There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Janakpur into a quick city adventure. From JKR, the Taxi/Rickshaw can get you into town in around 45 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave JKR:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Nepal. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Janakpur takes about 45 minutes by Taxi/Rickshaw. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is NPR. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
Food Worth Trying
Ask at the information desk for dining recommendations both in the terminal and in Janakpur.
How to Get Into Janakpur
You have two main options for getting from Janakpur Airport into town:
- Taxi/Rickshaw: About 45 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 65 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.
What to Budget for Your Janakpur Side Trip
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Janakpur might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$3 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$18 USD
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Janakpur.
Luggage Storage at JKR
Luggage storage options at JKR 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 Janakpur for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at JKR for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Janakpur 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.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, JKR 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
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Janakpur genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.