A long layover in Durgapur is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 80 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Important Details Before You Go
Three things to verify before you walk out of RDP:
- Can you legally enter India? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 80-minute journey each way by Local taxi, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the INR. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
You have two main options for getting from Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport into town:
- Local taxi: About 80 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 100 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
Luggage storage options at RDP can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Durgapur for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Quick budget math for your Durgapur layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$5 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$20 |
Cards are increasingly accepted in Durgapur, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
For a layover visit to Durgapur, we’d suggest Durgapur Barrage and Kumar Mangalam Park. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight.
If you’d rather stay inside RDP — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Executive Waiting Area
- Airport Retail & Snack Kiosk
Food Worth Trying
- In the city: The Peerless Inn Durgapur – Multi-cuisine Restaurant and Amaya Multi Cuisine Restaurant are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Durgapur.
- At the airport: Airport Canteen (Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport) and Tea & Coffee Bar will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Staying Connected
WiFi at RDP 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.
Need a Nap? Options at RDP
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, RDP has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Durgapur exploring the streets or relaxing at RDP, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.