Explore Kullu Manali Airpor (KUU)t: Gateway To The Himalayan Paradise

Getting to Kullu–Manali Airport (KUU) is easy since it is a well-known domestic airport located at Bhuntar, 11 km from Kullu and 52 km from Manali. Here is a step-by-step guide to reach Kullu–Manali Airport in Himachal Pradesh:

Arrive to North India

Step 1: Fly into New Delhi at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) or Chandigarh Airport (IXC). These are the main airports for North India. From here, you can either take a domestic flight to Kullu–Manali Airport or travel by road towards Himachal Pradesh.

Step 2: Travel to Kullu–Manali Airport from Delhi or Chandigarh either by a domestic flight or bus/cab. The flight to Kullu may take about 1 to 1.5 hours depending on the route. The buses on the other hand may take a maximum of 10 to 12 hours and shared cabs may take 8 to 9 hours.

Step 3: Get to Kullu or Manali from the airport in one of these ways. Get a taxi from outside the terminal: At Kullu–Manali Airport, you can hire a taxi from the stand outside the terminal building. It will drop you till Kullu town or continue further to Manali depending on your bookin
Cost: The fare may vary depending on the season and distance.

Alternatively:

Catch a bus from the nearby road: You can walk or take a short ride to the main road near Bhuntar and get on a local bus towards Kullu or Manali. Despite being a cheaper option, it can be time-consuming and less comfortable if you are carrying heavy luggage.

You will be in for a treat since Kullu–Manali Airport lets you reach the mountains faster and avoid long hours on the road. However, if you are booking a flight here for the first time, there are a few basic things to know about the airlines and routes from this airport:

At present Indigo, SpiceJet, Air India, Air India Express, Alliance Air are the only airline operating regular passenger flights to and from Kullu–Manali Airport. The airline runs short domestic flights using smaller aircraft that are suitable for the valley, and these flights help you save time when travelling between the plains and the hills.

In the past the airlines like Kingfisher Airlines and Air India Regional operated flights to Kullu–Manali Airport. There were also services by Himalayan Bulls in collaboration with Deccan Charters on the Kullu to Chandigarh to Kullu route. These flights have stopped, so you now need to check the current schedule before planning your journey.

Some of popular destinations from Kullu–Manali Airport

Delhi: Delhi is one of the most popular destinations linked with Kullu–Manali Airport(Bhuntar Airport). Booking flight from Delhi Airport, you can connect to several domestic and international flights, which makes it convenient if you plan to continue your trip to other parts of India or abroad.

Another important city that is often connected to Kullu–Manali Airport by direct flights or by a combination of air and road is Chandigarh. Many travellers prefer this option when they want a shorter overall journey between the plains and the hills.

Overall, the airlines and destinations from Kullu–Manali Airport are limited but useful for travellers heading to or from Himachal Pradesh. No matter which route you choose, make sure to check the latest flight timings and availability before you book your tickets.

The flight route offers beautiful views of valleys and mountains. However, if you are a newbie going on a flight journey to Kullu–Manali Airport(Bhuntar Airport), there are a few basic tips to remember while booking your flights:

Check flight availability: You need to check the current flight schedule for Kullu–Manali Airport from Delhi or Chandigarh at the time of planning.

Book tickets in advance: Book flights from Flighsmojo, one of the trusted flight booking website, they also offer full refund on choosing “Tripshild” if your plan get changes and you want full refund of your ticket. Kullu usually have limited seats. Make sure to book your tickets in advance, especially during summer, winter holidays and long weekends, so that you avoid last-minute unavailability and higher fares.

Weather conditions: The airport is located in a valley, the weather may change quickly during the day making flights delayed or rescheduled, it is recommended to keep some buffer time.

Pack wisely: No matter when you plan your trip, the weather in Kullu can get cooler in the morning and evening, pack warm clothes as well as a light jacket for the journey.

Seat preference: In case you enjoy scenic views, you can book a window seat at the time of ticket purchase or during check-in.

Travel timing: Most flights arrive during the day, choose a flight that lands before evening so that you can easily travel to Kullu or Manali.

Travel contacts: During your trip, changes in schedule may happen, so keep your ID, tickets and phone ready, also give your arrival time to your hotel or family for emergencies.

Using a small domestic airport like Kullu–Manali Airport is a simple experience since it provides only the essential facilities for travellers visiting Kullu and Manali in Himachal Pradesh. The airport is located at Bhuntar and supports basic services that help passengers travel smoothly despite its limited size and valley setting.

