Kullu Manali Airport Guide 2025: Terminals, Facilities, and Travel Tips

Dec 26, 2025

Kullu Manali is one of the top destinations in North India, where millions of tourists visit annually to experience its abundant natural beauty and dramatic mountain scenery. Located 50 km from Manali and 10 km from Kullu, Kullu Manali Airport (IATA Code: KUU, ICAO Code: VIBR) is situated in Bhuntar, also known as Bhuntar Airport. The airport is presently serving domestic flights to a limited number of destinations. Kullu Manali Airport is one of the airports with a single runway located in a deep valley, which makes it challenging for pilots. Kullu Manali Airport is under the control of the Government of Himachal Pradesh and the Airports Authority of India. If you are curious to learn more about Kullu Manali Airport, this guide provides comprehensive information on airlines, transportation options, baggage and airport check-in, facilities, future expansion plans, tips for a smooth airport experience, and more.

Terminal Overview

The airport has two terminals, where flight departures and arrivals are operated separately. The new terminal was inaugurated in 2008 with several upgrades, including enlarging the apron to accommodate two aircraft simultaneously and enhancing services. These terminals are equipped with basic amenities and services, including baggage, check-in, and ticketing counters, trolleys, public conveniences, and others.

Airlines Operating from Each Terminal

As there are only two terminals at the Kullu Manali Airport, Alliance Air is the only airline currently offering flights to and from several major Indian cities, including Amritsar (ATQ), Dehradun (DED), Delhi (DEL), and Jaipur (JAI).

See also: Rajahmundry Airport Guide 2025

Transportation to and from Kullu Manali Airport

As many tourists visit the Kullu Manali Airport every month, various transportation options are available for travel to and from the airport to different parts of the state. Some of the most popular and easily available ones are provided below.

Taxi & Cab Services

App-based cabs and shared cab services for reaching different destinations from the airport.
Fares can vary seasonally for both taxi and cab services.

See also: Durgapur Airport Guide 2025

Airport Shuttle & Buses

There may not be any dedicated Airport shuttle service for arriving passengers, which provides convenient travel from the airport to the city.
Local and private buses can be booked at reasonable fares to reach any part of the city from the Kullu Manali Airport, and vice versa.

See also: Ayodhya Airport Guide 2025

Baggage Services & Lost and Found

Kullu Manali Airport offers free trolleys and baggage handling services, with conveyor belts assisting in the arrival of your bags and a dedicated counter for baggage tagging. For concerns related to the lost and found, people are reaching out to the airport terminal manager for assistance with filing missing-item complaints and claiming lost items.

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Check-in and Security Procedures

Kullu Manali Airport Check-in Procedure

Follow the terminal signage to reach the airport check-in counter.
Provide your flight details to the counter agent.
If you have any special modifications in your itinerary, contact the agent.
Soon, the agent will provide the boarding pass, and you can move to the security area.

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Kullu Manali Airport Security Procedure

As you arrive at the security screening, place your belongings in the provided trays.
Put your luggage and bags into the screening machine.
Undergo a security screening by airport staff.
Once you're done, take your items and bags back and proceed to the baggage drop area.

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Airport Facilities and Amenities

Numerous facilities and amenities are available at Kullu Manali Airport for you to explore. Here are some of the most essential and widely used ones:

Lounges

Lounges are available as a VIP service at Kullu Manali Airport.
Discover various services and facilities, including comfortable seating, entertainment options, workstations, and space for quality time spent, among others.
Access to Lounges can be limited to specific passengers.
You can pay to experience the lounge by using a credit/debit card at the door.

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Free Wi-Fi and Charging Stations

Both terminals at Kullu Manali Airport are equipped with wireless internet connectivity.
The Wi-Fi can be used for normal browsing, messaging, and streaming.
To connect to airport Wi-Fi, a SIM card is required.
Many charging stations can be found at multiple locations across both terminals.
You can charge your mobile device and other electronic devices simultaneously, as multiple ports are available.

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Shopping and Duty-Free Stores

Several shopping outlets offering travel essentials can be found near the departure and security hold area.
Travel accessories, clothing, and other goods can be purchased.
Duty-free items are not available for purchase.
Payments are accepted through UPI, Credit/debit Cards, and cash.

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Dining Options

Limited food stores and restaurants are available near the departure area.
A variety of vegetarian options are available.
Snacks and beverages are also available.
Credit and Debit cards, cash, and UPI payments are accepted.

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Medical Facilities

First aid service is available at the Kullu Manali Airport.
A medical care room with medical amenities is located near the terminal.
Health professionals are readily available.

Tips for a Smooth Experience at Kullu Manali Airport

Explore Amenities: It's always a good idea to enhance your airport experience by exploring amenities when you have time before boarding.
Know Your Baggage: Learn your baggage allowance and pack within the allowed limit to avoid paying excess fees.
Know Restricted Items: At Kullu Manali Airport (KUU), certain items are prohibited and restricted for carriage on planes and airport premises. It is essential to be aware of these items. Review the list of such items they provided, and inform and obtain permission from airport & airline officials if carriage is required.
Prepare Documentation: Complete all your travel-related paperwork, including a government-issued ID, proof of residence, a flight ticket, a health certificate, and any other required documents. Ensure that you keep them handy so that you can easily present them at the required locations.
Online Check-in: Complete check-in for your flight to skip the queue and move directly to security screening and boarding, saving you a lot of time.
VIP Services: Indulge in exclusive VIP services, including spending quality time in the VIP lounges, having meals, and more.
Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable clothes, including body warmers and layers, to stay warm in cold temperatures during both day and night.
Stay Hydrated: It's essential to stay hydrated during your flight journey and avoid excessive consumption of alcohol and caffeine.

