If you’ve got a layover in Palangkaraya, don’t let it go to waste sitting at PKY. The city, in Indonesia, is within easy reach — roughly 70 minutes by Taxi / Ride-sharing apps. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at PKY:
First, verify that you can enter Indonesia — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi / Ride-sharing apps takes about 70 minutes into Palangkaraya, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — IDR is the currency here. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Getting to Palangkaraya from the Airport
You have two main options for getting from Tjilik Riwut Airport into town:
- Taxi / Ride-sharing apps: About 70 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 90 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
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Palangkaraya:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $5 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $20 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Storing Your Luggage at Tjilik Riwut Airport
Dedicated luggage storage at PKY may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Palangkaraya’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.
What’s Worth Seeing in Palangkaraya
Two recommendations for your time in Palangkaraya:
Start with Bundaran Besar Palangkaraya. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Palangkaraya. Then, if time allows, make your way to Jembatan Kahayan & Kahayan Riverfront. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
If you’d rather stay inside PKY — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Premium Lounge Tjilik Riwut Airport
- Local Souvenir & Snack Shops
Where to Eat
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Palangkaraya: RM Samba and Kampung Lauk Restaurant. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Tjilik Riwut Eatery (Local Cuisine) or Airport Cafe & Snacks. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Rest Areas & Lounges
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at PKY.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and PKY is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Palangkaraya 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.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Palangkaraya genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.