A long layover in Indore is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Devi Ahilyabai Holkar 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.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Three things to verify before you walk out of IDR:
- 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 50-minute journey each way by Taxi / Auto-rickshaw, 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.
Transport from Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport to Downtown
From IDR, the Taxi / Auto-rickshaw gets you to Indore in around 50 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 70 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 / Auto-rickshaw offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
What to Budget for Your Indore Side Trip
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Indore:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $5 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $20 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Indore, here are two things worth checking out:
Rajwada Palace is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. You can see the main features in a short visit.
Kanch Mandir (Glass Temple) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. A peaceful stop that offers a break from the rush of travel.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside IDR, you can spend time at Primus Lounge or try Airport Retail Shops. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Indore: Chappan Dukan (56 Shops) and Nafees Restaurant. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Cafe Coffee Day or Airport Food Kiosks. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Luggage Storage Options
You can store your luggage at Not commonly available at this primarily domestic airport.. 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 Indore as well.
Staying Connected
WiFi at IDR 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.
Sleep & Lounge Options at IDR
Long overnight layover? Your options at IDR include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in India also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Indore is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Indore.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.