How to Reach Manali by Flight: Nearest Airport and Travel Options

The first time I tried to figure out how to reach Manali by flight, I thought it would be simple. Type, click, book. But it turned out to be anything but that. There were half answers everywhere. Some articles suggested flying to Chandigarh. Others mentioned Bhuntar without explaining what happens next. No one broke it down clearly.

It felt frustrating. I always imagined Manali as a peaceful retreat—the kind of place where the journey feels just as magical as the destination. Cool air brushing your face. Pine forests line the road. Stalls selling hot chai and Maggi at every turn. And those snowcapped peaks appear suddenly, right when you least expect them. But instead of calm, my travel planning felt cluttered and confusing.

That trip taught me something valuable. Before the mountains can relax you, the plan to reach them needs to make sense. Which airport works best? How long does it take from there? What is the road like? Which flights are practical, and from where?

This guide is not just built on internet research. I included everything I wish someone had told me. Real routes, real delays, real costs, and the exact steps I followed to make my trip smooth the next time. If you are looking for honest, tested answers to reach Manali by air without guesswork or stress, you will find them here. If you want a complete overview of all possible travel options, our detailed guide on how to reach Manali covers flights, trains, buses, and road trips.

Let us start planning with clarity this time.

Can We Go to Manali by Flight?

This is one of the first questions that comes up while planning a trip to the hills. The answer is yes, but with a few important details you need to know.

Manali does not have its own airport. That often surprises travelers who assume a popular tourist spot would be well-connected by air. I had the same thought during my first trip planning. I kept searching for flights to “Manali” but nothing clear came up. The reason is simple — you cannot land in Manali directly, but you can fly very close.

I flew into Bhuntar Airport, also called Kullu–Manali Airport. It is around 50 kilometers from Manali. The airport is small, but the fresh mountain air hits you the moment you step out. That is when the trip truly starts.

Key Points to Know:

• Nearest airport: Bhuntar is the closest airport to Manali. It sits near Kullu town, around 50 kilometers away.
• Official name: It is officially called Kullu–Manali Airport, but most booking sites list it as Bhuntar Airport.
• Airport size: Bhuntar is a small regional airport. It handles only a few flights each day.
• Flight routes: Most flights come from Delhi. Alliance Air and Air India Regional usually operate them.
• Weather impact: Flights may get delayed or cancelled during fog, rain, or low visibility. This happens more often in winter and the monsoon season.
• Why choose this route: It reduces long road travel. A good choice for families, older people travelers, or anyone short on time.
• Personal insight: Landing here felt like a scene from a movie. The aircraft flew low between mountains. When we landed, everything was quiet — green hills and fresh air all around.

Flying to Bhuntar did not take me straight to Manali. But it brought me close. Within hours, I was breathing in fresh mountain air and feeling the hills welcome me. It felt like the trip had started. It saves time, reduces fatigue, and lets your trip begin a little sooner.

Now, let us look closely at Bhuntar Airport. What can you expect there? And how should you plan the next part of your trip?

Nearest Airport to Manali – Bhuntar (Kullu–Manali Airport)

Manali does not have its airport, but there is a small airport nearby that brings you very close. It is called Bhuntar Airport, and it is the one most travelers use when flying toward Manali.

This airport is located in Bhuntar town, which falls between Kullu and Manali. From the airport, Manali is around 50 kilometers away, and it takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach by road.

What You Should Know About Bhuntar Airport

• Official Name: Kullu–Manali Airport.
  
• Location: Bhuntar, Himachal Pradesh.
  
• Distance to Manali: Around 50 km.
  
• Travel Time by Road: 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and weather.
  
• Airport Code: KUU.

Flights and Connectivity

• Cities Connected: Only a few, mainly Delhi.
  
• Airlines Operating: Alliance Air and Air India.
  
• Flight Frequency: 1 or 2 flights per day (not every airline flies daily).

This is a small regional airport, not a big commercial hub. Flights are limited, and they often get booked early, especially during tourist season.

Weather Can Affect Flights

• Since mountains surround Bhuntar, flights often depend on clear weather.
  
• During winter or monsoon, flights can get delayed or cancelled due to low visibility.

Who Should Use This Airport?

• Anyone who wants to reach Manali faster.
  
