A long layover in Gelephu is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Gelephu Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 30 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave GLU:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Bhutan. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Gelephu takes about 30 minutes by local transport. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
The most straightforward way into Gelephu is the local transport, which takes about 30 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 50 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the local transport is usually the smarter call.
How to Spend Your Time in Gelephu
For a layover visit to Gelephu, we’d suggest Gelephu Tshachu (Hot Springs) and Gelephu Local Market. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Gelephu. Great for picking up a quick snack or souvenir between flights.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at GLU, check out Gelephu Airport Waiting Area or Runway Observation (Gelephu Airport) to keep yourself occupied.
Eating Well on a Gelephu Layover
For food in Gelephu, local travelers recommend Hotel Pelri Restaurant. If you have time for a second stop, Lungten Restaurant is another popular pick.
Back at GLU, Gelephu Airport Cafe is the go-to. Grab & Go Snack Counter rounds out your in-terminal options.
What to Budget for Your Gelephu Side Trip
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Gelephu:
Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $20 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $40 USD total.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Gelephu, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at GLU may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Gelephu’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
Free WiFi is generally available at GLU, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Gelephu itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Bhutan that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at GLU, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Gelephu doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 30 minutes from GLU, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.