There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Kandla into a quick city adventure. From IXY, the Taxi/Auto-rickshaw can get you into town in around 60 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Important Details Before You Go
Before heading into Kandla, 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: Kandla is roughly 60 minutes from IXY via Taxi/Auto-rickshaw. 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.
What to See and Do in Kandla
If you head into Kandla, here are two things worth checking out:
Gandhi Samadhi is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Kandla Port Trust Garden is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Great for a short stroll — bring a coffee and take it easy.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at IXY, check out General Waiting Lounge or Local Souvenir Kiosk to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Grab a Meal
In Kandla
If you make it into town, The Grand Thakar, Gandhidham is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Sankalp Restaurant, Gandhidham.
Inside IXY
If you’re staying in the terminal, Airport Refreshment Counter is your main option. Terminal Snack & Beverage works too if you want something quick.
Transport from Kandla Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Kandla Airport into town:
- Taxi/Auto-rickshaw: About 60 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 80 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 Kandla Side Trip
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Kandla might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$5 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$20 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at IXY may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Kandla’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.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and IXY is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Kandla and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Long overnight layover? Your options at IXY 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
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Kandla count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave IXY. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.