Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Akola. Akola Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 40 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Before heading into Akola, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for India vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Akola is roughly 40 minutes from AKD via local transport. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Transport from Akola Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Akola Airport into town:
- local transport: About 40 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 60 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Luggage Storage Options
Specific locker facilities at AKD aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Akola itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Quick budget math for your Akola layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
What to See and Do in Akola
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Akola, two standouts are:
- Raj Rajeshwar Temple — The architecture is worth seeing, even from the outside.
- Akola Fort (Asadgad Fort) — A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at AKD, check out Akola Airport Waiting Lounge or Local Souvenir & Book Counter to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Grab a Meal
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Akola: Hotel Jasnagra Restaurant and Radhakrishna Hotel Restaurant. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Airport Refreshment Stall or Local Snacks Counter. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at AKD, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Akola itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for India that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Need a Nap? Options at AKD
Long overnight layover? Your options at AKD include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in India also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Akola count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave AKD. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.