If you’ve got a layover in Jumla, don’t let it go to waste sitting at JUM. The city, in Nepal, is within easy reach — roughly 40 minutes by Local Jeep/Taxi. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Important Details Before You Go
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at JUM:
First, verify that you can enter Nepal — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Local Jeep/Taxi takes about 40 minutes into Jumla, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — NPR is the currency here. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
Exploring Jumla on a Layover
If you head into Jumla, here are two things worth checking out:
City Center Walk is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s the kind of area you can wander through at your own pace.
Local Market is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside JUM, you can spend time at Airport Lounge or try Duty Free Shopping. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Best Bites Near JUM
For food in Jumla, local travelers recommend Local Restaurant. If you have time for a second stop, Popular Eatery is another popular pick.
Back at JUM, Airport Cafe is the go-to. Terminal Restaurant rounds out your in-terminal options.
Getting from JUM to Jumla
You have two main options for getting from Jumla Airport into town:
- Local Jeep/Taxi: About 40 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 60 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.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Jumla, budget roughly $19 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $4 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Luggage Storage Options
Specific locker facilities at JUM aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Jumla itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at JUM, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Jumla itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Nepal that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Need a Nap? Options at JUM
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at JUM, 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
Whether you spend your layover in Jumla exploring the streets or relaxing at JUM, 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.