• Travelers who want to avoid 12 to 14 hours of road travel from Delhi.
  
• Families with children or older people who prefer shorter journeys.

Personal Experience

Landing here was nothing like a busy metro airport. The runway was short, the terminal was quiet, and the view outside the window was all mountains and pine trees. It felt like the trip had already begun, even before reaching Manali.

Bhuntar may not be perfect, but it gets you close. And when you are heading to the mountains, close is good enough — especially if you value your time and energy.

Flights to Manali – City-wise Travel and Ticket Prices

Once I learned that Bhuntar is the nearest airport to Manali, I started checking how to get there from my city. At first, I assumed I could fly from anywhere. But I quickly found that only a few options were available. Planning made a big difference.

In this section, I will show you the routes I have used from different cities. I will also share flight times, ticket prices, and simple tips that helped me avoid delays and book smarter.

Delhi to Manali by Flight

This is the most direct and preferred route. If you are flying from Delhi, Bhuntar becomes easy to reach.

• Flight Route: Delhi → Bhuntar (Non-stop).
  
• Airlines: Alliance Air, Air India (mostly small aircraft).
  
• Flight Duration: Around 1 hour 15 to 25 minutes.
  
• Average Ticket Price: ₹4,500 to ₹8,500 depending on season.
  
• Availability: Usually one flight per day, sometimes skipped due to weather.
  
• Recommended Time to Book: At least 10 to 15 days in advance during peak season.
  

Personal Insight: I took this flight in the spring. The landing at Bhuntar felt almost cinematic — snow still dusted the trees, and the air smelled like pinewood. But the aircraft was small, and seats filled fast. Booking early helped me avoid last-minute price hikes. See our detailed guide on how to reach Manali from Delhi.

Ahmedabad to Manali by Flight

Ahmedabad does not have direct flights to Bhuntar. You will need to stop in Delhi, but if you choose your layover smartly, it is still a comfortable route.

• Flight Route: Ahmedabad → Delhi → Bhuntar.
  
• Total Duration: 5.5 to 7 hours (including stopover).
  
• Ticket Price Range: ₹7,000 to ₹12,000.
  
• Tips: Choose a morning flight out of Ahmedabad and a same-day connection from Delhi.
  
• Peak Season Planning: Avoid late evening connections during foggy months (Dec–Jan).

Personal Insight: I once missed my connection because of a delayed first flight. Since then, I have always left a minimum 2.5-hour buffer when booking connecting flights in winter. The airport transfer in Delhi was smooth, but weather delays are real. Flying from the west? Here’s how to reach Manali from Mumbai.

Kerala to Manali Flights (Kochi / Trivandrum)

You can reach Manali by flight from cities like Kochi or Trivandrum. But the journey takes longer. You will need to plan for one or two connections.

• Common Routes: Kochi → Delhi → Bhuntar OR Trivandrum → Bangalore → Delhi → Bhuntar.
  
• Flight Time: Between 9 to 12 hours, depending on stopovers.
  
• Ticket Price Range: ₹10,000 to ₹18,000.
  
• Tips: Try to break the journey with a layover in Delhi or Bangalore.
  
• Booking Insight: Fares drop slightly in March and shoulder months.

Personal Insight: I booked this route for a client who had older parents with them. The Delhi layover gave them a comfortable meal break. If traveling with family, choose midday flights to avoid the airport rush. Planning from the south? Don’t miss how to reach Manali from Bangalore.

Bangalore and Chennai to Manali

Both Bangalore and Chennai are well-connected by air, but neither offers a direct flight to Bhuntar. You will need to stop in Delhi or Chandigarh.

• Flight Route: Bangalore / Chennai → Delhi or Chandigarh → Bhuntar
  
• Travel Time: 7 to 10 hours total
  
• Fare Range: ₹8,000 to ₹16,000
  
• Best Airlines: IndiGo, Vistara, and Air India for the first leg
  
• Connection Tip: Book both legs under the same PNR to avoid check-in hassle
  

Personal Insight: I took an early morning flight from Bangalore. Even with a stopover, I reached Manali by evening. But when I flew in December, fog delayed the second flight. Since then, I have always avoided tight connections in winter. It is safer to leave a good time gap between flights.

Air India vs IndiGo – Which is Better?