See also: Kannur Airport Guide 2025

Future Expansion Plans for Kullu Manali Airport

Currently, Kullu Manali Airport is a smaller domestic airport that provides regional flight services and connects to a limited number of international airports. However, airport authorities have planned several critical upgrades, including extending the runway, improving facilities & amenities, and renovating both terminal buildings. According to Kullu Manali Airport's future expansion plans, the administration has estimated the expansion to cost nearly ₹300 crore. The following are some of the significant upgrades that will be in primary focus.

Passenger Experience: The upgrades will be designed to enhance travellers' airport experience, including the following enhancements: upgrading facilities, adding more services and amenities, renovating both terminal interiors, and introducing public art that emphasises local culture.
Access Point for Tourism: The expansion is directly correlated to the growth of the regional tourism. A significant portion of the development budget would be allocated to designing the airport's infrastructure.
Passenger Capacity: Making the airport handle ten times more passengers' footfall and providing direct connections to other major international airports.
Runway & Apron Expansion: The current runway would be extended by up to 500 meters to accommodate large aircraft, and the existing apron would be expanded to support them.

See also: Jammu Airport Guide 2025

Conclusion

Kullu Manali Airport (KUU) offers a direct gateway to Himachal Pradesh's most beloved towns, Kullu and Manali, maintaining connectivity with other Indian cities. Hopefully, this guide has helped you learn some vital information about the Kullu Manali Airport, including transportation, amenities, services, web check-in, and more. Although the airport currently has a domestic status, the government plans to upgrade it to an international airport in the northern states, thereby attracting more international passengers. The airport offers all the basic amenities and facilities for passengers, including VIP services. At last, whether you are planning a trip to Kullu-Manali, you can book direct flights from Delhi, Jaipur, and other cities.

See also: Jewar Airport Guide 2025

Frequently Asked Questions About Kullu Manali Airport

Which terminal does IndiGo use at Kullu Manali Airport?

IndiGo does not currently operate any flights to or from Kullu Manali Airport.

Is there a metro connection to Kullu Manali Airport?

No, there is no metro connection to Kullu Manali Airport, as it is located in a hill station, making the development of a metro rail system difficult and costly. However, there are many alternatives available.

Can I sleep at Kullu Manali Airport overnight?

No, overnight sleeping at Kullu Manali Airport may be restricted per airport guidelines, as the airport is not 24-hour operational, but you may find a waiting area to relax for a few hours.

Are there food options for vegetarians at Kullu Manali Airport?

Yes, various food options suitable for vegetarians can be found at Kullu Manali Airport.

How early should I arrive at Kullu Manali Airport for an international flight?

Although Kullu Manali Airport is not an international airport, if you have a flight, you should arrive at least 1 hour before takeoff.

What are the different terminals at Kullu Manali Airport, and how do I know where to go?

There are two terminals at Kullu Manali Airport: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. By referring to your flight boarding pass or following the airport signage, you can easily find your way.

Which airlines operate from Terminal 3 at Kullu Manali Airport?

There is no Terminal 3 available at Kullu Manali Airport. Only Alliance Air operates its departures and arrivals from Terminals 1 and 2.

How can I travel between terminals at Kullu Manali Airport?

Generally, you can follow the signage to find directions, and you can easily travel between Terminals 1 and 2 at Kullu Manali Airport. The facilities are also within walking distance.

Is there free Wi-Fi available at Kullu Manali Airport?

Yes, Kullu Manali Airport offers free Wi-Fi for travellers throughout the terminal buildings, which can be easily accessed and is ideal for basic browsing and video streaming, depending on network traffic.

Where can I find lounges at Kullu Manali Airport, and how can I access them?

Kullu Manali Airport offers VIP Lounges located within the terminal buildings, accessible with a valid flight fare or credit card payment.

Are there hotels near Kullu Manali Airport for layovers or overnight stays?

Yes, several hotels, including Malabar, Airport Inn, Sandhya Palace, and Apple Valley, are located near Kullu Manali Airport for layovers and overnight stays.

How early should I reach Kullu Manali Airport for a Domestic flight?

You should arrive at Kullu Manali Airport at least 45 minutes to 1 hour before your scheduled flight so that mandatory airport procedures, such as check-in and security screening, along with baggage check-in, can be completed smoothly.

What are the transportation options from Kullu Manali Airport to the city?

The transportation options may be limited to buses, shared cabs, or prepaid taxis for travel between Kullu Manali Airport and the city. Transportation fares can vary for each option.

Can I book a prepaid taxi at Kullu Manali Airport?

Yes, you can find many counters outside the Kullu Manali Airport to book a prepaid taxi.

Does Kullu Manali Airport offer facilities for disabled or elderly passengers?

Yes, for the convenience of Elderly or Specially-abled passengers, there are many facilities available, including wheelchair assistance, ramps, public restrooms, clear signage, and more.

Where is the lost-and-found counter at Kullu Manali Airport?

You can see the lost and found counter inside the terminal buildings of Kullu Manali Airport.

Is Kullu Manali Airport open 24 hours for travellers?

No, Kullu Manali Airport does not operate round the clock for travellers as it is a small domestic airport with a limited number of flight operations in a day.

Are there duty-free shops at Kullu Manali Airport for international travellers?

No, duty-free shops are not available at Kullu Manali Airport, as the airport does not have any international status or facilities. Regular clothing and accessory stores are available for purchase.

How do I check flight status for departures from Kullu Manali Airport?

Oversee the flight information screen, hear the announcements, or ask the airport ground staff to check flight status for departures from Kullu Manali Airport. You can also use any online flight status tools provided by your airline.

Can I carry food inside Kullu Manali Airport or on the plane?

Yes, if you adhere to the rules and regulations for food & drinks, you can carry them into Kullu Manali Airport and on the plane, as per your airline's terms.