Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Nagpur. Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 60 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of NAG:
- Can you legally enter India? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 60-minute journey each way by Prepaid Taxi / Auto-rickshaw, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the INR. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Exploring Nagpur on a Layover
For a layover visit to Nagpur, we’d suggest Deekshabhoomi and Sitabuldi Fort. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside NAG, you can spend time at Travel Club Lounge or try Airport Retail & Souvenirs. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Getting to Nagpur from the Airport
The most straightforward way into Nagpur is the Prepaid Taxi / Auto-rickshaw, which takes about 60 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 80 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Prepaid Taxi / Auto-rickshaw is usually the smarter call.
Where to Eat
- In the city: The Province – Radisson Blu and Naivedhyam (Abhyankar Nagar) are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Nagpur.
- At the airport: Cafe Coffee Day and Airport Food Court will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Nagpur, 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.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Staying Connected
WiFi at NAG should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in India and you’re good to go.
Luggage Storage at NAG
Traveling light makes a layover outing much easier. At NAG, you’ll find bag storage at May have a left luggage counter; inquire at the airport information desk upon arrival as dedicated lockers are not common at smaller Indian airports..
Tip: store your bags as soon as you clear arrivals to maximize your free time. If the airport options don’t work for you, check online luggage storage platforms for alternatives near the city center.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, NAG 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
A layover in Nagpur is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Nagpur.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.