• Air India is currently the only airline operating direct flights from Delhi to Bhuntar.
  
• IndiGo does not fly to Bhuntar, but it is useful for reaching Delhi or Chandigarh.
  
• Cost Comparison:
  
  • Air India: Higher price but saves 8–10 hours of road travel.
    
  • IndiGo: Lower fare but requires a long drive from Delhi or Chandigarh to Manali.
    

Personal Tip: If your schedule is flexible, fly to Chandigarh with IndiGo, then take a scenic cab ride to Manali. It is longer, but you avoid the uncertainty of mountain airport weather. If you are traveling via Chandigarh and considering a road journey, check our article on how to reach Manali from Chandigarh.

Where to Check Live Flight Timings to Manali (Bhuntar Airport)

During my first trip to Manali, I made one mistake I’ll never forget. I found a perfect flight from Delhi to Bhuntar. It fit my timing, the price was fine, and I was just about to book it the next day. When I checked again, it was gone.

Not delayed. Not rescheduled. Just… gone.

That is when I realised something important. Bhuntar is not like other big airports. It runs on a smaller schedule, with fewer flights, and changes happen without much notice. If you are flying to Manali, checking live flight schedules is not optional — it is essential.

Since then, I have followed one rule: always confirm flight status before booking anything else — hotel, cab, or sightseeing.

These are the exact platforms I use every time, and they have saved me (and many friends) from last-minute surprises.

✈️ My Go-To Tools for Real-Time Flight Schedules

• Google Flights
  I always begin here. It gives a clear view of flights from Delhi to Bhuntar, with fare trends and calendar view. Sometimes I just search early mornings for 2–3 days straight to track price drops.
  
• ixigo
  I love this one for alerts and history. It once warned me that a particular flight had a 70% delay record in January, and it was true. I changed my plan and avoided wasting half a day at the airport.
  
• Air India Official Site
  This is where I do the final check. Most flights to Bhuntar are by Air India or Alliance Air. I always check their website for updates. It shows real-time availability and is more accurate than third-party sites. That habit saved me once when a travel app still showed a cancelled flight as available.

What I Have Learned (and What You Should Know)

I often see Delhi to Bhuntar flights scheduled between late morning and early afternoon. But they do not always run on time. In February, fog delayed my flight by four hours. In July, the airline cancelled my flight just two hours before takeoff. Since then, I have always kept a backup plan while flying to the mountains.

So here is what I recommend from experience:

• Start tracking flights 2–3 weeks before your trip.
  
• Set a fare alert and check early mornings for price drops.
  
• Always reconfirm the schedule 48 hours before takeoff.
  
• If you are flying during uncertain months, keep a Plan B — either a bus from Delhi or a flexible return ticket.

Bhuntar Airport is honestly one of the calmest places I’ve landed at. Just a few people, fresh mountain air, and green hills visible right from the exit gate. But that peace only feels good when your journey to get there is smooth.

And trust me, it all starts with checking that flight — not just once, but at the right time, and from the right source.

After Landing at Bhuntar – How to Reach Manali

Once you land at Bhuntar Airport, your journey is not over yet. Manali is still about 50 kilometers away, and the road from the airport to town winds through valleys, riversides, and mountain turns.

Many people assume reaching Manali from Bhuntar is easy. It can be — if you choose the right mode of transport. I have tried a few options myself, and each comes with its own pros and cons. Let us explore them one by one.

🚖 Option 1: Private Taxi (Most Comfortable)

Taking a private taxi is the easiest and most comfortable way to reach Manali from Bhuntar. I prefer this option when I have heavy bags or am traveling with family. It saves time and gives you more space to relax.

• Travel Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
  
• Estimated Cost: ₹2,000 to ₹3,000 (one-way, depending on season)
  
• Availability: Easily available outside the airport terminal
  
• Vehicles: Innova, Alto, Dzire, depending on group size
  
• Booking Tip: Confirm fare before starting the ride

Personal Note: I once booked a private taxi straight from the airport to Old Manali. The driver was local and stopped at a viewpoint near Pandoh Dam without me asking. That detour made the ride even more memorable.

🚕 Option 2: Shared Cabs (Budget-Friendly)

If you are a solo traveler or on a budget, shared cabs are a decent option. You will share the ride with 3–4 other passengers going the same way.

