Passing through Kannur International Airport? A layover in Kannur is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 100 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Pre-Departure Checklist
A few things to sort out before you leave CNN:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for India. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Kannur takes about 100 minutes by Taxi / Bus. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is INR. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi / Bus | ~100 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~120 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi / Bus is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Exploring Kannur on a Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Kannur, two standouts are:
- Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach — It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
- St. Angelo Fort — History buffs will appreciate this, and it doesn’t take long to explore the grounds.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at CNN, check out Kannur International Airport Lounge or Duty-Free & Retail Shopping to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Grab a Meal
- In the city: Hotel Odhens and MVK Restaurant are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Kannur.
- At the airport: KFC and Malabar Cafe will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Kannur might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$4 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$19 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Luggage Storage at CNN
Luggage storage is available at Enquire at airport information desk for left luggage facilities, likely located in the arrivals area.. Drop your bags off early so you can explore hands-free.
Alternatively, third-party services like Bounce or Stasher can connect you with storage locations closer to wherever you’re headed in Kannur.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at CNN for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Kannur 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
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at CNN, 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 Kannur exploring the streets or relaxing at CNN, 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.