Passing through Heho Airport? A layover in Heho is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 75 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.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Three things to verify before you walk out of HEH:
- Can you legally enter Burma? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 75-minute journey each way by local transport, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting from HEH to Heho
You have two main options for getting from Heho Airport into town:
- local transport: About 75 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 95 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.
How to Spend Your Time in Heho
Two recommendations for your time in Heho:
Start with Heho Local Market. The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything. Then, if time allows, make your way to Local Heho Monastery. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Heho.
If you’d rather stay inside HEH — 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:
- Local Souvenir Stalls
- Terminal Waiting Area Relaxation
Where to Eat
For food in Heho, local travelers recommend Heho Shan Noodle Shop. If you have time for a second stop, Htoo Zaw Burmese Restaurant is another popular pick.
Back at HEH, Heho Airport Canteen is the go-to. Local Snack & Drink Counter rounds out your in-terminal options.
Layover Budget Breakdown
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Heho:
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.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Bag Storage Near HEH
Specific locker facilities at HEH aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Heho itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
WiFi at HEH 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 Burma and you’re good to go.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Long overnight layover? Your options at HEH include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Burma also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Heho with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Heho 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.