• Travel Time: Around 2.5 hours (includes stops to pick up/drop off others)
  
• Cost per Person: ₹500 to ₹800
  
• Availability: Mostly found near the Bhuntar bus stand, 1 km from the airport
  
• Downside: No fixed timing; departure depends on the number of passengers

Real Tip: If you have time and do not mind a slight delay, this is a pocket-friendly choice. I used this once in the off-season and ended up talking to fellow travelers from Pune and Manipur — great company, great savings.

🚌 Option 3: HRTC Bus (Cheapest)

HRTC runs buses from Bhuntar to Manali during the day. But the timing is not always fixed. I once waited nearly an hour because the previous bus was full. It is a good option if you have time and want a local travel experience.

• Fare: ₹100 to ₹200
  
• Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours
  
• Type of Bus: Non-AC local buses or deluxe semi-sleeper
  
• Availability: Walk or take an auto to the Bhuntar bus stand from the airport

Important Tip: Bus service is basic but reliable. Do not expect luxury, but you will get the local vibe. Avoid this option if you have heavy bags or health issues — the ride can be bumpy.

🛣️ Road Conditions: What to Expect

• The road from Bhuntar to Manali is narrow and curvy in parts.
• Beautiful views along the Beas River and pine-covered hills.
• The drive can get delayed in snow or during tourist season.
• Best to travel in daylight for safety and scenery.

Firsthand Insight: I once took the road in late evening during winter. Although safe, I missed the views, and the fog made visibility poor. Since then, I have always recommended starting the drive before 3 PM, especially in winter.

Alternative Airports Near Manali

Bhuntar is the nearest airport to Manali, but it is not always the most practical choice. Flights are limited, the weather is unpredictable, and ticket prices can be higher than usual. That is why many travelers, including myself, have often looked at alternate routes.

If you cannot get a flight to Bhuntar or prefer a backup option, here are the most reliable alternatives. Each comes with its own travel experience, and I will walk you through what to expect.

Chandigarh Airport

Chandigarh is one of the most preferred alternatives when Bhuntar is not available. It is well-connected to all major Indian cities, and road travel from here to Manali is scenic and manageable.

• Location: Chandigarh, Punjab-Haryana border
  
• Distance to Manali: Around 290 kilometers
  
• Road Travel Time: 8 to 10 hours
  
• Best for: Budget travelers and families who want more flight options
  
• Airlines Available: IndiGo, Vistara, Air India, Go First
  
• Ground Transport Options: Direct taxis, buses, or self-drive rentals

Personal Tip: I have taken this route twice. Starting early in the morning from Chandigarh helped me reach Manali before sunset, with a couple of tea breaks on the way.

Delhi Airport

For me, Delhi has always been the easiest way to reach Manali. It is well-connected and works best when flying from the south or west of India. I often plan my trip this way when other routes feel too long or uncertain.

• Location: New Delhi.
  
• Distance to Manali: Around 530 kilometers.
  
• Road Travel Time: 12 to 14 hours.
  
• Best for: Travelers looking for cheaper flights and flexible timings.
  
• Airlines Available: All major domestic and international carriers.
  
• Transport Options: Overnight buses, taxis, or shared vehicles.

Personal Note: I once chose a direct Volvo from Delhi after landing at night. While it saved on hotel costs, the ride felt tiring. If you choose this route, break the journey with an overnight stay in Chandigarh or Mandi.

Gaggal Airport (Near Dharamshala)

This airport is not very close to Manali. But some travelers still choose it when visiting other places in Himachal, too.

• Location: Gaggal, near Dharamshala
  
• Distance to Manali: Around 225 kilometers
  
• Road Travel Time: 7 to 8 hours
  
• Airlines: Alliance Air, SpiceJet
  
• Ideal for: Travelers combining Dharamshala, Bir, and Manali in one trip

Real Insight: This route is more suitable for backpackers or slow travelers. The journey includes mountain roads, so not ideal for those prone to motion sickness.

Shimla Airport

Shimla Airport is operational but has very limited flights. It is rarely chosen unless no other options are available.

