Leh Airport to open new ₹640 crore passenger terminal as Ladakh unveils major infrastructure projects

16th October 2026

Ladakh is set to open a new passenger terminal at Leh Airport as part of five development projects worth approximately ₹3,350 crore, covering airport infrastructure, road connectivity, renewable energy, heritage conservation and water security.

The new passenger terminal at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh, will be inaugurated on 15 October 2026. Built at a cost of ₹640 crore, the 23,800 sq m facility is designed to accommodate up to 3.5 million passengers annually.

Incorporating geothermal energy to improve efficiency and reduce its carbon footprint, the terminal combines modern passenger facilities with elements of Ladakh’s cultural heritage. The development is intended to improve the passenger experience and strengthen air connectivity with the rest of India.

Another major project is the completion of the 298 km Nimmu-Padum-Darcha Road, constructed by the Border Roads Organisation. Connecting Nimmu in Leh with Darcha in Himachal Pradesh via the Zanskar Valley, the route provides an alternative road corridor to Ladakh, supplementing the Srinagar–Leh and Manali–Leh highways. In addition to its strategic importance, the road is expected to improve access to healthcare, education, markets and essential services for communities in the region.

The infrastructure programme also includes the 9 MW Hanu Small Hydroelectric Project and a 66 kV double-circuit transmission line connecting Dah, Hanu and Khaltsi. These developments are intended to improve the reliability of Ladakh’s electricity network and support the use of local hydropower resources.

Cultural heritage conservation is another focus, with the opening of India’s first Petroglyph Conservation Park at Sindhu Ghat in Leh. The facility will provide a dedicated space to protect ancient rock carvings depicting wildlife, human figures and symbolic representations, while supporting public awareness and responsible heritage tourism.

Water security measures include 40 water bodies developed across 40 villages under Project Him Sarovar. The initiative aims to help address seasonal water shortages by conserving supplies for use during critical agricultural periods, supporting irrigation and sustaining rural livelihoods.

The five projects are scheduled to be inaugurated or dedicated to the nation by Prime Minister Narendra Modi via video conference on 15 October.