Passing through Chandigarh Airport? A layover in Chandigarh is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 70 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Before heading into Chandigarh, 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: Chandigarh is roughly 70 minutes from IXC via Taxi/Local Bus. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in INR. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
From IXC, the Taxi/Local Bus gets you to Chandigarh in around 70 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 90 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi/Local Bus offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
What to See and Do in Chandigarh
For a layover visit to Chandigarh, we’d suggest Rock Garden of Chandigarh and Sukhna Lake. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Great for a short stroll — bring a coffee and take it easy. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside IXC, you can spend time at Premium Lounge (T2) or try Duty-Free & Retail Shops. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Eating Well on a Chandigarh Layover
- In the city: Pal Dhaba and Swagath Restaurant & Bar are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Chandigarh.
- At the airport: Haldiram’s and Subway will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Quick budget math for your Chandigarh layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$5 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$20 |
Cards are increasingly accepted in Chandigarh, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Storing Your Luggage at Chandigarh Airport
You can store your luggage at Left Luggage facility available, typically near check-in counters or arrival exits.. Rates typically depend on bag size and duration.
If the airport lockers are full or inconveniently located, services like Bounce and Stasher list verified storage spots in and around Chandigarh as well.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at IXC for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Chandigarh or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Taking a Break at IXC
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at IXC.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Chandigarh with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Chandigarh may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.