• Location: Jubbarhatti, near Shimla
  
• Distance to Manali: About 250 kilometers
  
• Road Travel Time: 8 to 9 hours
  
• Airlines: Alliance Air only
  
• Warning: Flights often get cancelled due to weather

Tip: Use this route only if you also want to explore Shimla or nearby regions. Do not rely on it as your primary route to Manali.

If flights to Bhuntar are not available or get cancelled, you still have other options. These nearby airports give you more flexibility. Choose the one that fits your city, your budget, and the time you can spend on road travel. Not flying directly? How to reach Manali by train is another scenic and budget-friendly option.

I have tried different routes over the years. Some saved money. Others saved time. In the next section, I will share how I book smarter. You will find easy tips that have helped me book flights to Himachal without spending too much.

Flight Ticket Prices to Manali – Tips to Save More

Flight fares to Manali can feel unpredictable. One day you see ₹5,000, and the next day it jumps to ₹9,000. I have booked tickets to Himachal over and over — for myself, for friends, and even for older people’s relatives who needed extra comfort. What I learned is simple. You can save a lot if you understand the timing, routes, and booking behavior.

Below is everything I have figured out through trial, error, and experience.

How Much Do Flights to Manali Usually Cost?

There is no fixed price. It depends on the season, airline, time of booking, and your starting city. Still, here is a table with the realistic price range you should expect if you book 2 to 4 weeks in advance.

Personal Tip: I once waited too long to book from Bangalore in May. The same ticket that showed ₹7,900 on Monday jumped to ₹13,200 by Thursday. Since then, I set alerts and book at least 3 weeks in advance.

When to Book for the Best Price

From what I have seen, timing is everything. Here is what works:

• 3 to 4 weeks before travel gives you the best balance of price and seat choice.
  
• Early morning searches (between 5 AM and 8 AM) often show slightly cheaper fares.
  
• Do not search the same route many times in the same browser. Use incognito mode to check flight prices.

Once I booked Bhuntar tickets for a friend traveling in April. Just two weeks in advance, the fares were already up by 40 percent. Planning matters a lot when flying to hill airports.

Cheapest and Costliest Months

Some months consistently give better prices, while others are almost guaranteed to be expensive.

Best months for low fares:

• March
  
• Mid-April
  
• Late September
  
• November (until snowfall begins)

Costliest months:

• May to mid-June (summer vacation)
  
• Last week of December (Christmas and New Year)
  
• October during Dussehra holidays
  

During my October trip, I saw fares from Delhi to Bhuntar shoot up from ₹5,800 to ₹10,300 in just five days. Lesson learned.

Direct or Indirect — Which is Smarter?

If your priority is comfort and time, direct flights to Bhuntar from Delhi are the best. But if you want flexibility and cost savings, flying to Chandigarh or Delhi, then taking a cab or bus to Manali, also works well.

💡 A traveler I met from Kerala flew to Delhi, stayed overnight near Majnu Ka Tilla, and took a morning Volvo to Manali. She saved ₹5,000 and still had a smooth trip.

Booking Tips That Work

• Use Google Flights, Skyscanner, or ixigo to track price trends.
  
• Try to book on Tuesday or Wednesday mornings — prices are often lower mid-week.
  
• Use apps offering flight + cab or hotel bundles (MakeMyTrip, Yatra, Cleartrip).
  
• If you are traveling with family, book under one PNR to avoid seat separation.

I once booked separate tickets for my parents and myself, thinking it was cheaper. But we ended up in different rows, and they struggled with overhead bags. It is not just about price — comfort matters too.

Flights to Bhuntar usually cost more than regular routes. But I still find them worth it. They help me avoid long, tiring road trips and let me reach Manali feeling fresh.

What works best for me is booking early and keeping an eye on prices. I also make sure I have a backup plan in case the weather changes at the last minute. This simple habit has saved a few of my trips.

Conclusion

Planning a trip to Manali by flight can feel confusing at first. I felt the same way during my first visit. There were too many options and not enough clear answers. But once I understood the routes, things became easier.

Bhuntar is the closest and fastest airport. When flights are full or the weather is bad, flying to Delhi or Chandigarh works well too. I have used both options on different trips and found them helpful.

Good planning makes the journey smoother. Whether you are flying for the first time or returning to the hills, take a little time to prepare. Choose your route carefully. Stay flexible. Let the mountains welcome you in their calm way.

FAQs About Reaching Manali by Flight