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Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh

Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL), serving the city of Leh, was originally known simply as Leh Airport before being officially renamed in 2005 to honor the 19th Kushok Bakula Rinpoche, a revered Buddhist monk and statesman recognized as the architect of modern Ladakh. Established as the region's first airfield in 1948, the facility introduced civilian flights following the 1962 Indo-China War and inaugurated its first dedicated passenger terminal in 1985. Situated at an elevation of 3,256 meters, it is the highest commercial airport in India and ranks as the 23rd highest globally. For the 2023-24 fiscal year, the airport handled 1,194,892 passengers, making it the 34th busiest airport in the country. Key milestones include the 2019 commencement of a new integrated terminal project designed to expand annual capacity to 3.5 million passengers. This facility is slated for completion by 2026 and is engineered to be India's first carbon-neutral airport, utilizing a pioneering combination of rooftop solar power and geothermal heating systems. As the primary gateway to the high-altitude Union Territory of Ladakh, the airport supports Leh’s role as a global hub for heritage and adventure tourism while maintaining its critical function as a strategic military outpost in the Himalayas.

Airport Information

Airport nameLeh Airport (IXL)
IATA codeIXL
CityLeh
PIN code194104
Distance from city centre4 km

How to reach Leh Airport

Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is situated approximately 4 kilometers southwest of the Leh city center, accessible via the Leh-Srinagar Highway.

Cab / Taxi

Taxis are the primary means of transport to and from the airport. A pre-paid taxi booth is located outside the arrival hall, with fares regulated by the local taxi union to ensure standardized pricing for travelers.

OperatorLeh Ladakh Taxi Operators Cooperative Ltd
Duration10-15 minutes from Leh Main Market
Approx. costINR 400-600
FrequencyAvailable on demand

Bus

While there is no dedicated airport shuttle, local buses operated by the state transport department pass along the main road near the airport. These buses connect Leh with nearby villages and are a budget-friendly but less frequent option.

OperatorJKSRTC / Ladakh SRTC
ServicesLeh-Spituk Route
Duration20-25 minutes
Approx. costINR 20-50
FrequencyEvery 30-60 minutes

Leh Airport Terminal Information

Main Terminal - T1

The current terminal handles all arrivals and departures for the region. It is a high-security zone due to its proximity to an Indian Air Force base and features basic amenities suited for domestic travelers. A new, larger integrated terminal is currently under construction to expand capacity.

Flight typesdomestic
Major airlinesAir India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, Vistara
Check-in countersCounters 1-14

Airport facilities

Oxygen Parlor

Medical

A specialized facility providing oxygen support and canisters for passengers acclimatizing to the high altitude.

Pre-paid Taxi Counter

Transport

A dedicated desk in the arrivals area for booking fixed-rate taxi services to various parts of Ladakh.

Medical Inspection Room

Medical

Equipped to provide first aid and emergency medical assistance, particularly for altitude-related concerns.

ATM Services

Financial

Automated teller machines provided by J&K Bank and State Bank of India for cash withdrawals.

Tea and Coffee Kiosks

Food & Beverage

Small outlets offering hot beverages and light snacks to passengers in the waiting area.

Ladakhi Handicrafts Shop

Retail

A retail outlet showcasing local artisanal products, woolens, and traditional souvenirs.

Wheelchair Assistance

Accessibility

Complimentary wheelchair services available for passengers with disabilities or limited mobility.

Lost and Found

Information

A service desk to assist passengers with misplaced luggage or items within the terminal premises.

Baggage Wrapping

Convenience

Secure plastic wrapping services available for check-in luggage to prevent damage or tampering.

Tourist Information Center

Information

A desk providing guidance on local permits, sightseeing, and travel regulations in the Ladakh region.

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Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport Address

Leh

Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport

Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Srinagar-Leh Highway, Leh, Ladakh (UT) - 194101

91-1982-251783,91-1982-256010(R)

FAQs

What is the IATA code for Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport?

The IATA code for Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is IXL. You can use the code IXL to search for flights departing from or arriving at Leh on ixigo. Simply enter "IXL" or "Leh" in the search bar on the ixigo app or website to find flights, check live status, and compare fares across airlines.

How far is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport from Leh city centre?

Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is located approximately 4 km from Leh city centre. Depending on traffic and your mode of transport, the journey typically takes 10-15 minutes from Leh Main Market. JKSRTC / Ladakh SRTC buses are a budget-friendly alternative at INR 20-50. Cabs and ride-hailing services (Ola, Uber) are available round the clock and cost approximately INR 400-600 for a one-way trip.
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