacks. It is strongly recommended to take out travel insurance covering flight cancellations or delays.