Terminal building

This is a compact airport terminal that manages arrivals and departures for domestic flights. The new terminal building was inaugurated in 2008 to improve passenger handling and support airport operations.
This airport provides you a check-in counters for domestic travel, basic waiting areas inside the terminal, simple washroom facilities for passengers and security checks arranged before entering the departure area

Runway and apron area

The runway at Kullu–Manali Airport is known for its location in a deep valley where the surrounding hills rise higher than the airstrip. The apron space has also been expanded to support ground operations.

You can see here a single runway positioned between high valley slopes, weather-dependent aircraft operations, parking space for two aircraft at a time and ground activity managed by trained airport staff

Safety and airport surroundings

The airport is located close to the river Beas, which has influenced safety planning at the airport over the years. In 1995, flash floods posed a risk to the runway area.

You can expect here regular inspections of airport surroundings, safety procedures influenced by river conditions, caution during seasons with higher water levels

Parking Zone
Parking at Kullu–Manali Airport(Bhuntar Airport) is arranged in a simple manner that supports short-term use before arrival or departure. Since the airport is small, the parking space is limited, but it is convenient for travellers who need quick access to the terminal.

A small parking area near the terminal is available with easy access to the entry gate from the parking zone and the space is suitable for short-duration parking

Basic passenger services

Kullu–Manali Airport offers essential services that support simple domestic air travel. These facilities are suitable for the number of passengers using this regional airport.

It provides assistance from airport staff for boarding and deboarding, basic announcements for flight information, access to taxis and other local transport options outside the terminal

If you are having a layover or planning a trip to then these are some must visit places which you can explore by taking a short road trip and explore these hidden beauty of Himachal pradesh 

Kullu Town:

One of the closest places to visit after you land at Kullu–Manali Airport is this popular stop for travellers know as Kullu Town, so make sure to set aside some time to explore the markets and temples that are located around the main town area. During this time, the atmosphere feels pleasant 

Bhuntar:

The nearest town to the airport and is perfect for travellers who want a short and simple place to visit before heading further into the valley. It is a convenient stop, so you can quickly find small shops and eateries that help you settle in after your flight. 

Kasol:

Kasol is a scenic village that you can visit after travelling through the Parvati Valley from the airport. It is a preferred choice for many visitors, so make sure to plan your travel time because the route is popular throughout the year. 

Manikaran Sahib:

Manikaran Sahib is a well-known pilgrimage site that you can reach after a drive through the valley from the airport. It is an important religious place, so you may want to include it in your itinerary as the area is visited by travellers during most seasons.

Staying at comfortable hotels near Kullu Airport is essential since many travellers arrive here before continuing their journey to Kullu or Manali. The duration of your stay near Kullu Airport highly depends on your travel plans, but no matter how long you take, it is essential to pre-book your hotel near Kullu–Manali Airport, especially during the peak seasons.

Hotels near Kullu Airport

This is a common stay experience for travellers arriving at Kullu–Manali Airport. Such hotels are mostly located in and around Bhuntar town. You can expect basic facilities for a night stay and simple meals.

You can expect private rooms or dorms at hotels near Kullu Airport are provided with comfortable beds, pillows and blankets, the same as the standard rooms as well. The toilets may be on a shared or attached basis. Most of the hotels offer dining areas where one can enjoy a meal on arrival and before departure.

Lodges

Lodges are slightly different than hotels, they are smaller with fewer facilities. However, the lodges are available close to the airport road and nearby market area.

You can expect a simple facilities with basic beds and comfortable bedding, as well as, rooms suitable for a short halt before onward travel. In some lodges, you can find private washrooms with hot water facilities. Simple North Indian food is also provided.

Basic Hotels in Kullu

There is a wide range of basic hotels, most of them are located in Kullu town, which is at a lower altitude compared to Manali.

You can expect a private rooms with balcony or window views, and easy accessibility to restaurants and other hangout places. The hotels include attached bathrooms and additional comforts such as furniture and Wi-Fi facilities.

Overall, these are the type of hotels you can find near the Kullu Airport route. No matter where you choose to stay, make sure to pre-book during peak season.

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This easy Kullu – Manali Airport(Bhuntar Airport), travel guide may help first-time visitors plan a trip to Himachal Pradesh and understand the basic facilities and nearby places linked with this domestic airport. 

You can book flights from Flightsmojo to Kullu–Manali Airport and begin your journey through the valleys, explore the calm surroundings and create simple and pleasant memories from this region