As of now, Himachal Pradesh has three operational airports that are located at Kangra, Kullu, and Shimla. There are no international airports situated in the state, so travelers numerous travelers use the nearby Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport for wider connections.
Himachal Pradesh is one of the most beautiful states in India, which makes travel to popular destinations in India easy with its well-connected airports. These airports play a major role in boosting tourism in the state within several quiet, remote areas as well. If you are also planning a trip to Himachal Pradesh’s beautiful cities or remote towns, you can consider planning your trip through the airways. The airports listed below will make it easy for you to reach your destination quickly without any hassle.
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List of Airports in Himachal Pradesh at a Glance
Himachal Pradesh is home to three operational airports along with 2 proposed ones. Let’s take a closer look at these airports in brief:
| S. No. | Airport Name | Location | Status |
| 1 | Kangra Airport or Gaggal Airport | Gaggal, Kangra | Operational |
| 2 | Bhuntar Airport (KUU) | Bhuntar, Kullu | Operational |
| 3 | Jubbarhatti Airport | Shimla | Operational |
| 4 | Mandi Airport | Mandi | Proposed |
| 5 | Rangrik Airport | Rangrik, Spiti | Proposed |
Exploring Airports in Himachal Pradesh
Here is a detailed overview of the top three operational Airports in Himachal Pradesh:
1. Kangra Airport or Gaggal Airport
Kangra Airport, also known as Gaggal Airport, is situated at a distance of 15 kilometers from the beautiful town of Dharamshala. This establishment serves as a base for tourists who are visiting the Dalai Lama’s residence and Tibetan culture. Moreover, this airport has a single runway, and flights may be affected by climate or visibility issues.
Kangra Airport provides some of the basic facilities such as a passenger waiting lounge, a snack bar, pre-paid taxi counters, and wheelchair assistance. After reaching this airport, visitors can reach McLeod Ganj, take a taxi or pre-arranged transport, and explore its monasteries and beautiful views.
Some of the prominent airlines connected to this airport are: Air India, Deccan Charter, Jagson Airlines, and Himalayan Bulls operate flights to and from Bhuntar Airport.
2. Bhuntar Airport (KUU)
Bhuntar Airport is located just 10 kilometers from Kullu and 50 kilometers from Manali. This is a small airport in Himachal Pradesh but an extremely efficient one. Having a single runway, this airport offers enchanting views of surrounding high peaks. Moreover, it offers several facilities like a waiting lounge, refreshment options, and easy access to taxis. It is well-connected and operates regular flights from cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, Dharamshala, and Kolkata.
Airlines operating from here are Air India, Deccan Charter, Jagson Airlines, and Himalayan Bulls. So, if you are looking to visit the breathtaking Kullu Valley by air, Bhuntar Airport is your gateway.
3. Jubbarhatti Airport
Jubbarhatti Airport (SLV) provides easy access to the capital city of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla. Positioned at a distance of 23 kilometers from Shimla, this airport welcomes you with several essential amenities, such as a small waiting area, eating spots, and convenient taxi services. Apart from this, this airport has a short runway, which is located on a tabletop and requires precise landing and take-off skills.
Once you reach here, you can visit Shimla in a taxi in a short time, explore its colonial architecture, walk through the Mall Road, and seek blessings at Jakhoo Temple. Other prominent destinations that you can visit include Kufri, Naldehra, and Chail.
Proposed Airports in Himachal Pradesh
In Himachal Pradesh, the establishment of two airports has been under consideration. The decision on their establishment has not been finalized yet. Here is a closer look:
1. Mandi Airport
Mandi Airport is proposed as an international airport to boost tourism in Himachal Pradesh. Once this airport comes into operation, it will improve the overall connectivity in the state and its surrounding areas, making travel easy, quick, and convenient. As per the sources, the airport is planned to have an area of 515 acres and cost 900 crores (USD 113 million). At the current stage, the state government, along with the Civil Aviation Ministry, is preparing the airport’s detailed project report and working to establish this as soon as possible.
2. Rangrik Airport
Rangrik Airport, also a proposed airport in Himachal Pradesh, is planned to be established for the country’s defence in the border area. As Spiti is close to the China border, the airport is aimed at improving security and strengthening defence activities in the region. The establishment came into consideration after China built a defence airport in Lupsuk. Considering tourism, this airport in Himachal Pradesh will also be accessible for tourists from all across the world to witness the beauty of snow-covered mountains.
Airport Facilities: What to Expect
The operational airports in Himachal Pradesh provide basic but useful amenities to tourists to make their travel comfortable and convenient. However, some facilities may differ from airport to airport; travelers can expect the following general facilities:
| Facility | What Travelers Can Expect | Available At |
| Waiting Area | Small and comfortable areas where passengers can sit before their flights. | Kangra, Bhuntar, Shimla |
| Food & Refreshments | Snack bars or small eating options for light food and drinks. | Kangra, Bhuntar, Shimla |
| Taxi Services | Taxis and local transport options are available for reaching nearby towns and tourist places. | Kangra, Bhuntar, Shimla |
| Wheelchair Assistance | Basic support is available for passengers who need mobility assistance. | Kangra Airport |
| Pre-Paid Taxi Counter | Travelers can book taxis through the airport’s pre-paid taxi service. | Kangra Airport |
| Flight Connectivity | Flights connect travelers with major cities, depending on the airport and airline schedule. | All operational airports |
Conclusion
Himachal Pradesh is one of the best tourist places to visit in India. However, for someone who is used to traveling by air, the above airports in the state make their travel easy and hassle-free. Kangra, Bhuntar, and Jubbarhatti are the three operational airports that connect different parts of the state with major cities.
Therefore, if you are planning your trip to places like Dharamshala, Kullu, Manali, and Shimla, you can consider planning your trip through these airports. Several reputed airlines operate from these establishments, which further makes planning your trip, checking flight schedules, weather conditions, and transport options easy. However, if direct flights are not available, you can also take connecting flights through Delhi or Chandigarh for a smooth journey.
Also Read : Heritage Sites of Himachal Pradesh