A long layover in Imphal is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Imphal Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 50 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Before heading into Imphal, 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: Imphal is roughly 50 minutes from IMF via Taxis / Auto-rickshaws. 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.
Getting from IMF to Imphal
You have two main options for getting from Imphal Airport into town:
- Taxis / Auto-rickshaws: About 50 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 70 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.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Imphal might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$5 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$20 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Imphal, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
What to Do With Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at IMF may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Imphal’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.
What’s Worth Seeing in Imphal
If you head into Imphal, here are two things worth checking out:
Ima Keithel (Mother’s Market) is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything.
Kangla Fort is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. History buffs will appreciate this, and it doesn’t take long to explore the grounds.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at IMF, check out Premium Lounge or Manipur Handloom & Handicraft Kiosk to keep yourself occupied.
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Imphal: Luxmi Kitchen and Forage. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Airport Food Court / Cafe or Tea & Coffee Bar. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, IMF 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.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at IMF for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Imphal 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.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Imphal exploring the streets or relaxing at IMF, 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.