There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Leh into a quick city adventure. From IXL, the Taxi/Cab can get you into town in around 60 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Before You Step Outside IXL
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at IXL:
First, verify that you can enter India — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi/Cab takes about 60 minutes into Leh, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — INR is the currency here. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Transport from Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport into town:
- Taxi/Cab: 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.
Money & Budget Tips
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Leh, budget roughly $21 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $6 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Leh.
Storing Your Luggage at Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport
Luggage storage options at IXL 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 Leh for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
What to See and Do in Leh
For a layover visit to Leh, we’d suggest Leh Palace and Shanti Stupa. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside IXL, you can spend time at IXL Airport Waiting Area & Cafe or try Ladakh Souvenir & Handicraft Shop. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food & Dining Options
- In the city: The Tibetan Kitchen and Lamayuru Restaurant are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Leh.
- At the airport: IXL Airport Cafeteria and Himalayan Chai & Coffee Point will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Taking a Break at IXL
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, IXL 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.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at IXL, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Leh itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for India that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Leh count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave IXL. 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.