Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Bilaspur. Bilaspur Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 50 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Pre-Departure Checklist
A few things to sort out before you leave PAB:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for India. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Bilaspur takes about 50 minutes by Taxi / Auto-rickshaw. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is INR. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Transport from Bilaspur Airport to Downtown
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi / Auto-rickshaw | ~50 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~70 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi / Auto-rickshaw is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Planning Your Layover Spending
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Bilaspur:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $5 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $20 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Bilaspur, two standouts are:
- Kanan Pendari Zoo Park — Nice green space that’s easy to enjoy without a tight schedule.
- Ram Tekri Mandir — It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Bilaspur.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside PAB, you can spend time at Terminal Relaxation Area or try Airport Views & People Watching. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Best Bites Near PAB
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Bilaspur: Hotel Emerald Restaurant and Rasoi Restaurant. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Bilaspur Airport Canteen or Tea & Coffee Corner. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Luggage Storage Options
Dedicated luggage storage at PAB may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Bilaspur’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
WiFi at PAB should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in India and you’re good to go.
Sleep & Lounge Options at PAB
Long overnight layover? Your options at PAB 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 Bilaspur count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave PAB. 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.