Kullu Manali Airport (KUU)

Kullu-Manali Airport (KUU), also known as Bhuntar Airport, is the primary aviation gateway to the Kullu Valley and Manali in Himachal Pradesh, India. Situated at an elevation of approximately 3,500 feet within a deep valley of the Beas River, the airport operates from a modern integrated domestic terminal inaugurated in 2008. The facility is currently undergoing a significant infrastructure expansion, including a major 600-meter runway extension supported by a bridge over the Beas River, aimed at allowing larger 70-seater aircraft like the ATR-72 to land with full passenger loads.

The passenger terminal is designed for efficiency, managing high-altitude domestic rotations from carriers such as Alliance Air that connect the region to Delhi, Chandigarh, and Amritsar. Inside, travelers have access to essential amenities, including a small snack counter, tea and coffee stalls, and mobile charging points. For tourism assistance, a dedicated Himachal Tourism information desk is located in the arrivals area, providing support for hotel bookings and local travel logistics. Due to its unique geography, the airport manages a capacity of approximately 100-150 passengers during peak hours, focusing on rapid processing for regional commuters and tourists.

Ground transportation is well-integrated with the terminal exit, featuring a prepaid taxi stand and on-site parking for approximately 100 vehicles. While the facility does not currently offer extensive retail or duty-free shopping, it provides necessary accessibility services, including wheelchair assistance and dedicated facilities for elderly travelers. As of 2025, the airport continues to prioritize safety upgrades and river-side boundary stabilization to meet modern DGCA standards, ensuring it remains a critical transport link for the Himalayan region despite its challenging operational environment.