Leh Airport (IXL) - Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport
TeamAckoMar 3, 2025
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Ladakh is one of the most popular destinations in the country, where people often visit to witness the stunning snow-covered mountains. If you want to avoid the hectic road journey to Leh and Ladakh, travelling via Ladakh airport can be a great option. Leh Airport is the only airport in this place, and it is responsible for managing air traffic congestion.
So, if you are planning to visit this place shortly, travelling through this airport is the most convenient way. Read this blog till the end to find out the essential details regarding the airport in Ladakh.
Contents
- Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport Details
- Ways to Reach Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport
- Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport Terminal Information
- Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport Facilities
- Things to Do at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport
- Places to Visit Near Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport
- The Bottom Line
- FAQs About Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport
Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport Details
Situated at an altitude of 3,256 metres, Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport ranks among the highest commercial airports in the world. This airport serves as the primary gateway to Ladakh and is about 3.5 km from Leh.
IXL Airport received its name after the Ladakhi statesman, who was also a monk. Travelling through this airport allows travellers to access the monasteries, breathtaking landscapes, and unique cultural experiences of this place. Besides, this airport features only one passenger terminal building for domestic arrivals and departures, and it is well-equipped with modern amenities and facilities for passengers.
Here are some of the key information regarding the airport:
Address: 4HV4+259, Leh, Ladakh 194104
IATA Code: IXL
Type: Domestic airport that manages both domestic departures and arrivals to and from the major states of the country.
Operational Authority: Airport Authority of India (AAI).
Ways to Reach Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport
While Ladakh Airport has been strategically built in one of the prime regions, you may not be able to get several types of transportation options. Once you arrive at the airport, the most convenient way to travel to different routes is by cab. You can thus hire a cab or opt for a shared taxi to reach your hotel or other locations like Thiksey Monastery, Ladakh Palace, Pangong Tso Lake, etc.
Individuals who seek adventurous experiences can also hire a bike with an initial deposit amount. Travelling to different locations in Ladakh is quite common in major cities like Delhi, Chandigarh and Manali.
However, Leh Ladakh Airport does not share good connectivity with railway routes. This is because the nearest railway station to the airport is Jawa Tawi, located at a distance of 700 km from the airport.
Nevertheless, if you travel by railway, you can take a train to Jammu and get on a bus from Jammu and Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation (JKSRTC) to Leh and Ladakh.
Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport Terminal Information
Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is a domestic airport which features only one terminal. The details of this terminal and airport are given below:
Ladakh is situated at a high altitude and frequently experiences changes in weather conditions. Thus, all flights to Leh are operated during the daytime only.
Leh Airport used to be a military airport operated by the Indian Air Force. However, it has been a commercial airport since 2016, operating domestic flights under the Airport Authority of India.
This airport features only one terminal building, which is responsible for handling domestic arrivals and departures.
The passenger terminal of Ladakh Airport is a relatively newer one, which is spread across 19000 sq.m.
The airport's terminal building is also well-equipped with modern amenities and facilities to ensure a convenient journey for passengers through this airport. These include eateries, shops, check-in counters, etc.
Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport Facilities
Passengers can expect several facilities and services inside Leh Airport, adding to their travel convenience. These include the following:
1. ATMs
Ladakh Airport features ATMs for passengers at different sections of the airport. You can use these machines whenever you require cash before boarding the flight. You can connect with the ground staff to help you find those inside the terminal building.
2. Eateries
The airport's eateries section also contains cafes and restaurants. Passengers can purchase various food items, ranging from snacks, beverages, and refreshments to wholesome food.
3. Shops
Ladakh Airport also features several types of shops inside the terminal building. These shops offer accessories, apparel, and many other things at reasonable prices. Thus, they are ideal for purchasing souvenirs for your friends and family.
4. Lost and Found Counters
The airport in Ladakh also features lost and found counters, where passengers can enquire about any items they might have lost or found inside the airport. You can also reach out to any one of the ground staff members whenever you come across similar situations.
5. Medical Facilities
Medical facilities are also available for all passengers. In case of an emergency, when someone requires immediate medical attention, you can contact the necessary authorities and ask for wheelchairs, portable oxygen cans, and other essentials.
Things to Do at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport
Once you have checked in successfully, you can spend your waiting hours at the airport in several ways. Here are some things to do at Leh Airport:
1. Explore the Shops
Several shops are inside the airport's terminal building, selling various types of products at reasonable rates. While you still have some time to spare before your flight arrives, it is fun to explore these and pick up your favourite souvenirs for your loved ones.
2. Have Some Food
Passengers can also enjoy themselves and relish their taste buds at the airport's cafes or restaurants. The eateries section inside the terminal building offers a wide array of food, beverages, etc. Thus, it is a good idea to try some of those until your flight arrives.
3. Watch/Read Something Online
While Ladakh Airport does not feature internet connections, you can use your mobile data to watch your favourite shows online. You can also grab a book or read something online while waiting at the airport.
Places to Visit Near Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport
There are several popular tourist attractions present near IXL Airport. Following are a few places to visit near Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport:
1. Leh Palace
Leh Palace is one of the most famous locations for travellers to explore. Initially built as a royal palace, this place has become a tourist attraction with time. Overseeing the entire city of Leh, this palace is located just 4.5 km from Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport. You can take a taxi from the airport or your hotel to reach this place.
2. Shanti Stupa
Shanti Stupa is yet another gem located in the heart of Ladakh. It is a domed stupa, entirely white in colour, built-in 1991 by a Japanese Buddhist monk. The stupa exhibits extraordinary architecture and is about 6 km from the airport.
3. Thiksey Monastery
Thiksey Monastery is located about 19 km from Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, which also ranks among Ladakh's most sought-after tourist attractions. It is also considered one of the most revered and sacred monasteries within the Buddhist religion. People visiting Ladakh often have this place on their must-visit list.
4. Pangong Tso
Pangong Lake is commonly referred to as a jewel of Ladakh. It is known for its ethereal beauty, which mesmerises all travellers. Situated amidst a range of rugged mountains at an altitude of 14,270 feet, this lake features different shades of blue. This remote yet enchanting location spans India and China and has also been a popular location for shooting several movies.
The Bottom Line
To sum it up, travelling to a majestic place like Ladakh is a dream of many. However, you can only ensure a hassle-free trip when you plan everything properly. For this, you need to make sure you know all the details related to Ladakh Airport so that you can have an informed approach towards booking your flight tickets and arranging the trip.
FAQs About Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport
Here are some of the most commonly asked questions regarding the details of Ladakh Airport:
What is the other name of Ladakh Airport?
There is another Ladakh airport, commonly known as Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport.
Can we get any hotels near Ladakh Airport?
Yes, you can find several accommodation options near Ladakh Airport per specific budgets and preferences.
Is Ladakh Airport the busiest of all airports in the region?
Ladakh Airport is the only airport in the region responsible for handling air traffic congestion and is, hence, the busiest one.
Are there any special conditions to be followed while travelling to Ladakh by air?
Other than the usuals, there is not much to consider. However, since Ladakh is situated at a high altitude, taking necessary precautions against altitude sickness is ideal.
Does Ladakh Airport offer international flights?
Ladakh Airport is a domestic airport that manages domestic departures and arrivals to and from the country's major states.
What is the Leh or Ladakh airport code?
IXL is the Leh airport code.
Which is the Ladakh nearest airport?
Leh Airport, or Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, is the nearest airport to Ladakh.
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